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Vienna-Schwechat Airport

Travel guide

Vienna Airport to the city centre

CAT, S-Bahn, Railjet, bus, taxi or transfer? Every way from Vienna-Schwechat Airport into the city – and which one suits your trip.

In short

  • Vienna-Schwechat Airport (VIE) lies about 20 km south-east of the city centre.
  • By public transport you can take the City Airport Train (CAT), the S7 suburban train, ÖBB trains and buses.
  • With lots of luggage, children or accommodation away from the stations, a door-to-door ride is usually more comfortable.
  • If you book ahead, you know the fare and meeting point before you land.

Where is Vienna Airport?

Vienna Airport is in Schwechat, Lower Austria, about 20 kilometres south-east of Vienna's city centre. Departures and arrivals are mainly handled at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3; the arrivals halls and the railway station below are easy to reach on foot.

Because the airport is outside the city boundary, public transport uses separate fares – a standard Vienna core-zone ticket does not cover the route.

Your options at a glance

City Airport Train (CAT)

The CAT runs non-stop from the airport to Wien Mitte station in the 3rd district. From there you can change to the U3 and U4 underground lines or take a taxi. Handy if your accommodation is near Wien Mitte.

S-Bahn S7

The S7 is part of the regular local network and stops at Wien Mitte and Praterstern, among others. It makes more stops than the CAT but is integrated into the normal network. Make sure your ticket covers the route from the airport.

ÖBB trains (Railjet and regional trains)

Long-distance and regional ÖBB trains also run from the airport station to Vienna Main Station (Hauptbahnhof) – useful if you are staying in the south of the city or continuing by train.

Buses

Vienna Airport Lines buses connect the airport with several hubs in the city. They are an option if your destination is close to a stop.

Taxi from the rank

Taxis wait outside the arrivals halls. They take you directly to your address, but without a pre-agreed fare and without planning for your luggage or child seat.

Private transfer

With a pre-booked transfer, the pickup is planned around your flight number, the meeting point in the arrivals hall is agreed and the fare is fixed before you travel. You ride to your door without changes – for example with the Vienna airport transfer by Beykar Taxi.

Comparison: which option fits?

OptionArrives in ViennaOnward to accommodationBest for
CATWien MitteUnderground, taxi or on footTravellers staying near Wien Mitte
S-Bahn S7Wien Mitte, Praterstern and moreUnderground, tram or on footLight luggage, budget-minded
ÖBB trainMain stationU1, tram or taxiOnward rail travel, south Vienna
BusSeveral hubsdepends on the stopDestinations near a bus stop
Taxi (rank)Straight to the addressNo changeSpontaneous rides
Private transferStraight to the addressNo changeFamilies, groups, lots of luggage, late arrivals

Public transport is a good choice if you travel light and your accommodation is near a station. Every change with suitcases and children takes effort, though – then a direct ride quickly pays off in comfort.

Who is a transfer worth it for?

  • Families with children: child seat on request, no changing with a pram.
  • Groups: several people in one vehicle instead of several tickets and taxis.
  • Lots of luggage: suitcases, sports or music gear are planned in.
  • Late or very early flights: when public transport is limited, a direct ride stays plannable.
  • Business travellers: straight to the hotel or meeting, with a return ride if needed.

Tips for your arrival

  • Include your flight number when booking – the pickup then follows the actual landing.
  • Switch on your phone after landing so the driver can reach you.
  • Agree a clear meeting point in the arrivals hall in advance.
  • For your return: allow enough buffer for check-in and security.

Travelling solo and just need a quick ride? The Vienna airport taxi fits too.

Request a Vienna Airport transfer

Fare and meeting point in advance on WhatsApp – planned with your flight number.

View airport transfer

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How far is Vienna Airport from the city centre?

About 20 kilometres. The airport is in Schwechat, south-east of Vienna.

What is the fastest connection into the city?

The CAT runs non-stop to Wien Mitte. Whether it is fastest overall depends on where you are staying – with a change, a direct ride to your address can be more convenient.

Is a standard Vienna public transport ticket valid to the airport?

No. The airport is outside the Vienna core zone. You need a ticket that covers the route from the airport.

Are there night connections from the airport?

Public transport is limited at night. Check current timetables – you can request a private transfer for any time.

Is a transfer worth it for families?

Often, yes: no changing with a pram and suitcases, child seat on request and a pre-agreed fare.