Getting Around Vienna. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Wiener Linien manages Vienna’s excellent, integrated, and effective public transportation system. It comprises a network of U-Bahn, trams, and buses, all operating seamlessly.

The U-Bahn (Subway/Metro) provides fast service. The Tram (Strassenbahn) the system is comprehensive and offers scenic routes. Bus routes cover zones not directly served by U-Bahn or tram. Night buses operate after U-Bahn closing hours.

Information

U-Bahn: Five lines (U1, U2, U3, U4, U6), fast and frequent.
Tram: Over 28 lines, scenic way to see the city.
Bus: Covers areas not served by U-Bahn or tram, night buses available.
S-Bahn (Suburban Rail): Connects to city system and surrounding areas, including the airport.

Route Maps & Hubs

Maps available at U-Bahn depots and the WienMobil app. Hubs: Stephansplatz, Karlsplatz, Hauptbahnhof.

Ticketing & Fares

Tickets valid for all modes in core zone. Single: €2.40. Multi-day passes available. Validate tickets.

Hours & Frequency

U-Bahn: 05:00-00:30 weekdays, 24 hours Fri/Sat/holidays. Frequent service.

Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility

System increasingly accessible.
Most U-Bahn stations feature elevators and ramps.
Newer public transport like trams and buses offer low-floor entry.

Efficiency Tips

Use WienMobil app for real-time info and tickets.
Validate tickets to avoid fines.
Stand on the right on escalators.

Rush Hour Avoidance

Morning

7-9 AM

Evening

4-6 PM

Impact

U-Bahn trains crowded.

Strategy

Plan alternative times.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, door-to-door transportation, especially useful for late-after-dark travel or when carrying luggage.

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are typically beige, with a "Taxi" sign and "TX" on license plates.
Hailing: On street, at taxi stands, or through phone/app.
Fares: Metered, base fare ~€5, then €1.20-€1.50/km. Surcharges apply.
Payment: Cash (Euro) always accepted. Many accept cards (confirm first).

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Apps: Uber and Bolt operate. Local apps: Taxi 40100, Taxi 31300, Free Now.
Safety: Licensed taxis are regulated and reliable.
For ride-sharing, verify driver and vehicle details with the app.
Ensure child seats are present if needed.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Designated taxi stands outside terminals at VIE.
Also at major train stations (Hauptbahnhof, Westbahnhof).
Approx. €40-€50 to the downtown area from airport.

Pre-booking airport taxis (e.g., Vienna Airport Cab) can offer fixed rates.
Offers convenience and peace of mind upon arrival.
Uber prices may not always be cheaper than traditional taxis.

Ride-Sharing Costs vs. Taxis

Uber/Bolt

Variable pricing based on demand.

Taxis

Regulated metered fares.

Comparison

Often similar costs, especially with surcharges.

Rental Options

For those seeking more independence or planning excursions outside the city, various rental options are available, from cars to bicycles.

Car Rental

Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise.
Requirements: 21+ years old, valid driving license (held 1-2 years), credit card.
AN international driving priving is recommended for non-EU licenses.
Credit card in driver's name for deposit.

Bike Rental

WienMobil Rad (Citybike Wien): City-wide bike-sharing. Register online/at terminal.
Private rental shops: Various bike types for hourly, daily, weekly rates.
Helmet is recommended, but not mandatory for adults only only.
Extensive network of bike paths and lanes.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on right, seatbelts mandatory. Headlights for motorcycles (recommended for cars).

Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 130 km/h motorways.

Road Conditions

Roads are excellently maintained. Be aware of trams (right-of-way) and cyclists.

Vignette (toll sticker) is mandatory for motorways.

Parking

Central Vienna parking is challenging and expensive. Short-term parking zones ("Kurzparkzonen") with fees.

Use Preserve AND Ride facilities at city outskirts, then public transport.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

City center (Innere Stadt) is highly pedestrian-amicable with car-free zones.
Popular routes: Ringstrasse, Graben, Kohlmarkt, Kärntner Strasse, Schönbrunn gardens.
Numerous guided and self-guided walking tours available.

Cycling Infrastructure

Extensive network of cycling paths and lanes, increasingly bike-friendly.
Safety: Helmet recommended, follow traffic rules, use lights at night.
Cycling on pedestrian-only streets (e.g., Graben) is not permitted.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians/Cyclists

No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians.
Exercise general caution in crowded or dimly lit streets at night.
Cycling is restricted on pedestrian-only streets.
Respect signage regarding cycling restrictions.

Stay on designated paths and lanes.
Green spaces sometimes have specific cycling rules.
Awareness of trams and pedestrians is always advisable.
Cultural sites sometimes have restricted access for bikes.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Vienna has specialized transportation for sightseeing and unique experiences.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Hop-on-hop-off services (Vienna Sightseeing Tours, Big Bus Vienna) cover major attractions.
Audio guides in multiple languages are common.
Danube Riverboat tours offer sightseeing.
Twin City Liner (Vienna-Bratislava) is a water transportation option.

Unique Local Transport

Leopoldsberg Bus connects Kahlenberg for panoramic views.
No cable cars or funiculars run within central Vienna.
Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are available via Wiener Linien.
Taxis sometimes accommodate wheelchairs (confirm when you reserve).