Climate-Friendly Travel
Travel to a destination accounts for the lion’s share of tourism’s ecological footprint. While international air links are vital for Vienna as a destination, promoting sustainable alternative travel options – especially rail – for visitors from nearby markets is more crucial than ever before. It’s good for the environment and eases pressure on the city: fewer emissions, less noise, more room to maneuver in public spaces. Vienna is sticking to the successful path it’s been on for years now.
A third and counting: rail overtakes road
In 2024, 30% of visitors arrived by train, 39% by plane, and 24% by car. Air travel continues to play a key role for Vienna as a destination, and overseas visitors will continue to fly to the city. But in short-haul markets, there’s been a clear shift toward sustainable rail travel – since 2018, arrivals by train have jumped by nine percentage points.
Vienna is already the European leader for rail connections
The Austrian capital leads the way in Europe as the best-connected major city by rail and has successfully branded itself as a Nightjet hub. Visitors can travel to the city by rail from 14 different European countries directly. From Germany alone, there are 20 direct links covering all of the country’s major cities. And anyone who prefers to travel at night has the pick of more than 30 overnight train options spanning the length and breadth of Europe. This outstanding network further burnishes Vienna’s credentials as a global mobility hub, while promoting sustainable tourism, too.
Full support for rail
Increasing the share of the transport mix accounted for by rail and public transport remains a top priority. Partnering with Austrian National Railways (ÖBB), Railtour Suisse, and Deutsche Bahn, the Vienna Tourist Board actively promotes eco-friendly rail options. Traveling by train cuts CO₂ emissions while also giving guests a comfortable and convenient, stress-free way to reach the city. Its partnerships in this area won the Rail Tourism Award in 2023.
And the Last Mile?
Beyond that, the Vienna Tourist Board works closely with various mobility partners including Wiener Linien (operator of the city’s public transportation network), City Airport Train (CAT), and ÖBB. Tailored solutions are also available to get meeting participants to venues sustainably and smoothly. Available for 30 years now, the Vienna City Card entitles holders to free travel throughout the city on the Wiener Linien public transport network, as well as giving them access to discounts and promotions offered by culture, hospitality and accommodation providers.
Where Is the journey taking us?
In the years ahead, Vienna will continue to promote sustainable travel. One particular focus in this area will be on advancing e-mobility solutions. The city’s taxi fleet is also gearing up for decarbonization: from 2025, only zero-emission taxis will be licensed. And there are more charging stations on the way for private e-vehicles, too – both in public places and at accommodation providers. Plus, coach travel is getting a boost, with plans already in place for a cutting-edge international bus terminal for the city.