Vienna Public Transportation: A Simple Guide for 2025

Vienna has long been considered one of the most convenient cities in Europe. Getting around the city without a car is easy: the public transportation network covers every district of the capital and even the suburbs. Trains, metro, trams, buses, and bicycles are all integrated into Wien er Linien system, and tickets are valid for all modes of transportation. This well-designed infrastructure is important not only for residents and tourists, but also for those considering investing in Austrian real estate .

The main feature is simplicity and predictability. Trains operate at regular intervals, station announcements are made in several languages, and route maps are available at every stop. Furthermore, Vienna offers a single ticket, allowing you to use one pass for the metro, tram, bus, and S-Bahn.

In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how transportation works in Vienna, how to buy train and tram tickets, what fares exist, and also discuss any new changes.

Vienna is rightfully considered a city with one of the best transportation systems in Europe. Comfort, safety, and well-developed infrastructure largely explain why Austria's most expensive apartments . Everything here is designed to make getting around easy for residents and tourists: the metro, trams, buses, and trains are all connected, and tickets are valid for all modes of transport. This allows you to quickly navigate the historic center and reach the outskirts or even the suburbs without complicated transfers.

The city's pride and joy is its tram network , the longest in the world. Many routes run along the famous Ringstrasse, offering views of the city's main landmarks. The metro, by contrast, offers speed: five U-Bahn lines operate at minimal intervals and run 24 hours a day on weekends. Buses cover areas not served by rail and provide nighttime service.

An eco-friendly alternative hasn't been forgotten either: Wien Mobil Rad bike rentals are available at hundreds of stations throughout the city. And in summer, boats run along the Danube, connecting Vienna with other Austrian cities and even neighboring countries. All this makes transportation in the capital not only convenient but also part of its atmosphere.

The Vienna metro isn't just a means of transportation; it's also part of the city's atmosphere. Trains run every few minutes, the stations are clean and safe, and the signs are clear even to first-time tourists. In the evening, street musicians sometimes perform mini-concerts right at transit hubs, and during rush hour, the carriages are filled with students, office workers, and tourists with suitcases.

• The U1 (red) connects the north and south of the city and runs through the heart of Vienna – it’s the one to take to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and along Kärntnerstrasse.
• The U3 (orange) is often called the "culture line": it leads directly to the MuseumsQuartier and the Vienna State Opera.
• The U4 (green) offers views of the Danube Canal and takes you directly to Schönbrunn Palace.
• The U6 (brown) is a line with history, its stations retain the atmosphere of old train stations, and it provides convenient access to universities and shopping areas.

The city is particularly proud of its new projects. The U5 will be the first fully automated: driverless, with modern trains and high frequency. And the U2 line is being extended to relieve congestion at the city's overcrowded central stations and make travel even more convenient.

Vienna has made purchasing tickets as easy as possible. There are several ways to do so:

• Wien metro station vending machines ) . These machines are multilingual, accept cash and cards, and give change. This is the most popular and convenient method.
• At Tabak Trafik kiosks. These small tobacco shops are everywhere, and you can buy not only cigarettes but also Wien er Linien tickets there. For tourists, this is often a more familiar option than vending machines.
• From the bus or tram driver. This method is possible, but it's more expensive, and it's important to have small cash on hand—cards aren't always accepted.
• Via the Wien Mobil mobile app. This modern and convenient option allows you to buy tickets directly on your phone without having to worry about validating them. The app also features a route planner.
• On the official website Wien er Linien. Here you can purchase electronic tickets and season tickets in advance.

Important: Paper tickets must be validated in special machines located at metro station entrances and on tram and bus platforms. The ticket is activated from the moment it's validated and is valid for the selected time or zone.

If you purchased a ticket in the app or from the driver, you don't need to validate it—it's activated automatically.

Each ticket in Vienna is designed for different travel scenarios. If you plan to make only a few trips per day, a single ticket—an Einzelfahrschein Reduced fares are available for senior citizens, children, and even for transporting bicycles .

For those who actively use public transportation throughout the day, it's more economical to buy a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour unlimited pass . This type of pass is especially convenient for tourists: take the metro in the morning, transfer to the tram in the afternoon, and ride the bus in the evening—all with one card.

If you're in Vienna for a week or more, it's best to purchase a Wochenkarte or even an 8-Tage-Klimakarte . The latter is great because you can use the days non-consecutive—for example, three days of travel now, then two more in a week.

For residents and those planning to buy an apartment in Vienna or stay in the capital for a long time, the annual travel pass . Its price starts at €365, meaning one day of travel costs just €1. This is why locals so frequently use public transportation instead of driving.

All tickets are valid on all modes of transport —the metro, tram, bus, or S-Bahn—within zone 100. This makes the system simple and intuitive, even for first-time visitors to Vienna.

Austrian railways are renowned for their convenience and punctuality. The main carrier is ÖBB , a long-established company that operates both intercity routes and commuter trains (S-Bahn).

Its competition is Westbahn , a private company known for its modern trains and great deals for passengers, especially on the popular Vienna-Salzburg route.

• Machines at train stations. They operate in several languages, the interface is clear, and payment is accepted by card or cash.
• ÖBB cash desks. Ideal for those who prefer face-to-face communication or need advice.
• Online at oebb.at. Sparschiene offers and special fares are available here. You can save your ticket as a PDF or app.
• The ÖBB Scotty app not only shows train schedules, but also delays, platforms, and the ability to plan your journey door-to-door.
• Westbahn . Tickets can be purchased online, in the app, or even from the conductor on the train (though they're more expensive) .

Vienna-Salzburg route is considered the most popular in the country. Trains depart every 30-60 minutes, so there are no schedule issues. The main difference is that the price depends on when you buy your ticket.

• Sparschiene (discounted fare) – book early and travel for just €19.90 . These are the cheapest tickets available, and quantities are limited, so they sell out quickly.
• The standard price is around €55 for a second-class ticket if purchased on the day of travel or shortly before.
• Travel time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes on high-speed Railjet trains.

ÖBB Railjet trains are comfortable, with Wi-Fi, power outlets by the seats, and various classes of service, including business and first class, as well as dining cars. Westbahn similar conditions, but often runs special offers: roundtrip and group tickets are significantly cheaper.

Important: ÖBB tickets are integrated into the city's public transportation system. If you start your journey in the suburbs and specify "Vienna (Zone 100)" as your destination, your ticket is also valid within Vienna.

This means you can arrive on the S-Bahn and immediately transfer to the metro or tram without purchasing a separate city ticket. This saves both money and time on transfers.

There are several ways to buy a tram ticket in Vienna, each with its own unique features:

Machines at bus stops. The most reliable and cost-effective option. They operate in several languages, accept cash and bank cards, and give change. Tickets are cheaper here than from the driver, which is why tourists most often use this method.

From the driver. This option is available directly upon boarding, but it's less convenient: the ticket is more expensive (by about €0.20) and you have to pay in small change. Change isn't always given, so this solution is more for quick and dirty situations.

Tabak Trafik kiosks. These small tobacco shops are literally on every corner. Viennese residents often buy several tickets there at once, so they can board the train without wasting time at the machine. This is also a good option for tourists who want to prepare in advance.

Wien Mobil app The most convenient option for those who prefer using their phone. Your ticket is activated automatically and doesn't require validation. The app not only lets you pay for your ride, but also plan your route and view the schedules of nearby trams and buses.

Buses in Vienna are an important part of the transportation system, complementing the metro, trams, and trains. Their primary role is to connect areas unserved by U-Bahn or tram lines. Buses are especially important in the historic center, where narrow streets make it impossible to install rails, as well as in residential areas and on the outskirts.

Today, the network includes over 100 routes , including about 20 night routes. Daytime buses begin operating early in the morning and run until midnight. They are easily identified by their designation, which includes the letter "A" or a combination of numbers and letters.

When the U-Bahn closes (from 12:30 AM to 5:00 AM on weekdays), night buses take over. They are designated by the letter "N" and a number (N1–N29). They run every 30 minutes, making them convenient for getting home after a late dinner, a concert, or a stroll. On weekends and holidays, the U-Bahn operates 24 hours a day, but night buses are still popular, as they cover areas without U-Bahn stations.

Helpful fact: Vienna's buses are integrated into a single ticket system. This means your single or daily ticket purchased for the metro or tram will also be valid here.

• The buses have screens and stop announcements in German and English.
• The doors open only at the touch of a button, saving heat in winter and coolness in summer.
• All new buses are equipped with air conditioning and space for strollers and bicycles.

Buses are ideal for short trips in the city centre or for suburban residents who need to get to the nearest metro or tram station.

Vienna bills itself as a "green city," and cycling has long been a common means of transportation. According to municipal data, approximately 10% of all daily trips are made on two wheels , and this figure is growing every year. The reason is simple: convenient infrastructure, wide bike paths, and the ability to easily combine cycling with other modes of transport.

The city previously operated the Citybike , but in 2022 it was replaced by the new, more modern Wien Mobil Rad . Unlike the old system, it is fully integrated into the Wien er Linien and Nextbike apps, making rentals simpler and more transparent.

• 240 stations operating throughout the city , and their number is constantly growing. They are located near metro stations, tram stops, and even parks, allowing residents to quickly transfer from one form of transportation to another.
• The cost is €0.75 for every 30 minutes , up to a maximum of €19 per day. This is cheaper than renting electric scooters and is beneficial for longer trips.
• Payment is accepted by credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal. No cash—everything is done through your smartphone.
• You can rent a bike through the Nextbike (iOS, Android) or by calling the hotline, which is convenient even for those who are not used to using apps.

Wien Mobil Rad system is built on trust. You can pick up a bike anywhere in the city and return it to the nearest station—without ticket counters, operators, or turnstiles. That's why the city has established strict rules and fines to ensure rentals are both convenient and fair.

• Return to the station. You must complete the rental correctly: place the bike in the rack and wait for the green light. If you simply leave it nearby or don't wait for confirmation, the system will continue to treat it as an ongoing rental. This may result in a charge of up to €19 (maximum per day), and an additional €25 .
• Abandoned bicycles on the street. Leaving a bicycle anywhere—for example, leaning it against a tree or fence—will incur a €20 . This is to ensure that bicycles don't interfere with pedestrians and are always accessible at authorized stations.
• Damage or breakdown. If a bicycle is damaged due to the renter's fault, the fine can be up to €75 . It's important to always check the condition of the bicycle before a ride and, if necessary, immediately report any damage through the app.

These rules are not mere formalities—fines are actually written off. Austrians are very careful about public property, and enforcement is strict. This approach helps maintain the system: bikes don't go missing, stations are always full, and users receive vehicles that are in working order.

The Danube is not only a symbol of Austria but also a vital transportation artery. In Vienna, watercraft are used both as a means of transportation and as a way to see the city from a unique perspective. From the deck, views of the old city center, palaces, modern riverside neighborhoods, and even the countryside beyond open up.

The main pier for riverboats is located in the Praterlände area near Mexico Platz (Handelskai 265). From here, both sightseeing tours of Vienna and trips to other cities depart.

The pier is easily reached by metro—the nearest station is Vorgartenstrasse . Another departure point is Nussdorf , from where boats depart for the Wachau and other picturesque regions of Austria.

River transport in Vienna is more associated with excursions than with everyday travel. Tourists enjoy several popular options:

Vienna Cruises. Small boats cruise along the historic center, offering unique perspectives of the Ringstrasse, the Hofburg Palace, and St. Stephen's Cathedral. This is a convenient way to combine a stroll with architectural exploration. Many cruises offer audio guides in multiple languages.

Travel up the Danube. Wachau region , where routes lead, is famous for its vineyards, monasteries, and medieval fortresses. A popular option is a cruise with local wine tasting and stops in small towns like Melk or Krems.

Trips to neighboring capitals. The most popular route is to Bratislava ; the journey takes just 75 minutes, and the views from the deck make the trip truly special. In the summer, flights to Budapest : this isn't so much a means of transport as a mini-trip, as you can see numerous picturesque sights along the way.

Taxis in Vienna are valued for their punctuality and safety. They can be conveniently booked in advance—via an app, by phone, or at designated stands near train stations and the airport. Hiring on the streets is not common; it's the exception rather than the rule.

• The average trip around the city costs from €30 , and in the evening or at night rates can be higher.
• from Schwechat Airport to the city center takes approximately 25–30 minutes and costs approximately €36–48 , depending on the class of car and the number of passengers.
• Trips outside the city or to neighboring regions are best discussed in advance: many taxi drivers offer fixed prices for such routes.

You can call a taxi through the largest taxi service, Taxi 40100 , which operates 24/7 and has a user-friendly app. Taxi 31300 , known for its English-language support, which is especially convenient for tourists.

More modern solutions are offered by apps like CobiTaxi , which offer fixed rates, or by international platforms like Uber and Bolt , which are active in Vienna alongside traditional services.

A big advantage of Vienna's taxis is the use of meters and strict enforcement. It's almost impossible to encounter inflated fares or surcharges, which are common in other European capitals.

Vienna caters to the needs of different passengers and offers specialized services:

• Women -only taxis are always driven by a woman, making them popular with mothers with children or passengers traveling late at night.
• Taxis for the hearing impaired are equipped with text communication capabilities.
• VIP limousines are business and luxury class vehicles that are often ordered for business trips or events.
• Faxi is an unusual and very popular format: a three-wheeled pedicab for two people. It's a great way to explore the city center, especially in the summer when you want to combine transportation with a stroll.

Some drivers in Vienna also work as guides: they can show you around the city, share interesting facts, and offer a "historical route." This is especially valuable for tourists short on time.

If you want to plan your budget in advance, it's convenient to use private transfer services. You can book a car online, the price is fixed, and the driver will meet you at the airport with a sign.

2025 is a landmark year for Vienna's public transportation system: the city is implementing technologies and expanding capabilities to make travel even more convenient and environmentally friendly.

Payment by card and smartphone. Wien er Linien has begun testing a system that allows passengers to board public transport without a ticket—simply tap a bank card, smartphone, or even a smartwatch on the terminal.

This currently only works on select routes, but plans call for a universal rollout in the coming years. This will make life easier for travelers who don't always know where to buy a ticket or how to validate it.

Klimaticket Wien . Another revolution is the new pass, which allows unlimited travel on all modes of public transport in the city and region. It's part of the Austrian-wide "climate ticket" initiative.

Now residents and visitors can choose to purchase a travel pass for Vienna only or for the whole of Austria. The cost of this ticket is significantly lower than purchasing individual travel passes regularly, which is why demand is growing.

Night buses. Although the metro operates 24 hours a day on weekends, new night routes have been added. They relieve congestion on the U-Bahn and allow residents of the outskirts to get home faster.

Now, at night, the city really feels bigger—you can easily return home after a concert, an exhibition, or an evening stroll downtown.