Vienna Airport Terminals

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.

Vienna International Airport (IATA: VIE) is the largest airport in Austria and one of Central Europe’s major hubs, connecting the region to over 200 destinations worldwide. Located about 18 km southeast of Vienna city center, it serves as a primary gateway for both leisure and business travelers.

VIE is highly organized and user-friendly, with clear signage in multiple languages, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.

Brief History & Origins

Vienna International Airport was opened in 1938 as Aspern Airfield, initially serving small commercial flights. The current terminal complex was inaugurated in 1982 and has undergone several expansions, including the addition of Terminal 3 in 2012. Today, VIE is operated by Flughafen Wien AG and handles over 31 million passengers annually.

The airport has won multiple awards for efficiency and passenger satisfaction, making it one of Europe’s most well-rated airports.

Terminal & Concourse Layout

VIE has one main passenger terminal, which is divided into Terminal 1 (non-Schengen) and Terminal 3 (Schengen & non-Schengen). All terminals are connected, providing seamless access to check-in, gates, and amenities.

Terminal Highlights:

Terminal 1: Mainly non-Schengen flights, premium airlines, and business travelers.
Terminal 3: Handles most Schengen flights, major European carriers, and long-haul non-Schengen flights.
Pier East & West: Satellite concourses for additional gates and lounges.

Allow at least 90 minutes for connecting flights, especially if switching between Schengen and non-Schengen zones.

Levels & Passenger Flow

Level 0 / Arrival: Baggage claim, customs, and ground transportation.
Level 1 / Check-in & Ticketing: All airline counters, kiosks, and information desks.
Level 2 / Security & Departure: Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and boarding gates.
Level 3 / Lounges & VIP Areas: Exclusive access for premium passengers.

Shopping & Retail

Vienna Airport offers an extensive shopping experience, including:

Duty-Free Shops: Alcohol, perfume, tobacco, and luxury goods. Located post-security in Terminal 3.
Fashion & Accessories: Hugo Boss, Swarovski, and local Austrian brands.
Souvenirs & Gifts: Austrian chocolates, crafts, and music-themed souvenirs.
Electronics & Travel Essentials: Mobile accessories, headphones, and travel gadgets.

Duty-free shopping is available for both Schengen and non-Schengen passengers, but check customs limits if traveling outside the EU.

Restaurants & Dining

VIE has over 30 food and beverage outlets. Highlights include:

Schwechat Lounge Bar (Terminal 3, Post-Security): Modern bar with cocktails and local Austrian wines.
Restaurant DO & CO (Terminal 3, Gates F): High-end dining, Austrian specialties, open 06:00–22:00.
Cafe Landtmann (Terminal 3): Famous Viennese coffee and pastries, open 05:30–20:00.
McDonald’s & Burger King (Terminal 1 & 3): Fast casual options for travelers in a hurry.

For authentic Austrian cuisine, Restaurant DO & CO is highly rated and ideal for long layovers.

Lounges & VIP Areas

Austrian Airlines Business Lounge: Terminal 3, gates F/G. Access for Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members.
Senator Lounge (Lufthansa): Terminal 3, Schengen zone. Premium services including buffet, shower, and relaxation areas.
Sky Lounge: Independent lounge, Terminal 3, open to all with day passes.

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Lounges often offer complimentary snacks, drinks, and quiet workspaces—perfect for catching up on work or relaxing before a flight.

Facilities & Services

Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminal for 2 hours; extended plans available.
ATMs & Currency Exchange: Multiple locations pre- and post-security.
Baggage Services & Lockers: Short-term luggage storage available near arrivals.
Information Desks: Staffed in English and German for guidance.
Lost & Found: Terminal 3, +43 1 7007 22200.

Families & Accessibility

Children’s Play Areas: Available in Terminal 3 near gates F & G.
Nursing Rooms: Multiple locations pre- and post-security.
Wheelchair & PMR Assistance: Available on request at check-in or information desks.

Security & Check-in

TSA / Security Checkpoints: Terminal 3 handles most flights; PreCheck is not standard in Europe.
Baggage Check-in: 2–3 hours before international flights, 90 minutes for domestic/Schengen.

Self-service kiosks speed up check-in, especially for low-cost carriers.

Popular Flights Summary

Route	Approx. Duration	Major Airlines
VIE → London (LHR)	~2h 15m	British Airways, Austrian Airlines
VIE → Frankfurt (FRA)	~1h 30m	Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines
VIE → New York (JFK/EWR)	~9h	Austrian Airlines, United
VIE → Dubai (DXB)	~6h 45m	Emirates, Austrian Airlines
VIE → Paris (CDG)	~2h 15m	Air France, Austrian Airlines
VIE → Rome (FCO)	~1h 50m	Alitalia, Austrian Airlines