Car and Van Rental at Vienna Central Train Station

The stunning capital Vienna, has been voted the most liveable city in the world in recent years due to the quality of life its residents enjoy. Vienna is not only a beautiful city to experience, but is a great starting point if you want to travel the rest of Austria and surrounding countries. Of course, we recommend renting a car to make the most of your journey!

Located just 3 km from Vienna’s city center, the station connects Austria with neighboring countries like Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Renting a car directly at Vienna Train Station makes it easy to explore the Austrian capital, the scenic Danube Valley, the Austrian Alps, and even road trips across Central Europe.

Tips for renting a car in Vienna

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Green Motion Car Rental Romania Bucharest Otopeni Airport 767x767

Car Rental and Driving Vienna Central Train Station

 

Driving in Vienna is efficient and well-organized, though traffic can be busy, particularly during peak commuting hours. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless with a hands-free device, and headlights should be used at all times outside of urban areas, even during the day.

Speed limits in Austria are set at 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas, 100 km/h (62 mph) on rural roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways. Austria enforces speed limits strictly through cameras and fines. If you plan to drive on Austrian highways, you must have a valid vignette (toll sticker) displayed on your car—rental cars usually come with this already included, but always confirm.

Vienna’s city center has a mix of pedestrian-only zones and restricted driving areas, particularly around historic districts. Parking is limited and often paid, with most street parking requiring tickets purchased from machines or via mobile apps. Parking garages are widely available and often the best choice for visitors.

Austria has strict rules about alcohol and driving, with a legal blood alcohol limit of 0.05%. Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 15 in snowy or icy conditions. Fuel stations are plentiful throughout Vienna and on highways, and most accept debit and credit cards.

Driving in Austria opens up endless possibilities, from quick trips to Wachau Valley vineyards along the Danube to full-day drives into the Alps for skiing or hiking. With Vienna as your starting point, a rental car allows for unmatched flexibility.

Useful Information About Car Hire at Vienna Central Train Station

Where to collect your car?

Meet and Greet service. A Green Motion representative will wait for you at the central train station. Please call 00436 677 854663 to arrange the pickup

Side of road

In Romania, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Local currency

Euro (EUR)

Nearest Petrol Station

OMV Station, about 1 km from Vienna Hauptbahnhof.

Nearest Bus Station

Vienna International Busterminal (VIB), about 6 km away.

Nearest Bus Station

There is a bus station located at the airport

Average temperatures

30°F (-1°C) in winter to 79°F (26°C) in summer

FAQs About Renting a Car in Vienna Central Train Station

How long does it take to drive from Vienna Train Station to the city center?

It’s just a 10-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Austria?

If your license is EU-issued or in English, you don’t need an IDP. For non-EU or non-English licenses, an IDP is recommended.

Are rental cars equipped with winter tires?

Yes, during the winter months cars are fitted with mandatory winter tires.

Can I drive a rental car from Austria into neighboring countries?

Yes, Austria is well connected, and most providers allow cross-border rentals to countries like Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary.

What types of vehicles are available?

Everything from small city cars to SUVs and luxury vehicles, depending on your travel needs.

How far is Vienna Train Station from Vienna International Airport?

The airport is about 20 km away, taking around 25–30 minutes by car.