The S-Bahn Main Line Will Be Completely Closed

From July 5 to August 31, 2025, S-Bahn passengers will need to make significant adjustments. The entire main line between Floridsdorf and Meidling will be completely closed for nearly two months. This drastic measure is necessary because the infrastructure needs to be modernized to ensure reliable operations in the future.

The planned replacement bus service will be conducted with buses connecting the main stations. However, commuters should expect significantly longer travel times and plan their journeys accordingly.

The U4 Is Not Spared Either

In parallel with the work on the S-Bahn main line, the U4 subway line will also be partially closed. No trains will run between the Hütteldorf and Schottenring stations from July 5 to August 24, 2025. A comprehensive replacement bus service will be set up to maintain the connection.

These construction works are part of a larger modernization project aimed at bringing the U4 infrastructure up to date. In particular, the track systems and signal technology will be renewed.

Why These Measures Are Necessary

The simultaneous execution of construction work on the S-Bahn and U4 is no coincidence. The officials from Wiener Linien and ÖBB have deliberately chosen the summer months because many Viennese are on vacation during this time, and passenger numbers are generally lower.

"These investments in infrastructure are indispensable for reliable public transport in the coming decades," emphasize the transport companies in their joint announcement. The modernizations are intended not only to increase operational safety but also to contribute to a more comfortable travel experience.

This is how you still reach your destination

A dense rail replacement service will be set up for the affected routes. Additionally, alternative routes with other subway lines, trams, and buses are recommended. Wiener Linien and ÖBB are already working on detailed diversion concepts.

Especially important for commuters: Plan significantly more time for your journeys during the rail replacement service. The buses may take longer depending on traffic conditions than the trains on their own tracks.

Digital aids for travel planning

To make navigation easier for passengers during the construction work, both Wiener Linien and ÖBB will equip their apps and websites with current information on the rail replacement service. Here, travelers can track in real-time how to best get from A to B despite the restrictions.

Experts also advise avoiding taking bicycles on public transport during this time and instead switching to rental bikes or e-scooters to relieve the already heavily used replacement buses.

Long-term benefits outweigh

Even though the rail replacement service in the summer of 2025 will pose a challenge for many Viennese, the transport companies emphasize the long-term benefits: After the work is completed, both the S-Bahn main line and the U4 are expected to become more reliable and comfortable.

The modernization of the infrastructure is an important step to keep public transport in Vienna future-proof and to meet the increasing demands for capacity and comfort.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article .