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Everything You Need To Know About Vienna Ferris Wheel, the Vintage Viennese Wonder

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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.

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

Where is Vienna Ferris Wheel located?
What Are Vienna Ferris Wheel Opening Hours?
Vienna Ferris Wheel
Vienna Ferris Wheel
Spring Timings
  • 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

Know More

Fall Timings
  • September 4 - October 8: 9 AM to 10:45 PM
  • October 9 - November 5: 10 AM to 9:45 PM
  • November 6 - November 18: 10 AM to 7:45 PM
  • November 19 - December 30: 10 AM to 9:45 PM
Winter Timings
  • December 31: 10 AM to 2 PM
  • January 1 - January 8: 10 AM to 9:45 PM
  • January 21 and 22: 10 AM to 7:45 PM
  • January 27 - January 29: 10 AM to 7:45 PM
Visitor's Details
  • Last Entry: 30 minutes prior to the closing time 
  • Closed On: It's open seven days a week but is closed between:
    January 9 - January 20 
    January 23 - January 26
    January 30 - February 2
  • Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the Vienna Ferris Wheel is in the evening when the view from the top is particularly spectacular.

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.

The Architecture of the Vienna Ferris Wheel

Vienna Ferris Wheel

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Vienna Ferris Wheel

Q. What is the Vienna Ferris Wheel?

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

Q. Where is the Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. The Vienna Ferris Wheel is located in the Prater amusement park in Vienna, Austria.

Q. What is Vienna Ferris Wheel famous for?

A. The Vienna Ferris Wheel is famous for its historical significance as a symbol of Vienna, and for offering panoramic views of the city.

Q. Why should I visit the Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Vienna from the top of the Ferris wheel and experience a significant piece of Viennese history.

Q. How do I book tickets to Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. Tickets to the Vienna Ferris Wheel can be purchased online, at the ticket counter, or through various travel agencies.

Q. How much does it cost to visit Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. The cost of visiting the Vienna Ferris Wheel varies depending on the type of ticket purchased, with prices starting at around €12 for adults.

Q. Who designed the Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. The Vienna Ferris Wheel was designed by the British engineer Walter B. Basset and built by the company of engineer Robert Whitehead.

Q. What movies were shot at Vienna Ferris Wheel?

A. Several movies have been shot at the Vienna Ferris Wheel, including "Before Sunrise" and "The Living Daylights."

Q. What are the Vienna Ferris Wheel's opening hours?

A. The Vienna Ferris Wheel is open daily from 10 am to 9:45 pm, with extended hours during peak tourist season.