10 Best Airlines for Stress-Free & Budget-Friendly Flights to Vienna

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Landing in Vienna feels like stepping into a fairy tale, especially when you catch that first glimpse of Schönbrunn Palace from your window seat. After several trips to Austria’s capital (and more Sachertorte than I care to admit), I’ve figured out that your choice of airline can make or break your European adventure. Trust me, you don’t want to start your trip exhausted when you could be exploring the grand coffee houses of the First District.

Some of the best places in Vienna, like the artsy streets of the Seventh District and the wine taverns of Grinzing, deserve your full attention and energy. I analyzed over 100 popular flight routes to Vienna, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Let me share which airlines will get you there feeling fresh and ready to explore without destroying your budget in 2025.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Vienna

Looking for the cheapest flights to Vienna? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

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I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $506 roundtrip fare from Boston to Vienna during the late spring. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays the whole thing. Here’s my exclusive 20% off discount code: JON20 – which brings the price down to $39!

And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s discuss the best way to fly to Vienna in 2025.

Best Airlines for Smooth & Budget-Friendly Travel to Vienna

Looking for the best airlines for smooth & budget-friendly travel to Vienna? Fly with Austrian Airlines for a seamless European experience, enjoy premium service with Air France, choose American Airlines for reliable transatlantic flights, or opt for Delta Air Lines for comfort and affordability. Whether you’re visiting for history, culture, or cuisine, these airlines offer top options for your trip to Vienna.

1. 🇦🇹 Austrian Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Alpine hospitality, excellent cuisine, efficient hub operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re traveling light, book the “Light” fare and save $50 to $100. You’ll still get full Austrian service, assigned seating, and room for a carry-on and personal item.

Austrian Airlines is the kind of airline that makes you feel like you’re already in Vienna the moment you step on board. It’s not trying to impress you with flash, but it just quietly delivers comfort, charm, and precision. Think of it like that cozy Viennese café where everything runs smoothly, the coffee is always hot, and no one’s trying too hard.

The Austrian experience showcases Alpine charm at 35,000 feet. Even in Economy, you’ll get meals featuring local specialties like wiener schnitzel or apfelstrudel, wines from local vineyards that actually taste good at altitude, and crew members who take pride in representing their country. Austrian’s Embraer E-Jets and Airbus A320s on European routes are spotless and comfortable, while longer flights feature Boeing 777s with spacious cabins and modern entertainment systems.

Flying into Vienna International Airport is part of the appeal. It’s clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. You won’t find yourself racing through endless terminals or fighting crowds. Even the background music sets the mood just right. It’s the rare airport that actually feels calming.

While the Miles & More program is a nice bonus for points and redemptions, the real value with Austrian Airlines comes from their seasonal fare sales. Flights from the US to Vienna often drop hundreds of dollars below the usual price during spring and fall. 

2. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Amsterdam (AMS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wine, stylish cabin design, extensive European connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Paris and take the early morning Vienna connection. These flights are usually less crowded, and you’ll land in Austria just in time for lunch without the chaos of afternoon delays.

Air France turns getting to Vienna into a proper European adventure by routing you through Paris first. Sure, it adds a connection, but when that connection involves proper croissants, decent coffee, and a chance to breathe some Parisian air, suddenly the extra time doesn’t feel like a hassle. Air France treats their European routes like the sophisticated short hops they are, not afterthoughts to their long-haul operations.

Flying Air France feels distinctly French in ways that actually enhance the journey rather than just being gimmicky. Expect actual cutlery, real cheese, and a glass of wine that doesn’t taste like it came from a box. Even the cabin interiors have a quiet charm to them, with soft lighting and muted tones that make it feel more like a boutique hotel than a bus in the sky.

And the Paris connection? Surprisingly painless. Terminal 2E is one of the better major airport terminals in Europe. Clear signage, quick security lines, and an airport café scene that feels curated rather than chaotic. You might even have time to sip an espresso while a pianist plays near your gate.

Flying Blue is worth a look too. Their monthly Promo Rewards often feature discounted flights to Vienna, and you can transfer points from Amex or Chase to top up. If you catch one of their off-season sales, it’s not unusual to find roundtrip fares under $700. For a trip that starts in Paris and ends in Vienna, that’s a pretty solid deal.

3. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Philadelphia (PHL), Charlotte (CLT)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Main Cabin Extra, Premium Economy, Flagship Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Extensive domestic network, Admirals Club access, oneworld benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check for “Web Special” award deals on the PHL-Vienna route. These pop up often during winter and early spring and can save you thousands of miles compared to standard redemptions.

American might not seem like the obvious choice for Vienna, but they’ve quietly built one of the more reliable ways to reach Austria from middle America. In fact, their Philadelphia hub creates surprisingly efficient routing from cities that would otherwise require multiple connections or backtracking through coastal gateways. 

The onboard experience has come a long way. In Main Cabin, you’ll find seatback screens with solid entertainment, better snacks than the old pretzel days, and crews that are actually helpful. Flagship Business on the Vienna route is a serious step up, with lie-flat seats, upgraded meals, and enough privacy to get some real rest before landing.

Philadelphia might not be your first thought for an international connection, but it’s a hidden gem. Security and customs lines move faster than you’d expect, and the airport has been improving its dining and lounge game. If you’ve got lounge access through Admirals Club or elite status, it’s an easy place to unwind.

AAdvantage miles stretch further than you might think here. The airline frequently offers discounted “Web Specials” to Vienna, especially outside of summer, when tourism dips but award space opens up. Combine that with perks from an AAdvantage credit card (like free checked bags and early boarding) and this route becomes a smart, stress-free way to start your Vienna adventure.

• Read next: American Airlines Business Class Guide

4. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK), Detroit (DTW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – points never expire
• ☕ Perks: Industry-leading reliability, premium snacks, Sky Club access
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Delta’s multi-city tool to book an open-jaw ticket (like JFK-Vienna and return from Prague-JFK). It often costs the same as a round-trip but lets you explore more of Central Europe without backtracking.

Delta gets you to Vienna through their partnership with KLM, which sounds complicated but actually works brilliantly. You fly Delta’s reliable service to Amsterdam, then hop on KLM for the quick flight to Vienna. It’s like getting two airlines for the price of one, and since they’re partners, your bags check through and connections are protected even when things go sideways.

The Delta part of your journey delivers exactly what you’d expect from America’s most punctual major airline. Starbucks coffee instead of whatever brown liquid other airlines serve, those weirdly addictive Biscoff cookies, and actually good service. Delta’s Comfort+ seats are also worth the upgrade on the long transatlantic leg, giving you enough legroom to arrive in Amsterdam feeling human instead of pretzel-shaped.

Once you land in Amsterdam, the experience continues to be smooth. Schiphol Airport is spacious and well-signed, and KLM’s regional flights to Vienna are quick, reliable, and often include snacks and drinks. Everything runs like clockwork, with a crew that knows how to keep things calm even when delays pop up.

The SkyMiles program is especially appealing if you’re not a frequent traveler. Your miles don’t expire, and Delta often teams up with KLM for flash sales to Vienna in the spring and fall. Pair that with a Delta credit card and you can score lounge access or free checked bags, which comes in handy on longer trips.

• Read next: Delta One vs. First Class Guide

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $470 roundtrip fare from Boston to Vienna with Austrian Airlines. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: German efficiency, excellent lounges, modern fleet
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look out for “Economy Light” fares from Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. They’re ideal for short Vienna getaways and often undercut other full-service carriers without cutting comfort.

Lufthansa treats Vienna like the sophisticated Central European destination it is, with service that reflects their shared Germanic cultural roots. Flying Lufthansa to Vienna feels natural in a way that routing through London or Paris doesn’t quite capture. They understand the Austrian mindset because they share a lot of the same values around precision, quality, and doing things properly the first time.

The cabins are a strong point, even in Economy. You get real meals, free drinks, and a polished onboard crew that keeps things moving smoothly. In Business Class, the experience levels up with comfortable lie-flat seats on long-haul legs and thoughtfully plated meals that feel more fine dining than airline fare.

If you’re connecting through Munich, the Vienna flight is quick but beautiful. You’ll glide over the Alps and land in under an hour, often with mountain views that beat anything on your in-flight screen. Frankfurt offers more global connections and runs like a well-oiled machine once you get past the size of the place.

If you’re the type to maximize every leg of a trip, Lufthansa’s Miles & More program ties it all together. You’ll benefit from Star Alliance access, seamless Austrian Airlines connections, and the ability to earn miles across hotel stays and car rentals. Their seasonal sales even feature Vienna flights $300-500 below regular pricing, especially during winter months when Austrian ski resorts are in full swing. 

6. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, First Class, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – miles never expire for active accounts
• ☕ Perks: Extensive network, modern app, ConnectionSaver technology
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking award flights to Vienna, check mixed itineraries that combine United with Austrian Airlines. These combos often have better availability and smoother European arrivals.

United has turned their Chicago hub into an unexpected Vienna gateway that actually works better than the coastal alternatives most people assume are superior. The airline’s daily Chicago-Vienna service runs consistently year-round, with modern aircraft and crew scheduling that suggests they actually want to be flying this route rather than just going through the motions.

The in-flight experience has steadily improved, especially on long-haul routes like this one. Polaris Business is worth aiming for if you value lie-flat seats and upgraded meals, while Economy Plus offers enough space to keep you comfortable for the eight-hour ride. Even in regular Economy, United’s snacks and beverage service feel more thoughtful than in years past—and yes, the stroopwafels still hold up.

O’Hare International doesn’t get a lot of love, but United handles European connections there better than most expect. Their tech-forward tools like ConnectionSaver help you make tight layovers, and recent terminal renovations mean more space and far better food choices while you wait.

MileagePlus offers solid value for Vienna travel, with award availability that often beats other airlines during peak European travel seasons. United regularly runs sales where Vienna flights from Chicago can drop to surprisingly reasonable prices, sometimes $600-700 roundtrip during shoulder seasons. Their credit cards also provide valuable perks including free checked bags and priority boarding, while Premier elite status unlocks complimentary Economy Plus seating and potential upgrades to Polaris Business. 

7. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Swiss precision, Alpine cuisine, excellent lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For the smoothest travel experience, book a morning departure from Zurich to Vienna. Early flights tend to be more punctual, and the soft morning light over the Alps makes the window seat well worth it.

Swiss handles the Zurich-to-Vienna route with the kind of precision that feels almost overachieving, but in the best way. They treat this short European hop with the same attention to detail they give their long-haul flights, and it shows from the moment you check in. Schedules run on time, transfers move fast, and your bags show up exactly where they should.

Flying Swiss feels like discovering what airlines could be if they actually cared about the details. The cabin crew maintains that distinctly Swiss balance of being genuinely helpful without being intrusive, meals feature proper Swiss cheeses and chocolates even on short European flights, and their aircraft are maintained to standards that would make a Swiss watchmaker proud. 

Zurich Airport also plays its part. It’s one of the easiest hubs in Europe to navigate, with logical layouts, clear signage, and high-speed train-like punctuality when it comes to boarding. The observation deck, boutique shops, and cafes serving proper espresso offer a calm break before your next leg.

If you’re part of Miles & More, this route is a solid value, especially during Swiss’s seasonal fare sales. Vienna flights often drop well below standard pricing in spring and autumn, and you can earn or redeem miles across the Star Alliance network. Their tie-up with Lufthansa also opens up more connection points through Frankfurt or Munich without sacrificing reliability.

8. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club – Avios points, oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea service, excellent lounges, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Avios points for London-Vienna flights. Often available for just 12,500 points each way during off-peak periods, making it one of the best redemption values in their program.

British Airways turns Vienna into an easy European add-on through their extensive London network, treating the Austrian capital like just another sophisticated city break destination. BA’s approach to European travel feels refreshingly straightforward. No pretense, no overcomplicated procedures, just efficient service that gets you from London to Vienna in about 2.5 hours with minimal fuss.

There’s a calm confidence to the British Airways experience. From the familiar accent on the announcements to the little touches like complimentary drinks, everything feels polished without being fussy. If you’re flying Club Europe, the blocked middle seat and elevated service can add a bit of breathing room for longer regional hops.

Heathrow’s Terminal 5 might be busy, but it runs surprisingly well when you’re sticking with BA. The layout is sensible, security moves quickly, and their lounges offer a quiet place to reset between flights. If you’re transferring from the US, this is one of the more straightforward routes into mainland Europe.

While Avios redemptions remain one of the best ways to book London-Vienna flights, British Airways also runs frequent flash sales. With a little flexibility, you can often score round-trip fares under $200. If you’re booking with points, the low surcharges make it one of the most budget-friendly award routes within the network.

9. 🇫🇮 Finnair

• 🏠 Hub: Helsinki (HEL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Comfort, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Finnair Plus – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Nordic efficiency, modern fleet, design-focused service
• ☕ Perks: Shortest flight times to Europe, excellent Finnish design, premium lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Finnair frequently offers “Stopover Finland” packages, letting you add a stay in Helsinki for no extra airfare. These promos often include hotel discounts, sauna passes, and even Nordic food tours.

Finnair has cracked the code on efficient European travel by taking the scenic route over the North Pole, creating surprisingly short total journey times to Vienna from US cities. Their Helsinki hub operates with that distinctly Finnish efficiency where everything just works without anyone making a big deal about it. No drama, no chaos, just competent people doing their jobs really well.

Flying Finnair feels like experiencing Nordic design philosophy applied to aviation. The airline’s Airbus A350s feature stunning cabin interiors and service that is helpful without being intrusive. Here, even Economy passengers get decent legroom, quality amenities, and meals that actually taste good instead of the usual airline cardboard. Even on the shorter Vienna leg, the service feels elevated.

Helsinki Airport is one of the easiest hubs in Europe to navigate. The signage is clear, the layout flows naturally, and everything is designed with travelers in mind. There’s even a sauna if you feel like leaning into the Finnish experience. Layovers here don’t feel like a burden, in fact they’re a feature.

Finnair Plus members can take advantage of oneworld benefits and regular deals to Central Europe. Vienna flights often go on sale in the spring and fall, undercutting larger carriers by hundreds of dollars. Thanks to a partnership with American Airlines, connections from most US cities are simple to set up, especially if you want to keep travel time low and the quality of experience high.

10. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Turkish hospitality, excellent cuisine, extensive network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Watch for Turkish Airlines’ “Companion Promotion” fares. These deals offer deep discounts when booking two or more tickets together, great for couples or friends planning a Vienna escape.

Turkish Airlines turns a trip to Vienna into something more layered by routing you through Istanbul, a stop that adds character without sacrificing efficiency. While it’s not the most direct route, the airline’s comfort, pricing, and thoughtful service often make it the smarter choice.

The flight experience is where Turkish really shines. They serve actual meals that taste like something you’d order in a restaurant, not the usual airline mystery meat. Their crew speaks multiple languages fluently and seems genuinely pleased to help, while their planes are modern and well-maintained. The Istanbul-Vienna leg is short enough that you barely have time to settle in before landing, but long enough to appreciate their service standards.

Istanbul Airport is vast but surprisingly intuitive. Transfers are well-managed, and the terminal is packed with Turkish restaurants, global shops, and art displays that make long layovers far less dull. Delays are no longer the issue they once were, and customer support is usually quick to respond when plans shift.

Here’s the real appeal: Turkish regularly runs sales where Vienna flights cost $400-600 less than what European carriers charge, especially during off-season periods when Vienna hotels are cheaper and attractions less crowded. Their Miles&Smiles program offers reasonable redemption rates, and those two free checked bags in economy mean you can actually bring home some of Vienna’s famous shopping finds without paying extra baggage fees. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to Vienna

Curious about the best airlines to Vienna? Our FAQ section is packed with answers to help you choose the perfect flight for your Vienna adventure.

What US cities fly nonstop to Vienna?

Several US cities offer nonstop flights to Vienna, including New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago. These direct flights are provided by airlines like Austrian Airlines, making the journey to Vienna more convenient and time-efficient. Direct flights reduce travel fatigue and are ideal for business travelers or those on a tight schedule.

Which airline has a hub at Vienna Airport?

Austrian Airlines has its hub at Vienna Airport, making it a key player for flights in and out of Vienna. As the national carrier of Austria, it offers extensive connectivity to various destinations, ensuring seamless travel experiences. Their hub at Vienna Airport is well-equipped to handle a large volume of passengers and provides various amenities for a comfortable transit.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Vienna?

The cheapest month to fly to Vienna is typically November. During this time, the tourist season is winding down, leading to lower airfares and less crowded flights. Travelers looking for budget-friendly options can take advantage of the off-peak prices and enjoy Vienna’s autumnal charm.

What is the best way to get to Vienna, Austria?

The best way to get to Vienna, Austria, is by flying into Vienna International Airport. The airport is well-connected with major cities worldwide, offering flights from various airlines. Once at the airport, travelers can easily access the city center via train, bus, or taxi, making the journey to Vienna both convenient and straightforward.

Which airlines are considered Vienna airlines for direct flights?

Vienna airlines that offer direct flights include Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines. These carriers provide frequent and direct services to Vienna, making them convenient choices for travelers. Known for their efficiency and good customer service, these airlines ensure a smooth travel experience to Vienna.

What is the best airline to fly to Vienna for a luxurious experience?

For a luxurious experience, the best airline to fly to Vienna is Austrian Airlines. Known for its premium services, Austrian Airlines offers spacious seating, high-quality in-flight meals, and excellent customer service. Their business and first-class cabins are particularly well-regarded for providing a luxurious and comfortable flying experience.

What are the best airlines from the US to Vienna for a comfortable journey?

When looking for the best airlines from the US to Vienna, consider carriers like Austrian Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. These airlines are known for their excellent service, comfortable seating, and reliable flight schedules. They offer various amenities that cater to the needs of international travelers, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free journey to Vienna.

Is Vienna an expensive city to visit for travelers on a budget?

Vienna is moderately expensive compared to other major European cities. It offers a range of options in terms of accommodation, dining, and transportation. While there are luxurious and expensive choices available, budget travelers can find ways to enjoy the city without overspending, such as exploring its rich cultural heritage and public parks.

Can travelers find cheap flight deals with Vienna airlines?

Yes, travelers can find cheap flight deals with Vienna airlines, especially during off-peak seasons. Airlines like Austrian Airlines often have promotions and discounts for flights to Vienna. It’s advisable to book in advance and keep an eye on special deals and airline websites for the best fares. Additionally, flying mid-week or during less popular travel times can also lead to more affordable ticket prices.

What amenities can passengers expect on flights to Vienna?

On flights to Vienna, passengers can expect a range of amenities depending on the airline. Most international flights offer in-flight entertainment, meals, and beverages. Airlines like Austrian Airlines provide additional comforts such as complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi access, and extra legroom in premium classes. The level of amenities varies, but overall, airlines strive to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers heading to Vienna.

Vienna Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to Vienna, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the well-known giants like Air Canada and United Airlines to the cozy charm of Porter Airlines, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, Vienna has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to Vienna. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review