When you arrive at Vienna International Airport after a long flight, there’s nothing better than knowing exactly how to get into the city without stress. Maybe you’re dreaming of that first slice of Sachertorte or a stroll through the historic streets of the Innere Stadt. The good news? Vienna’s airport is well-connected, and getting to the city centre is surprisingly easy — whether you’re travelling on a budget, with lots of luggage, or arriving late at night.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all your options: from express trains and regular commuter lines to airport shuttles, taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. We also explain where to buy tickets, how long each option takes, and which choice might be best for your travel style.
City Airport Train (CAT)
The City Airport Train is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city centre from Vienna International Airport. It connects the airport directly to Wien Mitte in just 16 minutes, without any stops in between.
Travel time
16 minutes, non-stop
Ticket price
€15.90 one-way / €24.90 return (online price)
where to buy tickets
You can buy your ticket online (recommended for the best price), at the CAT ticket machines, or at the CAT counter in the arrivals’ hall.
Pros and cons
- Fast and comfortable
- Dedicated luggage area, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets
— Not included in regular public transport tickets
— Only goes to Wien Mitte (may require transfer)
S7 commuter train
The S7 is part of Vienna’s public transport system and is the most affordable way to reach the city. It makes multiple stops and is ideal if you’re staying outside the city centre.
Travel time
About 25 minutes to Wien Mitte
Ticket price
€4.40 (includes airport supplement)
Where to buy tickets
At ÖBB ticket machines, online via oebb.at or in the ÖBB app
Pros and cons
- Cheapest option
- Included in Vienna public transport passes
— Slower than CAT
— Less space for luggage
Railjet (long-distance train)
The Railjet is a fast, long-distance train operated by ÖBB. It connects the airport to Vienna’s main station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) and is ideal if you’re travelling by train on to other Austrian cities.
Travel time
Around 15 minutes to Wien Hauptbahnhof
Ticket price
From €4.40 for a single ticket
Where to buy tickets
ÖBB ticket machines, online or via the ÖBB app
Pros and cons
- Fast and comfortable
- Great for transfers to other cities
– Less frequent than S7 and CAT
| Option | Travel time | Price (one-way) | Main station | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Airport Train (CAT) | 16 minutes (non-stop) | €14.90 (€24.90 return) | Wien Mitte | Fastest and most comfortable, not part of public transport |
| S7 commuter train | ~25 minutes | €4.40 | Wien Mitte | Cheapest option, valid with public transport passes |
| Railjet | ~15 minutes | From €4.40 | Wien Hauptbahnhof | Ideal for travel beyond Vienna |
All three train options from Vienna Airport are reliable and efficient. The Railjet is ideal if you’re heading to Vienna Central Station or planning onward travel within Austria. The S7 offers the best value for money, especially if you’re staying near one of its stops or already have a public transport pass. The City Airport Train (CAT) is the fastest and most comfortable, but also the most expensive — and it doesn’t save that much time compared to the S7.
Local tip: Unless you’re in a big hurry or want a guaranteed seat with luggage space, the S7 usually does the job just fine. Personally, we tend to skip the CAT — it’s sleek, but for most travellers, not worth the extra cos
Taxi
A taxi is one of the most convenient ways to get from Vienna International Airport to your accommodation — especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage, travelling with others, or arriving late at night. Taxis are available 24/7 just outside the arrivals’ hall, and you can either hop into a regular metered cab or pre-book a fixed-price transfer in advance.
The journey to the city centre typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact destination. A standard metered ride typically costs between €36 and €45, while pre-booked services tend to offer slightly lower and more predictable prices, often starting around €30.
If you book in advance, your driver will typically meet you in the arrivals area with a name sign and help you with your luggage. This can be a real time-saver after a long flight.
You can pre-book your taxi from the airport.
Local tip: While Vienna’s licensed taxis are generally reliable, pre-booking a ride can save you money and avoid surprises — especially during busy hours or if you’re heading to a hotel outside the city centre.
Uber and Bolt
If you prefer using ride-hailing apps, both Uber and Bolt operate in Vienna and are available for pickups at the airport. These services offer a flexible and often slightly cheaper alternative to traditional taxis, especially if you’re already familiar with the apps.
You can order a ride as soon as you land, or while collecting your luggage. Once confirmed, your driver will usually wait at the designated ride-share pickup zone, just a short walk from the arrivals’ hall. The app will guide you to the right location.
Travel time is similar to a regular taxi — around 20 to 30 minutes — and prices typically range between €30 and €40, depending on demand and the time of day. Since prices are shown in advance, you’ll know exactly what you’ll pay before the ride starts.
Local tip: If you’re travelling during rush hour or on a rainy day, prices for Uber and Bolt can spike due to dynamic pricing. In those cases, a pre-booked taxi may actually be the cheaper and more reliable option.
Airport shuttles
Airport shuttles can be a convenient option if you’re travelling to a hotel or destination outside the city centre, especially in regions like Lower Austria or nearby cities such as Bratislava. These shared or private transfers are usually pre-booked and offer door-to-door service without the hassle of navigating public transport.
Shuttle services often operate with minibuses or comfortable vans, and you’ll typically meet your driver in the arrivals’ hall, holding a sign with your name. Travel time varies depending on your final destination and the number of stops along the way, but for most parts of Vienna, it takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Prices depend on whether you’re booking a private or shared transfer. For central Vienna, shared shuttles typically start around €15 per person, while private transfers begin at €35 to €45 per ride.
Local tip: If you’re travelling with a group or carrying bulky luggage, a pre-booked shuttle might be cheaper and easier than taking a train or taxi — especially if you’re heading straight to a hotel or flat in the outer districts.
Renting a car at Vienna Airport
If you’re planning to explore more of Austria or visit the countryside, renting a car at Vienna International Airport can be a great option. All major rental companies — including Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, and Avis — have desks at the airport, and the pickup area is well signposted and easy to access.
That said, renting a car is not ideal if you’re staying in central Vienna. Parking in the city centre is limited, confusing, and expensive. Most streets have short-term parking zones, and many hotels charge €25 or more per day for garage access — if they even offer it. For most visitors exploring the city itself, public transport is far more practical.
However, if you’re continuing your journey through Austria by car, booking in advance is highly recommended. And here’s a tip from our experience: always inspect the vehicle thoroughly before you drive off. Take clear photos or a short video of any existing damage, no matter how minor. This can save you a lot of hassle when returning the car.
Local tip: Ask if your rental car includes a valid Autobahnvignette (motorway toll sticker). It’s legally required for driving on Austrian highways, and while most rentals include it, it’s worth double-checking.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I get to Vienna Airport for an early morning flight?
If your flight departs before 6:00 AM, public transport options may be limited. In that case, a pre-booked taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Bolt is often the most reliable choice. Some hotels also offer early morning shuttle services, so it’s worth asking at reception. If you’re staying near Wien Mitte, the first CAT train leaves around 5:30 AM, which can be just early enough for certain short-haul flights.
How do I get into the city if I arrive late at night?
Vienna Airport is open 24/7, and taxis and ride-hailing services are always available, even after midnight. The S7 and CAT trains usually stop running around midnight, so if you land later than that, a taxi or Uber/Bolt is the best option. Expect a smooth 20–30 minute ride into the city, even faster at night due to low traffic.