It runs 16.2 kilometres (10.1 mi) across Vienna, roughly east–west, connecting with most major railway lines in the vicinity of Wien Hauptbahnhof.

It runs to the south to connect with the Southern Railway and Pottendorfer Linie [de].

After a section above ground, it enters another tunnel, where it connects with the Aspangbahn [de].

North of Wien Mitte the line runs elevated, crosses the Donaukanal, and becomes the North railway line at Wien Praterstern.

[3] The eastern end of the line handles Regional-Express,Railjet, EuroCity, EuroNight, and Nightjet services bound for Břeclav, Laa an der Thaya, and points beyond.