What’s it Like Ice Skating at Wiener Eistraum/Vienna?

What’s it Like Ice Skating at Wiener Eistraum?

Imagine gliding gracefully (or attempting to!) across a vast expanse of sparkling ice, surrounded by the enchanting architecture of Vienna.

That’s exactly what awaits you at the Wiener Eistraum, one of the most magical ice-skating experiences in Europe.

Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s stunning City Hall (Rathaus) and right opposite the iconic Burgtheater, this annual attraction transforms the Rathausplatz into a sprawling icy paradise every winter.

Here’s everything you need to know about skating your way through this winter wonderland.

Why Is Ice Skating at Wiener Eistraum So Special?

If you caught our Valentine’s Day in Vienna special, you’ll know that we LOVE this city at this time of year. And the Wiener Eistraum (“Vienna Ice Dream”) takes this affection to a new level.

Every January, the square in front of the Rathaus transforms into a massive winter wonderland of ice, music and lights. But what can you expect?

A Winter Wonderland in the Heart of Vienna

Spanning more than 8,500 square meters, it’s one of the largest and most unique outdoor ice rinks in the world. But it’s not just the size that’s impressive—it’s the setting.

Skating here feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with the Gothic spires of the Rathaus towering above and lights strung across the rink casting a festive glow.

Ice Trails and Multiple Levels

One of the standout features of the Wiener Eistraum is its design.

Forget the standard flat rink (like at Somerset House in London); the setup includes 4 large ice rinks connected by winding ice trails or ‘dream paths’ that snake through the Rathauspark’s trees, giving skaters the sense of exploring a frosty forest.

Additionally, there’s a two-story ice terrace, which provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to skate on multiple levels while taking in panoramic views of the park and surrounding cityscape.

Accessibility for Everyone

The Wiener Eistraum is welcoming to all skill levels. For beginners, there are designated practice areas and even skating aids available to rent – so families, couples on an alternative date night and solo adventurers alike can join in the fun.

Plus, the rink’s eco-friendly ice surface ensures a smooth glide while staying environmentally conscious.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Wiener Eistraum

Now you know what makes it so great, let’s investigate some insider knowledge of skidding around this stunning wintery scene.

When to Go

The Wiener Eistraum typically opens in mid-January and runs through early March. If you want to enjoy the rink at its most magical, visit in the evening when the lights are sparkling and the atmosphere is buzzing.

However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds, weekday mornings or afternoons are your best bet.

Renting Skates and Tickets

No skates? No problem! Skate rental services are available on-site, and they’re high-quality and comfortable—perfect for beginners or anyone travelling light.

Rental prices are reasonable, and lockers are available to store your belongings. Entry tickets are affordable too, with options for day passes or evening sessions. But we’ll get into pricing more in a minute.

 

Warm Up With Food and Drinks

Gliding through the frosty air is bound to work up an appetite, and thankfully, Wiener Eistraum has you covered.

The event features traditional Austrian food stalls offering everything from pretzels and sausages to sweet treats like Apfelstrudel and Kaiserschmarrn. Don’t miss sipping on a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cocoa to keep warm between laps.

Sounds incredible, right?! But how much does everything cost for a lovely day at the rink?

What Does It Cost to Visit the Wiener Eistraum?

The Wiener Eistraum is surprisingly affordable, making it accessible to everyone.

Adult tickets cost around €10, while children’s tickets are even cheaper, at approximately €7. There are also family and group discounts available, so it’s worth checking out the pricing options before you go.

Skate Rentals and Extras

If you don’t have your own skates, rentals are available for €9 per pair for adults and around €5.50 for kids.

Skating aids for beginners are also available for a small additional fee, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. Lockers to store your belongings cost around €2-3, so you can skate worry-free.

 

Food and Drink Prices

As we just mentioned, the incredible food stalls at Wiener Eistraum are non-negotiable. Expect to pay around €4-5 for a pretzel, €6-8 for a sausage or light meal, and about €4 for a cup of Glühwein or hot chocolate. While the prices are a bit higher than average, the quality and festive atmosphere make it worth every euro.

Why January is the Perfect Time to Visit Vienna

Vienna in January is a magical experience in itself. The incredible Christmas markets may be gone, but the city’s festive decorations linger into the new year. Plus, there’s a cozy charm permeating the streets as locals and visitors embrace winter traditions.

The Wiener Eistraum is just one of many highlights. You can also explore nearby attractions like:

  • The Vienna Christmas Markets (Extended Dates): Some markets, like the New Year’s Market at Schloss Schönbrunn, often extend into January.
  • Vienna State Opera: Winter is a prime time for catching an opera performance in this world-renowned venue.
  • Warm Café Culture: Escape the chill by ducking into a traditional Viennese coffeehouse, such as the world famous Café Central or Café Landtmann, and savor a creamy melange with a slice of Sachertorte.
  • The Prater: You cannot go to Vienna without visiting the Prater, a fairground that’s known for its great entertainment for young and old the world over – and during the festive season, this incredible place is even more enchanting.

Find More Euro Adventures on Our Dedicated Travel Channel

If wintery fun like this sounds like a bit of you or you want to know more about the best things to do across Europe this year then you need to catch our Travel Channel.

It’s crammed full of awesome adventures from winter wonderlands like Weiner Eistraum to German wine festivals, thrilling hot air balloon experiences in Marrakesh and paragliding through the Alps.

Sounds fun, right?! Go check it out.

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