Vienna Austria Travel Guide
Vienna International Airport (VIE), located in Schwechat, serves as the main airport. It sits approximately 18 km (11 miles) southeast of central Vienna, offering easy access to the city.
Several efficient options connect Vienna International Airport to downtown.
Expect higher demand and prices. Book flights several months in advance for best rates.
Prices are moderate, good availability. Spring and Autumn offer value.
Find the lowest prices, excluding Christmas. Flexibility brings better deals.
No particular departure fees or taxes are applicable to departing travelers from Vienna Airport. Your airline ticket includes all required taxes.
International flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before departure. Flights within the schengen area: 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Online check-in is recommended. Be prepared for standard aviation security checks.
ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) manages an extensive and efficient railway network. Wien Hauptbahnhof serves as the main station for international and national long-distance trains.
FlixBus and RegioJet are major operators for long-distance bus travel. These services connect Vienna to many European cities, often a more budget-friendly alternative to trains.
A valid driving license is necessary. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is advised for non-EU licenses. Carry vehicle registration and insurance documents.
International chains like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Enterprise operate at VIE airport and various city locations. You must be at least 21 (some require 25) with a a valid driver'a driver's license and credit card for deposit.
While Vienna is not on the sea, the Danube River offers unique arrival options, especially for those on cruises or going from nearby cities.
This high-speed catamaran service connects Vienna and Bratislava, Slovakia, on the Danube. It operates seasonally, typically from spring to autumn, offering a scenic and convenient cross-border journey.
Riverboat tours provide distinctive viewpoints of the city from the water. Within Vienna, mainly sightseeing boats.
For international cruises from outside Schengen, standard Schengen immigration procedures apply at the first port of call.
Cruise ports and the Twin City Liner terminal are well-connected to Vienna's public transport network.
All major airports and train stations in Vienna present a wide range of facilities for departing passengers. This includes lounges, various shops (duty-free, souvenirs), restaurants, cafes, and currency exchange services.
Web check-in-in is recommended where available. This saves time at the airport and simplifies the departure process. Check your airline's website or app for web check-in options prior to your flight.
Liquid substances in carry-on must be 100ml or less, placed in a clear, resealable bag.
Remove large electronics (laptops, tablets) from luggage for screening.
Be prepared to remove shoes for screening at some checkpoints.
Account for journey time to the airport/station and security procedures.
