Car Rental at Vienna Airport (VIE) – Pickup, Prices & Local Driving Tips

Arriving at Vienna Airport is a great start to your journey through Austria. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand potential costs, and prepare for driving on Austrian roads.

Where to Find Car Rental Offices

Most car rental companies have their counters directly at Vienna Airport. They are usually located in the arrival area, often in the basement or near the parking lots. You may need to use a free shuttle that runs between the terminals and parking lots to reach the car pickup location. Pay attention to the signs in the airport to find the desired office.

Popular Companies and Cars

Many well-known car rental companies are represented at Vienna Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to premium SUVs. Here are a few popular options:

Economy 20 – 30 EUR
Compact 30 – 45 EUR
Intermediate 45 – 60 EUR
SUV 60 – 100+ EUR
Minivan 70 – 120+ EUR
Premium 100+ EUR

Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.

Required Documents and Rental Conditions

To rent a car, you will need a valid driver's license (international if your license is not European), a passport, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25 years. Companies usually block a deposit on the credit card, which is returned after returning the car undamaged. The deposit amount depends on the car class and insurance coverage.

Insurance: What You Should Know

When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car in the event of an accident. Theft insurance protects against loss of the vehicle. It is important to pay attention to the amount of the deductible (excess) – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the deductible by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the contract.

Driving in Austria: A Brief Overview

Certain traffic rules apply in Austria that should be followed. A toll (Vignette) is often charged on highways, which must be purchased before the trip. Parking in cities may be paid, so pay attention to signs. The speed on highways is usually limited to 130 km/h, in built-up areas – 50 km/h. Be careful on the roads, especially in mountainous areas.

FAQ

What documents are required for car rental?

Driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name.

What is the minimum age for rental?

Usually 21, but some companies require 23 or 25 years.

What is a deposit?

This is an amount that the company blocks on your credit card to cover possible expenses.

What is CDW?

Insurance against damage to the car in the event of an accident.

Is a vignette required for highways?

Yes, a vignette must be purchased to travel on Austrian highways.

Where can I find car rental offices at the airport?

Usually in the arrival area, in the basement or near the parking lots.

What to do if I have an accident?

Immediately notify the car rental company and the police.

Is it possible to cross the border with a rented car?

Usually yes, but you need to inform the car rental company in advance.

What is the deductible (excess)?

This is the amount you pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.

Can I pay for the rental in cash?

Most companies only accept credit cards.

How to return the car?

Usually in the same place where you picked it up, by prior arrangement.

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