Line U2

The U2 is a metro line in Vienna running 17.2 kilometres from Karlsplatz to Seestadt. It opened in 1980 with 21 stations and now links to the U1, U3 and U4 at various points. The line grew from a 1.8-kilometre tunnel built between 1963 and 1966. In the 1960s and 1970s three stations were added: Karlsplatz, Schottentor and Schottenring. By 1980 the first section measured 3.5 kilometres between Karlsplatz and Schottenring. The line was extended in stages from 2008 to 2013, reaching Ernst-Happel-Stadion, Aspernstraße and finally Seestadt. A future plan would split the line at Rathaus, turning the southern part into the new U5. The northern part would become a new U2 running to Wienerberg via Neubaugasse and Pilgramgasse. Construction of the new U2 is expected to start soon and open around 2030. Trains on the U2 were originally built by Simmering-Graz-Pauker in 1972, with three double cars forming each train. The newer Type V and Type X trains now operate the line. During peak hours every train runs the full route, while off-peak half the trains terminate at Aspernstraße. The line carries passengers through the city centre and on to the modern districts of Donaustadt and Aspern.