Swimming In The Danube, Austria: Is It Safe?

Swimming in the Danube in Austria is a popular activity, especially in the summer months. The river offers 40km of recreational shoreline and an 18km stretch of open water, with Vienna providing nearly 40 miles of free-to-access wild swimming areas. The Alte Donau (Old Danube) is a particularly popular spot, with its lidos and natural bathing spots. The water is clean and refreshing, and the riverbanks are lined with cafes, bars, and even sand. The Gänsehäufel, a small, wooded island in the Old Danube, is also a favourite among locals, offering various recreational activities and dining options. The New Danube, on the other hand, provides a quieter and more secluded swimming experience. It is important to note that anyone using publicly accessible swimming areas in the Danube does so at their own risk, and swimmers should be cautious of currents, wind, and swell.

Swimming spots in Vienna

Vienna has many swimming spots, from the city centre to more remote locations. The Old Danube (Alte Donau) is a popular choice, with its lidos and natural bathing spots. The Kaiserwasser in Kaisermühlen is a particularly popular tributary of the Old Danube, offering flat and clear access to the water, warmer water, and hardly any boat traffic. The nearby U1 subway line stops at Kaisermühlen VIC station.

The New Danube (Neue Donau) is also a great option, with swimming spots on either side of the bridge at the U6 subway line stop. The Vienna City Beach Club is located here, and there are many other possibilities for swimming, including stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.

Romaplatz, accessible via the U6 subway line, is another favourite, offering a calm atmosphere, plenty of trees, and recreational activities like beach volleyball, table tennis, and basketball courts.

For a wilder experience, try the Lobau, a natural paradise within the Donau-Auen National Park. The Panozzalacke is great for families, with an extensive sunbathing lawn and shallow water. The Dechantlacke is located off the beaten track in the Obere Lobau and is popular with naturists.

If you're looking for a more social scene, head to An der Unteren Alten Donau or An der Oberen Alten Donau. These spots are known for their pier parties and night swimming, with people enjoying music, drinks, and booze by the water until late at night.

Finally, for a unique Viennese experience, visit Strandbad Gänsehäufel, a beach swimming pool located on the Alten Donau. It offers a range of recreational activities, dining options, and idyllic swimming conditions.

Alte Donau

The Alte Donau provides a unique swimming experience, with easy access to the river. Visitors can simply lay down a blanket or towel by the river and slide right into the water. However, caution is advised near the shore, as the rocks are covered in algae and kelp. The riverbed also has long tendrils of kelp, which can be an interesting feature for swimmers to explore. The water is described as wonderfully refreshing, and the surrounding area offers restrooms and cafes. The U1 and U6 subway lines also have a stop nearby, making it a convenient destination for locals and tourists alike.

The Alte Donau is more than just a swimming spot; it's an ecologically valuable body of water. The presence of submerged aquatic vegetation, or aquatic macrophytes, plays a vital role in maintaining the good water quality. These water plants act as a biological filter, reducing turbidity and keeping the water clear. They also produce oxygen, which contributes to the lake's self-cleaning capacity. To ensure that these plants don't interfere with swimming and boating activities, they are regularly mowed to an appropriate height.

The Alte Donau has undergone a remarkable transformation. In the early 1990s, the water quality deteriorated significantly, requiring comprehensive restoration measures. Since then, regular maintenance has been implemented to preserve the high water quality. This includes an EU-funded project, the LIFE+ Alte Donau project, which aimed to safeguard the long-term quality of the Alte Donau as both an ecologically valuable beauty spot and a recreational area for locals and visitors.

Water quality and safety

Water quality in the Danube is regularly checked and maintained. Austria's tight environmental regulations ensure that no foul water ever enters the river. Water quality tests are carried out every two weeks during the summer swimming season (May to September) for E-Coli, Enterococcus, and temperature, with results easily available online.

The Danube's transformation into a recreational swimming spot has been a long process. In the late 1800s, the Danube basin, once a complex collection of islands, was straightened out to curb flooding and ease shipping. However, this did not entirely solve the flooding issue. After years of studies, construction on a grand flood defence scheme began in 1972 and was completed in 1988, protecting the city from severe flooding like that of 1501.

The Danube's transformation has resulted in 40km of recreational shoreline and an 18km stretch of open water, with 11km uninterrupted, all easily accessible from the city.

The river's water quality and safety are also maintained by the absence of motorised boat traffic in certain stretches, such as the Alte Donau and Kaiserwasser. These areas are popular for swimming, dining, and rowing, with the calm waters providing a peaceful experience.

While swimming in the Danube is generally safe, it is important to note that anyone using publicly accessible swimming areas does so at their own risk. Additionally, swimmers should be cautious of algae and kelp close to the shore, which can be slippery and pose a hazard.

The Alte Donau, a popular swimming spot, has new jetties and swimming platforms that make wild swimming even safer. The riverbank areas have been cleaned up, and tables and benches have been installed for a more pleasant experience.

Swimmers should also be aware of currents, especially in the New Danube, which is about 200 meters wide on average. It is recommended to take a swimming course for advanced swimmers and use a buoy to be more visible to surfers, sailors, and rowers.

Overall, the Danube in Austria offers some of the safest and most accessible open-water swimming in an urban setting, thanks to its proximity to the city and the country's commitment to maintaining water quality and safety.

Best ways to get there

If you're planning to swim in the Danube River in Austria, there are several convenient ways to reach the area and enjoy a dip in its refreshing waters. Here are some options to consider for your journey:

• By Car: Driving to the Danube River is a great option if you're already in Austria or planning a road trip across the country. The river flows through several towns and cities, including Vienna, Linz, and Passau, which are all well-connected by highways and offer ample parking options along the riverfront. Look for designated parking areas near popular swimming spots or river beaches.
• By Train: Austria boasts an efficient railway system, making travelling by train a convenient choice. The Danube Valley is easily accessible by train from Vienna and other major cities. You can disembark at train stations close to the river, such as Tulln, Krems, or Melk, and then walk or take a short bus or taxi ride to your desired swimming location.
• By Boat: For a more scenic and leisurely approach, consider travelling by boat along the Danube River. There are several river cruise options available, ranging from short sightseeing tours to longer cruises that cover significant distances. These boats often make stops at various towns and cities along the river, allowing you to disembark and enjoy a swim at your leisure.
• By Bicycle: Cycling along the Danube River is a popular activity in itself, and you can easily combine it with a refreshing swim. The Danube Cycle Path (Donauweg Radweg) stretches for over 280 miles along the river and offers breathtaking scenery. You can rent bicycles in most towns and cities along the route, making it easy to reach your preferred swimming spot on two wheels.
• Combination of Public Transport and Walking: Depending on your proximity to the river, you may find that a combination of public transport options and walking is the most convenient way to reach your swimming spot. Local buses, trams, and subways can get you close to the river in larger cities, and from there, a pleasant walk will take you to the Danube's edge.
• Organised Tours: If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider joining an organised tour that includes swimming in the Danube River as part of its itinerary. These tours typically handle all transportation and logistics, allowing you to relax and make the most of your experience. They often include other activities and sightseeing opportunities in the area as well.

Remember to check local conditions and guidelines before venturing into the water, and always prioritise your safety when swimming in any natural body of water.

Activities and facilities

Swimming in the Danube in Austria is a popular activity, with many spots to choose from. The Alte Donau (Old Danube) is a picturesque location with back gardens, restaurants, and beaches lining its shores. It is easily accessible by subway line U1, and is a great place to escape the summer heat. The water is very clean and refreshing, and there are plenty of cafes and bars nearby. It is also a great place to hire a boat and explore the surroundings.

The Neue Donau (New Danube) is another great swimming spot, with a 40km stretch of recreational shoreline and an 18km stretch of open water. It is easily accessible by the U6 metro line and is a great place for a quick dip after work. There are also plenty of dining options nearby, ranging from small snacks to gourmet meals.

For those looking for a more unique swimming experience, the Lobau is a natural paradise located within the Donau-Auen National Park. There are only a few spots approved for bathing here, but it offers a quiet and secluded experience. The Panozzalacke is a great spot for families, with an extensive sunbathing lawn and shallow water.

If you're looking for more of a traditional pool experience, the Gänsehäufel is a beach swimming pool located on the Alten Donau. It offers a range of recreational activities such as beach volleyball, a climbing park, and a soccer field. It also has various dining options, including Langos, Schnitzel sandwiches, and fries.

For those who enjoy water sports, there are many rowing and water sports clubs that rent out equipment and organize courses. Kayaking is also a popular activity on the Danube, with several companies offering guided tours. Stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and water trampolines are also available for those looking for a more adventurous experience.

Overall, the Danube in Austria offers a wide range of activities and facilities for swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its easily accessible locations and diverse range of options, it is a great place to spend a summer day.

Frequently asked questions