Bike riding in Vienna is part of an integrated plan. The city now provides more than 1,400 kilometres of secure bike paths and the locals as much as the tourists certainly love using their bikes. Bike sharing is clearly a well thought through means of transport here - the Wiener Linien offer an inexpensive solution from 1,20€ per hour.

On a recent visit to Vienna I took part in a four hour guided bike-tour, which I do in almost every city to get to know it. My summary: cycling in Vienna is easy, safe and it shows that the city counts on the bike as a sustainable and healthy means of transport. Image courtesy of Michael Brecht

Vienna adopted the so-called ‘Superblock’ concept from Barcelona and uses it for urban planning purposes. Austrians call it the ‘Supergrätzl’ concept, supporting sustainable traffic, thus reducing pollution. The first Supergrätzl extends over 1.5 square kilometres in Vienna's 10th district and specifically promotes walking, cycling and public transport. Image courtesy of Christian Fürthner

With innovative approaches around the aspects of mobility and commuting, Austrian employers are countering this with apps such as UMADUM, PAVE and ECOPOINTS and creating incentives for the use of sustainable commuting methods. These ‘commuting assistants’ are primarily based on a reward system for employees.

They can collect points by choosing a sustainable means of transport on their way to work. By using these features, such as offering or using a carpool, using public transport or cycling instead of the private car, points are credited to all participants. These points can be exchanged for non-cash prizes, vouchers or other defined rewards. Image courtesy of Johannes Zinner

Vienna is not only a green city, but also provides lots of water to use for leisure time activities. Here the local train crosses the old Danube area, the bridge is far from disturbing the many locals and tourists. Most of them arrive at this destination with exactly this trainline – no cars needed. Image courtesy of Michael Brecht

Talking of leisure time activities: The well known ‘Prater’ was once an imperial hunting ground and only accessible to the nobility until the Austrian Emperor Josef II donated the area to the Viennese as a recreational area in 1766. A fairground for many, a place of nostalgic dreams for some, the Prater today is the green oasis for almost everyone. The Ferris wheel here is one of Vienna's most famous landmarks. Image courtesy of Michael Brecht

Located just outside Vienna, you’ll find the adjoining south of the Weinviertel. Those looking for a relaxing day or a few hours should seek out these hills with direct access to the Danube, numerous wine villages and famous sights. Again, the use of public transport is made easy, so you can enjoy the wine and take the train or a shuttle back into the city.

More information on mobility changes in Vienna and Austria can be found in our MOTION Magazine Austria Special. Available in our MOTION online shop or with selected partners. Image courtesy of Michael Brecht