Rent a Car in Vienna, Austria With Competitive Rates and Clear Local Guidance
Find great-value rentals at the airport or in the city, compare providers, and use this practical guide to locations, insurance, fees, and fuel policies for stress-free driving in and around Vienna.
What do you need to rent a car in Vienna?
Renting a car in Vienna is quite convenient, but there can be some specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
- Form of ID: A valid physical Austria national photo ID must be presented.
- Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical Austrian driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence must have been held for at least 1 year; some offers require at least 2 years.
Notes: Important Notice: Some non-EEA driving licences are not recognized in Austria and cannot be used for car rentals. Please check if your licence is valid by visiting the official OEAMTC website (auslaendischer-eu-und-ewr-fuehrerschein-in-oesterreich). Renters from certain listed countries whose driver’s license and passport are from the same country are not required to provide further verification to pick up the vehicle.
- Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are generally required. Accepted credit cards commonly include Visa and MasterCard; some offers additionally accept UnionPay, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX and may accept debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX) for deposits. Some offers explicitly support special card types (e.g., CtCard/XpCard/DcCard/UnCard). E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required depending on the offer. Some specific offers require printed proof of Collision/Theft coverage from your credit card bank or insurer.
- Age requirements: Most offers allow rentals in a broad range, typically between 18–25 at the lower end and 75–99 at the upper end, depending on the supplier. The strictest ranges observed run from 25–65, while the broadest run from 18–99. Young driver surcharges commonly apply: for example, ages 18–25 (or 19–25/21–22/21–25 depending on the offer) may incur daily fees around EUR 4–12 (e.g., approx. $4.67, $11.66, or $14.00 per day), sometimes capped for the rental. Senior driver surcharges may apply from about age 70–75 up to 80–99, with typical daily fees around EUR 9–26, occasionally capped for the rental. Some offers list young/old driver fees as “To be confirmed,” meaning the exact amount will be confirmed at the counter.
- Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence must have been held for at least 1 year; some offers require at least 2 years. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is a translation only; you must present the original licence and original IDP. Photocopies or scans are not accepted or
• EU/EEA Driving License, valid across the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom or
• Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with an English translation on the back (where applicable).Notes: Important Notice: Some non‑EEA driving licences are not recognized in Austria and cannot be used for car rentals; please check validity on the official OEAMTC website. Certain specific licences are not accepted, for example: Taiwan Driving License in China (not allowed for rentals in Austria) and Original Philippine Driving License (not allowed for rentals in Austria). Some offers state that renters from certain listed countries whose driver’s license and passport are from the same country are not required to provide further verification to pick up the vehicle.
- Form of ID: A valid physical passport must be presented.
- Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are generally required for deposit. Commonly accepted credit cards include Visa and MasterCard, with some offers also accepting UnionPay, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. In several offers, matching-brand debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX) may be accepted as deposit cards. Certain offers support special card attributes (XpCard/DcCard/UnCard/CtCard). E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required. For some offers, you must also provide printed proof of Collision/Theft protection issued by your credit card bank or car insurance, showing your name/card, coverage details, validity, countries, and vehicle types.
- Age requirements: Most offers allow rentals in a broad range, typically between 18–25 at the lower end and 75–99 at the upper end, depending on the supplier. The strictest ranges observed run from 25–65, while the broadest run from 18–99. Young driver surcharges commonly apply: for example, ages 18–25 (or 19–25/21–22/21–25 depending on the offer) may incur daily fees around EUR 4–12 (e.g., approx. $4.67, $11.66, or $14.00 per day), sometimes capped for the rental. Senior driver surcharges may apply from about age 70–75 up to 80–99, with typical daily fees around EUR 9–26, occasionally capped for the rental. Some offers list young/old driver fees as “To be confirmed,” meaning the exact amount will be confirmed at the counter.
Best Car Rentals for Your Vienna & Austria Road Trip
From city smarts to Alpine thrills, find your perfect ride for exploring Vienna and beyond. Check out more popular car choices below.
City
Small
5
2
AutoVienna's historic city center features narrow streets and limited parking that make bigger vehicles a hassle. A compact car effortlessly threads through RingstrasseBoulevard and slips into tight parking spots in InnereStadt. Enjoy the convenience of zipping between world-famous coffee houses and underground garages without the stress.
Winter
SUV
53AutoWhen snow blankets the Austrian Alps on routes to skiing destinations like Salzkammergut, you need serious capability. An SUV with all-wheel drive and winter tires provides the traction needed for icy mountain passes and snowy conditions. Higher ground clearance means you will not bottom out on snow-covered roads or mountain passes.
Scenic
Convertible
42AutoCruise through the Wachau Valley vineyards, alongside the shimmering lakes of Salzkammergut, and past Alpine meadows with the top down. A convertible lets you fully experience Austria is breathtaking scenery while enjoying fresh mountain air. Automatic transmission ensures effortless driving through winding countryside roads.
Choose Your Ride
Find the perfect vehicle for your trip. Compare options below.
Why Pick Up at Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Airport rentals typically offer the best availability (including larger cars and automatics), longer operating hours, and straightforward highway access—ideal for landing and heading directly to your next destination. While airport fees can make prices slightly higher, you often save time and reduce city-driving hassle on day one.
Hyundai i10
41
2
ManualHyundai i10
412Manual
Volkswagen up!
414Manual
Skoda Kamiq
524ManualSkoda Kamiq
524Manual
Opel Crossland X
524Manual
Skoda Fabia Estate
514ManualSkoda Fabia Estate
514Manual
Skoda Fabia Estate
514ManualVienna Airport Car Rentals: See Real VIE Reviews
Real car rental reviews from actual customers at Vienna Airport (VIE). Make informed decisions and book with confidence.
| Rental company | Rating | Avg. Daily Rate | Pickup Method/Distance | Security deposit | Accepts Debit Cards | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Best Overall | 4.4 150 reviews | $14 | Shuttle bus | $2,683 - $3,149 |
| |
 Best Overall | 4.4 45000+ reviews | $33 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $2,321 |
| |
 Best Overall | 4.2 315+ reviews | $57 | 1.9 mi | $620 - $748 |
| |
 | 3.7 1 review | $109 | 1.4 mi | $1,750 - $2,333 |
| |
 | 3.2 1400+ reviews | $39 | In terminal, Walk to counter | $1,155 |
| |
 Budget Friendly | 2.9 1200+ reviews | $33 | 2.4 mi | $334 |
| |
| 2.9 31,000+ reviews | $17 | Call for pick-up | $350 - $2,916 |
| |
| 2.7 1400+ reviews | $170 | 13.3 mi | - |
| |
 | 2.5 23 reviews | $42 | 1.8 mi | $1,167 - $1,400 |
| |
 | 2.4 9 reviews | $61 | 0.5 mi | $1,340 - $1,359 |
|
*Rating and review data are sourced from Trustpilot. Policy details may vary by location and vehicle type. Please confirm at the time of booking.
Platform Insights
Car Rental Expert Advice
By QEEQ Platform Expert Team
Expertise Metrics
Platform Recognition
Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023&2024
Booking Volume
Review Quality
10,000+ verified 5-star reviews
Market Experience
Data Authority
Expertise Verification
QEEQ data verified against local official data sources
Key Expert Insights
Platform Analysis
"Vienna Airport (VIE) dominates car rentals with 45-50% market share, followed by city center at 20-25% and Hauptbahnhof growing 15% YoY at 15-20%."
Booking Patterns
"Compact cars lead Vienna rentals at 35-40%, SUV/4x4 follows at 22-27%. Peak summer demand surges 35% above average with 3-4 week advance booking recommended."
Customer Pain Points
"48-53% of Vienna car rental customers report hidden fees complaints, making it the most prevalent pain point affecting nearly half of all renters."
Data Sources
- QEEQ internal booking databse
- Vienna Airport Statistics
- SiXT Austria
- Statista - Austria Car Rental Market
- ACEA European Car Rental Customer Experience Survey
- Austrian Tourism Board
- Statista - Car Rental Europe
- Vienna Tourist Board
- Hertz Europe Annual Insights
- European Car Rental Customer Experience Survey - ACEA
- Austria Automobile Association (ÖAMTC)
- Statista Consumer Insights
- Vienna Chamber of Commerce
Road Trips
One-way rental routes starting from Vienna
Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Vienna
Popular Car Rental Routes And Trips From Vienna
Scenic Drives And Classic Road Routes:
Vienna → Wachau Valley (Melk, Dürnstein, Krems) Loop
Drive west from Vienna to the Danube’s Wachau Valley for UNESCO-listed river scenery, vineyard terraces, and charming towns. This route is ideal for tasting local wines (like Grüner Veltliner) and visiting the famous Melk Abbey, with plenty of short, easy detours for viewpoints and riverside walks.
Vienna → Semmering Pass Panoramic Drive
A classic day drive to Austria’s first true mountain pass road experience. The Semmering area is known for alpine views and the UNESCO-listed Semmering Railway engineering landmarks. It’s a great option when you want a quick escape from the city with forested scenery and relaxed roadside cafés.
Vienna → Bratislava (Danube Twin-City Drive)
A straightforward, rewarding international drive from Vienna to Slovakia’s capital. You’ll get a compact old town, a hilltop castle, and Danube riverfront views—perfect for travelers who want a different country experience without committing to a long drive. Check vignette/toll needs and carry ID for border travel.
Easy Day Trips And Short Getaways:
Salzburg Day Trip (Long Day Drive)
A longer but doable road trip to Mozart’s hometown. Explore the baroque old town, fortress viewpoints, and cafés. Start early to avoid peak traffic and to secure parking near the historic center.
Graz Old Town And Schlossberg
Drive to Styria’s capital for a lively UNESCO-listed old town, the Schlossberg hill, and a relaxed food scene. A great contrast to Vienna with a smaller-city feel and excellent walkability once parked.
Neusiedler See (Lake Neusiedl) And Rust
A warm-weather favorite for lakeside cycling paths, birdwatching, and wine taverns. Base yourself in Rust for postcard-pretty streets and easy access to the lake’s reed-lined shoreline.
Baden bei Wien And Heuriger Wine Taverns
A quick escape south of Vienna for spa-town charm, parks, and local wine taverns (heuriger) in the Vienna Woods region. Ideal for a half-day or relaxed evening drive with an early return.
Car Rental Planning Tips For Driving From Vienna
Check license and ID requirements: Bring your driver’s license and passport/ID. If your license is not in Latin characters, consider an International Driving Permit to avoid pickup issues.
Plan for Austrian motorway vignettes: Many highways (Autobahnen/Schnellstraßen) require a vignette. Confirm whether your rental includes one; if not, buy a digital or sticker vignette before using tolled roads.
Expect paid parking and resident zones in Vienna: Street parking is regulated and often time-limited. Use garages or park-and-ride lots if you’re staying central, and avoid assuming hotel-adjacent street parking is free.
Refuel smart: stations are pricier on motorways: Fuel prices are typically higher at Autobahn service areas. If your tank is low, exit near towns for better prices and easier access.
Use offline maps for valleys and mountain areas: Coverage can be inconsistent in some rural stretches (e.g., mountain regions). Download offline maps and keep key addresses saved before you depart.
Choose the right insurance and document the car: Understand your deductible and coverage (CDW/theft/glass/tires). Photograph the car at pickup and return, including wheels and windshield, and ensure any damage is recorded.
Seasonal driving: winter tires and mountain conditions: From late fall through early spring, conditions can change quickly. Verify winter tires are fitted when needed and keep extra time in your schedule for mountain roads.
IATA: VIE - Vienna Airport Car Rental & Travel Guide
Discover Vienna with affordable car rentals - explore Austrian roads, scenic Alpine routes, and the heart of Central Europe from Vienna
LANGUAGES
German
CURRENCY
EUR
DRIVE ON
Right-hand side
COUNTRY CODE
+43
AVERAGE CAR RENTAL PRICE
$75 per day
AVERAGE CAR RENTAL LENGTH
7 days
SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN
50 km/h
SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN
130 km/h
ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC
0.05% (Strictly Enforced)
AVERAGE GAS PRICE
$2.14/L
LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE
$1.15/L - $2.44/L
TRAVELER RATING
4.3 / 10
Vienna Car Rental Guide
Essential driving tips, tolls, parking, and road rules for your Austrian road trip
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