Getting Around in Vienna

Getting around in Vienna is simple and straightforward. The city centre is within half an hour of the outskirts of Vienna via the capital’s extensive, varied and efficient public transport system.

Vienna is also extremely bicycle-friendly, with an abundance of cycling paths. Many residents embrace the romance of cycling culture. Conversely, as parking in Vienna is both expensive and difficult to find, most expats opt not to buy a car.

Since many commuters use public transport, the city centre is less congested by traffic than other European capitals. When you’re in the city centre, you’ll find the best way to get around is on foot.

Public transport in Vienna

The Weiner Linien public transport service operates Vienna’s tram, bus, and subway lines.

You can purchase a single ticket to travel anywhere in Vienna using any form of transport. Tickets can be purchased online, at ticket offices or at multilingual station ticket machines. If you plan on using public transport regularly, you can find other ticketing options available, such as for weekly or monthly travel. This can save money in the long run.

Tram

Trams are easily found throughout the city. Although they are probably the slowest way of travelling, trams are a fun way to get around Vienna in short hops or for sightseeing. In addition to traditional trams, Vienna is investing in its accessibility infrastructure with multiple ultra-low floor trams. The city has plans to equip all trams with this accessibility feature.

While the Viennese use trams on a day out, most people use buses and the U-Bahn for regular commuting because they cover a more extensive area and are more efficient modes of transport.

Bus

Vienna’s bus network is extensive, with 131 bus routes serving many parts of the city. As in most major cities, travelling by bus can sometimes be slow during rush hour.

There are 21 night bus routes that operate between 12.30am and 5am. These night buses are easily identifiable as they are typically marked with an ‘N’.

U-Bahn

The U-Bahn is Vienna’s subway system, which boasts five main lines that are identifiable by their different colours and numbers. It is the quickest and most popular way to get around the city.

Trains run regularly and usually arrive at two- to three-minute intervals during the day, although this varies depending on the line and the time of day. U-Bahn services typically run every 15 minutes throughout the night on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as public holidays.

S-Bahn

Operated by ÖBB, the S-Bahn is a suburban commuter rapid-transit train system. Most S-Bahn lines extend beyond Vienna’s city limits and are largely used for regional travel. However, there is a line known as the Vorortelinie (Vienna suburban line), which is entirely within the city and is frequented by commuters living along its route.

Useful links

• Wiener Linien
• ÖBB

Taxis in Vienna

Taxis are generally reliable and affordable. They can be found at designated stations and ranks throughout the city. Journeys in the city are charged according to the taxi meter. If you are travelling to or from the outlying suburbs, you should consider booking a taxi ahead of time. This can be done online or by phone.

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt operate in Vienna. These are not only cheaper than regular taxis but are also often more convenient.

Useful links

• Taxi 40100
• Uber
• Bolt

Driving in Vienna

Driving in Vienna’s city is more of a hassle than it’s worth, and it’s best avoided. It’s not an easy area to navigate, and parking can be steep. There are several park-and-ride areas close to public transport where you can leave your car, which is a good alternative to driving into the city.

It’s easy to get around the city centre on foot or on public transport. Still, some expats find owning a car beneficial, especially those with children or who want to explore the Austrian countryside.

Read Transport and Driving in Austria for more on securing a local driver’s licence.

Walking in Vienna

Vienna’s city centre is compact and picturesque, with narrow cobblestone streets. Most people find that taking the U-Bahn and walking are the easiest ways to get around the city.

The city also offers various free walking tours that allow you to explore some of Vienna’s beautiful architecture and learn about its history. The SANDEMANs Free Walking Tour and Good Vienna Tours are great options to begin exploring the city.

Cycling in Vienna

The cycle network in Vienna comprises more than 1,081 miles (1,740km) of bike paths and is continually growing. There are bike paths across Vienna and over 185 bicycle-renting stations.

Bicycles are available for hire from the public rental service WienMobil Rad. If you intend to cycle as your primary means of transport, it may be easier to invest in a new or second-hand bicycle.

Although you can’t take a bicycle on a bus or tram unless it’s folded, you can take one on an underground train at certain hours of the day during weekdays and any time on weekends.

Useful links

• WienMobil Rad