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Vienna Airport to City Centre 2026: CAT, Train, Bus & Taxi

How to get from Vienna Airport to the centre: CAT vs cheaper ÖBB trains, Airport Lines buses, taxi prices and ticket tips for 2026.

Updated October 25, 2026 · 3 min read
Quick answer: From Vienna Airport (VIE), the CAT (City Airport Train) runs non-stop to Wien Mitte in about 16 minutes for €14.90 one way. The ÖBB S-Bahn and regional trains are much cheaper, starting at about €4.10, and take around 25 minutes to Wien Mitte or the Hauptbahnhof. Vienna Airport Lines buses cost about €9, and a taxi or Uber costs about €35–45. Check for S-Bahn engineering works before you travel.

Vienna Airport is about 18 km south-east of the centre in Schwechat. All the options are easy, and here’s how they compare.

Vienna Airport to the city: options compared

Option Destination Time Cost
CAT City Airport Train Wien Mitte (U3/U4) ~16 min €14.90 one way / €24.90 return
ÖBB S7 / regional train / Railjet Wien Mitte, Praterstern, Hauptbahnhof ~15–30 min From ~€4.10
Vienna Airport Lines bus Schwedenplatz, Westbahnhof, Kagran 30–45 min ~€9
Taxi / Uber / Bolt Door to door 20–30 min ~€35–45

Fares are from Your Mileage May Vary (August 2026) and Nomad Epicureans.

CAT or regular train?

The CAT is fast and comfortable, but regular ÖBB trains cover nearly the same route for a fraction of the price. Railjets run direct to the Hauptbahnhof, which suits hotels in the 4th and 10th districts. Buy a ticket valid from the airport (“Flughafen Wien”) into Vienna at the ÖBB machines or in the app. A standard city ticket alone doesn’t cover the airport section.

Engineering works

Vienna’s S-Bahn trunk line has periodic closures, and replacement buses may run. Check ÖBB and Wiener Linien before you travel, and allow extra time.

Taxis and ride-hailing

Taxis are metered, with typical fares of about €35–45 to the centre. Uber, Bolt and Free Now often quote fixed prices in a similar range. Pre-book a private transfer for late arrivals or families.

Arrival tips

  • Buy a Wiener Linien 24-hour (€10.20) or 7-day (€28.90) ticket for travel within the city.
  • Get a Europe eSIM for the ÖBB and WienMobil apps.
  • Pick your base from where to stay in Vienna.

More Vienna guides

FAQ: Vienna Airport transfers

Is the CAT worth it?

It’s worth it if you value speed and are going to Wien Mitte. Otherwise, regular ÖBB trains take only a few minutes longer for much less money.

How much is a taxi from Vienna Airport to the centre?

Typically about €35–45 in 2026, depending on traffic and the time of day.

Can I use a Vienna transport day ticket from the airport?

Not on its own. The airport is outside the Vienna fare zone, so you need a ticket that includes the section from the airport, or an extension ticket.

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