Vienna International Airport
Vienna, AT · 18 km (11 mi) southeast of central Vienna
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi Taxi · On demand at the official taxi rank whenever flights are arriving | 25–45 min | €30–45 |
| Bus Public bus · Roughly every 20–30 min on main routes, reduced later at night | ≈35–45 min VIE–central bus stops depending on traffic | ≈€8–10 one way (Vienna Airport Lines to city hubs) |
| City Airport Train CAT Rail · Every 30 min during operating hours | ≈15–16 min VIE–Wien Mitte (non‑stop) | ≈€14–15 one way (standard adult) · discounts online/return |
| CITY TRANSFER / FIXED RATE Taxi desk · By reservation; typically available 24/7 with prebooking | 25–35 min to central Vienna off‑peak | ≈€30–40 to central districts (pre-booked) |
Insider notes
Take advantage of the single-building layout—walkable transfers make tighter connections feasible.
The VIENNA Lounge, Terminal 1, offers a three-hour entry for €57, a smart alternative for layovers without lounge access.
Stop by Senses of Austria in Terminal 1 Plaza for regional products and gifts.
Welcome
Vienna International Airport (VIE) stands out for its compact yet efficient design, nestled inside a connected terminal complex rather than sprawling across multiple locations. This setup offers travelers an efficient airside experience with premium amenities scattered throughout, making the airport more about navigating concourses than battling terminal labyrinths.
At a glance
Handling approximately 29.5 million passengers annually, Vienna International Airport is a key hub for Austrian Airlines, Ryanair, and Condor. Located just 18 kilometers southeast of Vienna's city center, its connected concourses facilitate faster transfers and enhanced passenger flow. With terminals 1, 1A, and 3, the airport supports a wide array of international and domestic flights.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1 primarily serves carriers like Aegean Airlines and Air China, while 1A houses mainly low-cost operators such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. Terminal 3 is dedicated to full-service airlines like Austrian Airlines and Lufthansa. The single-building layout makes it easier to manage tight connections, and the airside offers an extensive range of lounges and retail options.
Getting to and from the city
Vienna International Airport offers a variety of transport options to the city. The City Airport Train (CAT) whisks passengers to Wien Mitte in just 15 minutes for around €14. Alternatively, the S-Bahn S7 is a budget-friendly choice at around €4. For more personalized transport, a prepaid taxi from the airport's taxi desk costs between €30-40 to central Vienna. Ride-hailing services also average about €30-45 depending on time and traffic.
Traveller essentials
Whether you're parking, picking up, or dropping off, Car Park 3 is ideal for Terminals 1 and 1A, while Car Park 4 best serves Terminal 3. For inexpensive parking, opt for Parking Space C. Rental car services are a quick 5-10 minute walk from arrivals, connecting directly to the A4 motorway. For a budget-friendly ride into the city, buses are available for around €8-10.
Dining & shopping highlights
The airport's culinary scene, though not expansive, offers various choices within its terminals. For those interested in retail therapy, Heinemann Duty Free has multiple outlets in Terminal 3 by Gates F and G, open later than other shops. Senses of Austria in the Plaza of Terminal 1 showcases Austrian-themed products, while KHM - Art in Terminal 3 is a must-visit for unique souvenirs.
Lounges
VIE’s lounges cater to a range of traveler needs. The VIENNA Lounge in Terminal 1 provides a €57 access fee for a three-hour stay, suitable for those without airline lounge privileges. Alternatively, the SKY Lounge in Terminal 3 is another open-to-all option, ensuring comfort without exclusive club memberships. These lounges add a layer of premium comfort accessible to every passenger.
Insider tips
- Insider: Take advantage of the single-building layout—walkable transfers make tighter connections feasible.
- Money: The VIENNA Lounge, Terminal 1, offers a three-hour entry for €57, a smart alternative for layovers without lounge access.
- Local: Stop by Senses of Austria in Terminal 1 Plaza for regional products and gifts.
- Time: Heinemann Duty Free has later closing hours at Gates F and G, perfect for last-minute shopping in Terminal 3.
- Money: Parking Space C offers cheaper long-term parking with a weather-protected walkway to the terminals.
- Quiet: For an escape without the frills, SKY Lounge in Terminal 3 is a quiet hideaway accessible to all.
- Avoid: Don't expect retail everywhere; concentrate your shopping at the Plaza in Terminal 1 or near gates in Terminal 3.
- Insider: Utilize the prepaid taxi desk at arrivals—the flat rates simplify budgeting to central Vienna.