Classic 1957 Ferrari 250 GT TdF, 1953 Ferrari 250 MM Pinin Farina Berlinetta, other Ferraris and Alfa Romeo SSZ racing at 1958 Internationales Flugplatzrennen Wien-Aspern

Aspern Airport

Aspern Airport Vienna Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Aspern Airport Vienna and Its Significance

Located on Vienna’s eastern edge, Aspern Airport was one of Europe’s pioneering airfields, shaping Austria’s aviation history throughout the 20th century. Established in 1912, it served as Vienna’s main civil and military airport, playing critical roles during both World Wars and symbolizing Austria’s early embrace of aviation technology. The advent of Vienna International Airport (Schwechat) in the mid-20th century led to Aspern’s closure to commercial traffic in 1977.

After decades as a dormant brownfield, the site underwent a dramatic transformation starting in the early 2000s. Today, Aspern Seestadt stands as one of Europe’s largest “smart city” districts, merging sustainable urban design with a reverence for aviation heritage. This area is now a vibrant urban quarter featuring a central lake, extensive green spaces, modern architecture, and a strong community spirit.

This guide explores Aspern Airport’s historical legacy, its metamorphosis into an innovative urban district, and offers essential visitor information, including accessibility, hours, travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re passionate about aviation history, urban development, or discovering Vienna’s dynamic neighborhoods, Aspern Seestadt promises a rewarding visit. For more, see the official Aspern Seestadt website and the Vienna Tourist Board.

Family of Archduke Leopold Salvator of Austria at an air-show in Aspern, Vienna

Rescue helicopter OE-XEA Christophorus 9 at Aspern airfield

Introduction
History of Aspern Airport
- Early Aviation and Wartime Roles
- Closure and Dormancy
Transformation into Aspern Seestadt
- Urban Vision and Smart City Planning
- Sustainability and Connectivity
Visitor Information
Attractions and Activities
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources

Aspern Airport: Vienna’s Historic Gateway

A Brief History

Aspern Airport, or Flughafen Aspern, opened in 1912 as one of Europe’s earliest major airfields. For decades, it was Vienna’s primary aviation hub, facilitating both civil and military operations. Its strategic importance during both World Wars and its role in establishing Vienna as an international air destination made it a symbol of Austria’s progress. Following the opening of Vienna International Airport (Schwechat), Aspern shifted to secondary uses and ultimately closed in 1977. The site then entered a long period of inactivity.

Urban Challenges and the Birth of Seestadt

The former airport remained largely unused until the early 2000s, as Vienna’s population growth spurred a search for sustainable urban expansion. This led to an ambitious redevelopment project—one of Europe’s largest—turning the 240-hectare site into Aspern Seestadt. The project’s vision: to blend history, sustainability, and modern living into a new “city within a city.”

Transformation: From Airfield to Smart City

Masterplanning and Urban Vision

An international design competition in 2005 produced a masterplan that prioritized mixed-use development, sustainability, and community integration. Construction began in 2009, and the first residents arrived in 2014. Seestadt Aspern now features:

A 5.4-hectare artificial lake as its centerpiece
Expansive parks and green corridors
Modern, energy-efficient architecture
Facilities for education, business, and recreation

Sustainability and Innovation

Seestadt Aspern exemplifies smart city principles:

Transport: Two U2 metro stations (Seestadt and Aspern Nord) and extensive cycling infrastructure prioritize sustainable mobility.
Energy and Environment: The district uses renewable energy, advanced waste management, and reuses construction materials.
Green Space: Nearly half of the area is dedicated to parks, lakes, and recreational zones.

Aviation Heritage

The legacy of Aspern Airport endures in:

Commemorative plaques and interpretive panels
Street and area names honoring aviation pioneers
Public art installations reflecting the site’s aeronautical history

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Seestadt Aspern is open 24/7. Parks, promenades, and public spaces are accessible at all hours.
No entrance fee is required for the district or its outdoor attractions.
Information Center: Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, offering maps, brochures, and event details.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Self-guided visits: Free; no booking needed.
Guided tours: Available in multiple languages, focusing on urban planning, sustainability, and aviation history. Advance booking is recommended and may require a small fee.

How to Get There

Metro: U2 line to Seestadt or Aspern Nord stations; both are wheelchair accessible.
Regional trains: Aspern Nord connects to routes from Vienna and Bratislava.
Cycling: Extensive bike paths and bike-sharing stations.
Car: Limited parking; public transport is encouraged.

Accessibility

Seestadt Aspern is designed for universal access, with step-free pathways, tactile guidance, and accessible public transport.

Attractions and Activities

Aviation Heritage and Memorials

Commemorative Plaque: Located on the former airport’s access road, marking Aspern’s aviation history.
Street Names and Art: Many streets are named after aviators and aircraft; public art installations commemorate the site’s past.
Interpretive Displays: Panels throughout the district provide historical context.

Seestadt Aspern District and Lake

Artificial Lake & Seepark: Ideal for walking, jogging, picnics, and community events.
Modern Urban Architecture: Notable for its innovative, energy-efficient design.
Cafés, Restaurants, and Shops: Abundant in the district center and along the lake promenade.

Cultural and Recreational Events

Markets, Festivals, and Concerts: Seasonal events enliven the public spaces.
Playgrounds and Sports Facilities: Family-friendly amenities including an upcoming indoor pool and football training center.
Community Workshops and Exhibitions: Focus on sustainability, art, and urban gardening.

Nearby Attractions

Donau-Auen National Park: Offers hiking and nature tours.
Vienna city center: Imperial Palace (Hofburg), St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and other landmarks are easily reached via the U2 metro.

Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Aspern Seestadt?
A: The district is accessible 24/7. Parks and public spaces can be visited at any time.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets are needed for outdoor areas. Some guided tours or special facilities may require advance booking and a fee.

Q: How do I get to Seestadt Aspern from central Vienna?
A: Take the U2 metro line from Stephansplatz to Seestadt or Aspern Nord (about 20–30 minutes).

Q: Is the district family-friendly?
A: Yes. There are playgrounds, parks, and frequent family-oriented events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes. Guided tours on architecture, sustainability, and aviation history are offered seasonally.

Q: Is Seestadt Aspern accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The district is designed to be barrier-free.

Q: Where can I learn more about Aspern’s aviation history?
A: Interpretive panels are located throughout Seestadt. For in-depth aviation exhibits, visit the Visitor World at Vienna International Airport.

Visual Highlights

The commemorative plaque honors Aspern Airport’s legacy.

Modern urban development at the former Aspern Airport site.

Aspern Seestadt Central Lake

Conclusion and Recommendations

Aspern Airport’s transformation into Seestadt Aspern is a testament to Vienna’s ability to honor its history while embracing sustainable urban growth. Visitors today can experience a unique blend of heritage and innovation in one of Europe’s most ambitious city projects. With excellent public transport, accessible amenities, and a rich calendar of cultural events, Seestadt Aspern is a rewarding destination for travelers, families, and locals alike.

Plan your visit today. Download the Audiala app for interactive maps and guided tour schedules, and stay updated through Seestadt Aspern’s social media channels. For more details, consult the official Aspern Seestadt website and the Vienna Tourist Board.