Transfer Options
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is located in Schwechat. Terminal 1/2 and Terminal 3 are connected via the central arrivals plaza; the train station is directly underneath Terminal 3.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Hauptbahnhof (HBF) is the city’s main international station. It is a multi-level modern hub with a large shopping center (BahnhofCity) inside.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Westbahnhof is the terminus for WESTbahn (private operator) trains. It is perfectly located for the Mariahilfer Straße shopping district.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Meidling is a secondary but vital hub. Most trains from the South (Italy/Graz) stop here before reaching the Hauptbahnhof.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Use ÖBB Tickets to purchase and manage your fares. ÖBB Scotty is the specialized real-time journey planner for tracking live delays, platform changes, and connections across all Austrian public transport.
Luggage Storage
Lockers (Vienna Airport)
Located in the Arrivals Hall (Terminal 3). Open daily 05:30–23:30. Staffed counter for suitcases and oversized items.
Lockers (Wien Hbf)
Self-service lockers are located on the lower level (Level -1), near the entrance to the U1 metro and the restrooms.
Lockers (Westbahnhof)
Lockers are located on Level -1 (basement level) near the restrooms and the U3/U6 metro entrances.
Lockers (Wien Meidling)
A small bank of lockers is located in the main hall near the ÖBB Ticket Center.
Coat Storage
The airport offers a “Cloakroom Service” for €2.50 per day—perfect for leaving heavy winter coats when flying to warmer climates.
Visitor Cards & Passes
For unlimited public transportation, you have several options. All are valid on city subways, trams, and buses.
- Vienna City Card: Includes transit and 210+ discounts. Prices: €17 (24h), €25 (48h), or €29 (72h).
- Wiener Linien Passes: Transit only. Prices: €8.00 (24h), €14.10 (48h), €17.10 (72h), or a 7-day Vienna ticket for €17.10.
- Senior Rates (65+): Travelers 65 and over can purchase a 2-trip senior ticket for €3.00 or a single discounted trip for €1.50.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the Tourist Information counter in the Airport Arrivals Hall (09:00–18:00) or at any red ÖBB/Wiener Linien ticket machine located at the train station entrance.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center on the ground floor, the Wiener Linien Info & Ticket Center (lower level, near U1), or any red ticket machine.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center, the Wiener Linien Ticket Office (upper level), or any red ticket machine.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center or any red ticket machine.
Train & Metro Transport
- City Airport Train (CAT): Premium non-stop service to Wien Mitte (16 mins, €14.90).
- ÖBB Railjet: Fastest for those staying near the main station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), taking 15 mins for €4.40.
- S7 S-Bahn: Budget local train (25 mins, €4.40) stopping at multiple city points including Wien Mitte and Praterstern.
The 'City Check-In' Perk
If you use the CAT, you can check your luggage and receive your boarding pass at the Wien Mitte station in the city center on your return leg. This allows you to spend your final hours in Vienna hands-free.
Airport Supplement
If you already hold a city pass (like a 24h ticket), airport trains require a €2.00 supplement to cover the zone outside the city limits.
- U1 Metro (Red Line): The fastest way to reach Stephansplatz (city center), taking approximately 5 minutes. A single ticket costs €2.40 (or €1.50 for seniors).
- S-Bahn: Multiple lines connect to Wien Mitte and Praterstern from the lower-level platforms.
- U3 Metro (Orange Line): This line takes you directly to the historic center (Stephansplatz) in about 10 minutes.
- U6 Metro (Brown Line): Useful for reaching the northern or southern districts.
- Trams: Lines 5, 6, 9, 18, 52, and 60 all stop here, providing excellent surface-level connections to the surrounding neighborhoods.
- U6 Metro (Brown Line): Connects you to the western parts of the city.
- S-Bahn (Stammstrecke): Take any S-Bahn train (S1, S2, S3) heading toward “Wien Floridsdorf” to reach central hubs like Wien Mitte or Praterstern.
- Railjet: Many long-distance trains stop here before continuing to Wien Hbf (5 mins).
- Badner Bahn: This yellow-and-blue tram-train connects Meidling directly to the State Opera (Karlsplatz) in the city center.
Validation
If you buy a physical paper ticket without a printed date, you must stamp it in the blue/orange validation boxes at the station/metro entrance. Digital tickets are usually validated automatically upon purchase.
Bus
Vienna Airport Lines (VAL) coaches provide direct links to major hubs like Westbahnhof and Schwedenplatz. Tickets cost €11.00 one-way (25–40 mins). Buy from the driver or machines at the bus stands.
Luggage: Unlike the S7 train, VAL buses have massive under-carriage luggage holds, making them easier for heavy suitcases.
Bus lines 13A and 69A serve the station. Use the 13A to reach the Neubau district. Prices are the same as the metro (€2.40).
The Vienna Airport Lines (VAL 1) bus departs from the front of the station, providing a direct 40-minute link to the airport. Local bus N64 provides night service.
Local bus lines 15A, 62A, and 7A depart from the station plaza. These are primarily useful for reaching residential areas in the 12th and 10th districts.
No Tickets on Board
You cannot buy tickets from city bus drivers. Purchase at a machine or via the app beforehand. (Note: While some older trams have coin-only machines on board, buses do not).
Rideshare
Uber, Bolt, and Freenow are active in Vienna. Since 2021, rideshare vehicles are legally classified as taxis, but they often use specific pickup zones rather than the main taxi rank to avoid airport surcharges.
Use Freenow to book official taxis that bypass traffic in dedicated bus lanes, or Uber for a familiar experience with dedicated “Priority” pickup zones at Vienna Airport. Bolt is the best budget alternative, offering the lowest fares and integrated e-scooter rentals for quick city hops.
Pickup (Vienna Airport)
Follow signs for 'Rental Cars/Car Parks' to Car Park 3 (P3), Level 0. This is the primary pickup for Uber and Bolt. Alternatively, some drivers may request to meet at the Departure (Abflug) level curb.
Pickup (Wien Hbf)
Follow signs for 'Exit Nord' or 'Südtiroler Platz' to reach the Kiss & Ride zone. Drivers typically wait near the entrance to the underground passage.
Pickup (Westbahnhof)
The best pickup point is at Europaplatz, directly in front of the main station entrance near the taxi rank.
Pickup (Wien Meidling)
Request your ride for the Eichenstraße exit or the main station forecourt. Drivers usually pull up near the taxi stand.
Pickup Tips
Airport GPS: The GPS can be finicky inside the terminal. Wait until you are at the outdoor pickup curb before requesting your ride.
Avoid Touts: Ignore anyone in the terminal or station lobby offering “cheap private rides.” These are unlicensed. Always use a verified app or the official taxi rank.
Taxi
Official Vienna taxis are white and have license plates ending in “TX”.
- Airport Rank: Located immediately outside the Arrivals Hall exit. Fare to city: €40–€55.
- Station Rank: Located outside the North (Nord) and South (Süd) exits. Fare to city: €15–€22.
- Station Rank: Located directly on Europaplatz outside the main entrance. Fare to the center: €12–€18.
- Station Rank: Located outside the main entrance on Eichenstraße. Fare to the center: €18–€25.
The Fixed-Price Hack
Always ask the driver for a “Fixpreis” (fixed price) before the trip begins. Most drivers have a standard airport-to-city flat rate (approx. €36–€42) that is cheaper than the running meter.
ATMs and Currency
Avoid “Euronet” machines, which charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates. Look for bank-branded ATMs like Bank Austria, Raiffeisen, or Erste Bank.
At the Airport: ATMs are located in the Arrivals Hall and near the baggage carousels.
At Central Station: Multiple bank-branded ATMs are in the BahnhofCity shopping gallery on the ground and lower levels.
At Westbahnhof: ATMs are located in the BahnhofCity mall area and near the main hall.
At Wien Meidling: ATMs are available in the main station hall and near the Eichenstraße exit.
Small Change Matters
Austrian ATMs often dispense €50 or €100 notes. Try to break these at a newsstand (Tabak) in the terminal or station, as small cafes and taxi drivers may struggle to provide change for large bills.
Accessibility
Both the airport and central station are highly accessible.
- VIE: The Sala Amica provides specialized assistance for passengers with limited mobility.
- Wien Hbf: Every platform is served by large glass elevators and features tactile paving.
- Westbahnhof: The station is a modern multi-level complex with elevators connecting the shopping levels, platforms, and U-Bahn lines.
- Wien Meidling: All platforms are accessible via elevators. The station is compact, making it easier to navigate for those with limited mobility compared to the larger HBF.
Assistance Services
Hidden Disabilities: VIE recognizes the Sunflower Lanyard. Pick one up at the Service Counter to signal staff that you may need extra assistance.
ÖBB Mobility: For personal assistance at the station (e.g., wheelchair lifts), book the ÖBB Help Center at least 3 hours in advance at +43 5 1717-5.
Safety
Vienna is exceptionally safe, but transit hubs are targets for minor scams.
The 'Official' Tout
Men inside the airport arrivals hall holding “Taxi” signs are private chauffeurs who charge double. Only use the outdoor rank or an app.
The 'Helpful' Stranger
At the station, ignore anyone offering to help you use the ticket machine because “it’s broken.” They may try to see your PIN. Only speak to staff in official red ÖBB uniforms.
Europaplatz Safety
While safe, the area outside Westbahnhof can be busy and chaotic. Keep a firm grip on your belongings when exiting the station.
Platform Awareness
Meidling is a very busy commuter station. Stay behind the yellow lines, as high-speed trains often pass through without stopping.
Transfer Options
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is located in Schwechat. Terminal 1/2 and Terminal 3 are connected via the central arrivals plaza; the train station is directly underneath Terminal 3.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Hauptbahnhof (HBF) is the city’s main international station. It is a multi-level modern hub with a large shopping center (BahnhofCity) inside.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Westbahnhof is the terminus for WESTbahn (private operator) trains. It is perfectly located for the Mariahilfer Straße shopping district.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Wien Meidling is a secondary but vital hub. Most trains from the South (Italy/Graz) stop here before reaching the Hauptbahnhof.
Official Resources
The following options are available for transport to your accommodation:
Use ÖBB Tickets to purchase and manage your fares. ÖBB Scotty is the specialized real-time journey planner for tracking live delays, platform changes, and connections across all Austrian public transport.
Luggage Storage
Lockers (Vienna Airport)
Located in the Arrivals Hall (Terminal 3). Open daily 05:30–23:30. Staffed counter for suitcases and oversized items.
Lockers (Wien Hbf)
Self-service lockers are located on the lower level (Level -1), near the entrance to the U1 metro and the restrooms.
Lockers (Westbahnhof)
Lockers are located on Level -1 (basement level) near the restrooms and the U3/U6 metro entrances.
Lockers (Wien Meidling)
A small bank of lockers is located in the main hall near the ÖBB Ticket Center.
Coat Storage
The airport offers a “Cloakroom Service” for €2.50 per day—perfect for leaving heavy winter coats when flying to warmer climates.
Visitor Cards & Passes
For unlimited public transportation, you have several options. All are valid on city subways, trams, and buses.
- Vienna City Card: Includes transit and 210+ discounts. Prices: €17 (24h), €25 (48h), or €29 (72h).
- Wiener Linien Passes: Transit only. Prices: €8.00 (24h), €14.10 (48h), €17.10 (72h), or a 7-day Vienna ticket for €17.10.
- Senior Rates (65+): Travelers 65 and over can purchase a 2-trip senior ticket for €3.00 or a single discounted trip for €1.50.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the Tourist Information counter in the Airport Arrivals Hall (09:00–18:00) or at any red ÖBB/Wiener Linien ticket machine located at the train station entrance.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center on the ground floor, the Wiener Linien Info & Ticket Center (lower level, near U1), or any red ticket machine.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center, the Wiener Linien Ticket Office (upper level), or any red ticket machine.
Where to Buy
Purchase at the ÖBB Ticket Center or any red ticket machine.
Train & Metro Transport
- City Airport Train (CAT): Premium non-stop service to Wien Mitte (16 mins, €14.90).
- ÖBB Railjet: Fastest for those staying near the main station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), taking 15 mins for €4.40.
- S7 S-Bahn: Budget local train (25 mins, €4.40) stopping at multiple city points including Wien Mitte and Praterstern.
The 'City Check-In' Perk
If you use the CAT, you can check your luggage and receive your boarding pass at the Wien Mitte station in the city center on your return leg. This allows you to spend your final hours in Vienna hands-free.
Airport Supplement
If you already hold a city pass (like a 24h ticket), airport trains require a €2.00 supplement to cover the zone outside the city limits.
- U1 Metro (Red Line): The fastest way to reach Stephansplatz (city center), taking approximately 5 minutes. A single ticket costs €2.40 (or €1.50 for seniors).
- S-Bahn: Multiple lines connect to Wien Mitte and Praterstern from the lower-level platforms.
- U3 Metro (Orange Line): This line takes you directly to the historic center (Stephansplatz) in about 10 minutes.
- U6 Metro (Brown Line): Useful for reaching the northern or southern districts.
- Trams: Lines 5, 6, 9, 18, 52, and 60 all stop here, providing excellent surface-level connections to the surrounding neighborhoods.
- U6 Metro (Brown Line): Connects you to the western parts of the city.
- S-Bahn (Stammstrecke): Take any S-Bahn train (S1, S2, S3) heading toward “Wien Floridsdorf” to reach central hubs like Wien Mitte or Praterstern.
- Railjet: Many long-distance trains stop here before continuing to Wien Hbf (5 mins).
- Badner Bahn: This yellow-and-blue tram-train connects Meidling directly to the State Opera (Karlsplatz) in the city center.
Validation
If you buy a physical paper ticket without a printed date, you must stamp it in the blue/orange validation boxes at the station/metro entrance. Digital tickets are usually validated automatically upon purchase.
Bus
Vienna Airport Lines (VAL) coaches provide direct links to major hubs like Westbahnhof and Schwedenplatz. Tickets cost €11.00 one-way (25–40 mins). Buy from the driver or machines at the bus stands.
Luggage: Unlike the S7 train, VAL buses have massive under-carriage luggage holds, making them easier for heavy suitcases.
Bus lines 13A and 69A serve the station. Use the 13A to reach the Neubau district. Prices are the same as the metro (€2.40).
The Vienna Airport Lines (VAL 1) bus departs from the front of the station, providing a direct 40-minute link to the airport. Local bus N64 provides night service.
Local bus lines 15A, 62A, and 7A depart from the station plaza. These are primarily useful for reaching residential areas in the 12th and 10th districts.
No Tickets on Board
You cannot buy tickets from city bus drivers. Purchase at a machine or via the app beforehand. (Note: While some older trams have coin-only machines on board, buses do not).
Arrival Time
For long-haul flights to the US or Asia, arrive 3 hours early. For European Schengen flights, 2 hours is sufficient.
Terminal 1 vs Terminal 3
Check your terminal carefully. While they are connected, walking from the Terminal 1 check-in to the G Gates in Terminal 3 can take 15–20 minutes. Use the moving walkways to save your knees.
Check-in
Boarding Pass Printing
Many European airlines charge a fee to print a boarding pass at the counter. Always have a digital version on your phone or print it at your hotel before heading to the airport.
Security & Screening
Belt and Shoes
Unlike in the US (TSA Pre-Check), everyone in Vienna must remove their belt. However, you generally do not need to remove your shoes unless they are heavy boots or have metal supports.
VAT Refunds
Digital Validation (OTELLO)
Austria uses the OTELLO system. You must validate your forms at a digital kiosk before checking your luggage.
Instructions
- Go to the DEV (Digital Export Validation) counter/kiosk before check-in (located in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3).
- Scan your passport and tax-free forms.
- If approved, you can then check your bags. For cash refunds, visit the Interchange desk after security.
The 75 Euro Rule
In Austria, you must spend at least €75.01 in a single store to qualify for a VAT refund. Keep all original receipts; digital photos of receipts are rarely accepted by customs officers.
Arrival Time
For international high-speed trains (Railjet, ICE, EuroCity), arrive 20–30 minutes before departure. The station is large, and walking from the main hall to the far end of platforms 9-12 can take 7 minutes.
Security & Screening
- Check the large blue “Abfahrt” (Departures) screens for your platform.
- Platforms are divided into zones (A, B, C). Check the “Wagenreihung” (Car Sequence) posters on the platform to see where your specific coach number will stop.
Quiet Zones
Look for the “Ruhezone” (Quiet Zone) symbols on coach doors. If you have booked a seat here, avoid talking loudly or taking phone calls, as Austrian commuters take these zones very seriously.
Wien Westbahnhof
Arrival Time
Check-in & Security
Station Layout
Easy Access
Westbahnhof is a “terminal” station, meaning the trains pull in and stop. You won’t have to climb stairs to get onto the platform from the main concourse, making it very friendly for those with heavy suitcases.
Wien Meidling
Arrival Time
Getting There
Check-in & Security
Station Layout
The 'Second' Stop
Many travelers staying in the western or southern districts find Meidling more convenient than the Central Station (HBF). Most long-distance trains stop at both; just ensure your ticket lists “Wien” generally or “Wien Meidling” specifically.
Accessibility
Both the airport and central station are highly accessible.
- VIE: The Sala Amica provides specialized assistance for passengers with limited mobility.
- Wien Hbf: Every platform is served by large glass elevators and features tactile paving.
- Westbahnhof: The station is a modern multi-level complex with elevators connecting the shopping levels, platforms, and U-Bahn lines.
- Wien Meidling: All platforms are accessible via elevators. The station is compact, making it easier to navigate for those with limited mobility compared to the larger HBF.
Assistance Services
Hidden Disabilities: VIE recognizes the Sunflower Lanyard. Pick one up at the Service Counter to signal staff that you may need extra assistance.
ÖBB Mobility: For personal assistance at the station (e.g., wheelchair lifts), book the ÖBB Help Center at least 3 hours in advance at +43 5 1717-5.
Safety
Vienna is exceptionally safe, but transit hubs are targets for minor scams.
The 'Official' Tout
Men inside the airport arrivals hall holding “Taxi” signs are private chauffeurs who charge double. Only use the outdoor rank or an app.
The 'Helpful' Stranger
At the station, ignore anyone offering to help you use the ticket machine because “it’s broken.” They may try to see your PIN. Only speak to staff in official red ÖBB uniforms.
Europaplatz Safety
While safe, the area outside Westbahnhof can be busy and chaotic. Keep a firm grip on your belongings when exiting the station.
Platform Awareness
Meidling is a very busy commuter station. Stay behind the yellow lines, as high-speed trains often pass through without stopping.