Soaring high above Vienna’s iconic Prater amusement park, the Giant Ferris Wheel is a must-visit attraction for travelers seeking a breathtaking perspective of the city. Standing at an impressive 65 meters, this historic landmark offers a leisurely 12-15 minute ride, providing jaw-dropping views of the Austrian capital and its surrounding landscapes. But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to skip the cashier desk line and access the ride through a dedicated fast-track lane, ensuring a stress-free journey. With its captivating history and unparalleled vantage point, the Giant Ferris Wheel promises to elevate your Vienna adventure to new heights.
Key Points

- Visitors can skip the ticket line and directly scan their pre-purchased vouchers at the validation machine to access the Giant Ferris Wheel.
- The Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna’s Wiener Prater offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes during a 12-15 minute leisurely rotation.
- Tickets for the Giant Ferris Wheel can be booked in advance, allowing for a stress-free experience and saving valuable vacation time.
- The Giant Ferris Wheel, standing at approximately 65 meters tall, is an iconic landmark and must-see attraction in Vienna.
- The Wiener Prater, home to the Giant Ferris Wheel, is easily accessible via public transportation and offers ample parking options.
About the Giant Ferris Wheel

The Giant Ferris Wheel, or Riesenrad, is an iconic landmark that has been a centerpiece of the Wiener Prater, Vienna’s famous amusement park, since its inception in the late 19th century.
Standing tall at approximately 65 meters, this impressive structure offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes, including the Vienna Woods, the Danube River, and the Marchfeld region.
Rotating at a leisurely pace of 2.7 km/h, the ride lasts between 12 to 15 minutes, providing ample time for visitors to take in the breathtaking vistas.
As a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Vienna, the Giant Ferris Wheel has become a symbol of the city, epitomizing its rich history and vibrant spirit.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Vienna.
Ride Details and Specifications

Standing at an impressive height of approximately 65 meters, the Giant Ferris Wheel offers riders a leisurely rotation speed of 2.7 km/h, lasting between 12 to 15 minutes.
This iconic Vienna landmark, a symbol of the world-famous Wiener Prater, provides visitors with panoramic views over the city, including the Vienna Woods, Danube, Marchfeld, and Pannonian Basin.
The ride’s slow pace allows passengers to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Vienna.
With the ability to skip the ticket line and scan your voucher at the validation machine, booking this experience has never been easier, with prices starting at just $15.16 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Panoramic Views From the Wheel

As riders ascend the Giant Ferris Wheel, they’re treated to a breathtaking panoramic vista, encompassing the majestic Vienna Woods, the winding Danube River, the sprawling Marchfeld, and the vast Pannonian Basin in the distance.
This unique vantage point offers a remarkable opportunity to appreciate Vienna’s stunning natural landscape and geographical diversity. The views are nothing short of captivating, allowing visitors to:
- Witness the city’s iconic landmarks from a fresh perspective
- Marvel at the serene beauty of the Vienna Woods
- Gain a deeper understanding of Vienna’s place within the broader regional context
- Capture extraordinary photographs to commemorate their unforgettable experience
Ticket Booking and Pricing

Booking tickets for the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna’s Prater park couldn’t be easier, with a range of convenient options available to visitors. Tickets start from just $15.16 per person, making this must-see attraction affordable for all.
Travelers can easily reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The real time-saver, though, is the ability to skip the ticket line by simply scanning your pre-purchased voucher at the validation machine.
This allows you to spend more time enjoying the panoramic views over Vienna from the 65-meter-tall wheel, which rotates at a leisurely 2.7 km/h for a 12-15 minute ride.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySkipping the Ticket Line

Visitors can avoid the notoriously long ticket lines at the Giant Ferris Wheel by pre-booking their tickets online. With a pre-purchased voucher, they can simply scan it at the validation machine to gain fast-track access, allowing them to spend more time taking in the stunning panoramic views of Vienna.
This skip-the-line option offers several benefits:
- Convenience: No need to wait in lengthy queues, saving valuable vacation time.
- Efficiency: Seamless entry through the dedicated fast-track lane.
- Flexibility: Ability to arrive at any time without worrying about long wait times.
- Stress-free experience: Avoiding the hassle of ticket purchase on-site.
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Explore the Wiener Prater

The Wiener Prater, Vienna’s iconic amusement park, beckons visitors to explore its rich history and diverse attractions.
Established in the early 19th century, this expansive green space is home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, a must-see landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Beyond the Ferris Wheel, the Prater boasts an array of thrilling rides, lively beer gardens, and quaint cafes, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Vienna Woods.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a glimpse into Vienna’s vibrant culture, the Wiener Prater provides an unforgettable experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
Transportation and Accessibility

Getting to the Giant Ferris Wheel couldn’t be easier, with convenient public transportation options that whisk visitors right to the heart of the Wiener Prater. The Prater is well-served by the city’s efficient public transit network, making it a breeze to access from anywhere in Vienna.
Hop on the U-Bahn (subway) and ride directly to the Praterstern station, just minutes from the iconic wheel.
Catch a tram or bus and get off at the Riesenradplatz stop, which drops you right at the Ferris wheel’s entrance.
For those driving, ample parking is available in the Prater, with designated lots located near the attraction.
The entire area is also wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
Tips for Your Visit

Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended to secure your spot and skip-the-line access, as the giant Ferris wheel is one of Vienna’s top attractions drawing large crowds.
The ride’s panoramic views over the city, the Vienna Woods, Danube, and beyond are simply breathtaking. Arriving early is also advised, as the best views and most favorable lighting tend to be in the morning.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as the ride is open year-round. While the standard ticket price is quite reasonable, consider upgrading to a VIP package for a more exclusive experience.
With a little planning, you’ll be able to fully learn about this iconic Vienna landmark.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos on the Ferris Wheel?
Yes, guests are welcome to take photos during the Ferris wheel ride. The panoramic views over Vienna make for excellent photo opportunities. However, visitors should be mindful of others and avoid obstructing others’ views.
Is There an Audio Guide or Tour Available?
Yes, an audio guide is available for the Ferris wheel ride. Riders can rent personal audio devices that provide informative commentary about the landmarks and views seen during the 12-15 minute journey high above the city.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Ride?
You can’t bring food or drinks on the ride. The Ferris wheel’s enclosed gondolas are designed for passenger comfort and safety, so outside items are not permitted. However, there are snack and drink options available at the attraction’s facilities.
Is the Ferris Wheel Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, the ferris wheel is wheelchair accessible. Riders in wheelchairs can access the ride via a dedicated entrance and specially designed gondolas that accommodate their needs, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation in Advance?
Yes, you’ll need to make a reservation in advance to ride the Giant Ferris Wheel. Booking tickets ahead of time allows you to skip the queue at the ticket office and hop right onto the ride.
Recap
The iconic Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna’s Prater amusement park offers a must-see panoramic ride with stunning views of the city.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely 12-15 minute journey at a pace of 2.7 km/h while skipping the ticket line through a dedicated fast-track lane.
This historic landmark symbolizes Vienna’s spirit and provides easy access to the Prater’s vibrant culture and thrilling rides.
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