Get the Most Out of your Layover at Vienna Airport

A layover at Vienna International Airport doesn't have to be boring. Whether you only have a short break or several hours to spend, VIE offers plenty of opportunities to relax, shop, eat, and even explore Vienna itself.

Things to Do Inside the Airport

  • Shopping: The terminals share extensive shopping areas, including the Plaza boulevard, with international brands, local shops, and duty-free zones. Even window shopping is a fun way to pass time.
  • Food & Drink: Try Austrian classics such as Wiener schnitzel or a Viennese coffee-house break, alongside international cuisine. Terminal 3 has a large food court, with more cafés and restaurants spread along the gate piers.
  • Wi-Fi: Free internet throughout the airport lets you work, browse, or connect with family and friends.
  • Culture: The airport's Visitors' World (Besucherwelt) offers guided tours and exhibitions about airport operations, giving you a behind-the-scenes look between flights.
  • Observation Deck: The open-air Visitors' Terrace offers panoramic views of the aprons and runways. A small entry fee applies (around €4).
  • Quiet Spaces: The airport chapel and multi-faith prayer room provide a calm space for reflection, open to all passengers.
  • Lounges: The airport has pay-per-use lounges open to any traveller for a walk-up or pre-booked fee. If you are flying Austrian Airlines or a Star Alliance partner, the Austrian Airlines Business and Senator lounges are located in Terminal 3.
  • Hotels: For long layovers, book a stay at the NH Vienna Airport hotel, connected to the terminal by a covered walkway, or the nearby Moxy Vienna Airport. Note: they are in the pre-security zone, so allow time to re-clear security.

Exploring Vienna During a Long Layover

If your layover is long enough (at least 6–8 hours), consider leaving the airport. Vienna city center is 18km (11 miles) away. Expect around 30 minutes by taxi (flat fare from about €36), 16 minutes by City Airport Train (CAT) to Wien Mitte (ticket ~€14, ~€12 online), or 25 minutes by S-Bahn line S7 to Wien Mitte (ticket ~€4.40). Always return 1–2 hours before your flight.

Top Attractions to Visit

  • City Center Walk: Start at Stephansplatz and St. Stephen's Cathedral, stroll down Kärntner Strasse, and take in the Hofburg palace and the Vienna State Opera along the Ringstrasse.
  • Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the imperial summer palace and its vast gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reachable via the S-Bahn and U4 underground line.
  • Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel: Ride the historic Riesenrad and enjoy the Prater park and funfair. Accessible via S-Bahn to Praterstern.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Take a sightseeing bus tour from the Opera on the Ringstrasse to explore Vienna's highlights without hassle.

Tips for a Smooth Layover

  • Always check if your nationality requires a visa to leave the airport.
  • Plan your return with enough time for check-in and security.
  • If short on time, enjoy airport lounges, the Visitors' Terrace, or a bite at the Plaza instead of rushing to the city.

Smoker on a layover? Vienna Airport has several airside smoking lounges in the gate piers plus outdoor zones by the entrances; see where to smoke at Vienna Airport.