Lake Neusiedl is the largest body of water near the city of Vienna. For this reason, it has earned the nickname “the Viennese Sea.” This area is a large nature reserve that serves as a recreational site during the summer months, especially for lovers of water sports and boating. Around the lake, there are lovely towns that you can visit during a day trip around the lake.
Archaeological findings in the area indicate that settlement around Lake Neusiedl began as early as the Neolithic period. Later, the area became popular during the Roman Empire, and there were several Roman villages, some of which have been partially preserved and are located on the Hungarian side of the lake.
Podersdorf am See
Today, there are many towns and villages around the lake, such as Donnerskirchen (where there are llama tours) or the town of Podersdorf am See, which serves as a central place for surfers and visitors to the lake. In this town, you will find a beautifully preserved windmill, considered one of the oldest in Austria.
Another notable place is the village of Rust, which has become famous throughout the region for being a major attraction for many storks. The villagers have placed nests on their roofs for the storks, and during the spring, you can see these impressive birds nesting on the rooftops.
The capital of the state of Burgenland, Eisenstadt, is also a short drive from the lake, making it possible to combine a visit to the impressive Esterházy Palace with a day of fun on the lake shore.
Although the lake is actually a protected nature reserve, it has also become a popular tourist attraction among local residents, especially for the people of Vienna. On the lake, you can go on pedal boats, go windsurfing, and also fish in designated areas. The weather conditions in this area are unique, and a strong wind blows around the lake for most of the year. For this reason, the area often hosts international windsurfing competitions.
Around the lake, there are places where swimming is allowed, as well as public pools for hot summer days. You can see all the swimming options here.
Other entertainment options a short drive from the lake are the luxurious St. Martins Spa, with its hot pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, and also the largest children’s amusement park in Austria.
Cycling Around the Lake
For cycling enthusiasts, the lake region offers around 29 bike paths, making it an excellent area to explore on two wheels. Bicycles can be rented at many points along the shore, and a convenient option for travelers arriving by train is the rental shop in Neusiedl am See, located close to the station. From there, you can begin a scenic ride around the lake. Those in strong physical condition can even complete a full circuit in a single day; just remember to bring a passport, as part of the route crosses into Hungary. If you prefer a more relaxed outing, consider cycling to Mörbisch am See in the south and taking a ferry to the opposite side. Bikes are allowed on the boat, and once you reach the other bank, you can continue riding toward Podersdorf. A one-day bike rental typically costs about €25 per person. It’s a pleasant experience.
This is what Lake Neusiedl from a bird’s eye view looks like
Additional Essential Information for Your Visit
How to get to the lake by public transport from Vienna?
You can take a train from Vienna’s main train station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) to the train station in the town of Neusiedl am See, which is right next to the lake shore. The train journey takes about 40 minutes.
Address: 7100 Neusiedl am See
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