Vienna’s Loveliest Sunny Spots

Sun, beach, and more – in the middle of the city: at Strandbar Herrmann, you are literally stranded in the city centre. Take a seat on one of the comfortable deckchairs, stretch your toes into the sand, and allow yourself to be spoilt with refreshing drinks at the two bars and pavilion. In need of a little snack? The beach canteen serves unusual creations such as super fries with truffle and parmesan or Austro burritos with “Blunzen” (blood sausage).

Colourful chairs and a cosy garden atmosphere with views of Vienna: The Rooftop Garden at Hotel Ruby Marie in the heart of the city is an insider tip – even amongst locals. There could hardly be a more comfortable way to enjoy the setting sun than in a Fatboy with a fruity cocktail in your hand and shades on.

The Haus des Meeres is home to a total of 10,000 animals such as fresh and saltwater fish, insects, birds, and reptiles. If you want to let the sun shine on your stomach like the monkeys and fruit bats in the Tropical House, head up to the 50 metre high roof terrace of the former fire control tower where the 360° Ocean Sky Café-Bar is waiting for you. The name says it all, as the roof terrace offers a panoramic view of the surrounding districts. 

40 trees of life, each attributed to a certain period for giving birth, tell their story in Am Himmel in Vienna-Döbling. The sustainable natural setting not only provides a true place to relax in the sun, but also impresses with sweeping views of the metropolis amidst the vineyards of the Vienna Woods Biosphere Reserve.

Are you ready to catch some rays beneath exotic plants in the middle of Vienna’s third district? The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna is not just for botanists, but for all plant fans and nature lovers. From orchids to succulents and Pannonian plants – you will find everything from native flora to unusual exotics here. A recommendation for an extra helping of culture after soaking up the sun: Belvedere Palace and the Museum of Military History are just around the corner. 

It’s just ten minutes by underground from St. Stephan’s Cathedral to the Old Danube. Whether by rowing boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board, the calm water of the former branch of the Danube is a real paradise for water sports. A little tip: rowing is a lot easier with a filled picnic basket and in good company.

Part of the Donau-Auen National Park is in the east of Vienna, where the Lobau – a true sun magnet across 2,300 hectares – awaits water and nature lovers. The natural bathing areas entice with protected nature, free entry, and swans instead of lifeguards. Animal and plant protection is of great importance here, which is why bathing is only allowed in designated areas. 

The Museumsquartier is home to more than 60 cultural institutions, from visual and performing arts, fashion, theatre, and dance to literature and new media. Variety is not just to be found in the museums: the numerous sunny spots in the inner courtyards of the MQ invite you to relax, providing a tranquil feel-good oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.

A primeval part of the Vienna Woods on the outskirts of Vienna: that’s the Lainz Game Reserve. Affectionately called the “Palace of Dreams” by Empress Elisabeth, the Hermes Villa stands in the middle of the former imperial hunting area and combines cultural history with relaxation. Feeling hungry after all that fresh air? Not to worry, Restaurant Hermes will cater for you with Viennese cuisine and game specialities. 

He has already cooked for Prince Charles and star tenor Placido Domingo. We are talking about Ivo Brnjic, the trendy restaurateur and passionate chef of the café at the magnificent Palace of Justice. And it’s not just judges who are welcome here, but all gourmets can enjoy Austrian delicacies such as Viennese Tafelspitz (boiled beef) on the roof of the Palace of Justice – in casual clothes if they desire. In addition to sunny panoramic views of Vienna, the fair prices do this establishment justice. Enjoy!

There could be no better place to end a mild summer evening than the Danube Canal. Cool beats, chilled drinks, and a gourmet journey from Oriental street food to tasty burgers (with or without meat) and classic Heuriger specialities await. A little tip: take a big appetite and work your way through everything.