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Vienna International Airport VIE Airport Traveler Guide

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iFly.comVIEVienna International Airport

VIE Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key VIE Airport Topics:

Getting to Know VIE Airport

Discover Vienna International Airport (VIE), Austria's key to the world and home to a captivating indoor rainforest, making it a unique entry point to the city's wonders. Our concise guide covers all essentials, from flight details to dining options, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Whether it's parking info or navigating terminals, we simplify your journey. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for a stress-free trip.

iFly Tip: Make your next airport visit stress-free with parking tips from our expert guide.

VIE Airport has six terminals: Main Terminal, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal F, and Terminal G. The Main Terminal is the largest and has three levels. It is used by most airlines for check-in, arrivals, and departures. Terminal B is used for Schengen flights, while Terminal C is used for non-Schengen flights. Terminal D is used for long-haul flights, while Terminal F is used for low-cost airlines. Terminal G is used for general aviation.

The Main Terminal has 37 gates, while Terminal B has 17 gates and Terminal C has 25 gates. Terminal D has 12 gates, Terminal F has 15 gates, and Terminal G has 4 gates. Major airlines such as Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines use the Main Terminal, while low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air use Terminal F.

To navigate the airport terminals, follow the signs and directions provided. There are also information desks and airport staff available to assist you. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has several terminals, including the Main Terminal, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal F, and Terminal G. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the Skylink train, which runs every few minutes and connects all terminals. The train ride takes about 2 minutes, and it's free of charge.

If you prefer to walk, it's possible to do so, but keep in mind that the terminals are quite far apart. Walking from the Main Terminal to Terminal G can take up to 15 minutes. However, there are moving walkways and escalators to make the journey easier.

Tips from VIE Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Vienna International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from VIE-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"The Skylink train is a lifesaver when you need to get between terminals quickly. It runs every few minutes and is free, so you don't have to stress about missing a connection." — Lukas M., Schwechat, Austria, December 2023

"If you're in a hurry, use the moving walkways. They can save you a lot of time, especially if you're trying to get from the Main Terminal to Terminal G." — Anna K., Vienna, Austria, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The S7 train is the most cost-effective way to get to the city center. It's reliable, and the ride offers some great views of Vienna as you approach." — Thomas H., Schwechat, Austria, January 2024

"For a more comfortable ride, try the City Airport Train (CAT). It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s direct and very convenient if you have a lot of luggage." — Maria P., Vienna, Austria, May 2024

Parking

"If you're just picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free for 30 minutes and saves you from circling the airport." — Stefan R., Schwechat, Austria, February 2024

"For long-term parking, consider the off-airport lots. They offer shuttle services and are often cheaper than the airport's own parking facilities." — Ingrid S., Vienna, Austria, April 2024

Inside the Airport

"If you have time before your flight, definitely check out the indoor rainforest in the Main Terminal. It's a relaxing spot to unwind." — Dieter W., Schwechat, Austria, June 2024

"For a good meal, I recommend Marché Mövenpick for some authentic Viennese cuisine. It's a great way to start or end your trip." — Claudia T., Vienna, Austria, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the FIDS for real-time updates on your flight. It helps to stay informed about any delays or gate changes." — Michael B., Schwechat, Austria, July 2024

"Download your airline's app for notifications about your flight status. It's super handy, especially if you're away from the FIDS." — Petra E., Vienna, Austria, October 2024

iFly Tip: Discover how to get a gate pass for non-travelers with advice from our gate pass information page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

VIE provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger drop-off and pick-up, located in front of the terminal buildings. However, it is important to note that parking at the curbside area is strictly prohibited and only allowed for immediate loading and unloading of passengers and their luggage.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport also offers cell-phone waiting areas. These areas are free of charge and located near the terminals, allowing drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers arrive. Once the passengers have arrived and collected their luggage, they can call their driver to be picked up at the curbside area.

Parking Facilities & Options

VIE Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are multiple parking garages and lots located throughout the airport, including the Main Terminal, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal F, and Terminal G. Each parking area is conveniently located near the corresponding terminal, making it easy to access your flight.

If you are waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes. These areas are located near the terminals and allow you to wait for your passenger to arrive before entering the parking garages or lots.

For those who require handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all parking areas. These spots are located near the entrances and exits of the garages and lots, making it easy for those with disabilities to access the airport.

If you are looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.

Get details about Vienna International Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Vienna Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. These companies have rental counters located in the arrivals hall of the terminal. More information on car rentals.
  • Taxis are available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside the arrivals hall. Fares are regulated by the city of Vienna and are based on distance traveled.
  • Ride share services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at the designated ride-share pickup area outside the arrivals hall. However, it is important to note that ride-sharing services are not allowed to pick up passengers directly at the curb.
  • Airport shuttles are available for travelers, with pickup areas located outside the arrivals hall. These shuttles offer transportation to various locations throughout Vienna, and fares vary based on destination.
  • Public transportation is available at the airport. The Vienna Airport Lines bus service offers transportation to various locations throughout Vienna, with pickup areas located outside the arrivals hall. Additionally, the S7 train line offers transportation to the city center, with a station located within walking distance of the airport terminal.

iFly Tip: Ensure your toddler's safety and comfort with advice from our toddler flying guide.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Our comprehensive guide provides a selection of the best hotel options, each offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and features designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you're seeking a hotel that caters to early departures or late arrivals, one with conference facilities for business travelers, or a resting pod for a quick nap, we've got you covered. Many of these hotels also provide easy access to local attractions, allowing you to explore the rich culture and history of the city during your stay. Ready to book now? View all Vienna Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight, Vienna International Airport has plenty of options to choose from. For a quick snack or coffee, check out Café+Co or Starbucks, both located in the Main Terminal. If you have some time to sit down and enjoy a meal, we recommend the Viennese cuisine at Marché Mövenpick or the Italian dishes at Trattoria Toscana, both located in Terminal 3.

As for shopping, there are plenty of stores to browse through. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, head to the Austrian Originals store in the Main Terminal. For luxury fashion and accessories, check out Michael Kors or Burberry, both located in Terminal 3. And if you need to stock up on travel essentials, there's a duty-free shop in every terminal.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Vienna Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check out the food and shopping page.

Passenger Services

VIE offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

For those who need to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals hall of the main terminal.

Traveling with children? There are several play areas located throughout the airport to keep them entertained.

Special-needs services are available upon request, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.

Need to take care of some banking? There are ATMs and currency exchange offices located throughout the airport.

If you require medical assistance, there is a medical center located in the arrivals hall of the main terminal, equipped to handle various needs, including emergencies and first aid.

VIE Airport has several terminals, including the main terminal, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal F, and Terminal G. Each terminal offers its own range of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At the airport, there are several ways to check for updates on your departure.

One of the most common ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, including any delays, cancelations, or gate changes.

Another convenient way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer push notifications, text messages, or emails to alert passengers about any changes to their flight status. This is especially helpful if you are away from the FIDS or your departure gate.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Vienna International Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Vienna Airport (VIE) is located in Schwechat, 18 km southeast of central Vienna, Austria.
  • Terminals: The airport features six terminals: Main Terminal, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal F, and Terminal G.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, and Lufthansa. For a complete list of airlines, visit the VIE Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Vienna Airport handles approximately 70,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 500 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from VIE are Frankfurt, Zurich, London, Istanbul, and Dusseldorf.
  • Hub Status: Vienna Airport is a hub for Austrian Airlines and Eurowings Europe, and it serves as the home base for Wizz Air.

Airport History

The airport, located in Schwechat, Austria, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some of the significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1938 - The airport was officially opened as a military airfield by the German Luftwaffe during World War II.
  • 1954 - The airport was reopened for civilian use and became the hub for Austrian Airlines.
  • 1972 - The airport's first terminal was built to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
  • 1982 - A new runway was constructed to handle larger aircraft.
  • 1992 - The airport underwent a major renovation and expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 2006 - The airport's new Skylink terminal was opened, providing state-of-the-art facilities for passengers.
  • 2012 - Vienna International Airport became the first airport in Europe to offer a direct flight to China.
  • 2018 - The airport handled a record-breaking 27 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Today, Vienna Airport continues to serve as a major transportation hub for Austria and the surrounding region, offering flights to destinations all over the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Vienna International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Vienna International Airport Q&A

There are six terminals: Main Terminal, Terminal B (Schengen flights), Terminal C (non-Schengen flights), Terminal D (long-haul flights), Terminal F (low-cost airlines), and Terminal G (general aviation).
The Skylink train connects all terminals, runs every few minutes, and is free of charge. Walking is also an option but can take up to 15 minutes between some terminals.
VIE offers multiple parking garages and lots near each terminal, cell phone waiting areas for short-term parking, and off-airport lots with shuttle services for more economical options.
The S7 train is the most economical option, while the City Airport Train (CAT) offers a direct and comfortable service at a higher price.
Yes, the Main Terminal features an indoor rainforest, providing a relaxing environment for travelers.
Options include Café+Co and Starbucks for quick snacks and Marché Mövenpick for Viennese cuisine, with many located in Terminal 3.
Use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) or check airline mobile apps for real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate changes.
Car rental, taxis, ride shares, airport shuttles, and public transportation like the Vienna Airport Lines bus and S7 train are available.
Yes, there are duty-free shops in every terminal, along with stores like Austrian Originals for souvenirs and Michael Kors for luxury items in Terminal 3.
The airport provides play areas for children, wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and a medical center for emergencies and first aid.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport