The Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad) is one of Vienna's best-known landmarks and a fixture of the historic Prater amusement park in the 2nd district (Leopoldstadt). It was built in 1897 to mark the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I's accession to the throne, and with its original height of 64.75 meters it was for a time the largest Ferris wheel in the world. Today it is one of the oldest Ferris wheels still in operation anywhere.
Although the wheel was badly damaged in World War II, it was put back into service in 1947 with only 15 of its original 30 cars, a symbol of the city's reconstruction. The iconic rotating mechanism and the historic cabins make the ride a nostalgic experience. From high above, visitors enjoy a panoramic view over all of Vienna, from St. Stephen's Cathedral to the Vienna Woods.
Besides the classic ride, the Giant Ferris Wheel also offers exclusive experiences such as candlelight dinners in specially fitted cabins, as well as event spaces in the cars. Right opposite is the Riesenrad Panorama, with a multimedia exhibition on the history of Vienna and the Prater.
A tip for visitors: a ride at sunset or in the evening, when the city lights begin to sparkle, is especially atmospheric. For families with children and for couples alike, the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel is an unforgettable highlight of a stay in Vienna.
The ride offers a unique view over Vienna, historic cars, atmospheric sunset views and the option of an exclusive dinner experience in a cabin.
Single tickets for adults cost about €14; reduced and family tickets are available. You can book online, and combination tickets with the Prater Museum are available.
The best way is the U1 or U2 to Praterstern. From there it's just a few minutes' walk to the Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater.
A visit at dusk is especially worthwhile. If you're in a romantic mood, you can book a private cabin with catering. And come early: there are usually fewer crowds in the morning.
A full rotation takes about 12–15 minutes. Photography is allowed and actively encouraged, especially for panoramic shots.
No additional photos available.
Places nearby, sorted by distance from Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel.
Prater 92, 1020 Vienna
Gabor-Steiner-Weg, 1020 Vienna
Praterstraße 54, 1020 Vienna
Kegelgasse 36-38, 1030 Vienna
Am Augartenspitz 1, 1020 Vienna
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