5 must-try hiking trails near Vienna

Discover 360-degree skyline views from atop Nasenweg or check off one of the best things to do in Vienna with a trek around the Ringstraße Loop. Meander through the idyllic pathways of Dehnepark or explore Lower Austria’s majestic mountain range.

With its vibrant heritage, unique architecture, and underrated natural beauty, the capital city of Austria is best explored on foot. Whether you stick to the well-maintained city hiking trails or a day trek through the Rax, it’s easy to pick your next adventure with the best hikes in Vienna.

1. Vienna City Hiking Trail 1

Best hike for panoramic views

Hike information at a glance

Distance and elevation: 6.8 miles (10.9 km); 1,160 feet

Hike time: 3–4 hours, return

Difficulty level: Moderate

Terrain type: Dirt and gravel paths wind through hilly terrain

Distance from city center: 15-minute tram ride

Hike highlights

Admire 360-degree views of Austria’s capital city on one of the most scenic treks near Vienna, characterized by lush vineyards, wooded pathways, and scenic lookout points. Ascend Nasenweg and take in the Danube River from above before trekking past must-see sights like the 70-foot-tall Stefanienwarte Observation Tower, considered one of the best views in Vienna.

Know before you go

• Enjoy a scenic trek through Döbling, a picturesque residential area bordering the Vienna Woods
• Refreshments are available at wine taverns and dining establishments located throughout the route
• Follow in the footsteps of Ludwig van Beethoven on Beethovengang, a scenic pathway favored by the renowned composer

Best time to hike

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the best times to hike Vienna’s City Trail 1, with fewer crowds, warm weather, and foliage adorning the landscape with color.

Address

1190 Vienna

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, but not recommended at night

2. Vienna City Hiking Trail 4

Best hike for a city escape

Hike information at a glance

Distance and elevation: 4.5 miles (7.2 km); 830 feet

Hike time: 2 hours, return

Difficulty level: Moderate

Terrain type: Well-maintained gravel and dirt paths

Distance from city center: 20 minutes by bus or car

Hike highlights

Hop off at the Rettichgasse tram or bus stop on the outskirts of Vienna and make your way to Dehnepark, a scenic public green space featuring a forest playground and the starting point for the Vienna City Hiking Trail 4. The enchanting park is perfect for families to enjoy trekking around Vienna, with hilly meadows, shaded woodlands, and lush orchards dotting the landscape.

Know before you go

• Check out Jubiläumswarte, a hidden gem of Vienna, for nearly 360-degree views of the ethereal woods from atop the observation tower
• Dehnepark has water fountains and restrooms available for public use
• Wear sturdy shoes like trail runners for this trek

Best time to hike

For the best way to experience hiking near Vienna, take this trail on weekdays from spring to fall (April–October) when crowds are manageable and seasonal foliage is in bloom.

Address

1140 Vienna

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, but not recommended at night

3. Raxalpe West Plateau Loop

Best hike for mountain lovers

Hike information at a glance

Distance and elevation: 9.3 miles (14.9 km); 2,900 feet

Hike time: 4-5 hours

Difficulty level: Moderate

Terrain type: Steep meadow and woodland pathways

Distance from city center: 1.5 hours by bus or car

Hike highlights

Avid hikers looking for scenery a little further from the city can complete the Raxalpe West Plateau Loop through Lower Austria’s majestic mountain range. With sweeping meadow views, quaint alpine huts, and striking summits, this nearly 10-mile loop is a mountain-lovers paradise and the perfect backdrop for one of the best day hikes from Vienna.

Know before you go

• Multiple mountain huts provide excellent rest stops to grab a refreshment or light snack along the trek
• Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as the terrain can be steep and uneven in some spots
• Give your legs a break and take a ride on the Rax Cableway, the oldest cable car in Austria

Best time to hike

April–November are the most enjoyable months for trekking near Vienna, thanks to mild temperatures and lush foliage. The Rax transforms into a popular snowshoeing and skiing destination in the winter.

Address

Preiner Gscheid Str., 2654

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, but not recommended at night

4. Ringstraße Loop

Best hike for history and architecture

Hike information at a glance

Distance and elevation: 3.2 miles (5.3 km); 400 feet

Hike time: 1–2 hours, return

Difficulty level: Easy

Terrain type: Paved, flat trail

Distance from city center: 15-minute walk

Hike highlights

For the best urban hiking in Vienna, try out this circuit highlighting the city’s historical center. Follow the Ringstraße, a circular road encompassing the best of Vienna’s UNESCO-listed architecture, and encounter top sights like the ornate Votive Church, the Burgtheater, Parliament, and Volksgarten Park. This short trail is chock full of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, from museums and gardens to the University of Venice.

Know before you go

• The Ringstraße Loop was built on the former site of Vienna’s city walls, making it one of the best treks in Vienna for history buffs
• Pack a picnic to enjoy by the manicured rose gardens in Volksgarten or on the lush lawn of Stadtpark
• Since Ringstraße is a major promenade for pedestrians, expect this loop to be busy during peak tourist season

Best time to hike

Walk Vienna’s Ringstraße Loop in the morning or early evening for fewer crowds. This trail is one of the best hikes near Vienna to visit at night and see the city’s buildings illuminated.

Address

3500 Krems an der Donau

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

5. Vienna City Hiking Trail 9

Best hike for a family-friendly excursion

Hike information at a glance

Distance and elevation: 8 miles (13 km); 470 feet

Hike time: 2–3 hours

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Terrain type: Flat paved trails and dirt pathways

Distance from city center: 15 minutes by car or bus, or a 30-minute walk

Hike highlights

Escape the bustling city and explore the wild corners of a serene nature reserve on the Vienna City Hiking Trail 9. Prater, a famous amusement park in Vienna, shares a name with the lesser-known public recreation area known for its equestrian trails, well-maintained hiking routes, and idyllic nature.

Considered one of the top activities in Vienna for kids, hiking through Prater is hands-down the easiest Vienna trekking route on this list. The whole family will enjoy strolling through the park’s main avenue and watching for native wildlife that inhabits the area.

Know before you go

• Expect to meet other riders, dog walkers, runners, and hikers on this popular inner-city trail
• Wear comfortable trail runners for a day of walking
• Enjoy refreshments at the cafes and restaurants along the trail

Best time to hike

Spring or fall shoulder seasons are the best time to take hikes around Vienna with fewer crowds. Enjoy thrills at the iconic Prater Amusement Park on fair weather days before embarking on this tranquil route.

Address

1020 Vienna

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, but not recommended at night

Best hikes near Vienna: FAQs

Generated with the help of AI

Is Vienna good for hiking?

Vienna offers a variety of hiking trails both within the city and in nearby areas. The city’s hiking paths are well-marked, making navigation easy without a guide. In Vienna, the city hiking trails provide leisurely routes conveniently accessible by tram.

Where can I hike near Vienna?

Vienna offers several scenic hiking paths for nature enthusiasts. Popular routes include City Hiking Path 1 to Kahlenberg, Path 1a to Leopoldsberg, and Path 2 to Hermannskogel. You can also explore Path 3 to Hameau, Path 4 to Jubiläumswarte, and Path 4a in Ottakring. For a different experience, try Path 5 at Bisamberg or Path 6 through Zugberg-Maurer Wald. Each trail offers unique views and a chance to enjoy the city's natural beauty.

What are some beautiful natural areas near Vienna for hiking?

The Donauauen National Park, Vienna Woods, and the foothills of the Vienna Alps offer stunning natural landscapes for hiking. These areas provide a variety of trails suitable for day trips, allowing you to enjoy nature without traveling far from the city.

What is the closest mountain town to Vienna?

Puchberg am Schneeberg is just over an hour’s drive from central Vienna, making it the nearest mountain town. It's a great starting point for exploring the Schneeberg area. Visit their official tourism website for the latest details on facilities, directions, and travel tips.

How close is Vienna to the mountains?

The Vienna Alps are about 65 km from the city, offering a perfect escape into nature. This region is known for its scenic hiking trails and has been a training ground for many renowned Austrian mountaineers. The area features a well-marked network of paths, making it easy for hikers to explore the stunning landscapes.