Small-Group Guided Kayak Tour of Vienna
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
We've developed the only guided paddling route in Vienna, one that explores the grand Old Danube lake, an old side arm of the famous river. Along the way, take in some of Vienna's most important contemporary architecture, learn all about its modern-day influence and experience the undiscovered recreational heart of the city!
We may stop at a lake shore cafe or take a swim in the clean water. Expect to share the morning with some rowers, the odd fisherman, & the local bird life. For the most part though, we should have it to ourselves ;-)
This is the ultimate summer tour, so come see a different side of this city with us at Venture Vienna. We limit all of our tours to genuinely small-groups (max 12), which means your experience with us is more intimate, enriching and personal alongside your fellow travelers. You'll get loads of tips from us for your stay in the city while making new international friends, getting some sunshine, and being active in the great outdoors!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All participants must be able to swim.
To wear: swim gear/quick drying sportswear, t-shirt, hat, rain jacket (for windier conditions & light rain)
To bring: drinking water, sun cream, cash.
You will inevitably get a bit wet so pay attention to the weather forecast on the day of your excursion and dress accordingly!
Please go to the Venture Vienna website to read our FAQ and to learn more
Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult
This tour has a minimum number of participants to go ahead
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Alte Donau
We'll be investigating arguably the most quaint part of Vienna, the Alte Donau; a lakeside village which was cut off from the main Danube channel in 1870. This is where nocturnal beavers now roam in an old side arm of the grand river. Cute lakeside huts adorn the water's edge to give vibrant bursts of colour to the lakeshore. We'll most likely be sharing the water with local rowers, the odd fisherman, and plenty of swans and ducks along the way! If it's hot, we can also take a break for a swim in the clean lake waters. Once the tour ends, if you wanted to keep investigating 'new' Vienna for a bit longer, you could grab lunch or a cocktail at Vienna's nearby 'Copa Beach', swim and hang out on the Danube Island, visit Austria's tallest building - the Danube Tower, or explore the charming Danube Park, all of which are within walking distance from where we'll finish.
Danube Tower
We'll be paddling in full view of Austria's tallest building, as well as many of Vienna's other modern skyscrapers within the shadow of its emerging skyline.
What‘s Included
Engaging & intelligent guide with loads of insider tips on things to do in Vienna
Sightseeing at various lakeside spots around the Old Danube
Use of kayak, PFD/lifevest, and dry storage equipment for clothes & phone
Certified open-water lifesaver & native english speaking guide with live commentary
Options
Small-group kayak tour
Small-groups: All of our tours are limited to just 12 people so you get the class of service you deserve.
Duration: 3 hours
Reviews
114 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Easy Paddling with a Charming Guide or A good day for bananafish
NovyjMargarit,,Sep 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour! Usually, I don’t really pay much attention to what guides tell me — I’m much more interested in paddling a kayak down the river. But in this case, the information was both interesting and practical, and the guide himself was super nice and charming. The tour itself is a few kilometers of easy paddling, suitable for almost anyone. Afterward, you can sit down at a decent restaurant right on the river.
Amazing look at a...
Sumathi T,,Aug 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing look at a less-known but no less lovely part of Vienna. Stephanie was a wonderful guide. Easy kayaking, beautiful views, lots of birding and such lovely clean water
Fun and cool kayak tour
NYCNewYorkCity,,Aug 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you would like to go off the beaten path I recommend the Vienna kayaking tour. It was a fun and cool summer activity, our guide Stephanie was great and the kayaks were easy to maneuver. Who knew there was a pristine lake to swim, boat, paddle board or kayak in only 20 minutes from city center….
Great Vienna experience
ChristineSeeman,,Aug 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stephanie was great! It was a great time exploring the Alte Donue with her. I didn't know that the old and new danube were divided up, and this old danube is now a fun lake for the families and people of Vienna. It was a great way to spend our first morning in Vienna.
Great experience
O9138UAheatherc,,Jul 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an experience! This was by far my favourite thing of our trip to Vienna. It was fun, unique, educational and the James was a knowledgeable, kind and cool guy. Really enjoyed every second. James also gives unique insights into Vienna and provided us with great recommendations for food, wine and experiences whilst in Vienna. 10/10, would absolutely recommend.
Unique perspective of New Vienna
timmytwowheels,,Jul 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00One if the highlights of our holiday in Vienna. James is a top bloke, very accommodating and knowledgeable about the history, culture and politics of vienna. Kayaking the old Danube is a really unique way to see some of the new district parts of the city and learn about some of the more recent history of Vienna. Worth every penny, gave us a bit of a work out but nothing overly strenuous and there are plenty of points in the tour where you can just relax floating on the water taking in the scenery. Thanks for a great experience James, keep up the good work :)
Kayaking in Vienna!
Michael L,,Jun 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great experience for folks who want to see a different side of Vienna. The level of activity is minor, but the experience is major. I would highly recommend James and kayaking in Vienna as a must do for those who want a water view of District 22.
Magical day of kayaking in alte donau
larao821,,Apr 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you want the best and most fun kayaking with the most sincere helpful guide who knows a lot about vienna (and wine!) then go on this one! I had the best day and met some amazing people ☺️ Thank you 🌸
You HAVE GOT TO take this tour of "New Vienna"!
sandiy2017,,Oct 12, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS KAYAKE TOUR TO EVERYONE. We had a GREAT morning paddling around and learning about Vienna! The best part was it didn't just involve which building, old church or castle was built or destroyed by whomever . We saw "New Vienna" with its interesting buildings that have so much CURRENT relevance . And James gave us so much insight into Austria's current culture . It was worth every penny !
Highly recommend
Janessa T,,Aug 29, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful scenery with great information on a part of Vienna that is away from the typical tourist stuff. This was truly a highlight of my trip.
Related Experiences
Operated by Venture Vienna - Outdoor Activities & Tours