Vienna International Airport (VIE) in Schwechat lies about 18–20 km south-east of the city centre. There are five common ways to get into town – here is an honest comparison of cost, travel time and convenience so you can pick the right one for your trip.
Quick overview
| Option | Time to centre | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport taxi / transfer | 20–30 min | from €36 / vehicle | groups, families, luggage |
| CAT (City Airport Train) | 16 min | €14.90 / person | solo, no luggage, to Wien Mitte |
| S-Bahn (S7) | 25–30 min | approx. €4.20 / person | budget solo travellers |
| Airport bus (Vienna Airport Lines) | 20–45 min | approx. €11 / person | fixed routes (e.g. Morzinplatz) |
| Uber / Bolt | 20–30 min | €30–50 (surge) | door-to-door, variable price |
1. Airport taxi / private transfer
The most convenient option: a private airport taxi picks you up right at the terminal and drops you at your door – with a fixed price from €36 per vehicle, no meter and free flight tracking. For two or more people it is often cheaper than several train or bus tickets, and you avoid transfers and carrying luggage.
2. CAT – City Airport Train
The CAT reaches Wien Mitte in 16 minutes for €14.90 per person. It is fast but only takes you to one station – from there you usually still need a taxi or the U-Bahn to your final address, especially with luggage.
3. S-Bahn (line S7)
The cheapest connection at around €4.20 per person, reaching the centre in 25–30 minutes. Ideal for solo budget travellers, but it involves stairs, transfers and your own luggage handling.
4. Airport bus (Vienna Airport Lines)
The airport bus costs about €11 per person and serves a few fixed stops such as Morzinplatz/Schwedenplatz and the main station. Convenient if a stop is near your hotel – otherwise a transfer is needed.
5. Uber / Bolt
Ride-hailing is door-to-door but uses surge pricing, so the fare (typically €30–50) is not guaranteed and can spike at busy times or at night.
Which option should you choose?
Travelling solo with hand luggage? The S-Bahn or CAT is cheapest. Travelling as a couple, family or group, arriving late at night or with heavy luggage? A fixed-price airport taxi from €36 is the most relaxed and often the most economical choice.
See also our detailed Vienna Airport taxi cost guide or get an instant quote in the price calculator.