Austria — Water Temperature in Lakes and Rivers
Find current water temperatures in lakes and rivers across Austria. See today’s measurements and typical seasonal changes for inland swimming and recreation. We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Water Temperature in Lakes and Rivers
Popular Lakes
Popular Rivers
Popular Places
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
Austria’s many lakes and rivers present a wide range of water temperatures driven by altitude, depth and exposure. In lowland and shallow lakes during the warmest months (July–August) water commonly reaches about 18–27 °C (64–81 °F), whereas deeper or high‑alpine lakes typically remain cooler, often 10–18 °C (50–64 °F) even in summer. Rivers show similar contrasts: lowland stretches of the Danube, for example, can warm to roughly 15–22 °C (59–72 °F) in summer, while mountain rivers and glacier‑fed streams typically stay much colder, often 5–14 °C (41–57 °F). Spring and autumn temperatures tend to be moderate to cool, roughly 6–14 °C (43–57 °F), depending on location, and in winter many high‑altitude lakes or sheltered basins fall to near freezing, about 0–4 °C (32–39 °F), with ice cover common in colder regions.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is widely practiced in Austria and is permitted in designated bathing areas at lakes and many controlled river sites; public beaches and lidos offer monitored zones, lifeguards in peak season, and regular water‑quality testing. Nevertheless, conditions vary: glacier‑fed lakes and mountain streams are cold enough to cause cold shock or hypothermia, and fast or channelled rivers can be dangerous because of currents and river traffic. Shallow, sheltered lowland lakes warm quickly and are popular for recreation, though they can also experience algal blooms in hot weather. Observing posted rules, seasonal warnings and local guidance is important for safe swimming.