Vienna
Vienna has become a top European cycling city through steady investment in safe, separated routes and smart integration with public transport. A growing modal share and a 1,700+ km network make daily riding practical for residents and visitors alike.
Stolen Bikes in Vienna
Bike theft is an ongoing challenge in Vienna — current risk: High in absolute numbers; low recovery (≈7,009 thefts in 2024). Learn how to protect your ride with our Security Tips and understand coverage options in the Insurance Guide. If your bike was taken, you can report a stolen bike in Vienna to alert the community.
At a glance
Daily riders
11% of all journeys (2024)
Dedicated paths
≈1,742 km network (2024, multiple official sources)
Bike sharing stations
240
Theft risk
High in absolute numbers; low recovery (≈7,009 thefts in 2024)
Stolen bikes are commonly targeted near transit hubs and popular areas. Use two quality locks and register your frame number.
Quick map
Open Vienna on the map
Theft insights
High in absolute numbers; low recovery (≈7,009 thefts in 2024)
Why it’s special
Expansive, continuously growing cycle network exceeding 1,700 km.
Integrated with world‑class public transport via WienMobil Rad pricing and stations.
Strategic “Radweg‑Offensive” builds high‑quality, separated cycleways.
Widespread two‑way cycling on one‑way streets enhances connectivity.
Right‑turn‑on‑red expansion at signed intersections improves flow.
Iconic urban rides along the Ringstraße and the Donaukanal.
Car‑free Donauinsel offers relaxed recreational cycling for all levels.
Secure bike garages at major hubs (e.g., Hauptbahnhof, Kennedybrücke).
Safety tips
Use lights at night and in poor visibility (white front, red rear).
Cross tram tracks at a near‑right angle to avoid wheel pinch.
Use your bell before overtaking on the left; keep right on paths.
Right‑turn‑on‑red only where the green arrow sign is posted.
For overnights, prefer staffed or access‑controlled parking garages.
Use two high‑quality locks and secure the frame to a fixed anchor.
Ride like a local
Rules that matter
- Use hand signals for turns and stops; ride predictably and keep right.
- Lights and reflectors are required at night and in poor visibility.
- Use mandatory bike lanes where signed; do not ride on sidewalks.
- Helmets are legally required only for children under 12 (recommended for all).
- Mobile phone use is only permitted hands‑free while riding.
- Yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings and in shared spaces.
- Cross tram tracks at ~90° to avoid getting wheels caught.
- Right‑turn‑on‑red applies only where a green arrow sign allows it.
Typical fines (EUR)
Unwritten etiquette
- Use your bell as a polite signal before overtaking on the left.
- Keep to the right on shared or busy paths; avoid riding two‑abreast in congestion.
- Cross tram tracks deliberately and perpendicularly; avoid shallow angles.
- Be extra alert in tourist areas (e.g., Ringstraße, old town) and near crossings.
- The Ringstraße path is a commuter artery—ride steadily; keep right if sightseeing.
Security & parking
Parking like a pro
- Choose designated racks (≈67,000 public spaces); avoid blocking footways and doors.
- For overnight or high‑value bikes, use secure garages (Hauptbahnhof, Kennedybrücke, Liesing).
- Always capture the frame (and preferably a wheel) to a fixed anchor with at least one U‑lock.
- Add a second lock or security chain; remove accessories and e‑bike batteries/displays.
Theft & lock strategy
- Preventive security is essential: recovery rates are low; lock as if it won’t be found.
- Use two high‑quality locks; secure frame and wheels to a fixed, immovable object.
- Record the frame number and keep photos for insurance and police reports.
- Park in busy, well‑lit areas or in staffed/secure garages for longer stays.
- Consider a GPS tracker for high‑value bikes; discreetly place and pair it.
Radstation Wien Hauptbahnhof (Bike Garage)
Large, access‑controlled, and monitored bike garage at Vienna Central Station offering 24/7 parking, a staffed service desk (daily hours), repairs, and a bike shop.
Rent a bike
Epic day trips
Imperial Loop: Ringstraße + Donaukanal • ≈15 km
Flat, mostly separated loop past the State Opera, Hofburg, Rathaus, and along the Donaukanal—ideal for first‑time visitors.
Donauinsel (Danube Island) • 10–42 km (customizable)
Car‑free 21 km island with paved paths, swimming spots, and riverside bars; easy, family‑friendly riding.
Wachau Valley Day Trip (Melk–Krems) • ≈36 km
UNESCO wine region ride on the Danube Cycle Path between Melk and Krems; train connections from Vienna make it simple.
What’s next
Radweg‑Offensive 2025
Citywide program prioritizing new, high‑quality separated cycleways and closing network gaps.
Right‑Turn‑on‑Red Expansion
Hundreds of signed intersections (green arrow) allow turn‑on‑red for cyclists to improve flow.
Argentinierstraße Cycle Street
Flagship conversion to a Dutch‑style cycle street prioritizing bikes and discouraging through‑traffic.
Cargo Bike Subsidy
Active grants for private cargo bikes to shift family and goods trips away from cars.
Your perfect day
Start & bike pickup (Stadtpark area)
Grab a WienMobil Rad or a rental near Stadtpark; do a quick brake/light check and adjust saddle height.
Ringstraße highlights
Follow the Ring path past the State Opera, Hofburg, Parliament, Rathaus, and Burgtheater—steady pace, keep right, ring before passing.
Along the Donaukanal
Drop to the canal path for riverside views, street art, and cafés; continue towards Urania and loop back toward the center.
Return & optional Prater spin
Return bikes near Stadtpark or continue to the car‑free Prater Hauptallee for an extra relaxed stretch before lunch.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a helmet?
Helmets are legally required only for children under 12. Many riders wear one; use lights and ride predictably for safety.
What are typical fines for cyclists?
Examples include ~€70 for running a red light, ~€50 for using a phone without hands‑free, and ~€20 for missing lights. Amounts and enforcement can vary.
Can visitors use WienMobil Rad?
Yes. Register in the nextbike app, verify a payment method (~€1), unlock via QR code, and return to any official station. Fees apply for off‑station returns or improper locking.
How should I lock and park?
Use two quality locks; capture the frame (and a wheel) to a fixed anchor. Prefer secure garages for overnights and busy, well‑lit areas for street parking.
How do I report a stolen bike?
Report to the police (Polizei) with the frame number, make, and photos. For emergencies dial 133; residents with ID‑Austria can file certain reports online.
Is right‑turn‑on‑red allowed everywhere?
No. It applies only where a posted green arrow sign permits it at the signal. Otherwise, standard red‑light rules apply.