With 20 kilometers of beach and natural bathing areas on either side of the Neue Donau (New Danube), Vienna is never short of space to swim and sunbathe, even on the hottest of summer days. Added bonus for those who prefer lounging in their “birthday suits”: you can legally enjoy the warm weather sans clothing.

Nudism, known as FKK or Freie Korperkultur (literally “free body culture”), is allowed in designated areas both in the northern and southern sections. Because the northern end has limited access and lacks infrastructure like public toilets we suggest the south-side, where the FKK area starts at the access road to the Ölhafen Lobau. Still not sure where you can go naked? Just follow the inline skaters and cyclists insouciantly airing their Speedos and thongs (as if they really needed airing).

The “Entlastungsgerinne,” an artificial arm of water, emerged when the Neue Donau and the Donauinsel were constructed between 1972 and 1987 to prevent flooding. The water is not free-flowing which makes it ideal for swimming, boating, water skiing and windsurfing. Water quality is generally good, though the area is off-limits during inclement weather. Hail doesn’t feel so good on the skin.