Vienna: Danube River Cruise w/ optional Viennese Specialties

If you’ve ever wanted to see Vienna from a different vantage point, a cruise along the Danube River might just be the way to do it. This particular tour, offered by DDSG Blue Danube Schiffahrt GmbH, promises a relaxing journey that showcases the city’s modern architecture, lush green spaces, and iconic landmarks—all from the comfort of a boat. Whether you opt for the shorter 1.5-hour trip or the extended 3.5-hour voyage, this experience aims to blend scenic sights with cultural flavors, including optional Viennese specialties on board.

What makes this cruise especially appealing is the chance to sit back and enjoy the changing vistas, from the bustling cityscape to tranquil riverside parks. Plus, with reviews highlighting friendly guides, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a lovely way to add a water-based adventure to your Vienna itinerary. However, it’s worth noting that this cruise doesn’t cover Vienna’s most famous sights like Schönbrunn Palace or Belvedere Palace—so if you’re after that, you might want to pair this with other city tours.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a gentle, scenic activity that offers a different perspective on Vienna without the intensive walking or sightseeing. It’s ideal whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, especially if you enjoy relaxing boat rides with the option to indulge in local cuisine.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views: Offers impressive vistas of Vienna’s modern architecture and green spaces.
• Flexible Duration: Shorter 1.5-hour or longer 3.5-hour options to suit your schedule.
• Local Flavors: Optional Viennese specialties add a cultural culinary twist.
• Authentic Experience: Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and excellent onboard service.
• Cost-Effective: At $36, it’s a budget-friendly way to see a different side of Vienna.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Children under 10 cruise free, and the boat is wheelchair accessible.

This cruise offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and the chance to savor local flavors. Starting at the DDSG Blue Danube ticket office, you’ll embark on a journey that introduces you to Vienna’s diverse riverfront scenery. The tour’s length depends on your choice, with the shorter segment focusing on ‘modern Vienna’ and the longer route including ‘green Vienna’ and more natural landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Shorter Cruise: A Taste of the City’s Modern Side

The 1.5-hour option is perfect if you’re limited on time but still want a taste of Vienna from the water. You’ll cruise past highlights like the Danube Tower, the Millennium Tower, and the Danube plateau skyline. Traveling through the Nussdorf lock system, you’ll cross the Danube Canal, catching sights like the Hundertwasser-designed heating plant in Spittelau, the Roßau Barracks, and the Ringturm. Reviewers like Hugh found it “very interesting getting a different view of Vienna,” and appreciated the ease of the journey.

This route ends at Schwedenplatz, making it convenient for those combining other city explorations. The views of these modern structures give a fresh perspective of Vienna’s contemporary architecture, often missed from land-based tours.

The Extended Tour: Discover Vienna’s Green Heart

For those wanting more, the longer 3.5-hour cruise continues downstream past the Danube Island and through the Freudenau Lock. You’ll see a mixture of urban and natural landscapes, including the woods of the Prater area and a converted grain silo-turned-hotel. This longer route is praised for its mix of scenery, with reviewers noting that it provides a “different view of Vienna from the boat” and passing sights like the stadium and lush riverbanks.

The extended tour provides a more comprehensive picture of Vienna’s outdoor spaces and river life, making it a great choice for nature lovers or those interested in the city’s more recent developments along the Danube.

Food and Onboard Experience

One of the highlights, especially for those who opt for the culinary option, is the chance to enjoy typical Viennese cuisine while cruising. The reviews highlight how delicious the onboard food is—Elizabeth described her experience as “excellent,” praising both the quality and presentation. It’s worth noting, however, that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or a card if you wish to purchase beverages.

The guides and crew generally earn high marks for their friendliness and professionalism. Multiple reviews mention knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the sights, making the journey both enjoyable and educational. The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with some reviewers mentioning that children under 10 can cruise for free—adding family appeal.

Practical Details

The tour departs from the ticket office of DDSG Blue Danube, with the duration varying between 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on your choice. Check availability for specific start times, which typically run throughout the day. The activity is wheelchair accessible, and guides speak both English and German—helpful for international travelers.

Pricing at $36 per person offers good value, especially considering the scenic views, relaxed pace, and optional food. It’s a budget-friendly way to see a different side of Vienna that complements more traditional land-based sightseeing.

While this cruise is a lovely addition, it’s important to recognize its limitations. It doesn’t cover Vienna’s top landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace or the Hofburg, so it’s best paired with other city tours if those sights are your priority. Instead, it provides a more leisurely, water-based perspective, giving you a chance to unwind and enjoy Vienna’s river scenery.

The optional Viennese specialties on board add a cultural touch, especially if you’re a foodie or want to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting. The reviews confirm that the onboard food is highly praised, making it a worthwhile part of the experience if you love combining sightseeing with tastings.

Many reviewers appreciated the guides for their friendly demeanor and knowledge—Steen described it as “a great way to see Vienna from the seaside,” and Elizabeth called the experience “excellent,” citing the food and journey as highlights. Hugh found the views “very interesting,” emphasizing the different perspective the cruise offered.

Some travelers mentioned that while the trip doesn’t hit all the city’s famous landmarks, it compensates with beautiful waterside views and a calm, easygoing atmosphere. Runners-up included the peacefulness of the ride and the chance to relax while soaking in Vienna’s modern skyline and green spaces.

This Danube River cruise in Vienna is a smart pick for those seeking a calm, scenic experience with the comfort of a boat ride. It’s especially good if you want a break from busy sightseeing days and prefer relaxing with water views in a comfortable setting. The option to enjoy local Viennese specialties while cruising adds a cultural layer that many travelers appreciate.

Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a budget-friendly activity will find this cruise offers good value—particularly with the positive reviews about the food and friendly guides. While it doesn’t cover every highlight of Vienna, it provides a refreshing perspective on the city’s modern architecture and natural beauty, making it a charming addition to your itinerary.

If your goal is to see Vienna from the water without the hassle of long tours or physical exertion, this cruise strikes a nice balance. It’s a flexible, laid-back way to experience Vienna’s river life and enjoy some local flavors along the way.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes. Children aged 0-9 cruise for free, making it family-friendly. However, food must be purchased separately.

How long does the cruise last?
The duration varies from 1.5 hours for the shorter trip to 3.5 hours for the extended tour. Check available start times when booking.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll see modern Vienna landmarks like the Danube Tower, Millennium Tower, and the Danube plateau skyline. The extended tour adds views of Danube Island, woods of Prater, and riverbank stadium.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages on board if desired.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I buy Viennese specialties on the cruise?
Yes, food options are available depending on the package selected, with many reviews praising the quality and flavor of onboard cuisine.

What should I bring?
Bring some cash or cards for drinks or additional snacks. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended in good weather.

Does the tour go past Vienna’s major landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace?
No, the cruise focuses on riverfront and modern Vienna sights; it does not include the major land-based landmarks.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and German, ensuring clarity for most travelers.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot in advance, with flexible options to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

This Danube River cruise in Vienna offers a peaceful, scenic way to see the city from a different angle—perfect for those wanting a relaxed activity that combines views, culture, and a taste of local flavors. Whether you’re short on time or want a longer, more immersive experience, it’s a lovely addition to your Vienna adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: