Beat the crowds and experience a classic Viennese tradition—no visit to the city is complete without a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel!

Getting started

With fast-track entry, there’s no need to wait in long ticket lines. Head straight to the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel entrance, where, after a quick ticket validation, you’ll proceed directly to board.

A cultural and historic icon

A ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad) is one of the more relaxed yet memorable ways to take in the city. Located in the Prater amusement park, this historic Ferris wheel has been turning above Vienna’s rooftops for well over a century. It was built in 1897 to mark the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph’s reign. At 64.75 meters (roughly 212 feet) tall, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world until 1985 and remains one of the oldest still in operation today. It is deeply woven into Vienna’s identity, featured in films and literature, and a beloved part of the city’s skyline.

Bird’s eye view of Vienna

As the wheel slowly rotates, you’ll get a clear look at some of Vienna’s most recognizable landmarks. During your 10 to 20-minute ride, you can spot the spires of St. Stephen’s Cathedral piercing the skyline, the hills of the Vienna Woods visible in the distance on a clear day, and the blue ribbon of the Danube River winding through the city. The spacious cabins are enclosed, making the ride suitable in all weather and allowing you to move around inside to catch marvelous views from every angle.

Once you’re back on the ground, head to the Panorama Museum’s ‘Wheel of Time’ exhibit. Eight of the Ferris Wheel’s former carriages hold artistic and audio-visual installations that take you through 2,000 years of Vienna and Prater Park’s history. Your Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel experience offers a quiet and elevated look at the city that combines history, cityscape views, and a bit of nostalgia.