Donaukanal

The Donaukanal is a 17.3-kilometre water channel in Vienna, once a branch of the Danube. It splits from the main river at the Nußdorf weir and rejoins it near Prater park, forming an island that holds two districts. Fifteen road bridges and five rail bridges cross the canal. The name has been used since the 17th century, though earlier attempts to rename it failed. The canal’s banks have been shaped by flood defences like the Schwimmtor and the Nußdorf weir. In the 1990s, a recreation area was created along the southern section. Today, the Donaukanal is a lively spot for nightlife, with open-air bars offering sand, deckchairs and sunloungers. The annual Donaukanaltreiben Festival in June features Austrian and neighbouring bands. Paths along both sides attract joggers, cyclists and skaters. Boat rides start at Schwedenplatz, linking Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau via the canal and Danube. The grassy slopes beside the water were celebrated in Heinz Conrads’ song "A schräge Wiesn". The canal remains a fixture in Vienna’s urban life.