Vienna Taxi Firm Warns Tourists Against Price Gouging

Vienna's taxi industry is grappling with reports of drivers exploiting tourists with inflated fixed prices. Eveline Hruza, general secretary of the major Vienna taxi dispatcher 40100, condemned these "fantasy prices" and offered advice to travelers. She emphasized that no driver should sell an arbitrary fixed price, suggesting that booking a ride via app or WhatsApp is a safer option if in doubt.

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No driver may sell an arbitrarily invented fantasy price as a fixed price.

Recent investigations revealed that some taxi drivers, particularly at busy locations like the main train station, demand significantly higher fixed rates. Tourists have allegedly been charged up to three times the normal fare. These issues are well-known within the industry, but previous control measures by the city and the taxi guild appear to have been ineffective. A spokesperson for Taxi 40100 stated that such practices harm not only the taxi business but the entire city.

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When in doubt, it is better to order a car with a fixed price via app or WhatsApp.

Under Vienna's taxi regulations, fixed prices are generally not permitted for spontaneous street hails or at taxi stands; metered fares should be used. While pre-booked rides can have fixed prices, these must not deviate more than 20 percent from the standard tariff. Therefore, passengers boarding taxis at Vienna's main train station are advised to insist on using the meter. A flat rate, according to 40100, serves as a "clear warning signal."

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Practices like these harm not only the taxi business but the entire city.

All taxis, regardless of the dispatcher they work for, must be equipped with a meter, a roof light, and a license plate ending in "TX." Tourists are further advised to select their own taxi, demand a meter, clarify the price and payment method beforehand (cash or card are accepted), and keep receipts. Recording the license plate, company name, time, and route is recommended for any issues. Complaints can be filed via www.taxifeedback.at or directly with the dispatcher.

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Anyone getting into a taxi at Vienna's main train station should insist on a ride at the taxi meter price.