Parking at Schwechat: A Guide to Vienna Airport

Vienna International Airport is situated 18 kilometers southeast of Vienna, near the Austrian city of Schwechat. Initially a military base, it now operates four terminals, ranking among Central Europe's busiest.

Vienna-Schwechat (VIE) serves as Austria's main international gateway, connecting to over 190 destinations in more than 70 countries. As Austria's largest airport, it links Europe with the Middle East, North America, and Asia.

The airport is the hub for Austrian Airlines and a key transit point for global travelers. Thus, parking at Schwechat is a significant consideration.

>>> If you're leaving your car at Vienna Airport, you might find our guide on renting a car abroad helpful.

A Brief History of the Airport

Schwechat was constructed in 1938 as a military airport. In 1945, it was taken over by British authorities, and nine years later, an operating company was formed. The Aspersen name replaced Schwechat, establishing it as the country's main airport.

Initially, there was only one runway, later extended by 3,000 meters. The airport expanded rapidly. In 1960, construction of a new terminal began, leading to the addition of a second runway.

Vienna Airport Schwechat Structure

Vienna Airport operates four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 1A, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. The main departure zones include:

Terminal 1: Handles flights for Austrian Airlines, Star Alliance, and partners. It serves non-Schengen destinations like Emirates.
Terminal 1A: A small arrival terminal for low-cost airlines.
Terminal 2: Manages arrivals and departures within the Schengen area.
Parking at Schwechat is conveniently located nearby. Terminals 1 and 3 share the same building.

Getting to Schwechat Airport

Aside from taxis, there are two main ways to reach Vienna Schwechat Airport from Bratislava.

For transport, consider using Flixbus from Bratislava Airport M. R. Štefánik or Slovak Lines, which runs hourly, taking you directly to the terminals. Buses depart from Nivy Bus Station, the Main Train Station, and under the SNP Bridge in Bratislava. Remember, tickets may sell out.

Many cars also head to Vienna Airport daily. The drive from Bratislava via the highway takes under an hour. Whether you're flying or picking up someone, you'll need to address parking at Schwechat. This article will guide you through the airport's parking maze.

Parking at Schwechat

Vienna International Airport offers several parking options. Most spaces are covered. The clear parking system caters to all needs and is ready for any situation.

Before arriving, check the maximum vehicle height, as it varies. Payment can be made by card or cash at cashier stations, or you can reserve a space online. This is especially recommended during peak season. Due to limited capacity, book your spot online in advance, especially for parking lot C.

Parking at Schwechat can be managed via online reservation, which is straightforward. Print the paid ticket and scan its QR code at the entry pillar. A green light signals your entry. The online reservation system is always cheaper and offers rewards like space choice or extended parking time.

Parking Options

Parking at Schwechat features a straightforward system of parking areas, marked in the traffic guidance system: parking lot 3 and 4, parking space C, parking space A, short-term parking K3, departure terminal, and VIP terminal.

Parking P3 and P4 / Parking Garage 3 and 4:

Offers direct terminal access from the garage and is weather-protected. Recommended for departures from Terminal 1/1A (parking lot 3) or Terminal 3 (parking lot 4). More comfortable but pricier.

Maximum entry height (Parking 3): 2.05 m
Maximum entry height (Parking 4): 2.00 m
Price: max. 5.20 €/hour

Parking space PC / Parking lot C:

Located about 8-10 minutes walk from the terminals. Mostly underground, it is weather-protected and the cheapest outdoor parking near the terminal.

Maximum entry height: 2.50 m
Price: max. 4.40 €/hour

Parking space PA:

Just 5 minutes walk from the terminals along parking lot 4 or underground, with a walkway to the building. Easy Parking service is also available.

Maximum entry height: 2.50 m
Price: max. 4.50 €/hour

Short-term Stop – Parking Lot K3:

Near the arrivals hall exit, ideal for quick passenger pick-up.

Maximum entry height: 2.30 m
Price: 5.50 €/hour (online reservation not available)

Departure Terminal – Access Road:

The departure terminal allows for quick unloading with 10 minutes of free parking per license plate, once a day. Afterward, fees are charged by the minute/quarter hour. The second entry incurs a fee of 2.90 euros for every 15 minutes.

Look for the label “Ausstiegszone / drop-off zone” on the Schwechat Airport parking plan.

Price: 2.90 €/15 minutes (10 minutes free)

VIP Terminal:

The VIP & General Aviation Terminal offers exclusive parking right by the building.

Price: 5.40 €/hour

Mazur Parkplatz:

Located about 2 km from the terminal, with shuttle service to and from the terminal.

Price: € 4.20 €/hour, each additional hour – € 3.00. Maximum for 1 day – € 31.50. Maximum for 1 week (8 days) – € 105.00.

Premium Parking Services

Vienna Airport at Schwechat also offers premium parking services, such as parking assistants, oversized vehicle parking, and cleaning services.

Easy Parking

Easy parking is a premium valet service. Drop off your car in the easy parking zone at Terminal 3 on the left. A professional driver will park your car in parking garage 4 or lot A, based on your preference. Parking at Schwechat becomes hassle-free.

Pick up your keys 24/7 at the cashier of parking garage 4 (located directly at the parking lot).

King Size Parking

King Size Parking offers spaces for larger and wider vehicles. Located in parking garage 4 on level 1, it provides a 3.5 m wide space for larger cars. Near Terminal 3, it costs 8 €/day.

Cleaning Services

On level 2 of parking garage 4, you'll find an interior cleaning service, available Monday to Sunday for up to 6 hours.

Which Parking Lot at Schwechat is Best?

For 1-2 days, Parking C or Mazur are often ideal. Mazur is usually cheaper, but less convenient if you prefer not to transfer to the airport.

For longer stays (3-7 days): Mazur is likely the most cost-effective.

For maximum comfort, with proximity to the terminal and covered parking, choose Parking Garage 3 or 4, though it is more expensive.

For a balance of price and convenience, Parking C is a good compromise. It's relatively close, partially sheltered, and priced between Mazur and the garages.

Conclusion

Vienna Airport isn't as daunting as it seems. With a few key points, you can navigate easily, including parking at Schwechat. Before entering, the main access road splits into three: left to parking lots P4 and PC, right to covered parking lot P3, and straight to parking lot K3. A detailed map is available on the Vienna Airport website.