Before we became parents, Vienna’s parks were places for promenades or picnics, and honestly, almost the only places where we went out for fresh air. Eight years later, our daughter having partly outgrown the park and playground stage, we have become experts in Vienna’s parks and playgrounds.
The countless hours we spent at different locations across the city are as many countless memories. In this article, we would like to share with you the 10 best parks in Vienna for families, highlighting their unique attractions and what makes them great spots for a day out with children.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled day, a peaceful nature retreat, or a playground paradise for kids, the Austrian capital has something for everyone.
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The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Stadtpark
– the unmissable spot in the city center
Before you frown, no, it is not that touristic, but rather packed with locals, despite being one of the city’s most iconic green spaces. Located on the Ring, just outside Vienna’s first district, it is easily accessible by public transport via the U4 metro line (Stadtpark station) and tram lines 2 and D.
The park, split by the Wien River, was established in 1862 as Vienna’s first public park and is designed in the style of an English landscape garden. On the city center side of the park, you can admire the golden statue of Johann Strauss II, enjoy the ponds and small streams that attract ducks and swans, and awe at some of the best examples of Vienna’s Art Nouveau architecture. Across the Wien River, the park hosts two playgrounds with swings, slides, climbing structures, lawns for ball playing, and, most importantly, a coffee cart for parents.
Insider’s tip: Combine your visit to the park with a stop at Oberlaa Wien Mitte for lunch/ coffee and cake. This is our favorite spot for family outings. Nearby, the Thalia bookshop has a large selection of children’s and international books and is open on Sundays!
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Karlsplatz
– hiding in plain sight in the city center
Karlsplatz, named after Emperor Charles VI, has long been a focal point of Vienna due to its proximity to Karlskirche, one of the most significant baroque churches in Europe. Though better known for this stunning church, Karlsplatz offers two fantastic play areas. One, located approximately across the street from the Musikverein, is particularly great for young children who need a safe and engaging environment. The other is a modern playground that features wooden climbing structures, slides, and swings. For years, this has been our daughter’s favorite spot in the city, and we traveled from far and wide just to spend a few hours here.
The added bonus is that the square itself offers a lively atmosphere around the small pond, which you can enjoy year-round. Karlsplatz is easily reached by the U1, U2, and U4 metro lines at Karlsplatz station, as well as several tram and bus lines.
Insider’s tip: The Karlsplatz U Bahn/metro passage is a great place to stock on snacks from either Anker or Stroeck (or Starbucks for parents) which you can enjoy on one of the park benches. The nearby Wien Museum, recently renovated and reopened, showcases Vienna’s rich history through a modernized exhibition space that highlights the city’s cultural and architectural evolution. With interactive displays and a beautifully restored interior, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time, making it a great additional educational stop. The entry to the permanent exhibition is free.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families -Alois-Drasche Park
– if you are staying around the Hauptbahnof/ Belvedere
Alois-Drasche Park, named after the 19th-century Viennese entrepreneur and philanthropist, was originally a private green space before being transformed into a public park. Today, it serves as a quiet retreat near the bustling Hauptbahnhof and Belvedere Palace, offering a green escape amidst the urban landscape. As we lived for seven years in the area, we can vouch that this is one of the best parks in Vienna for families and totally worth the trip.
The park is smaller than others and has a friendly neighborhood vibe, making it a quieter alternative to the larger parks. Mature trees provide ample shade over the well-equipped playground, perfect for toddlers and younger children. The park is accessible via tram lines 1 and O (Quartier Belvedere stop) and the U1 metro line (Südtiroler Platz-Hauptbahnhof station).
Insider’s tips: The Belvedere Museum offers at weekends great guided tours and art workshops for children. The botanical gardens at Belvedere are also worth a visit, and if you want to explore further Vienna’s authentic neighborhood scene – check out our complete guide to the area around Karlsplatz and Alois Drache park (Vienna’s 4th and 5th districts).
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Spielplatz im Liechtensteinpark
– another authentic neighborhood secret
Located within the historical Liechtenstein Garden Palace grounds, the playground within the castle park is one of Vienna’s hidden gems, offering wooden climbing structures, swings, and slides in a peaceful, elegant setting. We discovered it after a children’s opera performance at the nearby Volksoper and it has been, since then, on our list of the best parks in Vienna for families.
The manicured Liechtenstein garden park was originally part of the grand estate of the Liechtenstein family, and it dates back to the 18th century. Checking opening times for the Liechtenstein Castle itself and getting the opportunity to peek inside would be an added bonus to your visit. The park is easily accessible via tram lines D and 1 (Seegasse or Bauernfeldplatz stops) and bus lines 40A and 37A.
Insider’s bonus: Combining your visit with a children’s opera at the Volksoper proved a memorable Sunday experience for us. Check here our dedicated blog post about concert venues in Vienna for families.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Prater
– a must for your family visit to Vienna
The Prater, one of Vienna’s oldest and most beloved parks, dates back to 1560 when it was first established as a royal hunting ground. Today, it is a vast urban park that combines green spaces with entertainment, offering families a perfect spot to enjoy nature and fun. The park features the renowned Wurstelprater amusement park, with its famous Giant Ferris Wheel, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Few tourists explore beyond the amusement park, but the Prater’s expansive green areas are perfect for picnics, cycling, and leisurely walks. The playgrounds here are equipped with modern climbing frames, swings, and slides, ideal for children of all ages. A family day at the Prater can also include a visit to Madame Tussaud’s or to the Kingdom of Railways Museum, our daughter’s favorite indoor activity in Vienna. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous outing, a relaxing day in nature, or somewhere to keep out of the rain for a while. Prater caters to all interests.
Insider’s bonus: After spending time in the park, be sure to stop by one of the park’s traditional restaurants for a hearty meal and enjoy an afternoon treat from the many ice cream vendors scattered throughout. Our favorite stop as parents: the Wiener Roesthaus im Prater, serving specialty coffee and delicious sweets.
To read on how we sometimes end up in Prater in the wrong season, check out this account of a winter’s walk in Prater.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Augarten
– the hidden gem in the second district
Augarten, one of Vienna’s oldest public parks, was originally laid out in the 18th century and was part of the Baroque estate of the Liechtenstein family. Today, this charming garden is one of the best parks in Vienna for families and offers a delightful mix of historical beauty and outdoor activities.
Children will love the large playgrounds that feature a mix of modern equipment and traditional designs, perfect for a day of climbing, swinging, and sliding. The wide, open spaces provide plenty of room for families to run around, and the shaded areas make it an ideal spot for a family picnic.
The park also boasts the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory, which can be visited for fascinating insights into Vienna’s craftsmanship.
Insider’s bonus: To load up on snacks and refreshments head to Mel & Koffie nearby; if you want to treat yourself to a nice luncheon, Sperling im Augarten is your go to.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Donaupark
– where the Danube meets the city
Donaupark, created in the 1960s as part of Vienna’s international exhibition stretches along the banks of the Danube and offers families both scenic beauty and recreational activities.
The park’s extensive walking paths are ideal for stroller walks, and there are several playgrounds equipped with everything from swings to innovative climbing structures.The park also hosts beautiful rose gardens, ideal for a quiet stroll or family photo sessions.
A standout feature of Donaupark is the Danube Tower (Donauturm), where you can take a lift to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city. A restaurant, a cafe, and a slide at high altitude are also available with the purchased ticket.
Insider’s bonus: Take a ride on the park’s mini train, which is a fun and unique way to explore the park with little ones.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Türkenschanzpark
– further away but still central
Türkenschanzpark was originally designed in the late 19th century as a public park and is named after the “Turkish Bastion” that once stood nearby, a reminder of Vienna’s historical conflicts with the Ottoman Empire. Today, this peaceful park is a favorite for families seeking a relaxing escape from the city. Known for its spacious lawns, picturesque ponds, and rolling hills, the park is a great spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or enjoying nature. The playground here is well-equipped with both traditional and modern play structures, and there’s also a lovely wooden climbing frame for the adventurous little ones. The park’s tranquility and large size allow families to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors while taking in the beauty of the park’s many flower beds and tree-lined pathways.
Insider’s bonus: Go for a treasure hunt along the park to discover nodes to Turkish culture such as the Turkish Fountain or the Kosaks monument. Climb the Paulinenwarte for scenic lookout views across the park’s English-style landscape.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Kurpark Oberlaa
– the secret at the end of the U1 line
Kurpark Oberlaa, part of the therapeutic spa complex of Therme Wien, has a long history as a wellness destination and was developed in the 18th century as a health resort. The park is part of the larger spa complex and offers a serene environment perfect for families. The park features spacious lawns, walking trails, and beautiful gardens that change with the seasons.
The playgrounds here are designed for a range of ages, with creative play areas and ample space for kids to run and explore. Families can also enjoy the lovely rose garden or take a relaxing stroll through the park’s many shaded areas.
Insider’s bonus: If you’re in the mood for a family wellness experience, visit the nearby Therme Wien for a relaxing swim or sauna after your time in the park.
The Best Parks in Vienna for Families – Lainzer Tiergarten
– the Vienna Woods at your doorstep
Lainzer Tiergarten was originally established in the 16th century as a royal hunting ground for the Habsburgs and today stands as one of Vienna’s most pristine natural reserves. This former hunting reserve has transformed into a vast, protected nature park offering families a chance to reconnect with nature. The park is home to numerous hiking paths, wildlife, and historical sites, including the Hermesvilla, a beautiful palace nestled within the park’s lush landscape. Children can enjoy exploring the various playgrounds and picnicking in the park’s wide-open spaces. The chance to see wild boar, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat makes Lainzer Tiergarten a fun and educational experience for families.
Insider’s bonus: Make sure to explore the Hermesvilla, which often hosts family-friendly exhibitions and events in its picturesque setting.
Visiting Vienna as a family is of course more than just playgrounds and green areas. That is why we have collected several resources to help you organize your stay, from booking a transfer to/from the airport, to a list of the best hotels in Vienna and your own neighborhood guide,and overview of the best concert venues in Vienna for families, we hope to be able to help plan your stay every step of the way.
