The Ultimate Guide to Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Overview of Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Vienna International Airport (VIE), also known as Flughafen Wien-Schwechat, is Austria's largest and busiest airport. Located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) southeast of Vienna's city center, the airport serves as a major hub for Central and Eastern Europe. Known for its efficiency, modern amenities, and connectivity, VIE is a key gateway for international travel and a hub for Austrian Airlines, a member of the Lufthansa Group.

• Location: Schwechat, Austria

• IATA Code: VIE

• ICAO Code: LOWW

• Opened: 1938 (civil operations began in 1954)

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 30 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 4 (Terminal 1, Terminal 1A, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3)

History of Vienna International Airport

Vienna Airport’s history dates back to the 1930s when it was established as a military airfield. After World War II, it was repurposed for civil aviation and opened for commercial operations in 1954. Over the decades, the airport has undergone multiple expansions to accommodate growing passenger numbers and to enhance its role as a leading transit hub for Europe. Significant upgrades include the addition of Terminal 3 in 2012, further solidifying VIE’s status as a modern and passenger-friendly airport.

Terminals at Vienna International Airport

1. Terminal 1 (T1)

• Overview:

  • Handles Schengen and non-Schengen flights by several European carriers.

• Key Features:

  • Modern check-in facilities and efficient security checks.

  • A variety of shops and restaurants catering to travelers.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Lufthansa, SWISS, Brussels Airlines, and other Star Alliance members.

2. Terminal 1A (T1A)

• Overview:

  • Dedicated to low-cost carriers.

  • Located adjacent to Terminal 1.

• Key Features:

  • Budget-friendly facilities and streamlined processes.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet.

3. Terminal 2 (T2)

• Overview:

  • Recently renovated, it serves long-haul and charter flights.

• Key Features:

  • Spacious departure lounges and upgraded check-in areas.

  • Enhanced passenger amenities, including new dining options.

4. Terminal 3 (T3)

• Overview:

  • The newest and most modern terminal, home to Austrian Airlines and Star Alliance long-haul flights.

• Key Features:

  • State-of-the-art facilities, premium lounges, and short connection times.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Austrian Airlines, Thai Airways, Air Canada, and other Star Alliance partners.

Transportation Options to and from VIE

1. City Airport Train (CAT)

• Details:

  • A direct, non-stop connection between the airport and Vienna’s city center (Wien Mitte station).

• Travel Time: ~16 minutes.

• Cost: €12 (one-way) or €21 (round-trip).

• Advantages:

  • Fast and convenient with spacious seating and free Wi-Fi.

2. S-Bahn (S7 Line)

• Details:

  • A regional train service connecting the airport to Vienna’s public transportation network.

• Travel Time: ~25 minutes to Wien Mitte station.

• Cost: €4.30 (one-way ticket).

• Advantages:

  • Affordable and reliable for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Bus Services

• Details:

  • Several bus operators, including Vienna Airport Lines, provide connections to Vienna and nearby cities.

• Travel Time: ~20-45 minutes depending on the route.

• Cost: Starting at €8.

• Destinations:

  • Vienna city center, Bratislava, and other regional locations.

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel time: ~20-30 minutes to the city center.

  • Cost: €36-40.

• Rideshare:

  • Uber operates at designated pickup zones, often at a slightly lower cost than traditional taxis.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis, and others.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Located in the car rental center near the terminals.

Parking at Vienna International Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (K1 and K3)

• Details:

  • Located directly in front of the terminals, ideal for pickups and drop-offs.

• Cost: Starting at €4 for 30 minutes.

2. Long-Term Parking (P3 and P4)

• Details:

  • Multi-story parking garages with easy access to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at €24/day.

3. Economy Parking (C and Mazur)

• Details:

  • Affordable parking options with shuttle bus service to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at €12/day.

4. Valet Parking

• Details:

  • Premium service offering the ultimate convenience.

  • Drop off your car at the terminal, and it will be parked securely for you.

• Cost: Starting at €36/day.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at VIE

• Terminal 1 and 3:

  • Demel: A Viennese institution offering traditional pastries and coffee.

  • Jamie’s Deli: Casual dining with freshly prepared sandwiches and salads.

• Terminal 2:

  • Henry: Gourmet snacks, healthy meals, and international dishes.

  • Burger King: A quick and affordable option for travelers on the go.

Shopping at VIE

• Duty-Free:

  • Large selection of alcohol, cosmetics, and luxury goods.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Emporio Armani, Hugo Boss, and Michael Kors.

• Local Austrian Products:

  • Shops like Sacher and Manner offer souvenirs, chocolates, and specialty items.

• Essentials:

  • Relay and Spar for books, snacks, and last-minute travel needs.

Lounges at Vienna International Airport

1. Austrian Airlines Business Lounge (Terminal 3)

• Access: Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members.

• Features:

  • Buffet dining, premium beverages, and showers.

  • Workspaces and a quiet zone for relaxation.

2. Sky Lounge (Terminal 1 and 3)

• Access: Pay-per-use or Priority Pass members.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and panoramic runway views.

3. Jet Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Open to all passengers for a fee.

• Features:

  • Comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and newspapers.

Nearby Hotels

1. NH Vienna Airport Conference Center

• Distance: Directly across from the terminal.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, meeting facilities, and a fitness center.

2. MOXY Vienna Airport

• Distance: 5 minutes from the terminals.

• Features:

  • Trendy and budget-friendly with a lively bar and social spaces.

3. HEINHOTEL Vienna Airport

• Distance: 10 minutes by car.

• Features:

  • Quiet location, free parking, and shuttle service.

Top Tips for Travelers at Vienna International Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Use CAT for Speed: The City Airport Train is the fastest way to reach the city center.

3. Explore Austrian Cuisine: Sample a slice of Sachertorte or try schnitzel at one of the airport’s restaurants.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

5. Shop Local: Pick up Austrian chocolates or wine as gifts or souvenirs.