Ice Skating in Vienna
-
Loading... - Lisa Pereenboom
- 05 Jul 2022
- 112 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
Come to Vienna for the ultimate magical winter experience: ice skating whilst surrounded by magnificent historic buildings. The sound of rhythmic music coming from the distance whilst you're in Vienna's snow-covered Stadtpark is a sure sound that things are in full swing at the nearby Eislaufverein. This sweeping ice rink is just a few steps away from the impressive facade of the Wiener Konzerthaus Concert Hall.
Fun on the Ice
The artificial ice at the rink in the heart of Vienna is as smooth as glass and perfectly groomed. To get in on the fun all you have to do is hire a pair of ice skates from the well-stocked hire shop.
All those who aren't quite ready to get in on the action can simply stand and watch. Figure skaters and hockey players each train here in their own separate areas, but most of the rink is given over to recreational skaters of all ages.
Waltz music drifts in from the loudspeakers, creating a warm atmosphere and the buzz is palpable and infectious. The Eislaufverein celebrates looks back on an impressive 150 years of history in Vienna, and is an integral part of the winter cityscape. During the 1920s, the then almost 6,0378 sq. m. (65,000 sq. ft.) rink was the largest in the world. Today, it is an impressive 9940.6 sq. m. (107,000 sq. ft.) and just as enjoyable an experience to skate on as ever.
150 Years of Skating
There's a refreshment stall in the middle of the ice rink, perfect for taking a break from the skating. Whilst enjoying a steaming-hot drink it's easy to fall into conversation with fellow skaters who can tell you a little bit about the history of the venue and how things have changed over the years.
Where You Can Skate in Vienna
Alte Donau
The Alte Donau doesn't always freeze over in winter, but when it does it is ideal for skating and ice hockey, since there is very little snow on the ice. Since it is a natural ice, you should always be careful when skating. We advise not to skate on your own and to steer clear of bridges, since the ice underneath is thinner. The skating area between Gänsehäufel – Kaiserwasser – Angelibad is particularly nice. With an overall surface of over half a square mile, the Alte Donau is ideal for ice skating, ice hockey and hiking on the ice.
Neue Donau
In terms of size, the Neue Donau beats the Alte Donau, but this means it's even less likely to be solidly frozen over. The Neue Donau offers a skating surface of 1.5 square miles and is perfect for ice skating, ice hockey, and hiking on the ice.
Kunsteisbahn Engelmann (Open from October until March)
The ice rink measures 32.000 sq ft. The ice rink Engelmann offers extras like figure skating lessons, an ice disco, lady's night, an evening for couples, and lessons for children.
Kunsteisbahn Engelmann (German only)
Die Eisstadthalle
The big benefit of this 17,000 sq. ft. indoor ice rink is that you can skate on it in any weather.
Die Eisstadthalle (German only)
Steffl Arena
This is the largest and most modern indoor ice rink in all of Austria. Apart from ice hockey and skating, you can also go curling here.
Steffl Arena (German only). Read More...
