During the summer months in Vienna, nothing can feel more freeing and cool than hopping on a bike to get that breeze through your hair. Also, the bike lane network in Vienna is now outstanding and very safe. Plus you can easily rent bikes on the go to get around, often faster than public transportation (which is saying something given how efficient Vienna's transport system is).
So let me tell you more (and I promise I do not work for any of these companies - I am simply sharing a tip on how to get around).
First, the bikes. NextBike is a company associated with the city of Vienna, offering low cost bike rentals from stations around the city. Once you download the app, it is easy to find the stations and to identify if bikes are available to rent. I am lucky that I have a station near my office and near my house - I take a bike home this way from work every day. Once you arrive at the station, you use your app to scan the bike and the bike will unlock. The app is available in English, but you will need some sort of data plan for this app to work for you. Once the bike is unlocked, you can adjust the seat easily and some bikes even have child seats. You can even pause your ride (instructions are in the app and on the bike) if you want to pop in somewhere along the way. 30 minutes is .75 cents. Here is the website to get you started - https://www.nextbike.at/wienmobilrad/en/. Note that helmets are not included. I choose not to ride with a helmet typically. Also note that the bikes have lights, which are required if you are biking from sunset onwards.
Next, the routes. I use the Bike Citizens app to determine my bike route. The app gives you several options - easy, balanced and fast. I typically use the easy routes as these are almost exclusively on bike lanes. Google maps also has a tab for bike directions, if you prefer, but without the same options. I feel that Bike Citizens does a good job keeping up with all of the new bike lanes that are constantly added. I feel I should emphasize that I came into this having a bike riding fear, given that I had a bad bike accident when I was a teenager. I can assure you that biking in Vienna feels exceptionally safe - drivers respect bikers and the dedicated lanes often mean you are not directly in traffic on busier streets. https://map.bikecitizens.net/at-vienna#/!/1/1/-,-/-,-
Some of my favorite places to bike:
The Donauinsel - This is an artificial island stretching for over 13 miles sitting in the middle of the Danube (Donau means Danube in German, insel means island). It is car free, full of trees, bike lanes and beaches for swimming. The U1 subway line has a stop right on the island. This is a side of Vienna that tourists rarely see. Very flat.
The Ring - The entire Ring around the historic center is covered by dedicated bike lanes. I prefer side closer to the center as there are less traffic crossings. This is a great way to see the magnificent buildings of Ring. Very flat.
Prater Hauptallee - This is the main "road" (but cars not allowed) through the Prater green park, a former Habsburg hunting area. A straight shot from the Praterstern train station to the Lusthaus is a flat enjoyable ride under verdant chestnut trees while viewing a relaxed slice of a Vienna.
Zentralfriedhof - This is the main cemetery for Vienna and easily reached with Tram 71, which originates on the Ring. Believe me when I say that this cemetery is a must-see, as the graves of nearly every famous conductor as well as Austrians you might have heard of like Falco (Rock me Amadeus fame from the 80s, has a virtual shrine) and Heddy Lamarr (fascinating woman). I also really enjoy paying respects in the Jewish portion of the cemetery which is beautiful in a decrepit way. The church in the cemetery is an ode to the Secession movement with a beautiful interior. The cemetery gift shop is also great for a laugh.
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