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Quick Information

ADDRESS

Gaudeegasse 1, 1020 Wien, Austria

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

Timings

09:00–22:45

VISITORS PER YEAR

10000

TICKETS

From $16.84

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

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Did you know?

A symbol of Vienna’s cultural heritage: The Vienna Ferris Wheel, also known as the Wiener Riesenrad, was constructed in 1897 to celebrate the golden jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph I. It was one of the world's tallest Ferris wheels at the time and quickly became an iconic symbol of Vienna’s cultural landscape.

Featured in movies: The Vienna Ferris Wheel gained international fame when it was featured prominently in the 1949 film ‘The Third Man’. The iconic scene where Orson Welles' character, Harry Lime, meets with Joseph Cotten's character, Holly Martins, takes place in one of the Ferris wheel's cabins, adding to its cultural significance.

Survived World War II: During World War II, the Vienna Ferris Wheel miraculously survived bombings that devastated much of the city. It is said that the Vienna Ferris Wheel was spared because it served as a useful landmark for pilots navigating the area. Its survival became a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Vienna.

The Vienna Ferris Wheel, also known as the Wiener Riesenrad, is an iconic landmark and one of Vienna's top tourist attractions. Standing tall at 65 meters, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas. The Ferris wheel was first constructed in 1897 to celebrate Emperor Franz Joseph I's Golden Jubilee, and it has since become a symbol of Vienna's rich cultural heritage. Its charming old-world architecture, including its wooden passenger cabins, adds to its nostalgic appeal. Read on to find out more about this structure.

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Quick Facts About Vienna Ferris Wheel

Vienna Ferris Wheel
  • Official name: Wiener Riesenrad
  • Location/Address: The Vienna Ferris Wheel is located at Gaudeegasse 1, 1020 Wien, Austria.
  • Date of opening: The Vienna Ferris Wheel first opened on July 1, 1897. It was built to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who ruled the Austro-Hungarian Empire at that time.
  • Timings: The Vienna Ferris Wheel has different operating hours depending on the time of year. Generally, it opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM.
  • Architect: Walter Basset
  • Architectural style: Nouveau-Rouche, a combination of Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival styles
  • Number of visitors per year: Around ten thousand guests per year

What is Vienna Ferris Wheel?

Vienna Ferris Wheel

The Vienna Ferris Wheel is a stunning marvel of engineering that towers over the Vienna skyline. This iconic landmark has stood the test of time and has been a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage for over a century. The colossal structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Vienna. The Ferris wheel's rich history, dating back to its construction in 1897 to celebrate Emperor Franz Joseph I's Golden Jubilee, adds to its charm and allure. From its fascinating wooden passenger cabins to its traditional architecture, the Vienna Ferris Wheel is a true testament to the city's history and culture.

Why Visit Vienna Ferris Wheel?

Vienna Ferris Wheel
  • Incredible panoramic views: Experience breathtaking, bird's-eye views of Vienna's spectacular skyline and the surrounding landscapes from the top of the Ferris wheel.
  • Take a step back in time: The Ferris wheel's old-world charm and nostalgic atmosphere will transport you back in time to a bygone era.
  • Witness a cultural landmark: The Vienna Ferris Wheel has become an iconic symbol of Vienna's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the city's history and culture.
  • Convenient location: The Ferris wheel is located in the heart of Vienna, making it easily accessible and the perfect starting point for exploring the city.
  • A romantic retreat: The Vienna Ferris Wheel has been a setting for countless romantic moments over the years, and it's the perfect place to share a special moment with your loved one.
  • A historical icon: The Vienna Ferris Wheel, built in 1897, is a historical landmark that has been part of Vienna's skyline for over a century. Moreover, a number of scenes from popular Hollywood films have been shot here.

Plan Your Visit To Vienna Ferris Wheel

Vienna Ferris Wheel

Address: Gaudeegasse 1, 1020 Wien, Austria.

The Vienna Ferris Wheel is located in the heart of Vienna, in the city's famous Prater amusement park. Situated just a short distance from the city centre, the Ferris wheel is easily accessible by public transportation or on foot. Its central location makes it easy for exploring the city's many attractions.

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Vienna Ferris Wheel

  • February 3 - February 24: 10 AM to 7:45 PM
  • February 14: 10 AM to 9:45 PM
  • February 25 - April 28: 10 AM to 9:45 PM
  • April 29 - September 3: 9 AM to 11:45 PM

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History of Vienna Ferris Wheel

The Vienna Ferris Wheel, also known as the Wiener Riesenrad, has a long and fascinating history dating back over a century. The Ferris wheel was constructed in 1897 to celebrate Emperor Franz Joseph I's Golden Jubilee, and it quickly became a beloved symbol of Vienna's cultural heritage.

At the time of its construction, the Vienna Ferris Wheel was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, standing at an impressive 65 meters tall. Its wooden passenger cabins, each able to accommodate up to 15 people, quickly became a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. During World War II, the Ferris wheel suffered significant damage, with only one of its original cabins surviving the bombing. However, the wheel was rebuilt in the years following the war, with a mixture of original and new components.

Over the years, the Vienna Ferris Wheel has played a starring role in numerous films, including the classic 1949 British thriller "The Third Man." It has also been featured in countless works of art, literature, and music, cementing its place as an iconic symbol of Vienna's rich cultural heritage.

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The Architecture of the Vienna Ferris Wheel

Vienna Ferris Wheel

The Vienna Ferris Wheel is a unique example of turn-of-the-century architecture, with its elegant steel framework and intricately detailed wooden cabins. The architectural style of the structure is Nouveau-Rouche, which is a combination of the Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival styles. The wheel's 15 cabins, which can hold up to 12 passengers each, feature ornate wood panelling and large, arched windows that offer expansive views of the city. The Ferris wheel's steel support columns are embellished with decorative elements, including fluted pilasters and classical cornices. The Vienna Ferris Wheel's architectural style is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the era in which it was built.

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Who built the Vienna Ferris Wheel?

The Vienna Ferris Wheel was built by the British engineer Walter Basset for the 1897 Vienna World's Fair. The Ferris wheel was designed as a temporary attraction for the fair, but it proved to be so popular that it was kept standing permanently. The 65-meter-tall structure’s design had the contribution of architect Eugen Langen as well, while its construction was overseen by engineer Alois Negrelli.

What makes Vienna Ferris Wheel special?

Vienna Ferris Wheel
  • Dinner with a view: Vienna Ferris Wheel offers a unique dining experience with heavenly panoramic views of the city. Guests can savour delicious Austrian cuisine while taking in the breathtaking sights. The romantic ambience and the slowly rotating wheel create an unforgettable dining experience.
  • A pop-culture backdrop: The Wheel has been a popular location for many movies over the years like the James Bond movie "The Living Daylights," the romantic drama "Before Sunrise," and the action-comedy "The Third Man." Each movie showcases the iconic Ferris wheel in its own unique way, adding to its cinematic legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Vienna Ferris Wheel

A. The Vienna Ferris Wheel, also known as the Wiener Riesenrad, is a giant Ferris wheel located in Vienna, Austria.