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Travel to Austria by Plane
Everything you need to know about airports, transfers and parking – for a relaxed journey.

Whether from Europe or overseas, Austria is well connected by air. Short distances, various transfer options and modern services make arriving easy.

International airports in Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz and Klagenfurt connect the country with the world. On arrival, comfortable shuttle buses, rail links and car hire services are available. All the major airports have multi-storey car parks with EV charging points, short-stay spaces and accessible entrances.

Whether it is a city break in Vienna, a cultural holiday in Salzburg or a ski adventure in Tirol, Austria is well connected and easy to reach. Short distances and well-planned infrastructure make the journey part of the holiday: efficient, comfortable and forward-thinking.

Information on trains and buses

From Vienna Airport into the city centre in comfort

By train, taxi or bus – there are several quick ways into the city centre:

While the line is closed, premium buses run in place of the City Airport Train between the airport and Wien Mitte/Landstraße station from 24 August 2026 to 31 October 2027.

CAT by bus takes you from Vienna Airport to Wien Mitte every 12 minutes.

Five Vienna Airport Bus routes connect the airport with key transport hubs across Vienna.

The cheaper alternative, the S7 suburban train, runs every 30 minutes and takes around 25 minutes, currently on a shortened route to St. Marx station.

The REX7 regional express takes around 20 minutes from the airport to Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Main Station).

Every two hours, ICE trains run from Vienna Airport via Wien Hauptbahnhof and Wien Meidling to St Pölten and Linz.

The airport information desks are in the departure halls of Terminals 1 and 3 and in the arrivals hall of Terminal 3. Flight information is available around the clock on +43-1-7007-0.

Construction works on Vienna's S-Bahn main line
From 24 August 2026 until the end of October 2027, the Vienna S-Bahn core line between Wien Praterstern and Wien Hauptbahnhof/St. Marx will be closed. Several connections to and from Vienna Airport remain available: long-distance trains run to the airport via Wien Hauptbahnhof, the REX 7 is diverted to Wien Hauptbahnhof, and the S7 runs to and from St. Marx. 'CAT by bus' operates between Wien Mitte and the airport. The Vienna Airport Bus routes also continue to run.

Information on taxis and car rentals

From Vienna Airport to the city centre with ease

Airport taxis are dedicated taxis used exclusively for journeys to and from the airport. They must be booked in advance and charge a fixed price (including luggage) with no extra fee for the empty return trip.

For journeys from Vienna to the airport (make sure to request an “airport taxi” when booking), an additional fee is charged to cover the empty return trip.

Tips and information for your next taxi ride in Vienna.

How to reach Austria's airports

Whether you're flying into Austria or taking a domestic connection, the airports in Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz and Klagenfurt offer short distances, quick transfers and modern parking. With convenient rail, bus and road links, you'll reach the terminal in no time.
Tips for short- and long-term parking

Parking at Vienna Airport

Vienna Airport offers plenty of options for safe parking – whether for a few minutes, several hours, or multiple days. Car parks 3 and 4 are located directly opposite the terminal. Parking areas A and C can be reached with a walk of around 15 minutes. For short stops, the departure drop-off area is ideal – you can stop there free of charge for 10 minutes, after which parking costs €2.90 per 15 minutes.

Parking space A and C, car park 3 and 4, short term parking

If you're looking for low-cost long-term parking, use the parking areas located around the airport.

Parking at other Austrian airports

Whether right at the terminal or slightly outside with shuttle service, the airports in Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz and Klagenfurt offer convenient and secure parking. Short distances, safe spaces and modern services make parking easy.

Everything you need for your flight to Austria

Hand luggage regulations

For flights departing from EU airports as well as from Iceland, Norway and Switzerland, EU security regulations for hand luggage apply. If your bag exceeds the 8-kilogram limit, it must be checked in – often at a higher fee than during the regular check-in process. On some flights to Austria, hand luggage may need to be stowed in the hold due to limited space.

You may also bring one personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag or shoulder bag. It’s best to keep documents, valuables and medication in this item.

Check with your airline before departure for the exact rules.

Passenger identity check at boarding

Due to an EU regulation, passengers must present their boarding pass and a photo ID directly at the gate to maintain a high level of security. This check ensures that the boarding pass is being used by the same person who presented the ticket at check-in. It also verifies that the travel documents meet the entry requirements of the destination country, helping to avoid any issues upon arrival.

What is ETIAS?

The ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to these 30 European countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Useful travel tips for your flight to Austria

  • Arrive early: Plan around two hours for EU flights and about three hours for long-haul flights.

  • Use online check-in: Save time and avoid stress – store your boarding pass on your phone and head straight to the gate.

  • Security check: Liquids must be in containers of max. 100 ml, packed in a 1-litre bag; laptops and devices must be presented separately.

  • Peak travel times: Allow extra time during holidays and weekends.

  • Comfort & services: Free Wi-Fi, family areas, lounges and accessible facilities make travelling more comfortable.

Passport and proof of identity

Travelling without borders: Entry documents

Even though there are usually no border checks within the Schengen area, travellers must always carry a valid travel document. It serves as proof of identity during random checks – whether you’re travelling by train, car or plane.

Children also need their own passport or ID card – entries in a parent’s document are no longer permitted.
Tip: Travelling with children

Entry from Switzerland:

Swiss citizens may enter with a valid ID card or a passport that expired up to five years ago. We recommend carrying a valid travel document in any case, as it is often required for hotel or car rental bookings.
Further information: Austrian Embassy in Bern

Entry from Germany:

Citizens of the Federal Republic of Germany require a valid ID card or passport to enter Austria (or one that has expired for no more than one year).
Further information: Austrian Embassy in Berlin

Flying with Austrian Airlines: Useful services

With Austrian Airlines, your journey begins the moment you board. Enjoy warm Austrian hospitality, thoughtful service, and a first taste of Austria through signature onboard cuisine, complemented by a range of convenient services designed to make travel effortless.

The most important emergency numbers

  • European emergency number 112

  • Fire brigade 122

  • Police 133

  • Ambulance 144

Breakdown Services

  • ÖAMTC emergency breakdown service 120

  • ARBÖ emergency breakdown service 123

  • Mountain rescue 140

  • Doctor-on-call 141

Emergency calls for deaf and hard-of-hearing people:

The DEC112 app allows you to contact the emergency services by text. In Austria, you can also call for help by texting +43 800 133 133.

The most important questions and answers about your journey

Austria has six international airports: Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz and Klagenfurt. Vienna International Airport (Vienna-Schwechat) is the main hub with numerous worldwide connections. From all airports, you can reach your destination easily by bus, train or shuttle.

For flights to Austria, the following applies:

  • EU citizens: passport or national ID card

  • Non-EU citizens: passport, and a visa if required

  • Children: their own travel document (children’s passport or identity card)

Check the current entry regulations before you travel.

There are several options: the City Airport Train (CAT) normally connects the airport with Wien Mitte non-stop. The S-Bahn runs towards Vienna with intermediate stops. Regional and long-distance trains and the Vienna Airport Bus routes also link the airport with Vienna.

Please note: the City Airport Train is replaced by a bus service from 24 August 2026 to 31 October 2027 - find more information here.

Yes, children also need their own passport or identity card to enter Austria.

You can find information on the timetable and fares on the ÖBB website www.oebb.at (Austrian Federal Railways).

For flights to Austria or within Europe, you should arrive at the airport around 2 hours before departure.

For intercontinental flights, it’s best to allow 3 hours.

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