In Vienna, using the bike for everyday transportation is still not as common as it could be. In order to improve that, there is still a lot to do, but some steps have already been taken. One of them was the introduction of the Citybikes back in 2003.

All over (the inner districts of) Vienna, there are about 60 rental stations of Citybike. At each of these stations, a bike may be rented, and returned later at any of these stations. For this, only a one-time registration (for just 1,– Euro) is needed. After this registration, each rental is free for the first hour. In my opinion, this is an excellent system for promoting inner-city transportation by bike.

Of course, you must not expect the latest models. However, the bikes are very tough, and therefore (despite heavy, and possibly not always gently use) mostly in a surprisingly good shape. Still, as only the newest generation is equipped with a gear shift, you have be prepared to pedal quickly if you want to drive a bit faster than usual.

I am lucky to work and live quite close to rental stations. So, for me, it is possible to bike home every day after work. For most of the way, I am even able to ride on bike lanes. Better still, I can enjoy the grandeur of the Viennese Ringstraße with all its impressive buildings (like the parliament, the city hall, Hofburg, etc.), as my best way home leads directly past there.

Moreover, thanks to the rental system, I can still take the subway in the morning (when it is still quite cold, especially now in fall). Furthermore, I do not have to worry about theft (as I do not expect anyone to suddenly grab my bike while I am actually riding it). All in all: a great system!