Vienna has an enchanting way of transforming everyday experiences into something extraordinary, and the Wiener Eistraum (Vienna Ice World) is a prime example of this. It is a huge ice rink by the Rathaus, City Hall or town hall. From mid or late January to late February (or early March), the grand Rathausplatz square and surrounding park are turned into a massive ice skating venue, offering a chance to glide across the ice while enjoying the majestic neogothic Vienna City Hall as a backdrop. Look for other things to do in vienna january.
Wiener Eistraum: An Ice Skating Winter Wonderland
Each winter, the area between Burgtheater, Rathausplatz, and the Parliament in downtown Vienna transforms into a stunning ice park, home to the iconic Viennese Ice Dream. This ice skating experience features expansive ice rinks, winding paths through Rathauspark, and the Sky Rink offering spectacular views of the lights and scenery. The Viennese Ice Dream has become a popular tradition. Over 25 years, this event has inspired cities worldwide. With San Francisco being the latest to create an ice rink modeled after Vienna's iconic winter attraction. From the moment you step into Rathausplatz, the sheer scale and beauty of the Eistraum wien are apparent. With more than 9,000m² of ice, the venue comfortably accommodates the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each season, making it one of the largest outdoor ice skating rinks in Europe. It’s common to see nearly 700,000 visitors flock to the event annually, and with its central location, it's easily accessible for anyone looking to enjoy the winter atmosphere.
Imagine donning your warmest scarf as you glide across a vast area of ice, larger than any Premier League football pitch, with your movements set to the sound of music filling the air. It's a magical experience where you can feel as though you've stepped into a winter fairytale.
What are the Fun Activities at Eistraum Wien?
1. Go For Ice Skating
The unique charm of the Wiener Eistraum is its diversity in rink options. While there is one massive ice rink located directly in front of the Rathaus, the event is so much more than just a large skating surface. One of the event's highlights is the Sky Rink, which offers a distinctive skating experience. Located on an elevated platform, the Sky Rink gives skaters a stunning view of the city. And it’s reached by a long ramp that adds a fun element to your visit. This elevated rink also offers a viewing platform, perfect for taking in the full scope of the winter wonderland below.
2. Experience Ice Trails Through Rathauspark
You can experience romantic ice trails through Rathauspark in Vienna, Austria during the annual Wiener Eistraum ice skating festival. The festival usually takes place from mid January to late February or early March. Beyond the large central rink, there are romantic ice trails winding through the trees of Rathauspark. These meandering paths allow skaters to enjoy the park's beauty. While skating under twinkling lights, making it feel as though you’ve been transported to a winter landscape of years gone by—though with far more comfort and much smoother ice.
3. Practice at Dedicated Kids and Beginner Areas
For families and those new to skating, there are designated areas for kids and beginners, often with a softer surface to practice on. In the evening, some of these areas transform into curling sheets, where you can try your hand at this classic winter sport. Tickets can be bought on site, but online tickets are usually available at a discount. Areas for kids and beginners are typically free to use. Never fear if you forget to pack your skates, either. The Eistraum has hundreds of pairs available for hire, as well as lockers (and even free helmet hire for kids).
4. What About Wiener Eistraum After Dark?
Once the sun sets, the Eistraum Wien takes on a whole new life. The entire rink and surrounding park are beautifully illuminated, making the experience feel even more magical. The twinkling lights add a fairy-tale ambiance. While the sounds of classical music, radio broadcasts, and modern hits fill the air, providing the perfect soundtrack for your evening skate.
5. Eat and Drink at the Viennese Ice Dream
No winter outing in Vienna is complete without food and drink. And the world ensures that you’ll never go hungry while skating. There are several food stalls and restaurants serving up a variety of Austrian food and winter delights. Whether you're craving traditional sausages, hot chocolate, or a warm pretzel, you’ll find plenty of choices to keep you energized. For those looking to unwind after a day of ice skating, dining options around the Viennese Ice Dream provide the perfect respite. Warm up with a cup of fine coffee and indulge in a slice of cake at renowned spots like Sluka, just off the square. For something unique, the Edison on Ice restaurant, part of the Wiener Eistraum 2024, offers a cosy, glass-fronted indoor dining experience. You can enjoy a warm meal. While taking in views of the ice rinks, offering a perfect shelter from the winter chill.
What are the Facilities at Wiener Eistraum ?
It offers a range of facilities to ensure a fun and safe ice skating vienna experience.
1. Pre-heated Ice Skates: The rental service provides around 2,000 pairs of pre-heated ice skates in various sizes, including:
- Children’s skates from size 23
- Men’s skates up to size 52
- Women’s skates up to size 44
For younger skaters, free adjustable double runners (sliding shoes) are available in sizes 21 to 25, though stock is limited. Renting skates or double runners requires a deposit of €50, or you can leave a valid ID as an alternative.
2. Free Helmets: For the safety of children, free helmets are available at the skate rental with a cash or ID deposit. However, they can only be rented with a valid ticket, which can be purchased either online or at the on-site ticket desk.
3. Lockers: Store shoes, handbags, and rucksacks in lockers for €2.70 (online) or €3.00 (at the ticket counter). The locker dimensions are 38 cm (width), 31 cm (height), and 42 cm (depth). Please ensure to collect your belongings by 15 minutes after rink closing time, as lockers are not available outside of operating hours.
4. Skate Sharpening: They offer skate sharpening services for a small fee, with waiting times depending on demand.
Wiener Eistraum öffnungszeiten (Opening Hours) and Tickets
The 2025 Eistraum Wien will run from January 23rd to March 2nd, and it’s highly recommended to purchase your tickets online. This not only saves you money, but it also allows you to skip the queues at the ticket booth and head straight to the ice. Tickets are typically valid for a 4-hour session, so you have plenty of time to enjoy skating on the multiple rinks as it is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For younger skaters, the designated free practice area offers a space where kids can safely learn and enjoy skating. These areas are open daily, Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. After that, they transform into curling rinks in the evening.
Convenient Public Transport Options
It is located at Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna, making it easy to reach by public transport. Take tram lines 1, 71, or D and get off at the Rathausplatz/Burgtheater stop. Alternatively, you can use the U2 subway, alighting at either Rathaus or Volkstheater stations. Bus lines 1A (Schottentor) and 48A (Volkstheater) also provide convenient access.For those cycling to the event, there are bike paths around the Rathaus, and a Citybike station is located nearby.
Insider Tips
Arrive Early or Late: The rink can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, try visiting in the early morning or later in the evening when it’s less busy.
Wear Layers: While skating can warm you up, it’s best to wear layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures, particularly if you plan to spend a long time outside.
Try Curling: If you're looking for something different, be sure to try curling on the dedicated rinks after 5 p.m.
