Vienna Airport to City Center

16 Dec

Vienna Airport to City Center: The 2025 Guide to the Best Transfers

Landing in a new city is exciting, but the "How do I get to my hotel?" stress is real. If you’ve just touched down at Vienna International Airport (VIE), you have plenty of options. But which one is the fastest? And more importantly, which one won't break the bank?

In our latest video, we break down every transport method so you can start your Viennese adventure stress-free. From €3.90 train rides to luxury transfers, here is everything you need to know.

First Steps: Getting Your Bearings

Vienna Airport is surprisingly easy to navigate. Once you pass through customs into the Arrivals Hall, you have a simple choice:

Go LEFT: For car rentals (P4) or pre-booked taxis.
Go RIGHT: For the train station, buses, and ride-sharing apps like Uber.

Pro Tip: If you need data, you'll find SIM card stalls on the left. However, we recommend setting up an Airalo E-simbefore you land to save time and money.

1. The Budget King: ÖBB Regional Train (S-Bahn)

This is our Top Pick for travelers. It’s the perfect balance of speed and price.

Cost: Only €4.20 (Note: price may vary slightly by season, but it remains the cheapest option).
Time: 22 minutes to Wien Mitte (City Center).
Why we love it: Unlike the express trains, you can get off at various stations (like Praterstern or Hauptbahnhof) for the same price.
Note: There are no dedicated luggage racks, so it’s best if you’re traveling with hand luggage.

2. The Premium Choice: City Airport Train (CAT)

If you want a stress-free experience with plenty of room for suitcases, look for the green signs.

Cost: €14.90 one-way.
Time: 16 minutes non-stop to Wien Mitte.
Bonus: If you're flying with selected airlines, you can actually check your luggage in at the city center station on your way back to the airport!

3. The Vienna Airport Lines (Buses)

Buses are great if you want to avoid stairs or need to go to specific districts outside the very center.

VAL 1: To Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) and Westbahnhof.
VAL 2: To Schwedenplatz (Deep in the city center—just 7 mins from St. Stephen’s Cathedral).
VAL 3: To the UN Headquarters (Donaustadt).
Cost: €10.50 one-way / €17.50 return.

4. Taxis and Uber

Pre-booked Taxis: We recommend Taxi 40100. They offer flat rates (starting around €40), which is a steal if you are a group of four.
Uber/Bolt: Prices fluctuate between €35–€45. Important: Ubers cannot pick you up at the arrival curb. You must go to the upper floor (Departures) and cross the bridge to the designated pick-up zone.

Money Saving Tip: The Short Stay Ticket

If you are in Vienna for a quick trip, look for the 24/48/72-hour Vienna tickets. A 24-hour pass costs roughly €12 and includes your airport transfer plus unlimited subways, trams, and buses within the city. It’s the ultimate "set it and forget it" option!