Arriving in Vienna for the first time, you face the same questions as at any other airport: where do I go, how do I get into the city, what does it cost, what can I expect? This article answers those questions the way we’ve been answering them for our passengers since 2004 – directly and without fuss.
Vienna Airport – first orientation
Vienna Airport has one central terminal building with several areas. Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are directly connected. Terminal 2 is separate and is primarily used by Ryanair and Wizz Air – if you arrive on one of these airlines, allow a short walk to the central arrivals hall. More on the terminal structure: viennadriver.com/en/vienna-airport-guide-terminals/
Baggage claim and arrivals hall
After landing, follow the signs to Baggage Claim. Collect your luggage, pass through customs and enter the public arrivals hall. Here you’ll find greeters, private transfer services and taxi drivers. If you’ve pre-booked a transfer, your driver will be here with a name sign.
Transport options from Vienna Airport to the city
There are several ways to get from the airport into the city. The full overview with prices and travel times: viennadriver.com/en/getting-from-vienna-airport-to-city/ – here’s the short version:
- CAT (City Airport Train): €14.90 per person, 16 minutes to Wien Mitte, runs until 11:37 PM
- S-Bahn (S7): €4.30 per person, around 30 minutes to Wien Mitte, multiple stops
- Airport bus: €9.00 per person, 30–45 minutes, several lines
- Regular taxi: €35–65, metered, no fixed price
- Private transfer (Vienna Driver): from €39 for the 1st district, fixed price, directly to your address
What is a fair taxi price in Vienna?
A common question from first-time visitors: what’s normal? A regular metered taxi from the airport to Vienna’s city centre typically costs between €35 and €65, depending on traffic and route. Vienna Driver offers fixed prices from €39 for the 1st district, including all fees. What’s shown at booking is what you pay.
First time in Vienna – practical tips for arrival
- Switch your phone on after landing – your driver will call you
- Have some euro cash ready for smaller purchases
- Buy a U-Bahn ticket at the airport if you plan to use public transport
- Vienna’s inner city is compact and easy to explore on foot – but with luggage, a transfer makes more sense
First time with family or a group?
First-time visitors travelling with children or a group are particularly well served by a pre-booked transfer – no orientation problems, no luggage stress, directly to the hotel. Details: viennadriver.com/en/family-group-transfer-vienna-airport/
