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The 3 Most Beautiful Scenic Train Routes in Austria

Walter Geiersperger / Getty Images

Austria is an interesting mountainous country wedged between the Western European countries of Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. It also borders on the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Slovenia.

Mountainous territories offer lots of technical challenge to railroad designers, as well as a high degree of danger to those who work on rail routes. Of course, it is this difficult landscape which produces the most awe-inspiring views from the window of a train car.

The three scenic rail routes described in here were first built in the mid-1800s, a pioneering phase of railroad construction, and represent some of the greatest feats of civil engineering of their time.

Two of the scenic routes, the Semmering and the narrow gauge Mariazellerbahn are in eastern Austria near Vienna , the third, Arlberg , is found in western Austria near Innsbruck . The routes offer fine opportunities for hiking in the summer and skiing in the Winter.

How to Buy Tickets

Most Austrian trains are run by the state-operated Österreichische Bundesbahnen (Austrian Federal Railroad or ÖBB). There are nineteen small privately owned railroads operating primarily narrow-gauge lines.

You can buy point-to-point rail tickets and see schedules on Rail Europe. You will also find seasonal specials on rail travel there. 

A number of Austria rail passes are available. For the traveler interested in scenic rail journeys, the combined Eurail Austria-Switzerland Pass is probably the most interesting, because Switzerland contains some great scenic railways, including the Bernina Express , the Centovalli Railway, the Glacier Express, and the Wilhelm Tell Express.

Austria is also included in the European East Pass, which includes the Czech Republic and Hungary, as well as the Eurail Germany/Austria Pass.

The Semmering Railroad

The Semmering Railroad, running between Gloggnitz and the winter resort town of Semmering, passes through some extraordinary Austrian mountain scenery. Built between 1848 and 1854, the Semmering is considered to be one of the greatest feats of civil engineering from this pioneering phase of railway building and was acknowledged by UNESCO World Heritage Center in 1998.

The Semmering railway line is part of the Südbahn railway that runs between Vienna and Graz, continuing on to Maribor, Ljubljana and eventually to Trieste.

Built by the Carl Ritter von Ghega between 1848 and 1854, the scenic Semmering route was quite daring for the time; it had a maximum gradient five times that of previous railways.

What You'll See Along the Semmering Scenic Route

• 16 viaducts supported by several arches
• The main tunnel, 1,430 meters long, at the time, considered the most famous construction of its kind.

The Semmering railway was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO in 1998.

Rail World Photography offers a fine Photo Tour of the Semmering Scenic Route.

Semmering has long been a mountain health resort, known for its clean air. Winter sports and Summer hiking are the top draws for the town.

The Semmering Railway site: Die Semmeringbahn .

Arlberg Scenic Train Ride

After the Semmering route was finished, engineers considered a route through the Arlberg range as part of an England to Egypt route. Construction was started in 1880 and the route finished in 1884--if you had the money, you could now take the Arlberg Orient Express from London to all the way to Bucharest.

The scenic train ride seen on the map above takes you between Innsbruck and the Lake Constance area of Switzerland.

What to Do Along the Arlberg Scenic Train Route

Arlberg is the birthplace of modern Alpine Skiing, so winter sports will top the list. But scenic routes mean the train ride is your primary entertainment.

• Snowboarding
• Skiing at St. Anton (St. Anton offers Austria's largest ski school and perhaps the best skiing for intermediates in the region.
• Hiking and Trekking

See Mike's Railway History: Progressive Development in a Mountainous Country

The Mariazell Railway:Narrow Guage Scenic Route in Eastern Austria

The Mariazell Railway is a narrow gauge track rail route running between the towns of St. Poelten and Mariazell. See this spectacular virtual tour with a detailed route description of the Mariazellerbahn Scenic Route.

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Vienna in English

The Best Day Trips from Vienna in 2022 (train-friendly)

If you want to explore Europe by train, there could hardly be a better place to start than Vienna. As the capital of the Habsburg Empire , the city had been the epicenter of Central and Eastern Europe’s sprawling rail network in the 19 th and early 20 th century. It was also one of the first and major stops of the storied Orient Express .

The disruptions of World War I put a dent in Vienna’s central position. Then, after World War II, Vienna found itself suddenly located on the edge between the democratic West and communist Central and Eastern Europe. The the Iron Curtain was a mere 70 kilometers from the city borders, turning its once bustling train stations into provincial outposts.

When the Iron Curtain finally fell in 1989, both Vienna and the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) seized the moment like few other places in Europe. While others retrenched, the ÖBB continued to build its network of daytime trains (Railjet or Eurocity) and rejuvenated the continent’s overnight trains ( Nightjet ).

Now, 30 years later, Vienna is officially Europe’s best-connected city by rail . Only Moscow comes close in the number of connections to other European capitals.

So here are our selected best train trips from Vienna in 2020 – five day trips by rail and five sleeper trains. Bon voyage!

Vienna to Bolzano

A new daily service via Salzburg and Innsbruck connects the Austrian capital to Bolzano (Bozen) the capital of South Tyrol. The mostly German-speaking province of Italy has made a name in eco-tourism and encourages visitors to use the public transport while on holiday. Enjoy the Alpine route over the Brenner pass and arrive in a land of apple trees, crystal-clear rivers, stunning mountains and delicious Italian-inspired food, in a landscape out of an Austrian fairy tale.

Vienna to Prague, Dresden & Berlin

4 / 6 / 8 hours, respectively

Launches May 4, 2020, to Dresden & Berlin

The ÖBB and Cesky drahy together serve the Czech capital Prague extensively – five times a day from Graz, ten times a day from Vienna. Beginning on May 4, 2020, the same trains will go on to the Dresden, the baroque jewel of Saxony, and to the German capital of Berlin. For a little more adventure, consider stepping out in Ústi nad Labem and explore the northern Bohemian region with spa towns Teplice, regional capital Liberec or the wilderness of the Ore Mountains.

Vienna to Kraków

Poland’s second-biggest city can be reached from Vienna in just 7 hours, the same time it takes for a train trip to Austria’s western-most regional capital Bregenz. Kraków is often described as “the secret capital of Poland” and has been center of Polish thought, arts, politics and culture for centuries. On the way there, you’ll see the ancient coal region of Silesia with its sturdy cities of Ostrava and Katowice.

Vienna to Budapest & Satu Mare

3 / 9 hours

The Hungarian capital on the Danube, with its gritty splendor, is less than three hours away by train. After enjoying Budapest’s grand allées and many spas, you can travel on to Satu Mare, regional capital of northern Romania. A royal free city since the 13 th century, Satu Mare has been shaped by its multi-ethnic and multi-lingual inhabitants.

Vienna to Nuremberg & Hamburg

4 / 9 hours

From Vienna, the erstwhile seat of the Holy Roman Emperors, to Nuremberg, its ancient capital, it’s only four hours. The unofficial capital of Swabonia is known for its guild houses, operas, galleries and churches. Five hours more onwards and you reach the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest municipality. A center for media, logistics, research and culture, the dramatic city on the Elbe is well worth a visit.

Overnight routes

Vienna to venice.

On the night train to Venice you fall asleep heading for the Alps and wake up with the sun rising over the Mediterranean.  What better way to start your holidays?  Starting from Vienna at 21:27, ÖBB’s Nightjet brings you directly to Venezia Lucia, arriving at 8:24 in the morning. From the station you can walk to all the major sights, dozens of restaurants and cafés and, of course, the sea.

Vienna to Zurich

Switzerland’s biggest city is also just a night train’s ride away. Taking you through the core of the Alps, with the snow-covered mountains pitching skyward just outside your window, the Nightjet departs at 21:27 from Vienna and arrives at 8:20 in Zurich. Enjoy the museums and art galleries, the Swiss cheese and chocolate, and above all, the breathtaking landscape.

Vienna to Florence & Rome

Departing at 19:23 from Vienna, only a night’s sleep stands between you and the land where the oranges bloom. ÖBB’s Nightjet arrives at 6:36 in in the metropole of the Renaissance on the Arno River – Firenze (Florence), where Michaelangelo, Ghiberti or Brunelleschi will greet you as you walk the streets. If you’d rather see the eternal city, just stay on the train until you reach Roma Termini at 9:22.

Vienna to Brussels

Launches January 20, 2020

Announced to great fanfare , the direct connection to Europe’s de-facto capital was long-awaited by eurocrats and their entourages – but also by people who’d just like to visit the (far underestimated) Belgian capital. Departing from Vienna at 20:38, the Nightjet currently still arrives at 10:55 due to the packed schedule of Belgium’s morning commuter traffic. If the connection proves popular, the ÖBB promises better travel times for the following year.

Vienna to Lviv & Kyiv

16 / 23 hours

The ÖBB also has a special treat for the hardened rail travelers. A sleeper train takes you from Vienna to Lviv, the unofficial capital of western Ukraine that still has astonishingly deep connections to the Habsburg era and Central Europe. Stroll through the streets, check out the many hipster coffeehouses and explore a town which is just as beautiful but not yet as touristy as many in Western Europe. Or travel on to the fascinating Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, which you can reach after a 23 hours direct journey by rail.

A Railway Named Desire

Recently, the ÖBB ordered 13 all-new and futuristic sleeper trains , which are scheduled to enter service in 2022. The overall number of people in Austria taking the train for their summer holidays increased to 690,000 trips, a 35-year-high . And locally, the ÖBB extended its night train service with the Vienna S-Bahn to the weekends and holidays.

Is there a train trip that catches your fancy in 2020? The ÖBB offer attractively priced Sparschiene ticket on almost every route. If you book your train journey well in advance, you may protect your wallet and the environment all in one go.

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Located just east of Switzerland, Austria is home to some of the most beautiful train rides in Europe. Offering panoramic views of the soaring Alps, glimmering mountain lakes, rolling vineyards and green valleys, it is an ideal country to travel by train.

Thanks to its rugged setting, Austria is a true playground for active travellers. In winter, you can enjoy some of the world’s best skiing. In summer, you can mountain bike, climb and hike across absolutely stunning landscapes.  A number of options cover Austria, from the  One Country Pass  to the awesome  Global Pass.

1. Austria train route – Vienna to Graz 

Located in the country’s southern region, Graz is home to a massive student population. To get there, you will travel on the gorgeous Semmering line, one of the only train routes in the world with its own spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. From Vienna, the journey takes less than 3 hours, which is completely covered by your Global Pass. Reservations are not required, though they can be a good idea in high season.

If you start out early, you can pause for lunch or a half-day on the slope at Zauberberg ski resort. It is located very close to Semmering. Along the way, look for great views to the south (on the left if you are coming from Vienna). You will see mountain tops, forests, and deep valleys, as well as plenty of nature. Yes, that was most likely an eagle.

2. Austria train route – Salzburg to Innsbruck via Bischofshofen

Many Austrian trains travel from Salzburg to Innsbruck by detouring into German territory. But insiders will tell you that the southern route, via the Austrian town of Bischofshofen, is far more scenic. Heading straight up into the Alps and passing right by some of the region’s most scenic sights, you will find ancient covered bridges, emerald rivers, hilltop monasteries, restored castles and picture-postcard towns, such as Zell am See.

The route goes through some of the most-famous destinations in the skiing and climbing world. Reservations are not necessary but are recommended. Few direct trains exist. This route is usually made with a single transfer in the Alpine town of Schwarzach- St. Veit. It generally takes about 3.5 hours ― a bit longer than the 120 minutes of the regular, direct route, but definitely worth it in terms of the views.

Yes, travel writers are supposed to be absolutely objective, but the Rail Jet high speed train gets my vote for the most beautiful train ride in all of Europe. The eye-popping views over the scenic Seefeld Plateau, the northern Tyrolean Alps and the Bavarian Alps are nearly surreal. As is the crowd on this small regional train, which includes schoolchildren returning home from classes in town, gawking tourists, and groups of skiers who have wisely decided to leave their cars at home.

Open and airy, this local train usually has no need for a reservation, and your Pass for Austria covers the trip up to the Austrian border. A  Global Pass  is good for the entire route, which should take about 3 hours. From Innsbruck, the left side of the train has the best views. Keep your camera or mobile phone batteries fully charged, because you are going to take lots of pictures.

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Austria by Rail: Exploring the Incredible Landscapes of Austria by Train

Discovering Austria’s magnificent landscapes and charming cities is a journey best experienced by rail. Traveling by train allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the convenience and comfort of Austria’s efficient railway system. From the majestic cities of Vienna and Salzburg to the stunning Semmering railway and beyond, Austria’s rail network offers endless opportunities to explore this enchanting country.

Rail Travel in Austria: Getting There and Around

Train travel in Austria is a convenient and efficient way to get around the country. The Austrian rail network offers a variety of train types to suit different travel needs, whether you’re exploring the stunning landscapes or visiting the elegant cities. One of the highlights of train travel in Austria is the Semmering railway, which offers breathtaking views as you journey from Vienna to Graz. Additionally, the state-of-the-art Nightjet trains provide overnight travel options, allowing you to arrive at your destination well-rested.

When it comes to comfort, first-class seats on ÖBB trains offer more space, reclining seats, and restaurant-style food service. And for those who plan their trips in advance, there are attractive ticket options available. The SparSchiene ticket is a great choice for budget travelers, with prices starting from just €9.90 per person and way. Kombitickets are also available, allowing you to combine your rail travel with ski passes or entrance to local attractions and events.

If you’re planning to explore not only Austria but also other European countries by train, the Interrail Austria Pass and Global Passes are recommended. These passes provide access to train travel in Austria as well as other European countries, allowing you to create your own personalized itinerary.

Rail Travel Tips for Austria

Here are a few tips to make your rail travel in Austria even more enjoyable:

1. Check train schedules and plan your journey in advance to ensure you don’t miss your connections or preferred departure times.

2. Consider making seat reservations for certain trains, especially during peak travel seasons or for international routes.

3. Take advantage of discounts and promotional fares by booking your tickets online through the ÖBB website or by phone.

4. If you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass, be sure to check if it is valid for the specific train or private railway company you plan to use.

Scenic Train Routes in Austria: The Beauty of the Austrian Landscape

Austria is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, and what better way to experience its natural beauty than by taking a scenic train journey? The scenic train routes in Austria offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning countryside, enjoying panoramic views of rolling hills, majestic mountains, and charming villages along the way. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking a peaceful and relaxing journey, these train trips are sure to leave you mesmerized.

“Traveling through the scenic train routes in Austria is like stepping into a postcard. The picturesque countryside, with its lush green meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks, creates an enchanting backdrop for your journey. It’s a feast for the senses, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the melodic sounds of nature, and marvel at the ever-changing landscapes passing by.”

One of the most popular scenic train routes in Austria is the journey between Vienna and Salzburg. This relatively short trip allows you to witness the beauty of the Austrian countryside, with picturesque vineyards, charming little towns, and stunning alpine views along the way. The Railjet trains that operate on this route provide modern and comfortable amenities, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable travel experience.

If you’re looking for a longer and more immersive journey, consider traveling between Graz and Innsbruck. This route takes you through the heart of the Austrian Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque mountain villages. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty and rugged charm of Austria’s alpine region.

“The scenic train routes in Austria not only offer a visual treat but also provide a sense of tranquility and serenity. As you sit back and relax in the comfortable train carriage, you can truly appreciate the magnificence of the Austrian landscape unfolding before your eyes. It’s a journey that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.”

Whether you choose to embark on a short trip between Vienna and Salzburg or opt for a more extensive journey through the Austrian Alps, exploring the scenic train routes in Austria is an experience that should not be missed. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country, to witness its diverse landscapes, and to create lifelong memories.

Traveling Between Major Austrian Cities: Convenient and Fast

Traveling between major Austrian cities is a breeze when you choose to explore Austria by train. With efficient connections and fast travel times, you can easily hop from one city to another, experiencing the best that Austria has to offer. Whether you’re planning a visit to Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, Innsbruck, or Linz, the Austrian rail network has got you covered.

For example, the journey from Vienna to Salzburg takes less than 2.5 hours, allowing you to reach the birthplace of Mozart and explore its charming old town in no time. If you’re heading to the picturesque capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck, you can catch a train from Salzburg and arrive in less than 2 hours. And if you’re interested in experiencing the vibrant and cultural city of Graz, you can reach it from Vienna in just 2 hours and 38 minutes.

Tickets and Fares for Traveling Between Major Austrian Cities

When it comes to tickets and fares, ÖBB offers a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. From affordable SparSchiene tickets for those who plan their trips in advance, to flexible standard fares for spontaneous travelers, there’s a ticket for everyone. Plus, with attractive discounts for youths, seniors, and families, exploring Austria by train is not only convenient but also budget-friendly.

So whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-city itinerary, traveling between major Austrian cities by train is the perfect choice. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you make your way from one vibrant city to another, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Traveling between major Austrian cities is easy and convenient by train. ÖBB provides fast and efficient connections, with travel times of less than 2.5 hours between Vienna and Salzburg, and less than 2 hours between Salzburg and Innsbruck. The journey from Vienna to Graz takes 2 hours and 38 minutes, while the trip from Graz to Linz is approximately 3 hours. For those looking to explore different regions of Austria, the routes from Innsbruck to Bregenz and Graz to Innsbruck offer the opportunity to discover the country from west to east. With reliable and frequent train services, creating an Austrian train itinerary is a breeze.

Ticket Options and Discounts: Affordable Travel in Austria

Traveling by train in Austria doesn’t have to break the bank. ÖBB-Austrian Railways offers a range of ticket options and discounts that make exploring the country affordable for all. One popular option is the ÖBB SparSchiene ticket , which starts at just €9.90 per person and way. These tickets are perfect for those who plan their trips in advance and are valid for a specific train and day of travel in one direction.

If you’re looking to combine your rail travel with other activities, ÖBB also offers Kombitickets that provide great deals. These tickets allow you to combine your train journey with a ski pass in winter or entrance to local attractions and events in summer, giving you even more value for your money.

For those planning to cover all of Austria by train and explore other European countries as well, the Interrail Austria Pass is highly recommended. With the Interrail Austria Pass , you can enjoy 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 non-consecutive days of travel within a month, giving you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and save money on individual ticket purchases. Additionally, Austria is also included in the Interrail Global Pass, which offers access to train travel in 33 countries.

Save money on train tickets in Austria with these ticket options and discounts:

“The ÖBB SparSchiene ticket is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who plan in advance. With prices starting at just €9.90 per person and way, it’s a great way to save on train fares.”

“If you’re looking to combine your train journey with other activities, the Kombitickets offered by ÖBB are a fantastic option. Whether you want to hit the slopes with a ski pass or explore local attractions and events, these tickets provide excellent value for money.”

“For unlimited train travel in Austria and beyond, the Interrail Austria Pass is the way to go. With multiple options to choose from, you can customize your travel experience and save money on individual ticket purchases.”

Seat Reservations and Passes: Ensuring a Smooth Journey

When traveling by train in Austria, it’s important to understand the role of seat reservations and passes to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. While most Austrian trains can be boarded with just a rail pass, it’s important to note that seat reservations may be required for certain trains, especially overnight and international routes. Reservations are optional but recommended during peak travel seasons and for public holidays. It’s advisable to check online train schedules or consult with the ÖBB booking center to determine whether seat reservations are necessary for your specific journey.

“Reservations are optional but recommended during peak travel seasons and for public holidays.”

For those planning to explore Austria extensively by train, rail passes are a convenient option. The Austria Eurail Pass covers all trains within Austria operated by ÖBB, as well as extras such as nonstop trains between Salzburg and Kufstein, S-Bahn trains in Vienna and Innsbruck, and privately operated WestBahn trains. Other international passes, such as the Eurail Global Pass, also include Austria in their coverage. It’s important to note that not all private railway companies accept Eurail Passes on their trains, so it’s advisable to check the specific terms and conditions before planning your journey with a private railway company.

If you prefer the flexibility of individual train tickets, it’s still important to consider whether seat reservations are necessary or recommended for your journey. While some trains may offer ample seating without reservations, others may have limited availability or require reservations for specific classes or compartments. By checking the train schedule and consulting with the ÖBB booking center, you can find the best options for your preferred travel dates and ensure a comfortable journey with peace of mind.

Tips for Buying Train Tickets in Austria: Saving Money and Finding Deals

When it comes to buying train tickets in Austria , there are several tips and tricks that can help you save money and find the best deals. One option is to take advantage of discounts for specific groups, such as youths, seniors, and families traveling with kids under 15. With a Vorteilscard, you can enjoy savings of up to 50% on point-to-point train tickets.

Another way to save money is by booking in advance. ÖBB offers Sparscheine discounts for those who book train tickets at least three days ahead for pre-selected dates and times. This is a great option if you have a fixed travel itinerary and can plan ahead.

It’s also worth considering alternative train operators, such as WestBahn, which often offer cheaper high-speed connections between Vienna and Salzburg compared to ÖBB’s Railjet trains. Additionally, ordering tickets online through the ÖBB website or by phone can provide access to additional discounts and promotional fares.

Overall, with a little bit of research and planning, you can find great deals on train tickets in Austria and save money while exploring this beautiful country.

International Train Connections: Exploring Europe from Austria

When traveling in Austria, you have the exciting opportunity to explore not only the beautiful landscapes of the country but also to venture beyond its borders and visit other European countries by train. Austria serves as a fantastic hub for international train connections, allowing you to embark on an adventure to various destinations.

With the Railjet and EuroCity trains, you can easily reach cities like Munich, Prague, Budapest, Zurich, and Venice from Austria. These trains offer convenient and comfortable travel options, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Additionally, ÖBB Nightjet provides overnight trains that allow you to wake up in cities such as Florence, Rome, Milan, Munich, Paris, and Amsterdam, ready to start your day of exploration.

Expand Your Horizons Traveling by train from Austria to other European countries not only offers convenience but also provides a unique opportunity to expand your horizons and immerse yourself in different cultures and experiences. Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or simply exploring new landscapes, the international train connections from Austria have something for everyone.

When planning your international train travel from Austria, it’s important to note that reservations may be required for certain routes. Therefore, it’s advisable to check train schedules or consult with the ÖBB booking center to ensure you have the most up-to-date information for your desired destinations.

Embarking on a journey from Austria to other European countries by train not only allows you to witness the stunning scenery along the way but also provides a convenient and efficient way to explore Europe. So, hop on a train and let the tracks take you on an unforgettable adventure through the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Europe.

Private Railway Companies in Austria: Alternative Travel Options

If you’re looking for alternative ways to travel in Austria, private railway companies offer unique options to explore the country. These companies operate alongside ÖBB, providing additional train routes and services that can enhance your rail journey. Micotra trains, for example, connect Villach in Austria with Tarvisio in Italy, offering a scenic ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the Carinthian Alps. RegioJet, on the other hand, runs yellow trains that connect Vienna with Brno and Prague in the Czech Republic, providing a convenient way to travel between these European capitals. Another alternative is Westbahn, which operates frequent trains between Vienna, Linz, Salzburg, and Munich, allowing you to discover multiple destinations in Austria and Germany.

While private railway companies offer unique travel experiences, it’s important to note that not all of them accept Eurail Passes on their trains. Before planning your journey, make sure to check the specific terms and conditions of each company to understand their ticketing policies. Additionally, private railway companies may have different amenities and services compared to ÖBB, so it’s worth considering your preferences and travel needs when choosing the best option for your journey. Whether you’re seeking a scenic ride, exploring less-known destinations, or looking for a different travel experience, private railway companies in Austria provide excellent alternative options for your rail adventure.

Enhancing Your Rail Journey

Private railway companies in Austria offer unique opportunities to enhance your rail journey and explore the country from a different perspective. These companies provide additional routes, scenic rides, and convenient connections to various destinations. Whether you’re interested in traveling to neighboring countries or exploring lesser-known regions of Austria, private railway companies can add a touch of adventure and diversity to your rail itinerary. Make sure to research and plan your journey in advance, considering the routes, schedules, and ticketing policies of each company to ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Night Trains in Austria: Overnight Adventures

When it comes to exploring Austria, don’t limit your adventures to the daylight hours. Hop aboard the ÖBB Nightjet , Austria’s iconic night train, for an unforgettable overnight journey through the beautiful Austrian landscapes. Offering both domestic and international routes, the ÖBB Nightjet allows you to wake up in a new city, ready to start your day of exploration.

With the ÖBB Nightjet, you can travel comfortably while you sleep, enjoying amenities such as cozy sleeping compartments, in-room showers, and onboard dining options. Whether you’re traveling from Vienna to Milan, Munich to Florence, or any other combination of cities, the ÖBB Nightjet ensures a smooth and relaxing journey.

Experience the magic of Austria and beyond

But the adventure doesn’t stop at Austria’s borders. The ÖBB Nightjet connects you to a variety of European cities, allowing you to easily explore neighboring countries. From Paris to Budapest, Berlin to Venice, the ÖBB Nightjet opens up a world of possibilities for your European rail adventure.

With its convenient schedules, comfortable accommodations, and the ability to cover long distances while you sleep, the ÖBB Nightjet is a popular choice for travelers looking to maximize their time and experience the magic of Austria and beyond.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a solo adventure, or a family trip, the night trains in Austria offer a unique and immersive way to explore the beauty of the country and beyond. So, climb aboard the ÖBB Nightjet and let the rhythmic sound of the train lull you to sleep as you embark on an unforgettable overnight adventure through Austria and Europe.

Exploring Liechtenstein: A Side Trip from Austria

While exploring Austria by train offers breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences, why not take a side trip to the neighboring country of Liechtenstein? Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a tiny principality that can easily be added to your Austrian itinerary. With a convenient rail connection from Feldkirch in Austria to Buchs in Switzerland, you can explore Liechtenstein’s charm and beauty in just a short journey.

From Feldkirch, hop on the train and pass through the picturesque countryside as you make your way to Liechtenstein. The train stations in Liechtenstein include Forst Hilti, Schaan-Vaduz, Nendeln, and Schaanwald. Once you arrive at Schaan-Vaduz, a short bus ride will take you to the capital city of Vaduz, where you can discover the country’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Adding Liechtenstein to your Austrian itinerary allows you to experience the unique blend of Swiss and Austrian influences that shape the principality’s culture. Explore the charming streets of Vaduz, visit the impressive Vaduz Castle, and immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere of this hidden gem. While Austria’s rail passes may not be valid in Liechtenstein, travelers with a valid Eurail Pass for Austria can still use it to travel to and from Liechtenstein as part of their itinerary.

Explore Liechtenstein: An Untouched Alpine Paradise

With its untouched alpine landscapes, historical landmarks, and warm hospitality, Liechtenstein offers a truly unique experience for travelers seeking a side trip from Austria. The principality’s compact size allows you to explore its beauty in a short amount of time, making it an ideal addition to your Austrian adventure.

Whether you choose to visit Liechtenstein for a day trip or extend your stay, this charming country will captivate you with its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere. So, why not embark on a journey beyond Austria’s borders and discover the hidden treasures of Liechtenstein?

Plan Your Rail Journey in Austria with Ease

Are you ready to embark on a rail journey through Austria? Planning your trip is easy with the convenient and efficient train network in the country. Whether you’re exploring the incredible landscapes, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history, or embarking on international adventures, traveling by train in Austria offers a unique and memorable experience.

Start by considering the variety of train types available to you. From the state-of-the-art Nightjet trains that allow you to travel while you sleep, to the scenic Railjet trains that offer breathtaking views as you travel through the Alps, there’s a train for every traveler’s preference.

Once you’ve decided on your train, take advantage of the attractive ticket options offered by ÖBB-Austrian Railways. The SparSchiene ticket is perfect for those who plan their trips in advance, with prices starting from just €9.90 per person and way. If you’re looking for unlimited travel within Austria, the Interrail Austria Pass is recommended, providing multiple non-consecutive days of travel within a month. And don’t forget to check for discounts and promotional fares when booking your tickets online or by phone.

With affordable ticket prices, comfortable and efficient trains, and a network that connects major cities and scenic routes, planning your rail journey in Austria couldn’t be easier. So pack your bags, grab your Eurail Pass or individual train tickets, and get ready to explore the beauty and charm of Austria by train.

Source Links

• https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/transportation/trains/austria-rail-passes
• https://www.austria.info/en/service-and-facts/getting-there-around/by-train
• https://www.eurail.com/en/plan-your-trip/trip-ideas/top-destinations/austria-train

awesomevienna

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Solo Travel Story

6 Quick & Easy Day Trips from Vienna by Train

Here are six day trips from Vienna by train, which I feel might be of interest to you when you visit the area. Vienna is obviously a cool city itself, but sometimes there’s curiosity driving me to find out more about local experiences or “what else is there” in the area.

Having spent the past three month in Vienna, I have had some opportunity to hop on the train a few times and explore locally. The region has a few points of interest such as castles and hiking trails plus excellent links to neighbouring international cities. It is incredibly easy and quick to hop on the train and explore neighbouring countries, such as Slovakia or the Czech Republic.

Sounds good? Then let me tell you everything I know about taking day trips from Vienna by train and share the cool and not so cool spots with you.

Table of Contents

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• All day trips from Vienna by train are under 2h of travel time
• Specifically with local experiences, English often is not offered or as easily accessible
• Experiences use Vienna Hauptbahnhof (HBF) in District 10/Quartier Belvedere as the starting point
• HBF (main station) is not to be confused with Vienna Mitte (Central)
• Experiences often prefer cash only, so make sure you have enough on you
• Direct connections, especially local ones, run more frequently on weekends rather than during the week
• Photography in Austria is often banned inside churches, castles and other grand historical buildings. This is to prevent & reduce the travel under the Social Media influence
• Train tickets in Austria using the Austrian train line ÖBB are quite expensive, whereas trips to Czech Republic and Slovakia on the RegioJet Student Service are extremely cheap
• Costs are correct as of September 2022

City Destination Allegiance (CityDNA) the leading network for city tourism organisations in Europe has recently awarded Vienna with the title of “best connected city in Europe” when it comes to train travel. 115 cities were benchmarked for touristic infrastructure including accommodation offering, CO2 emission and connectivity when it comes to travel. More key stats and results from the C ityDNA Travel Report can be found on the Vienna Tourism Board website (2023).

Criteria For Evaluating Day Trips from Vienna by Train

I used these 5 travel criteria to provide transparency and a clear guideline when comparing the day trips. It was important to me to apply the same aspects on each experience and evaluate them fairly, regardless if the experience was a city or castle visit.

• Costs: how much were train tickets and entrance fee?
• Efforts: what did it take to get here?
• Time Efficiency: has travel time exceeded exploring time?
• ROI: was there lots to do after I got here?
• Mood: was I happy, angry, annoyed after my visit and would I come here again?

Highly Recommended Day Trips From Vienna By Train

These day trips from Vienna by train were highly enjoyable to me. These are places which I would love to visit again and spend more time here.

Castle Franzensburg in Laxenburg

Located: 18km south of Vienna

This replica of a medieval knight’s castle was built by Emperor Franz Joseph I and lies within 280 hectares of parkland, Austria’s largest landscaped gardens. With this rather charming and playful castle, the Emperor brought his wildest childhood fantasies to life – even though knights and shiny armours were already long in the past.  

The castle in Neoclassicism style is only 200 years old and has everything a mediaeval castle has to offer. From detailed stained glass windows, hidden doors in the walls and a walk on the rooftops – the features are all impressive and serve the sole purpose of enjoyment and entertainment. Therefore, Franzensburg was not intended as a liveable place so there is no electricity, running water or a kitchen.

Costs : 4.90€ (one way) by train or the bus 200 from Vienna HBF. The train service has Traiskirchen Aspangbahn Bahnhof as its final destination. Costs at the castle were a bit annoying as there is no combi ticket and you have to purchase everything individually. Entrance to the park is 3€, visitor train return 4.50€, ferry 0.70€ and guided tours (11€ each) can quickly add up to 30€. 

Efforts : 30 minutes one way either on the train or the bus. The train takes four stops and then there is another 20-minute walk to the park gates. From the gates, it’s another 25-minute walk. There is a small guest train on site. If you take the bus, line 200 arrives & leaves from Wiener Straße. Either or, it’ll be another 45-50mins walk to the castle.

Time Efficiency : the travel time is approximately 30 minutes one way. Then you explore the extensive gardens and can take part in two 1h long guided tours around the castle. Exploring time definitely has the upper hand here over travelling time.

ROI : Laxenburg is a quaint and charming town itself and makes for a wonderful distraction whilst walking to the park. Once at the park entrance you can either walk to the castle and explore its parklands on the way or keep that for your return later. The park has many romantic elements such as pavilions, grottos, monuments and small functional buildings. 

Mood : I found Franzensburg an enchanting treasure trove even though it is technically an outrageous frivolity. There was much to see and many secrets to discover. It’s a toy castle and comes with all sorts of playful features. Of course, the castle is located in the middle of an artificial lake. During the building time of 30 years, the lake was added rather late, therefore the maximum depth is only 2 metres.

The tour on the roof revealed spectacular views over Vienna and the surrounding grounds. Emperor Franz was a hobby gardener who planted his favourite oak trees around the grounds. The castle itself is not overwhelmingly big but provides enough rooms to keep you engaged and occupied. From elaborate wooden ceilings to kitschy four-poster beds, shiny armours and delightful towers. There’s even a Juliet balcony replica here. On a sunny day, the many colourful glass windows displaying key scenes from the Habsburg monarchy bring the place even more to life. For me, this was a delightful visit. 

Bratislava in Slovakia

Located: 65km east of Vienna

The capital city of Slovakia since 1993 and part of the EU (2004), Bratislava is the third richest area in the EU. With approximately 660,000 inhabitants the city has a moderate centre which can easily be visited within a day. The Old Town has been extensively modernised and welcomes visitors with its gelato-coloured houses. Quaint streets and cafés, a gorgeous castle and the romantic Danube River, what’s not to love?

Costs : 4.90€ one way on the RegioJet bus. Please book in advance. Train tickets with ÖBB are approximately 11€ one way and use hlavná stanica as the final destination.

Efforts : this is a very easy and direct bus or train connection from Vienna. The bus leaves from the International bus terminal outside of Vienna HBF. The journey takes 90 minutes. The bus terminal in Bratislava is located within a brand new shopping centre. From here, it’s only a short walk into the historic Old Town centre. You can also take the ÖBB train which is a bit more expensive but services are more frequent and allow you to max out the day efficiently. The train journey is approximately 1h. The walk into town takes between 30-40 minutes.

Time Efficiency : I went twice to Bratislava and tested the bus and the train connection. By bus: I took the 9am service from Vienna to arrive in Bratislava at 10:30am. Then I explored until 5pm and took the return bus to Vienna. This gave me more than 6h of exploring time and exceeded the invested travel time of 3h. Overall the day was very enjoyable. By train: I booked a 9am service with my return booked for 7pm to max out the day effectively. The walk from the train station to central, however, is a bit longer and takes about 35 minutes.

ROI : Bratislava has a charming and very well-maintained Old Town. In the many quaint streets are cafés and cute houses. Have a look for the Coronation Route marked with golden crowns integrated into the pavement or visit the Blue Church. The castle is a must-visit, too. Here I would factor in at least 2h for the 85m ascent and walk around its grounds overlooking the town and the Danube. This is without a tour of the building. There are several viewpoints from the castle and you can see the UFO building, too. You’ll see that time will pass quickly. Bratislava can be extended to a weekend trip but I doubt it would engage me past a two to three-day stay. 

Bratislava was the coronation town of the Hungarian kings of the House of Habsburg between 1563-1830. 11 kings and 7 royal spouses were crowned at St Martin’s Cathedral, et alia Maria Theresa in 1741. 

Mood : I’m completely in love with Bratislava, especially on a sunny day strolling around is super enjoyable. The Old Town is beyond cute and the best bit: the town is not overrun by tourists. The locals can be hit-and-miss. Some seem to be upset if you speak English straight away but the majority are accommodating and friendly. The Old Town is clean, modern and manicured. Even if you don’t end up visiting a museum or doing a guided tour, just walking around and getting to know the place will fill the time easily. 

Brno in the Czech Republic

Located: 135km north of Vienna 

Brno, pronounced “burn-oooh”, is the Czech Republic’s second-largest city. A short train journey away from Vienna, the city scores with great coffee culture and historical sites. There are lots of interesting activities to do here that will fill your day with variety aplenty and keep you engaged. The town centre is not as manicured as Bratislava, but its local authentic charm will make you fall in love with Brno slowly but surely. 

Read More : How Brno Cafes & Coffee Culture Shaped The City Now & Then

Costs : 8-10€ (one way) on the RegioJet Student service train. 

Efforts : train services leave a few times per day and make this day trip from Vienna by train easily doable. The first service runs at 6:30am and you could max out the day by choosing a return at 6pm or take the last service at 9:30pm. The train is a direct connection and takes 80 minutes. From Brno’s train station Hlavní Nádraží it’s a ten-minute walk to the main square. The train is really just for transportation purposes so it’s not the cleanest or the best maintained. 

Time Efficiency : if you take the earliest service, you can max out the day to approximately 12h exploring time which exceeds the initial 3h travel time (return).

ROI : similar to Bratislava, Brno has a gorgeous Old Town. Whilst it may not be as manicured as Bratislava, Brno offers a variety of activities that can be done within a 1h time frame. Therefore your day exploring can cover a variety of historical places including the Ossuary & St James’ Church, the labyrinth under the vegetable market, the view from the Radnice Town Hall Tower, the main square and astronomical clock, the Capuchin Crypt or a visit to the Moravian Museum. The views from Špilberk Castle especially at sunset are unrivalled. And there’s, of course, Brno’s extensive coffee culture. Literally, every café is insanely gorgeous and Brno’s baristas are world-renowned for making excellent speciality coffee. 

Did You Know : the Ossuary is the second largest in the world after Paris. It was found in 2001 by accident during construction work on the St James’s Church. Yes, the church is dedicated to Apostle St James and therefore, this is a Camino site. It’s not recognised as an official site YET, but the guides running the Ossuary feel strongly connected to the Camino and you can even fetch a stamp here for your Credential. 

Mood : Brno is not only laid-back, but it is also an interesting place. At first sight, it may be a bit edgy but soon it’ll develop its charm. Part of the charm is the friendliness and directness of the locals. The Old Town isn’t as overrun as Prague and Brno has kept a flair of authenticity to it. There’s more to discover and Brno would keep me engaged for longer. It’s worth having a look at staying here for a few days. 

Average Day Trips From Vienna By Train

These destinations were good and engaging at the time of my visit, but I doubt I would be excited enough to go there again. They were good, but there are better day trips from Vienna by train waiting to be explored.

Roman Town of Carnuntum

Located: 43km east of Vienna

Excavation site of a former Roman city. Originally a winter camp, Carnuntum grew to city size between the 1st and 4th century AD. At its peak, it was home to 50,000 citizens, connected key trade routes of the Roman Empire and was an important military base. Today, only 0.5% of the original site is excavated. 

Carnuntum stretches over two villages, which lie 5km apart. In Bad Deutsch-Altenburg is the museum with Austria’s largest collection of Roman artefacts. There are also remains of a former amphitheatre here. The village of Petronell-Carnuntum shows excavations of a Roman quarter completed through additional reconstructions. A visit here includes public thermal baths, an Inn, several residential buildings and villas. Nearby are an old city gate and another amphitheatre.

Costs : 9.60€ train ticket one way, 12€ entrance to the site which is spread over two villages. 

Efforts : it is a 70-minute journey on a direct train, which only runs directly on the weekend. Check S7 (direction Wolfsthal) leaving from Rennweg, which is a short walk from HBF. The train station for Petronell-Carnuntum has a “middle of nowhere” feel to it. The signage is sparse. Keep straight and then turn left on the main road to get to the quarter site. The second part of the site is located in the next village, a 5km hike away. You can walk it or take the train to the next stop. However, the train only runs once per hour. I would advise taking the train from Vienna first to Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, checking out the museum and then walking over to the Roman quarter in Petronell-Carnuntum. Alternatively, you can rent a bike from the train station and cycle over to the next village. 

Time Efficiency : travel time exceeded exploring time slightly, especially if you decide to walk between the two villages.

ROI : the Roman quarter takes a good hour to explore. It is well kept and there is a visitor centre with a small exhibition. Nearby you can see the remains of an amphitheatre and the old city gate. Those are free to visit and roam about. Overall, there’s no strict tour and many parts are accessible for you to walk in and around rather than closed off as it is usually the case.

The second site in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg is quite a walk away but there’s another amphitheatre ruin here. It is the last standing of the military part of Carnuntum city. A well-curated museum completes the experience. Efforts have been made to present the exhibition in English, but unfortunately not consistent throughout; alternatively, you can fetch an informative English guidebook for 1€. Overall, this day trip from Vienna by train will keep you busy for the entire day. 

Mood : the quarter part is the main site and attracts the most visitors. It’s not overrun and overall a rather relaxed point of interest. There’s also a café here overlooking the grounds. The Carnuntum village is mostly self-guided, manageable and on a sunny day, it is no hassle to walk to the second site. I doubt I would do it when it is colder or drizzling. Therefore, I would prefer to start with the museum in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg first and then fetch a bike and cycle to the Roman quarter. 

Poor Day Trips from Vienna by Train

These are destinations which didn’t impress me and have put me off from visiting again. They are pretty much destinations I have ticked off my list but I wouldn’t bother coming here again. This is my personal experience and therefore, contains subjective views. You can, of course, decide for yourself, if you’d like to pay these destinations a visit.

Castle Kreuzenstein in Leobendorf

Located: 32km north of Vienna

Oh, another medieval castle just outside of Vienna? Ah don’t get too excited, unfortunately, Castle Kreuzenstein was rebuilt from scratch after it was destroyed in 1645 by the Swedes. The castle as it stands today is only 200 years old and is privately owned by the family of Count Wilczek. Wilczek was a rich local thanks to his coal mining in Silesia. Today, the castle is used as a filming location and you may have seen it in The Quest or The Witcher. Nicolas Cage is a regular celeb filming here.

Costs : 6.10€ train ticket one way. 15€ entrance to the castle by guided tour only. The nearby falconry costs another 12€.  

Efforts : there are regular S3 & S4 services out of Vienna (direction Korneuburg) which take approximately 40 minutes to reach the village of Leobendorf where Castle Kreuzenstein is located. Then there’s a 45-minute hike and ascent to the castle. The return train to Vienna is the problem, as there are only two services per hour. A less frequent service means waiting time which stretches your day trip unnecessarily and there’s nothing to do at the small train station. 

Please note : in Greater Vienna, there’s a LeobENdorf (North) and LeobERSdorf (South). Confusing AF at times.

Time Efficiency : the travel time exceeded the exploring time, as there were only two services back to Vienna. Be prepared for some waiting time. The guided tour at the castle only lasts for about 45 minutes and afterwards, there’s little to do. You can walk around the castle’s dramatic exteriors and see its moat which keeps you occupied for another ten minutes. The falconry is only open for its shows which have irregular showing times, so check these in advance if you’re interested in visiting. The Leobendorf village is unspectacular and most shops are closed outside of the wine season in September/October. 

ROI : the castle is only accessible by a guided tour which starts every full hour and lasts for roughly 45 minutes. You see a medieval knights’ hall, kitchen, Europe’s largest privately-owned weapon collection, a bedroom, a staircase and a trophy room. Whilst the tour guide was friendly, I found the tour could have been better and more informative. The ticket price of 15€ is steep but it is, unfortunately, a privately-owned experience. There are no bathrooms or a café here either which is a shame, as there is space and facilities available but currently not in use. 

Mood : please note, this is a privately-owned castle run by family members. As such, the curation is clumsy and at times makes you feel unwelcome. There are tons of “forbidden” signs and “do not touch” warnings plastered around the place. The information provided by the tour guide is ok but not plentiful enough to justify the high entrance fee. The exterior of the castle is gorgeous but you can’t shake off the feeling that this is a more style-over-substance experience. Overall, I didn’t enjoy this day trip from Vienna by train as much as I would have loved to. 

Signs of a Poorly run Privately-Owned Experience : – often way overpriced – poorly & clumsily curated exhibits – weird obsession with mannequins – family members act as “guides” and provide little information – when faced with criticism, the owners often take offence & post unprofessional replies on e.g. Google reviews – lots of “forbidden” and “do not touch” signs everywhere – you’re unwelcome but your money is not – amateurish processes e.g. handling of queues, no marketing, basic 90s-looking website – no photography – broken/outdated facilities – financial blame, resentment and finger-pointing by the owners towards commercialised competitor experiences – insecurities towards “the big” institutions e.g. National Trust

Melk Abbey in the Wachau Valley

Located: 88km west of Vienna

Melk Abbey is a stunning Benedictine abbey in the Wachau Valley. Often included in a Danube cruise but you can, of course, visit it individually. Founded in 1089 and run primarily as a school, it was extended to a grammar school in the 12th century. Its library has a large manuscript collection and hosts an equally impressive gemstone collection, too. The iconic Baroque façade of the abbey built in the early 18th century was extensively restored over the past 40 years. Today, the abbey is the resting place of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria’s first ruling dynasty. 

Costs : 20€ train ticket one way with the ÖBB. You have to change at St Pölten and take a regional train to Melk. The ticket for the abbey without a tour costs 13€. 

Efforts : the train journey is approximately 70 minutes and even though you have to take two connections, it feels quick and swift. You take a train first to St Pölten and then change to a regional service which runs seamlessly. The walk from Melk’s train station to the abbey takes approximately 20 minutes. Train services back to Vienna run frequently but watch out for the final destination. Often they end at Hütteldorf or Westbahnhof, which is fine, but add another 30 minutes to the journey if you need to get back to HBF. 

Time Efficiency : trains run frequently to Melk and back to Vienna, so you won’t be stranded here. However, I found myself finishing my explorations after 2h and I struggled to keep myself busy for another hour. Therefore my exploring time and travel time balanced themselves out. 

ROI : I had my train connections pre-booked which gave me a 4h time window for exploring. When I got to Melk Abbey I found myself finished after 40 minutes. I spent another 25 minutes roaming the gardens and then went back for another self-guided tour inside the abbey. There are a few rooms with exhibits but I didn’t find them curated well enough to keep me engaged for long. The gemstone collection is impressive, but then I must have missed its point of a display in a Benedictine abbey. The annexed library and Marbled Hall are impressive, too but you won’t dwell there forever. The Church and the 15-minute service were good but again a rather short experience. The gardens are huge but can be walked within 25 minutes as there’s not much to do there. 

Mood : I found the staff exceptionally rude & argumentative, especially at the ticket office and later on at the main exhibition. Whilst the interiors are impressive, most parts of this massive abbey are closed off to the public. The information displayed isn’t as engaging as I’d thought it’d be, leaving out an educational effect and therefore the visit felt less inspiring. The town itself is very small with only a handful of cafés. Overall it felt like a pensioner’s rip-off. They get dropped off here during a Danube cruise, the cafés are expensive with Vienna prices and the abbey can only engage you for a short while as it gets boring real quickly. I couldn’t wait to get back to Vienna.

FAQs for Your Day Trips from Vienna by Train

I understand this is quite a lengthy post and you may have some quick questions about day trips from Vienna by train. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist. 

How much do Day Trips from Vienna by Train cost?

Day trips from Vienna by train have varied in their costs but all six introduced in this post stayed under 100€. Travelling within Austria is rather pricey. However, you can save a few Euros when you book tickets in advance. The in-advance lead time can be as short as two weeks and you’d still get a good deal. Cheap alternatives are trips to nearby Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

Is Austria solo travel friendly?

Yes, Austria has been friendly towards me as a solo female traveller and I felt safe on all of my trips. Know that English isn’t as common in local and rural areas and you may want to have a few German phrases at hand.

Is it easy to move around in Vienna?

Vienna is well-connected to its neighbouring countries and has several train stations to serve the demand. The Hauptbahnhof (HBF aka main station) serves mostly connections to Slovakia, Czech Republic and Hungary, whereas Westbahnhof (west station) runs services towards Salzburg and Linz more frequently. The city also has a great bus and tram network. It’s quite easy to move around and you can be across town within a 1h time frame. All are very accessible and manageable. The only confusion is with Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main station) and Vienna Mitte (central). The latter runs the costly direct airport train and many tourists have fallen victim to the translation. Usually, a central station is the main station but in this case, Vienna is ambiguous. Vienna Mitte (central) is not the main station. Please watch out when booking your train from the airport.

Thank You so much and if you enjoyed this post you can always support my research and Buy Me a Coffee .

Enjoyed the day trips from Vienna by train? You may also like these local explorations:

• How Authentic are Coffee Houses in Vienna Today?
• 15 Activities and Free Museums in Vienna
• Beautiful Bike Tour on the Ecumenical Pilgrimage Route in Germany
• Is The Eurostar London to Brussels Train Link Worth It?
• A Complete 4 Day Vienna Itinerary For First Time Visitors
• Local, Unusual, Underrated: The City Hiking Trails Vienna

About SoloTravelStory

Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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19 comments.

Wonderfully written, I enjoyed reading this so much. Don’t apologise for your views, negative or otherwise, as for me they are essential in seeing a place through someone’s eyes before I get there. … I can always make up my own mind on the sights. I’d never have thought of such an engaging post, it really shows how easy it is to get to several places when you are based in one place and therefore do not have to confine yourself to just where you are. I like the list of warning signs that a place is not so good and privately owned – I’ve experienced that myself and the idiosyncrasies that are thrown up as a result. The 5-point criteria plan is just what I need and so well researched. I often think of how long it will take to get there and back and what am I actually going to get out of it – this works so well for my way of thinking too. Great read.

I love your criteria for selecting day trips! What a great way of looking at them! I’ve never been to Vienna, but I do agree – exploring outside the city is just as important!

Vienna is so well-connected and has an amazing rail network. I took the train from Vienna to Budapest but it was very expensive. I’m glad to see there are other much cheaper options for day trips because I was impressed by the quality of service and punctuality of trains.

Paul (Paul Passing Through)

This is a helpful list for those visiting Vienna or the region in general. I’d love to visit Brno or Bratislava when we’ll be there over Christmas, but I doubt we’ll have time. I’ll refer back to this list if we end up having a day to spare. I’ll definitely keep it in mind in the future when we visit the region again!

I had to laugh at some of the things in your list of privately-owned destinations. The thing about the mannequins cracked me up haha I always groan when I see mannequins. They’re so tacky and detract from the experience. There was a famine house we visited in Ireland that had several. The experience is good enough without them – why the need to include them?!

Vienna is a place I’ve looked at a lot recently so this was super helpful as I noticed it didn’t look like it was too far to get to some other places. More impressive is that you can easily get to more than one other country as a day trip – the perfect base in my opinion. Too bad to hear they weren’t all winners but really appreciate the thorough reviews and how you rated them

Loved this detailed post on day trips from Vienna. I feel like if someone is traveling and decided to stay in Vienna for a few months (like you did), they have a lot of options in terms of day trips and activities. It’s always fun to explore other areas.

I love travelling by train so I’d be in my element in Vienna, especially as it’s so easy to have a quick day trip to a neighbouring country. I think it’s great how you’ve used the same criteria for rating them too – it’s just missing some mannequin photos!! 😉

I love all these day trip ideas… Bratislava is amazing! I also love that you have an emotional metric in your research 🥰

Thanks for this honest review! It’s helpful to see your criteria and explanations, as this helps me understand your thinking and make up my own mind. Bratislava is a place I’d love to visit 🙂

Tiffany Pence

I love Vienna. It’s a beautiful city! But I haven’t ventred outside the city so these are great tips. I especially loved your honesty about Melk Abbey. I’m always wary about places that seem to only cater to a cruise crowd. It’s good to know.

I didn’t realise how well connected Vienna was. It’s a place we would love to visit and it’s great to know how many other towns and cities particularly Bratislava and Brno, which we have also long wanted to see – are within easy reach. It was good to get your views on which trips were great and which didn’t work for you. A great post with loads of practical info too. Thank you.

Great post – I love that you provide the good with the bad, it is so helpful. I also like the criteria you’ve used, Bratislava and Brno would be my choice, for sure.

It sounds like Vienna makes a great home base for exploring other areas of Europe, and I love that! A 2 hr train ride that transports to new places is exactly what I look for to break up your holiday in one destination. How creative of you to identify your criteria and share your honest views of each of these day trips by train. Top of my list would be to go to Bratislava in Slovakia, so glad you highly recommended it too!

Eleanna | Flying Fork Tales

I’m so glad you liked Bratislava because I was considering it as a day trip destination from Vienna. It so happens I’ll probably have a day to spare on my Vienna trip (since it will be my second time there). From the photos and videos that I’ve seen online Bratislava looks really pretty but it’s better when a friend recommends it. Thank you xx

Riana Ang-Canning

What a great post! I love that instead of just a list of day trips, you categorize them and give so many helpful details to assist people in planning the best day trip for them. I’ve been to Brno and Bratislava so just have Castle Franzensburg left on your list of best day trips. Excited to cross it off on a future visit!

Lyn (aka Jazz)

Fabulous post and very timely! I was able to share it with a friend heading to Vienna next month.

I really like how you gave us your criteria in evaluating, it made comparisons very clear. Castle Franzenburg is really intriguing and sounds like a place I would definitely want to explore. Secret doors and rooftop walks play a big part in my castle fantasies.

I have been waiting for someone to post something like this for a long time. So happy you did it Carolin. This is such a timely post as we are planning to visit Vienna very soon and wondering about other possible places to see outside the city. I always thought that Vienna has one of the most friendly city-railway systems and to read about the convenience of hopping from one train to another makes it even more alluring to step out of the city for a day trip 😉 #flyingbaguette

Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/

Seems like Vienna is a perfect gateway to several amazing destinations around. Castle Franzensburg looks quite picturesque with it’s beautiful surroundings. And Brno of course is a heaven for coffee lovers and just the place for me.

Flavia @latinatraveler

I love how many day trip options you offer! I’m someone who loves having a base even when I travel so using Vienna as a jump off point to visit other places really is great. Thanks for going into so much detail regarding prices and companies to use to get from point A to B. Will def be using this info in the future!

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• Austria's Beauty Secrets
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• Vienna to Graz by Train

One of the most convenient train connections in Austria is also one of the most stunning, and historically significant. A two-hour journey from Vienna to the southern city of Graz leads across Semmering mountain pass — and with that, across an astounding 19th-century viaduct that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you’re seeing Austria for the first time, or are a return visitor, Vienna is a great place to start exploring. With an international airport and an abundantly rich cultural life , the capital is a no-brainer for the first arrival. Immerse yourself in the museums, peek behind the scenes at Habsburg palaces, and taste your way through Vienna’s iconic food and wine scene. 

Once you’ve had your fill of Klimt’s masterpieces and Tafelspitz , the easiest way to see more of the rest of the country is by train. Graz , Austria’s second city and an almost Mediterranean gem , is a perfect complement to Imperial Vienna and just 2 hours by rail. Hop on the state-of-the-art Railjet at Vienna’s Main Station and try to get a seat by the window.

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About halfway between Vienna and Graz, Semmering mountain reaches upward with dramatic pitch. It’s hard to imagine how a train could traverse the pass today, let alone in 1848 when the Semmering Railway was built. Made up of 26 miles (41 km) of tunnels and viaducts , it represents maybe the most impressive feat of civil engineering in the era of early railway construction (according to UNESCO). Enjoy the view of the romantic stone viaduct from your window and know that by crossing the Semmering you are still part of its pioneering history. 

The cultural immersion continues at Graz’ Main Station, which was recently given a quirky design makeover with a colourful main hall and amorphous transport shelters outside. Graz is a UNESCO City of Design and lives out this title through fascinating contemporary architecture: the Kunsthaus museum of contemporary art seems like a blue UFO that landed among the Renaissance courtyards, while the Murinsel floats as an artificial, conch-shaped island in the city’s river. Your Graz itinerary wouldn’t be complete without the city’s historic side, which involves a trip to Eggenberg Palace , and the largest historical armoury in the world!

Continue your train journey from Graz to Salzburg , or Austria’s Alps , or book your return ticket back to Vienna. Because let’s be honest, you can never have enough Tafelspitz.  

With ÖBB, you can reach Graz from Vienna in just over 2.5 hours - 17 times per day.

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12 city trips that are easy-to-reach from Vienna by train that you absolutely must do

Can’t get enough of the city life now that traveling is possible again, why not enjoy a quick trip to some other exotic urban setting we’ve put together a list of easy-to-reach cities you can visit just by hopping on the next train. these all make for a perfect (long) weekend getaway..

Here are 12 city trips that are easy to reach from Vienna by train in less than 6 hours:

Images via Unsplash

Budapest – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Budapest, Hungary

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Budapest-Keleti (around 2h 39min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: the giant and beautiful gothic style parliament building, take a dip at the Instagram-famous thermal Széchenyi Baths, to sit at the Danube somewhere other than Vienna, take in the views of the city from the Fisherman’s Bastion, to try the tasty Hungarian cuisine, to enjoy the rough but grand vibe of the city

Less obvious reasons: munch on a delicious langós with various toppings at the central market hall, to take a ship as public transport instead of the metro, partake in endless games of pinball at the Flipper Muzeum, spend rainy days at a former aristocrat’s mansion that was turned into Szabo Ervin Library, to spend a night at one of the very cool hidden open air ‘ruin bars’ located in the courtyard of buildings (like  Racskert ,  Szimpla Kert) , enjoy the view from the 360 Bar

Images © Graz Tourismus - Tom Lamm © Graz Tourismus - Harry Schiffer

Graz – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Graz, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Graz HBF (around 2h 35min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  catch some  scenic views from the Schlossberg and the clock tower, visit an artificial island on the river Mur that looks like a giant shell, admire the beautiful buildings in the old town, take hundreds of pics in front of the outlandish art-museum Kunsthaus Graz that looks like a human heart

Less obvious reasons: build-your-own lunch at one of many Bausatz Lokale in the city, walk through Schlossbergtunnel, take in some modern art in a religious building at church St. Andrä, slide down the largest underground slide in the world at ‘The Slide,’ eat your way through the daily market,  Kaiser-Josef-Platz Market

Munich – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Munich, Germany

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Munich HBF (around 4h)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to drink  beer in the beer gardens (obvious, right?), visit the Hofbräuhaus , to eat Weißwurst for breakfast with a Wheat beer in a place where both is socially acceptable, to check out the town hall at Marienplatz aka. the city’s most favourite postcard-building, to explore the multiple periods of art in the Neue Pinakothek, to experience a car-lover’s dream in the BMW Museum, Munich’s former Olympics Venue at Olympiapark, spend time shopping and walking around the so-called ‘bohemian neighbourhood’ of the city, Schwabing

Less obvious reasons:  see  the devil’s footprint at Munich’s Frauenkirche, walk a hidden stairway that leads to nowhere called ‘Umschreibung’, the pavement memorial of the nazi-opposing student group White Rose, to explore the nearby alps on nature day trips out of the city, to indulge in some heavy and hearty Bavarian cuisine, to watch (or join in yourself) the people surfing on the one wave in a stream known as the Eisbachwelle, go for a walk in West Park or the English Gardens, spends some thinking time in the NS-Dokumentationzentrum , go for a swim in the Müller´sches Volksbad

Images via Pixabay

Nürnberg – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: NÜRNBERG in GERMANY

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Nuremberg HBF (around 4h 14min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to explore the castle of Nuremberg, beautifully arranged fresh fruits and vegetables in the Hauptmarkt, see where renaissance-painter Albrecht Dürer lived and did his work

Less obvious reasons: Bratwurst at the last real “Bratwurstküche”, to let your inner kid loose in the Toy Museum, a medieval Holy-Spirit-Hospital turned restaurant, a rather grim interpretation of married life in the form of the fountain-sculpture Ehekarussel, the home of the city’s former executioner and some surprisingly beautiful views out his windows

Prague – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Prague, Czech Republic

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Praha hl.n. (around 4h)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to marvel at the   astronomical clock in the main square , for strolls across the Charles Bridge, to take a scenic route to the Prague Castle, for some very affordable Bohemian cuisine and local beer, for the buzzing nightlife (including the likes of Chapeau Rouge  , Roxy , Hemingway Bar ), to enjoy the romance of its medieval streets

Less obvious reasons: ice-cream filled chimney cake, a huge graffiti wall in honor of John Lennon, to dance the night away in the five-story club, Karlovy Lazne , for pickled cheese, relaxing at the Beer Spa (just please don’t drink the bath water)

Blick über die Salzburger Altstadt vom Mönchsberg Images: © Tourismus Salzburg, Fotos: Breitegger Günter

Sehenswürdigkeiten Salzburg, Blick vom Kapuzinerberg auf die Salzburger Altstadt und auf die Festung Hohensalzburg, Untersberg im Hintergrund

Sehenswürdigkeiten Salzburg, Blick über den Mirabellgarten auf die Salzburger Altstadt

Salzburg – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Salzburg, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Salzburg HBF (around 2h 30min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to binge on the  original Mozartkugel chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth, to check if the hills are actually alive with the sound of music, frolicking in a flower field between scenic mountain views, baroque architecture, to visit classical music’s most famous Wunderkind W.A. Mozart house, to catch impeccable views of the old town from the Kapuzinerberg, to explore the blissful nature surrounding the city, to climb up to the fortress and see the city from above, wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, do a kitschy skip in the idyllic setting of the Mirabell gardens

Less obvious reasons: beer with the locals at Augustiner Bräu , visit the stone dwarfs at the Zwerglgarten, five human-sized gherkins (unfortunately not edible), visit the Eagle’s Nest

Images: © Vienna Würstelstand

Bratislava – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Bratislava, Slovakia

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Bratislava (around 1h 7min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  it’s just a stone throw away from Vienna, cheap booze resulting in fun nights out, to check out the UFO bridge and enjoy the view up high in the Flying Saucer , the charming streets and squares to wander through

Less obvious reasons: enjoy Middle Europe’s renowned and very affordable cuisine, find out how closely connected the city is to Vienna, to go on a hunt throughout the city to find ALL the hidden human-sized bronze statues, listen to some music in an upside down pyramid or in a granary, lounge on the ‘Magio Beach’ on the Danube riverside, to get messy with the amazing racks of ribs in Meštiansky pivovar 

Images: via Pixabay & Vienna Würstelstand

Brno – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Brno, Czech Republic

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Brno main train station (around 2h 11min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  it’s very easy to reach from Wien, the cheap beer, the heartwarming bohemian comfort food, the mix of gorgeous Modernist and Medieval architecture

Less obvious reasons:  it’s undiscovered by tourists, there’s plenty of Instagram-worthy buildings and spots to take pictures at, to climb the highest church tower and have a grand view over the city, to enjoy a vibrant city during summer, to experience the hip cafe scene

Dresden – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Dresden, Germany

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Dresden (6h 40min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to visit one of the trendiest city’s to visit at the moment in Germany, to taste some quality German beer, to check out a historically important city that’s been rebuilt from scratch, to check out the halls of magnificent masterpieces by the old masters in the  Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister , visit the architecturally unique, Semperoper , to marvel at the plentiful architectural gems

Less obvious reasons: to really check out why it’s known as a living and breathing book of German history, to taste a glass of fine wine from the surrounding wine-growing region, to take a long stroll and check out the alternative scene of the city that tries its best to match Berlin’s vibe (and it’s doing a damn good job), for some serious bar-hopping

Images © Pixabay © Vienna Würstelstand

Innsbruck – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Innsbruck, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Innsbruck (4h 14min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to visit the Goldene Dachl and the Bergisel Ski Jump stadium , to get that priceless Alpine feeling, to experience some epic hikes around the city

Less obvious reasons: to take the Hungerburgbahn funicular railway and the Hafelekar cable car all the way up the 2,556 metres mountain for the breathtaking views over the region, to rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings, to check out the hip café and foodie scene in the old town, to see Innsbruck’s version of their own unique Ampelpärchen aka. Ampelskier

Images via Pixabay & Unsplash

Košice – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Košice, Slovakia

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Košice (around 6h)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to check out a former European Capital of Culture and enjoy some Central European charm

Less obvious reasons: to eat your way through town and try some Lokše (thin pancakes), or Bryndzové halušky (dumplings with sheep cheese – the national dish), to admire the historic buildings of the old town, to check out the nearby Spiš Castle which is the largest castle site in Central Europe

Linz – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Linz, Upper Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF, or Wien WBF to Linz HBF (1h 14min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to check out the rich cultural scene, take the steep Pöstlingberg tram up the Pöstlingberg for the great view over the city, the stunning old town

Less obvious reasons: to eat the famous Linzertorte, to check out the Hip Hop capital of Austria, to check out the local club and somewhat underground party locations such as KAPU , Stadtwerkstatt , Exxtrablatt or Solaris , to enjoy the summer breeze next to the Danube in summer, to eat and dance at the cafés/bar/art and cultural space mix on the ship that is the Salonschiff Fräulein Florentine , check out the Ars Electronica Center

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7 Beautiful Day Trips From Vienna (Within Austria)

Notes & Disclaimer: (1) Google seems to be having a hiccup . Please use other search engines to find more guides and articles from WanderInEurope. (2) This website is reader supported. And this post might have affiliate links. This means we could earn a small commission if you make a qualifying purchase. No additional cost to you. More info: Disclosure .

Should you be planning a multi-day visit to Vienna , there are a multitude of reasons to extend your journey beyond the city’s borders.

First reason: proximity . Given that the capital cities of neighboring countries are just a train ride (or a relaxing cruise) away from Vienna, it’s not at all far-fetched to think about taking a day trip from Vienna to visit them.

Look east of Vienna —there’s Bratislava and Budapest —two other great cities in Central Europe.

But before you completely explore eastward, it’s also a good idea to look nearby and west of Vienna — to other destinations in Austria . Their unique character, cultural significance, and movie-like charm make them worthy of a day trip from Vienna.

In my view, these day trips are a must for fans of Romanticism, history, and nature.

I’ve discovered seven fantastic day trip destinations from Vienna, spread across three states: Lower Austria, Upper Austria, and Salzburg . From nearest to farthest from Vienna, they are:

• Laxenburg Castle Park ,
• Liechtenstein Castle ,
• Kreuzenstein Castle ,
• Melk Abbey ,
• Hallstatt ,
• St. Gilgen , and

To learn more about each option, you can click on the links above for an in-depth discussion of each day trip, or simply read the summary I’ve prepared for you below.

Good to know

There are four great spots to check out on a day trip from Vienna in Lower Austria, the state that encircles Vienna. There’s also one in Upper Austria and a couple in the State of Salzburg. If you’re driving or part of a group day tour, you can hit three or four attractions in a single day. However, if you’re using public transportation, you’ll likely only get to two.

Quick find: Most famous day trip from Vienna — Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift

Check out WanderInEurope’s Pinterest Page .

#1 Laxenburg Castle Park (Laxenburg, Lower Austria)

Laxenburg Castle Park is the most convenient day trip you can take from Vienna .

You can get to Laxenburg Castle Park from the main train station in a quick bus ride of just 30 to 40 minutes.

In my opinion, Laxenburg Castle Park is definitely worth checking out for two reasons .

It’s the largest landscaped garden in the entire country and is home to some fascinating garden features and castles .

One of these is the 19th-century Franzensburg , a beautiful castle located in the middle of a small lake in the park. Despite being built only a couple of centuries ago, it epitomizes a romantic, medieval-style castle.

Laxenburg Castle Park holds historical significance as the spring residence of Habsburg family members , including Empress Sisi and her husband, Franz Joseph .

During your visit, you have the option to take a tour inside Franzensburg or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake surrounding the castle.

Compared to other day trip options from Vienna, I believe Laxenburg Castle Park is a superior choice if you’re looking for a relaxing retreat in nature .

Learn more about Laxenburg Castle Park and other day trips here .

You might find these interesting!

#2 Liechtenstein Castle (Maria Enzersdorf, Lower Austria)

Another day trip from Vienna that’s worth considering is Liechtenstein Castle .

It’s conveniently located within Austria and is less than an hour away from the city . If you’re using public transportation, you’ll need to make a transfer in Mödling to reach Liechtenstein Castle.

In contrast to the Franzensburg Castle in Laxenburg that we talked about earlier, Liechtenstein Castle has a more genuine medieval background . Its history dates back to the early 12th century!

However, due to the ravages of wars that swept across Europe, like the Ottoman onslaught and World War II, it’s no longer the same as it was back then.

Despite these changes, the castle still retains a distinct medieval charm , evident in its imposing tower and overall exterior.

Liechtenstein Castle is still privately owned today, but it opens its doors to visitors who wish to explore its artifact-filled interiors that reveal a unique side of Vienna’s history . It’s not centered around the Habsburgs, but rather, the people who bear the same name as the castle.

With a Vienna Pass , you can visit Liechtenstein Castle, without the worry of an entry fee for the castle’s interiors.

Fun fact: Liechtenstein Castle’s authentic feel led to it being chosen as the filming location for the 1993 film, The Three Musketeers .

Learn more about Liechtenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#3 Kreuzenstein Castle (Leobendorf, Lower Austria)

Located to the north of Vienna in the town of Leobendorf is the magnificent Kreuzenstein Castle .

This day trip from Vienna is a mix of enchanting fairytale and a touch of adventure , particularly if you’re using public transportation. The reason? There’s a brief hike through a forested hill to reach the castle, which sits majestically at the top.

This castle’s hilltop location is why I view it as a fairytale destination for a day trip from Vienna.

Its look leaves no room for question—it’s a unique mix of German castle and Gothic architectural styles .

Just wait until you step into its courtyard —you’ll be awestruck and find yourself snapping photos non-stop!

The timber framing of some of its exteriors, the pointed roof, and the intricate flower-like Gothic ornamentation (tracery) of Kreuzenstein Castle will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set .

In fact, Kreuzenstein Castle isn’t just a fairytale location— it’s actually been featured in a movie ! It served as the filming location for the 2011 film, ‘The Season of The Witch.’

Visitors are welcome to explore the castle’s interiors, but a guided tour is necessary . In my opinion, the highlight of the tour is the armory , which is considered by many to be one of Austria’s most historically significant collections of weaponry .

Learn more about Kreuzenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#4 Melk Abbey (Wachau Valley, Lower Austria)

Just an hour’s journey from Vienna will take you to Wachau Valley , a UNESCO heritage site that’s home to one of Austria’s architectural gems: Melk Abbey .

If you’re a Catholic with a passion for architecture like me, this place will leave you in awe. But it’s not just for us! It’s undeniably one of the most breathtaking historical sites outside of Vienna.

From its impressive library to its marble hall , the Imperial staircase , and the abbey church , Melk Abbey promises a series of awe-inspiring moments.

And let’s not overlook the Abbey’s location— it overlooks the Wachau Valley , offering a truly romantic view and experience from its stunning baroque balcony.

Apart from its enduring elegance, I view it as an honor to explore Melk Abbey. It’s a place steeped in nearly a thousand years of history .

Participating in a guided tour reveals a wealth of knowledge, encompassing the abbey’s political and religious significance, its various functions, its construction, its architectural style, and so much more.

elk Abbey also features a museum , which houses fascinating artifacts, including a reusable casket —quite intriguing, don’t you think?

Another factor that makes a day trip to Melk Abbey from Vienna a worthwhile experience is its location in the scenic Wachau Valley .

After your exploration of the Abbey, you can take in the nearby quaint towns in the valley, ascend to the ruins of castles perched on hilltops , and indulge your love for Romanticism .

Here are some popular day tours from Vienna with Melk Abbey: 

• Wachau, Melk Abbey, & Danube Valley (with romantic boat)
• Melk Abbey, Dürnstein, and more in Wachau Valley (with Wine Tasting)
• Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg (Grand Austria Tour)

Learn more about Melk Abbey and other day trips here .

#5 Hallstatt (Salzkammergut, Upper Austria)

When you think of attractions in the Austrian countryside, Hallstatt stands unrivaled.

Hallstatt is one of the ultimate destinations in the country ; a top day trip from Vienna. Just one look from its viewpoint, where you can take in the sight of its iconic church nestled against the backdrop of mountains and a peaceful lake, and it’s clear why it’s a top spot in Austria.

And here’s a fun fact: Hallstatt was the inspiration for the Disney blockbuster , Frozen . Amazing, isn’t it?

In terms of direct distance from Vienna, Hallstatt is the next closest destination after Melk Abbey, which is why it’s fifth on my list.

However, situated in the mountainous, lake-dotted region of Salzkammergut in Upper Austria , it requires more than 4 hours of travel time via public transportation with 2 to 3 transfers, or 3.5 hours by car.

Honestly, a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna might not be as appealing as you’d think. While it’s doable to visit Hallstatt in a day from Vienna, I wouldn’t always recommend it .

You should find a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna more pleasant during the low season , when it’s not as crowded with tourists.

Hallstatt has been experiencing the strain of overtourism recently . If you’re coming from Vienna for a day trip, expect to encounter crowds during midday, which can diminish the overall experience.

It’s typically recommended to spend a couple of days and a night in Hallstatt to truly appreciate its charm , often best observed from late afternoon, overnight, and into the early morning.

One instance that you should go for a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna is when you don’t foresee another trip to Austria in the near future .

Why, you ask? Well, visiting Hallstatt can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience ! Since you’re already in Austria, seize the opportunity to witness this slice of paradise on earth.

Should you decide to visit Hallstatt, the official website can be found in the resources section of this post, providing a helpful tool for planning your activities.

If planning isn’t your thing or you’re pressed for time, there’s a day tour from Vienna to Hallstatt that will whisk you away to this magnificent destination with no effort required. Below are your options:

• Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift (Top pick by thousands of travelers)
• Hallstatt and more destinations in Salzkammergut (Best seller)

#6 St. Gilgen (Salzkammergut, Salzburg)

Looking for a day trip option to Hallstatt that feels like it’s right out of a movie scene ?

You’ll want to check out St. Gilgen . Actually, St. Gilgen is a village that you might recognize from a movie: The Sound of Music . It’s featured right in the opening scenes .

There, you’ll unmistakably see St. Gilgen, cozily nestled beside Wolfgangsee and surrounded by the Austrian Alps . It’s a truly picturesque location.

St. Gilgen becomes even more enchanting as you begin to explore the village.

The homes here are charming, adorned with murals that grace their facades . It’s a genuine alpine village, reminiscent of those you’d find in Bavaria and Tyrol. Just wait until you find yourself in Mozartplatz , the village’s heart. You’ll absolutely delight in wandering around!

The fun never stops in St. Gilgen though.

If you find yourself with some spare time during your day trip from Vienna to St. Gilgen, consider taking a cable car ride up a mountain . It offers a panoramic view of the stunning alpine landscape.

Remarkably, St. Gilgen also boasts a hidden gem: The Musical Instruments Museum .

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to view an extensive collection of some of the rarest musical instruments and hear the inspiring story of the owner , who personally guides visitors through his museum.

Considering a trip to St. Gilgen? Located near Salzburg, St. Gilgen is frequently paired with this Austrian city , another stunning destination for a day trip from Vienna.

They’re just 36 kilometers or 22 miles apart—a 30-minute car ride or an hour by bus. Traveling directly from Vienna , however, you can anticipate a 3.5-hour journey to St. Gilgen , whether you’re driving or using public transportation.

Learn more about St. Gilgen and other day trips here .

#7 Salzburg

If there’s one city in Austria that should be your top choice for a day trip from Vienna , it’s undoubtedly Salzburg .

Nestled near or within the Alps, this town is renowned for its stunning landscape , its connection to The Sound of Music , and the enduring legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart .

Salzburg boasts a unique mix of

• natural beauty (like the Kapuzinerberg and Monchsberg mountains),
• historical landmarks , a rich musical legacy (including Mozart’s birthplace and concerts), and
• cultural experiences (such as The Sound of Music ) that make the city an absolute must-visit.

From the commanding Hohensalzburg fortress perched on a hilltop to the concerts held within the grand interiors of Salzburg Cathedral , and the scenic gardens of Mirabell Palace , I’m thoroughly enchanted by the beauty of Salzburg , and I’m confident you will be too !

And we mustn’t overlook the unique attractions and activities that Salzburg offers . No matter what kind of traveler you are, a day spent here is sure to be unforgettable.

In terms of direct distance from Vienna, Salzburg is the most distant among the day trip destinations I’ve discussed. However, reaching it from Vienna is as simple as a single train ride , albeit around 2.5 hours in duration .

If you choose to drive from Vienna to Salzburg, it might take a bit longer, but it affords you the opportunity to visit other day trip spots in Austria en route .

Learn more about Salzburg and other day trips here .

Combo Day Trips

As you may have discovered from earlier, it’s entirely possible to visit two or three Austrian destinations on a day trip from Vienna . If you’re pressed for time but eager to experience more of Austria , this could be your best option.

Hiring a private car or joining a tour can ensure a smooth travel experience, particularly if you’re keen to explore Salzburg, Melk Abbey, and the Salzkammergut Region — some of Austria’s most stunning locations .

Some even refer to this as the ‘Grand Tour of Austria From Vienna .’

Be sure to check the list below for day tour options to experience these beautiful Austrian sites from Vienna.

• Small Group (individual): Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg
• Private tour: Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg  

Considering the castles I brought up earlier?

In my opinion, if you’re an all-around traveler, they offer a nice day trip if you’re looking for less-traveled destinations or want to try something not yet on everyone’s radar . It might be a way to make your Vienna trip stand out from the typical.

For those who love to wander and are drawn to romantic destinations, always seeking a castle on their itineraries , I lean towards Kreuzenstein Castle for its mix of German and Gothic architectural styles. It seems more magical than the rest.

On the other hand, if castles are your thing and you want to dedicate a whole day to castle sightseeing, the pairing of Liechtenstein Castle and Laxenburg Castle Park is an easier option since they’re both located south of Vienna.

So, that concludes my list of seven stunning day trips from Vienna. I hope I’ve been able to inspire you with some fantastic ideas for other places to visit in Austria from Vienna. As promised, here are the resources that can assist you further in planning your trips.

• Arrival at Hallstatt
• Hallstatt weather forecast
• Sights and attractions in Hallstatt
• List of Day Trips from Vienna

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The Best Way to Travel Between Vienna and Salzburg

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Heading from Vienna to Salzburg? The train ride between these two Austrian cities is not just a mere transfer. Fast and convenient, the train stands out as the go-to mode of transport but I will also offer you alternative ideas on how to get from Vienna to Salzburg.

This guide is all about giving you the inside track on traveling from Vienna to Salzburg by train or alternative modes of transport. Whether you’re looking for the swiftest, the most cost-effective, or the most thrilling way to traverse this route.

As mentioned, the train is the most popular way to travel from Vienna to Salzburg and that’s for a reason. Trains leave out of Vienna towards Salzburg every half hour, promising a scenic 2.5-hour journey that’s as smooth as it is punctual. With two competing train companies, you find plenty of options.

In the following sections, we’ll unpack everything you need to know to make your trip from Vienna to Salzburg as memorable as the destinations themselves. From a snapshot of what the journey is like to a deep dive into alternative modes of transport.

Train Travel – The Preferred Route from Vienna to Salzburg

When you’re planning your trip from Vienna to Salzburg, the train emerges as the top choice for its blend of speed, convenience, and value. Clocking in at just 2 hours and 30 minutes travel time, the rail journey is not only swift but also frequent, with services running at least every half-hour. Starting from around €30,- in 2023, train travel is both accessible and economical.

Choosing Your Train: ÖBB vs. Westbahn

Since 2012 we have had two train companies in Austria. The more traditional and long-established ÖBB and their private competitor Westbahn. Let’s take a closer look!

ÖBB – The Austrian Federal Railways

When it comes to rail travel in Austria, the ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahnen) stands as the largest and most established player. With roots stretching back to the days of the Habsburg monarchy in the 19th century, ÖBB has grown into a network that not only connects Austria’s cities but also ensures even tiny villages are not left off the map. This extensive reach is a testament to the company’s commitment to transportation accessibility, with a workforce of 40,000 ensuring that over a million passengers daily can get where they need to go.

The Vienna to Salzburg route, in particular, is busy in the ÖBB service, seeing the highest frequency of travelers. It’s a vital link not just for domestic travel but for those journeying from Eastern Europe to the heart of Germany and further into Western Europe. This route exemplifies the blend of historical significance and modern efficiency that ÖBB represents.

Westbahn – The Private Competitor

However, since 2012, travelers on this route have had another option: Westbahn. This private competitor has quickly become a favorite for many, with its distinctive green and blue trains offering a more wallet-friendly and flexible travel alternative. Westbahn’s service, which operates every 30 minutes from Wien Westbahnhof, is particularly appealing to those who prefer to travel without the constraints of a fixed schedule.

Westbahn’s approach to ticketing is emblematic of its modern, customer-oriented ethos. Unlike ÖBB, which maintains ticket counters and information centers, Westbahn has streamlined the process, allowing passengers to hop on a train and purchase their tickets during the journey. This ease of access is a unique selling point for Westbahn, catering to spontaneous travelers and those who value convenience and simplicity in their travel arrangements.

Purchasing Your Ticket

When it comes to securing your seat for the journey from Vienna to Salzburg, you’ve got options that cater to both the planners and the spontaneous among us.

ÖBB: Planning Ahead Pays Off

ÖBB, the long-standing railway authority, rewards those who think ahead. By booking early, choosing to travel on less busy days, or having a discount card (Vorteilscard), you can snag tickets at the same prices as Westbahn. And don’t worry about the hustle of travel—Austrian trains are known for having ample space, so the chance of having to stand is slim, even without a reservation.

Westbahn: Spontaneity Meets Savings

For those who prefer to keep their plans flexible, Westbahn is your ally. Hop on a train at Vienna’s Westbahnhof without a ticket in hand, and simply pay the standard fare to the conductor on board. It’s straightforward and often lighter on the wallet, with standard fares typically undercutting ÖBB’s regular prices. I have to mention, however, that things have changed in recent years and Westbahn is not much cheaper than ÖBB anymore if you can’t get a discount. More on that soon.

Trainline: The Savvy Traveler’s Secret

For ticket purchases, both Westbahn and ÖBB offer online booking platforms. Yet, there’s an ace up the sleeve with Trainline , a third-party service that aggregates ticket options from both companies, often revealing the best deals at a glance. It’s perfect for those who want to weigh their options without the hassle of navigating multiple websites.

Buying Tickets: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Westbahn: No pre-booking? No problem. Board the train, find a seat, and the conductor will sort you out with a ticket. Prefer to plan and get a discount? Hit up the Westbahn website and look for the ‘Westsuperpreise’ deals. To find them, go to “Fares” and “Westsuperpreise. You can also buy Westbahn tickets from Austrian tobacco shops (like the one inside the station) or online. These tickets are sometimes discounted but only God knows when.
• ÖBB: If you’re leaning towards ÖBB, booking online is your best bet for discounts. Otherwise, ticket machines and offices at the station are at your service. The way to get a discounted ÖBB ticket is to book a few days in advance which makes it impractical if you don’t want to fix your schedule or to have a yearly discount card which you won’t have if you are a traveler.

Cost Comparison: What’s the Damage?

ÖBB can match Westbahn’s prices if you’re willing to book in advance, travel on off-peak days, or if you’re a holder of their discount card, the Vorteilscard. The Vorteilscard doesn’t make sense for most travelers as it’s a paid one-year pass. In 2020, Westbahn’s standard fare sat at €33.50, while ÖBB’s was €56.80. Unfortunately, nowadays, in 2023, Westbahn and ÖBB prices are almost the same, and even for discounted Westbahn tickets you have to purchase days in advance.

But with Westbahn’s discounts, tickets could drop to between €23.99 and €28.99. ÖBB’s ‘Sparschiene’ offers can level the playing field, but it’s a game of timing and availability.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, Westbahn shines for its blend of convenience and value, especially if you’re not one to pin down plans. ÖBB, on the other hand, was only worth considering if you’ve got the luxury of booking ahead or if you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass but as I mentioned, if you can’t get a discount, there is no huge difference in price anymore.

It’s worth noting that Austrian trains are rarely, if ever, fully booked, allowing for a degree of spontaneity in your travel plans. While seat reservations are not mandatory and often unnecessary, they are available for those who prefer guaranteed seating.

SIDENOTE : It’s important to mention that there are no bus services directly competing with the train route from Vienna to Salzburg Hbf. If you search for a bus on the Flixbus website you will find a connection but it’s Flixbus selling the Westbahn train tickets.

Stations and Boarding: Your Gateway to a Smooth Journey

Your train journey from Vienna to Salzburg is a tale of two stations: Vienna’s Westbahnhof and Hauptbahnhof. Each serves as a hub for different rail services, so knowing where to board is key.

Vienna’s Westbahnhof: The Westbahn Departure Point

I am fascinated by the history of Westbahnhof. Westbahnhof, as the name suggests, was the train for westbound trains. However, after the Soviet Union was established, westwards was the only way to go from Vienna. Therefore, Westbahnhof began to serve as the main train station which it kind of still does. If you’re catching a Westbahn train, this is where your journey begins. The station is well-connected and easily accessible by metro or tram.

Wien Hauptbahnhof: ÖBB’s Modern Hub

A few years ago, ÖBB began using the actual main train station, Vienna Hauptbahnhof again. For ÖBB travelers, Hauptbahnhof is your starting line when traveling from Vienna to Salzburg.

Finding Your Way

Both stations are traveler-friendly, with clear signage and helpful staff. If you’re at Hauptbahnhof, look out for the large departure boards for your platform number. At Westbahnhof, it’s just as simple – check the schedule, and follow the signs to the right track.

Boarding Tips

• Tickets in Hand: If you’re traveling with ÖBB and need a ticket, the machines or counters are ready to assist. For Westbahn, while not necessary, you can grab a ticket at the tobacco shop inside the station.
• Platform Navigation: Both stations are designed with ease in mind. Information screens display times and platform numbers, ensuring you’re on the right track.
• From Airport to Rails: If you’re transiting from Vienna Airport to Salzburg, consider the direct ÖBB trains for a seamless transfer that could save you the cost and time of traveling into the city first.

Scenic Views and Travel Tips

As you settle into your seat and the train starts, you’re about to be treated to a visual symphony of Austria’s countryside. Initially, the view from your window will be a tapestry of fields and rolling hills. As you approach the one-and-a-half-hour mark, keep your gaze fixed on the left side of the train (in the direction of travel) to catch the first glimpses of the alpine grandeur awaiting you in Salzburg.

Onboard Amenities for a Comfortable Ride

Modern comforts aren’t amiss on this journey. Both ÖBB and Westbahn trains are equipped with amenities designed to enhance your travel experience. Expect clean, comfortable seating, power outlets for your devices, and dining options for a quick snack or a cup of coffee.

Choosing the Best Seat

For the finest views, snag a seat on the left side of the train when heading to Salzburg. This strategic spot offers a chance to admire the distant mountains as they slowly grow larger on the horizon. If comfort is your priority, look for seats with a table – they offer more space and a place to rest your belongings.

Beyond the Window

Remember, while the journey offers its own visual rewards, it’s just a prelude to the breathtaking scenery you’ll discover in Salzburg itself. And for those with a thirst for even more dramatic landscapes, consider a train trip from Salzburg to Innsbruck, or look into Austria’s most scenic train routes for your next adventure.

Arriving in Salzburg

The journey concludes at Salzburg’s Hauptbahnhof, the city’s primary and sole train station. Just a stone’s throw from the historic old town and conveniently close to most accommodations, you’re never far from where you need to be. If your bags are light and your spirit for walking is high, the old town is a short stroll away. Otherwise, our guide on Salzburg’s public transport is your next best read.

4 Alternative Modes of Transport

1. driving – car rentals.

Taking the wheel for a drive from Vienna to Salzburg opens up a realm of possibilities. If you’re traveling as a group, cherish solitude, or have an appetite for discovery off the beaten path, renting a car could be your ticket to freedom.

Car Rental Insights

In Vienna, car rental prices begin at approximately €70 per day. For a party of four or five, this option can be more economical than the train, especially when you split the cost. Most rental agencies offer convenient pick-up in Vienna and drop-off in Salzburg, making one-way trips hassle-free. However, keep in mind that with a full car, luggage space may be tight.

The Journey is the Destination

The drive itself is an attraction, with the route often dubbed the “Romantic Road” for its scenic views and charming stops. This isn’t just a clever marketing ploy; the path is genuinely dotted with sights that beckon for your attention. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Austria’s heartland, consider pausing at the majestic Melk Abbey before cruising towards the crystal-clear waters of Lake Traunsee and the picturesque Salzkammergut region. There is no need to stop in the Salzkammergut if you are in a hurry. The scenery is worth the drive.

Hallstatt and Beyond

However, if you have the time, you should head south from the A1 Highway and not only take the country roads through the Salzkammergut but stop several times in that area. While Hallstatt’s fairy-tale allure is undeniable, neighboring gems like Gmunden, Sankt Wolfgang, and Sankt Gilgen offer equally enchanting experiences without the crowds. These locales promise a more intimate glimpse into Austria’s soul.

With this guide to the Salzkammergut Lake District , you will get an idea of what it’s about.

Planning Your Road Trip

For those with time to spare, a multi-day road trip allows for a deeper exploration of Austria’s nooks and crannies. But if you’re aiming to condense the journey into a single day, strategic planning is key to maximizing your sightseeing. Our comprehensive guide to driving from Vienna to Salzburg is an essential companion for plotting your course.

Before You Go

Renting a car is straightforward, with numerous options available online or at the airport. Costs will vary based on the vehicle size, rental duration, and insurance choices. Remember to consider parking fees in both cities and if you’re unfamiliar with the area, a GPS or a reliable map app is invaluable. Rentalcars.com is handy for comparing offers and booking a rental car.

2. Private Shuttles: Personalized and Exclusive Travel

For those where budget is a secondary concern, or for larger groups seeking a seamless experience, private shuttles emerge as a prime choice. These services, while on the pricier side, often come with the perk of including a visit to the iconic Hallstatt, potentially saving you a day on your itinerary.

Case in Point: A Group’s Journey

Take, for instance, a group from Thailand I once assisted. They inquired about the best way to travel from Vienna to Salzburg. While the train is usually my go-to recommendation for its balance of cost and convenience, they opted for a private shuttle. Admittedly, I was initially taken aback by the cost—private shuttles can run into the hundreds of euros. However, breaking down the numbers can be an eye-opener. A €700 service divided among eight travelers suddenly becomes a reasonable option, especially when you factor in the full-day experience, the scenic drive through the Salzkammergut, and the stops at places like Hallstatt.

The Ultimate in Tailored Travel

What elevates the private shuttle experience is the door-to-door service. Imagine being picked up from your doorstep in Vienna and whisked away to your destination in Salzburg, with no need to navigate public transport or handle your luggage at every turn.

Comparing with Car Rentals

It’s worth comparing this option to the previously mentioned car rental. While a rental car also offers the freedom to explore and save a day traveling between Vienna and Salzburg, it does so at a significantly lower cost. However, it lacks the bespoke nature of a private shuttle service.

Our Recommended Shuttle Service

For those inclined towards this luxurious mode of travel, we have a preferred private shuttle provider we trust for the journey from Vienna to Salzburg.

Emerging Alternatives: Shared Shuttle Services

In recent times, shared shuttle services have also entered the scene, offering individual travelers a middle ground between public transport and private shuttles. These services range from €100 to €200 and could be a viable alternative, though we’re still gathering insights on their quality. If you decide to try one, we’d love to hear about your experience to inform future updates to this guide.

Making the Choice

When considering a private shuttle, weigh the convenience against the cost, and if it aligns with your travel philosophy, booking is just a few clicks away on the provider’s website.

3. Car Sharing: The Social Way to Travel

For those looking to blend economy with a dash of adventure, car sharing platforms like Blablacar offer a unique travel alternative. On the Vienna-Salzburg route, Blablacar is bustling with daily offers, where drivers with empty seats welcome fellow travelers to join them. If you’re new to the concept, it’s quite straightforward: Blablacar consolidates various car-sharing services, allowing drivers to list available seats in their vehicles.

Why Choose Car Sharing?

There are two standout reasons to opt for car sharing on your journey between Vienna and Salzburg:

• Cost-Effectiveness : It’s undeniably budget-friendly. A seat through Blablacar typically costs around €15, which is a steal compared to the standard train fares of €33.50 or even the discounted train tickets starting at €24.
• The Social Element : Beyond the savings, car sharing is a golden ticket for meeting new people. It’s particularly appealing for solo adventurers eager to exchange stories and make connections on the road. Blablacar’s platform ensures safety with a rating and verification system for drivers, so you can ride with confidence.

Convenience with a Personal Touch

Another plus is the personalized travel experience. You can coordinate with your driver on the most convenient pickup and dropoff points. While the Vienna-Salzburg route is well-served by train stations, the flexibility to set your own travel points can be a bonus.

A Personal Reflection

From my own experience, Blablacar was once a staple in my travel diet. However, as priorities shift with time, the appeal of saving every euro has waned, and the tranquility of a solo train ride often trumps the effort of coordinating a car share.

Is Car Sharing Right for You?

If you’re on an extended journey, watching your budget, or simply relishing the prospect of the new company, car sharing stands out as an excellent choice. It’s more than just a ride; it’s a chance to weave new narratives into your travel tapestry as you journey from Vienna to Salzburg.

4. For the Adventurous: Hitchhiking from Vienna to Salzburg

For those who carry the spirit of adventure in their backpacks and travel on a shoestring budget, hitchhiking can be an exhilarating option. While it’s true that Austrians may be somewhat reserved about picking up hitchhikers, the sheer volume of traffic—around 100,000 vehicles per day on the A1 Westautobahn—plays in favor of the thumb.

The Realities of Hitchhiking

It’s a roll of the dice, but when you do catch a ride, you might just land a direct lift to your destination, bypassing the small stops along the way. However, I must be upfront—I haven’t personally hitchhiked between Vienna and Salzburg. So, for the nitty-gritty details, I’d point you toward the hitchwiki page for Vienna , a treasure trove of hitchhiker anecdotes and tips.

Preparation and Safety

If you’re set on hitchhiking, here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Visibility is Key : Make sure you’re easily seen by drivers. Stand in a safe, well-lit area.
• Signage Helps : A clear, readable sign displaying your destination can work wonders.
• Stay Safe : Always prioritize your safety. Trust your instincts about which rides to accept.
• Legalities : Be aware of the local laws regarding hitchhiking to avoid any legal trouble.

Finding Your Hitchhiking Spot

As for where to thumb a ride, aim for spots where drivers can safely stop. Gas stations along the A1 are often your best bet. They provide a moment for drivers to pause and consider giving you a lift. Embarking on the hitchhiking journey from Vienna to Salzburg is a testament to the adventurous soul.

Once you’ve reached Salzburg, the adventure continues. Dive into the city’s top sights with the “15 Essential Attractions in Salzburg” guide, or sync up with one of my free walking tours if your visit aligns with the schedule.

Planning Your Trip from Vienna to Salzburg

Whether you’re planning for a day trip, contemplating an overnight stay in Salzburg to bask in the city’s after-dark allure, or turning the trip from Vienna to Salzburg into an odyssey of its own by renting a car—getting lost in the wonders en route—here’s your guide to making every moment count.

Timing Your Adventure

To make the most of your day when traveling from Vienna to Salzburg, consider the early-bird approach. Catching the first rays of sunlight can give you a head start on the day’s explorations. Trains run frequently, but an early departure means you’ll sidestep the larger crowds and have more time to wander through Salzburg’s charming streets.

Maximizing Your Day

If you’re aiming to soak up as much of Salzburg as possible without an overnight stay, plan to leave Vienna early and return late. This will afford you the luxury of a leisurely lunch and the chance to dip into some of Salzburg’s famed cafes. Keep an eye on train schedules—the last Westbahn train currently departs at 18:52, but ÖBB offers later services if you fancy lingering longer in the city’s evening glow.

Day Trips vs. Overnight Stays: Exploring Salzburg

Yes, a day trip is feasible. The swift 2.5-hour train ride makes Salzburg an accessible destination from Vienna. Once there, the old town welcomes you with open arms, ready to reveal its treasures within a 2 to 6-hour stroll. Your pace dictates your path—whether it’s a brisk walk through history or a leisurely saunter with frequent stops to admire and explore. If you are wondering how to spend the perfect day in Salzburg, here is what you need to know .

The Case for Staying Over

However, Salzburg deserves more than a fleeting visit. While a day trip teases you with a taste of its splendor, staying overnight allows you to savor the city’s full flavor. From dusk till dawn, Salzburg unfurls its beauty in a more relaxed tempo. For those who decide to embrace the city’s nighttime serenade, here’s a curated list of accommodation options .

Detours Worth the Drive

If you’re steering the wheel yourself or opting for a shuttle, the journey from Vienna to Salzburg is dotted with detours that promise to enrich your Austrian narrative. Melk Abbey’s baroque brilliance, the tranquil shores of Lake Traunsee, and the storybook villages of the Salzkammergut are just a few chapters in Austria’s anthology of sights worth the stop.

Planning Your Pit Stops

To truly embrace these sights, don’t rush. Allocate time, breathe in the views, and let the history seep into your travel. These stops are more than mere attractions; they’re moments that will linger long after the journey ends.

Here’s the lowdown: the train isn’t just your best bet; it’s a delightful experience in itself. With a journey time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes and departures every half hour, you’re set for a hassle-free trip. And while you don’t need to book in advance, buying your tickets early could save you a few euros.

You’ve got two train operators: Westbahn and ÖBB. Westbahn often wins on price and flexibility, making it a solid choice for those who like to keep it casual and cost-effective. ÖBB offers a sense of tradition and reliability, especially if you’re the type to plan ahead.

If you want more adventure and sightseeing or are traveling in a pack, here are more options:

• Car Rentals : You’re the master of your itinerary, and with the right group, it’s as economical as it is exhilarating. Plus, you get to explore those off-the-map spots that the trains can’t reach.
• Private Shuttles : They’re a splurge, sure, but for larger groups or those seeking a touch of luxury, they can be surprisingly reasonable when you break down the per-head cost. Plus, they add that exclusive ‘pick-up and drop-off’ service.
• Car Sharing : It’s not just about saving pennies; it’s about the people you meet. Platforms like Blablacar not only offer a wallet-friendly way to travel but also the chance to make new friends and share stories.
• Hitchhiking : It’s not for everyone, but for the true adventurers, it’s a tale worth telling. It’s about the journey, the unexpected detours, and the stories you’ll gather along the way.

In conclusion, whether you’re a solo traveler with a thirst for adventure or a group looking for the most cost-effective route, Salzburg awaits you with open arms. The train from Vienna might be the tried-and-true path, but the alternatives have their own charm. Whatever you choose, Salzburg won’t disappoint. And remember, whether you’re there for a day trip or an overnight stay, Salzburg deserves to be savored. So go ahead, choose your adventure, and let Salzburg do the rest.

My name is Gerhard, Founder of Free Walking Tour Salzburg. I am an intrepid traveler myself and understand the passion for adventure that independent travelers feel. I love to interact with travelers, share stories, answer questions, recommend places to eat, and offer ideas of things to see and do.

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Vienna to zurich train: all you need to know.

Sailing through the heart of Europe, the Vienna to Zurich train ride is not only a journey that takes in 2 of Europe’s best cities, but also an incredibly stunning set of scenery along the way.

Often thought of as one of the world’s best train journeys, the train ride through the Alps here really is like no other, offering tour-worthy views for a fraction of the cost of what you’d expect to pay.

So if you’re looking to travel from Austria to Switzerland (or visa versa) and want to know the best way to go about it, read on!

This article contains everything you need to know about catching the train from Vienna to Zurich, as well as some tips for visiting both cities and ideas about where to head afterwards.

I’ll also discuss other ways to get between these 2 cities in case you’re looking for some options beyond the train although, with a journey this stunning, I don’t know why you would!

Let’s get stuck in…

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This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Vienna to Zurich Train: Which Direction?

For the purposes of this article, I’m going to discuss travelling from Vienna to Zurich i.e. in the direction of east to west, but please do bear in mind, you can absolutely travel the other way too.

All this information will still apply if you are travelling in the other direction, you’ll just have to follow it in reverse!

I often get asked in which direction I recommend people travel i.e. Vienna to Zurich or Zurich to Vienna, but my answer is always the same, it honestly doesn’t matter.

Just pick the route that works best given your timeframe, your bucket list must-sees and your itinerary in general.

If you’re flying in and out of Europe (or training on to another destination afterwards), then checking the prices of onward journeys may help sway your decision as to which city you finish in.

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Distance & Services

On average it takes between 8 and 11 hours to travel a distance of around 600km between Vienna and Zurich by train (depending on the route you take and service you use).

In comparison, by road, the journey is over 700km.

Some trains are slightly quicker (at just under 8 hours) and some (including night trains) are slightly slower, so always check the journey time before you book a service.

In particular, trains on weekends and during public holidays can take longer.

It’s also worth ensuring you book a service without changes if you’re keen to keep the journey time and hassle to a minimum, as it goes without saying that those services with changes take longer and involve lugging bags on and off the train.

Plus they aren’t necessarily cheaper either, so I would def avoid them if possible.

There are around 17 services a day between Vienna and Zurich by train, but only around 5-6 daily that are direct, so definitely seek these out.

Direct train services between Vienna and Zurich begin around 5am and run until around 4pm.

In between these times you will be looking at night time services.

Comparing services is made super simple by Trainline , which handily has everything bookable in English.

This easy website, which works across multiple currencies and languages, plus the simple-to-use accompanying app, is why I always recommend them for booking train or bus travel across Europe

Rail Companies & Stations

There are 2 companies that make the direct journey by train from Vienna to Zurich, they are ÖBB (Austria’s national rail company) and Railjet which is the high-speed subsidiary of ÖBB.

Some of the services with stopovers involve heading into Germany where you’ll need to use ICE or DB services.

Railjet is seen as the premium service and travels of speeds up to 230 km/hr. It connects many Austrian cities with international cities in nearby countries such as Germany, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Italy and, for the purposes of this article, Switzerland.

Any night Vienna to Zurich trains are operated by Nightjet – another arm of Railjet which, as the name suggests, caters specifically to overnight journeys!

There is also a Transalpin service that goes between Zurich and Austria.

This is a Eurocity train that makes the journey from Graz in Austria to Zurich, but doesn’t extend the whole way to Vienna.

For that reason, I’m not really going to cover it in this article, although more information is available here .

In Vienna, trains leave from Wien Hbf (the city’s main station) and arrive into Zurich’s main station – Zurich HB.

Wien Hbf is Vienna’s central rail hub and the station where all international trains now pass or connect through. Hbf stands for Hauptbahnhof , which means main station in German.

Both Wien Hbf and Zurich HB are centrally located in their respective cities and therefore very convenient to access using local public transport networks.

All Railjet and Nightjet services, as well as those non-direct options going through Germany etc, can be booked via Trainline , which immediately shows you the number of changes (if any), departure and arrival times, plus prices.

But it’s not just for ease and convenience that I suggest taking the direct train between Vienna and Zurich – it’s because this route is also going to give you the best views.

Yes honestly, the Vienna to Zurich train ride provides some of the most iconic scenery in the whole of Europe.

Threading right through the Alps, along the Arlberg Pass, this train ride skirts through the edge of Liechtenstein, with its fairy tale castles, before cruising past the shores of 2 long Swiss Lakes – the stunningly picturesque Zürichsee and the Walensee.

The Arlberg Railway is the most direct route between Austria and Switzerland and is one of the highest railway lines in Europe with a top elevation of 1,310m.

At the summit, you’ll also enter the Arlberg Tunnel, which takes about 5 minutes to pass through.

The way to ensure you don’t miss these gorgeous views – which is surely the main reason to travel between Vienna and Zurich by train- is to a) take a day train and b) ensure you get on a service that definitely goes via Innsbruck.

Accidentally booking a train that goes via Munich will have you missing out on this alpine glamour altogether and what a shame that would be!

If you are travelling from Vienna to Zurich i.e. westwards, then you’ll want to sit on the left-hand side to get best views of the Pass as you leave Austria and then move to the right-hand side of the train to get the best views of the lakes once you enter Switzerland!

As I mentioned before, Railjet is ÖBB’s high-speed subsidiary, offering quick connections between Vienna and Zurich, as well as other destinations such as Salzburg, Budapest, Munich and Prague .

It should be obvious by now, but I’ll make the point again – you want to take Railjet’s service through Innsbruck (not Munich) if you want the best views.

Railjet offer economy, 1 st class and business seats, with prices scaling accordingly.

Even their economy services are very good and more than suitable for most travellers needs with wifi, power outlets available to all seats and a restaurant car onboard too.

Travellers in 1 st and business class will have food served to them.

Seats in these classes are more luxurious too – usually reclining and leather.

That said, economy class has always been totally fine for me and I wouldn’t really recommend paying more for a better class unless it’s a special treat!

Nightjet is ÖBB’s night time train service and serves countries including Germany, Italy, Poland, Croatia and, of course, Switzerland.

If you opt for a night time service between Vienna and Zurich you’re going to miss the views, but you are going to save money on a night’s accommodation.

As with Railjet’s daytime service, there are different classes on a Nightjet train and you can choose from the cheapest option (which is a slightly reclining seat called a couchette ) through to a cabin, which allows to you sleep horizontally.

Cabins can be shared or private – it goes without saying private cabins will be the most expensive, but they do have washroom facilities if that’s something which interests you.

All classes get served a light breakfast just before arrival.

Buying Tickets for the Vienna to Zurich Train

So now that we’ve covered the basics about travelling from Vienna to Zurich by train, it’s time to cover how to buy tickets for this service.

As is commonly the case when booking trains in Europe, you can book direct through the national railway site. In this instance, that is ÖBB for direct services or Deutsche Bahn for ICE or Eurocity trains that change in Germany.

However, I very often find these sites hard to decipher and confusing to use.

Which is why I always book my European trains using Trainline .

Often the prices here are just as cheap and the website is so easy to use in English (or an array of other languages) that it’s a no brainer for me.

You can pay using international cards and you can change the currency to view converted prices.

They also have a great app, which allows you to not only book tickets on the move, but also store your e-tickets (doing away with the need to print anything out) and check their journey planner – which essentially lets you know if the train is on time, late etc.

Trainline essentially uses ÖBB’s and Deutsche Bahn’s website infrastructure, so when you go to book via Trainline it’s the services these companies run that are available to you.

However Trainline formats the info into a much simpler layout, translates it into English, and lets you pay using the card and currency you need.

As discussed, Trainline also allows you to store all your eTickets in one place (meaning you don’t have to mess around with collecting tickets at a station) and it also has a live journey planner, so you can follow along during your journey to learn how far away your stop is.

This is a great thing if you don’t speak German!

For the small booking fee involved (which is never more than €1-3), I honestly can’t recommend Trainline enough and always use this great website to book all my train travel in Europe.

Getting the Best Priced Tickets

As usual, you’re going to get the best price on your Vienna to Zurich train by booking as far in advance as possible.

With Trainline, tickets are available 6 months in advance and I’d certainly advise booking at least a month ahead to find the best deal.

As soon as tickets release, Trainline has them for sale, so just check their app or set up a price alert with them to be notified on any deals.

If you book in advance, you can grab Vienna to Zurich trains for as little as €30 per adult.

Otherwise, you can also buy tickets right up until the day of travel, remembering the closer to the departure date you get, the more expensive they are likely to be.

As an example, a ticket bought on the day at the station can cost as much as €120 – quite the jump from the advanced fare!

Another great tip when it comes to saving money on your train tickets is to avoid peak times i.e. 6am – 10am and 4pm – 7pm, when commuter travel bumps prices up.

Travelling off-peak therefore i.e. the times in between these 2 slots are likely to offer the best prices.

Seat Reservations

To secure the cheapest train tickets for Vienna to Zurich, booking non-refundable options with no seat reservations is another way to get the best prices.

When you book with Trainline , you can upgrade to ensure you have seat reservations for an extra €4. You may want to do this for the views.

You can also buy semi-flexible fares, which allow for some changes or refunds in the form of vouchers.  This type of ticket costs an extra €6.

You can also buy fully flexible tickets, which are significantly more.

As a budget traveller however, I’d always opt for a standard ticket with no seat reservation and no flexibility.

If you book early enough and get a decent priced ticket, then the hassle of making changes (should you need to) outweighs the small cost of just getting another ticket if you need to change.

That said, with night trains, I definitely recommend a seat reservation.

Boarding the Train

As with the vast majority of trains in Europe, there’s no need to check-in for your Vienna to Zurich train ride.

You simply enter the station and survey the information boards for the platform number your departing train will leave from.

Then you just find the platform, board the train and sit in your reserved seat or a free seat in the correct carriage class if your ticket is unreserved.

Ensure you then have your tickets (or e-tickets) to hand for when a conductor or inspector passes by.

Worth pointing out here that the Trainline app has a handy Journey Tracker section that allows you to see when your correct departure station is coming up.

The great news is that the train from Vienna to Zurich is electric, which means it has a very low carbon footprint.

If you are trying to travel in a more sustainable way, the train is a great option to go for.

Given the fact that it’s also fast, pleasant, stress-free and relatively good value, means it’s an all-round superb option for travelling between these 2 cities.

In terms of practical information for what to expect from the train journey, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s no restrictions on luggage with either Railjet or Nightjet.

As long as you can carry your bags onto the train, there’s usually ample rack space at either end of the carriages as well as above the seats for smaller bags.

They may be room for bikes to be taken onboard too, although these will need to be booked in advance and may incur a separate fee.

If you need to arrange luggage storage in either Vienna or Zurich, then I highly recommend LuggageHero – a great left luggage app I’ve used myself across Europe.

All train services running between Vienna and Zurich have toilets, although as is often the case with trains in Europe, it pays to be prepared with your own paper, wipes and antibacterial hand gel in case there’s not any of these things to hand!

Time in Vienna

When it comes to Vienna travel inspiration, I think this post from Two Scots Abroad is super useful.

• 21 Unmissable Things to do in Vienna with a 3 Day Itinerary

I also recommend Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna for budget travellers looking for accommodation in this city – it’s a gem of a find.

Time in Zurich

When it comes to Zurich travel inspiration, I think this post from my friend Vicki over at Make Time To See the World is super useful.

• The Best Things To Do When You Only Have One Day in Zurich

Certainly not the cheapest city in the world, you can however find well-priced and decent accommodation at Zurich Youth Hostel .

Alternative Methods to Travel from Vienna to Zurich

In case you’re wondering whether there are other transport methods apart from the train to get between Vienna to Zurich (or visa-versa), the answer is yes.

Here’s my lowdown on the other alternative methods of doing just that…

Vienna to Zurich by Bus

The Vienna to Zurich bus is definitely a cheap way to travel between these 2 cities, especially if you are booking last minute.

Prices start from under €40 with my euro bus travel fav – Flixbus.

These guys offer services that run either via Munich or Stuttgart, as well as direct night time services – again great for saving on those accommodation costs if you really are travelling on a tight budget.

You’ll miss the views on a bus it must be said and they also take longer – 10 hours for the direct service and up to 16 hours if you go via Germany – but it’s hard to argue with the price!

Buses from Vienna to Zurich both depart from and arrive into the respective city’s central bus stations, meaning they often hit the city traffic.

Although this sounds annoying, it’s actually a welcome relief that they leave centrally when you have to get to the station with all your luggage from your accommodation!

Flixbus has free wifi, free power sockets, as well as free luggage allowances, onboard toilets and their app is great for storing eTickets and checking the location of your bus live.

I’ve used Flixbus as a budget traveller across Europe and can I highly recommend their efficient and safe services.

Get more info and prices for the Vienna to Zurich FlixBus journeys here .

Vienna to Zurich by Air

Although a very short journey, and very bad for your carbon footprint, you can book a flight from Vienna to Zurich.

Direct services take just over 1 hour and start from around €100 without luggage.

After you factor in the time of getting to and from the airport, as well as the check-in time, a flight may not prove any quicker than the train, but some people still prefer to opt for it.

If you want to check prices and departures for flight from Vienna to Zurich, then I highly recommend using Skyscanner as they include budget airlines in their searches and therefore offer some of the best deals around.

Vienna to Zurich by Car

And finally, the last way you may consider travelling from Vienna to Zurich is via 4 wheels.

Either this may involve renting a car and driving the distance yourself, or trying out a carpooling service like BlaBlaCar .

If you want to rent a vehicle then check out Thrifty Car Hire for some of the best deals around.

The pros to renting a car are flexibility and the ability to truly take in the scenery and landscape you’ll pass through.

The cons are the expense, organisation and having to drive in a foreign country.

The drive is also long and likely to take around 9 hours depending on traffic.

Rental a vehicle is altogether better if there’s a group of you, because you can share the costs and the driving duties.

Carpooling is great for budget travellers, as you share lifts with other people driving the same direction – it’s normally a good way to meet locals and keep costs down.

Usually, you’ll also be taken straight to the door of where you are staying, which makes life easy.

Just use common sense and exercise caution in terms of safety as always.

Continuing on Your Journey

Don’t forget that after your time in Zurich (or Vienna), the fun doesn’t have to stop there!

The Slovakian capital of Bratislava can easily be access from Vienna in a few hours and is well worth a few days exploring.

Budapest is also close to Vienna and another amazing city.

Learn about the best things to do in Budapest or how to get from Vienna to Budapest here .

Otherwise, if you’re finishing up in Zurich, then you could head onto either Strasbourg in France or Frankfurt in Germany quite easily via train or bus.

If you’re enjoying a European tour, these are all great cities to call in on and any of the transport methods mentioned above in this post can be used to get there.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

And there it is, my guide to everything you need to know about catching the train from Vienna to Zurich

Have you made this journey?

Which method of transport did you use?

Please leave any information about your journey that may help fellow travellers in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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      Vienna Hbf station guide

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Before you buy your tickets

Take a moment to read these tips for buying European train tickets .  They answer all the usual questions, "Do I need to book in advance or can I buy at the station?", "Can I stop off?", "Are there Senior fares?" and that old favourite, "Should I buy an $800 railpass or €35 point-to-point ticket?".  How far ahead can you buy train tickets?

European train travel FAQ

Which station in vienna.

Vienna Hauptbahnhof is Vienna's modern central station, opened in 2015.  All long-distance & international trains now use this station.  See Vienna Hbf station guide .

Vienna Meidling :  Many trains call at Vienna Meidling before or after calling at Vienna Hbf .  See station guide .

Vienna Westbahnhof is a terminus, once one of Vienna's major stations, now relegated to secondary status by Vienna Hbf.  It's now only served by regional trains & the privately-run Westbahn trains to Salzburg & Munich.  See station guide .

Vienna Franz Josefs Bahnhof is a small terminus for regional trains.  You're only likely to use it if heading for Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic.  See station guide .

Vienna to Salzburg

Vienna to innsbruck, linz, graz & other destinations in austria.

You can buy Austrian Railways ÖBB tickets online at www.thetrainline.com which is quick, easy, international credit cards accepted and it has the advantage over oebb.at that it book both ÖBB and Westbahn trains on the Vienna - Linz - Salzburg route.  There's a small booking fee.

Vienna to Hallstatt

Option 1, Vienna to Hallstatt - the direct route

You can travel from Vienna Hbf to Hallstatt station in as little as 3h18 with one easy change at Attnang-Puchheim.  There's a departure at least every hour, fares start at only €19.90 if you pre-book, that's a cheap Sparschiene fare, specified train only, no refunds, no changes.

The train arrives at Hallstatt station (Hallstatt Bahnhof) on the east side of Halltstatt Lake (Hallstatter See) .  Hallstatt town is on the west side of the lake, so you need to take a small local ferry called the Stefanie from Hallstatt Bahnhof to Hallstatt town, this sails shortly after most train arrivals and takes 15-20 minutes, see www.hallstattschifffahrt.at for the timetable.

Option 2, Vienna to Hallstatt via the UNESCO-listed Semmering Railway - the scenic route

Railjet, Austria's premier train

Railjets link Vienna, Linz, Salzburg & Innsbruck, and Vienna & Graz, as well as running internationally from Vienna to Venice, Zurich, Prague, Budapest.

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Vienna to London

See the London to Austria page for times, fares & how to buy tickets , in either direction.

Vienna to Paris from €49.90

Option 1, Vienna to Paris by Nightjet sleeper train , 3 times a week - the safe, comfortable, time-effective option

Important update 2024:  ÖBB have given up trying to run this train from 12 August to 25 October 2024, due to the amount of trackwork.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has two air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-cars each with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has two couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and two ordinary seats cars.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

It's planned to increase frequency to daily from autumn 2024.

Fares start at €49.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €59.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €89.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 2, Vienna to Paris in a single day - the high-speed daytime option

Leave Vienna Hbf at 09:13 every day, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf (arrive 15:36, depart 16:56 by TGV Duplex ), arrive Paris Est 20:43.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 11:13 daily except Saturdays, change Frankfurt (Main) Hbf (arrive 17:36, depart 18:56 by ICE ), arrive Paris Est 22:52.

It's a day relaxing through the 3 different countries with a good book and a beer or glass of wine.  You travel from Vienna to Frankfurt by luxurious German ICE-T train with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Then from Frankfurt to Paris at up to 320 km/h (199 mph) on a German ICE3 train with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, or a French double-deck TGV Duplex .  Book an upstairs seat for the best views on the TGV, any seat number >60 is upper deck.

Suggested places for a beer or coffee between trains in Frankfurt .

Step 1, book a morning train from Vienna to Frankfurt at int.bahn.de and pay for that ticket.

Option 3, Vienna to Paris using the Vienna-Zurich Nightjet sleeper train - runs every day

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has two air-conditioned double-deck sleeping-cars with compact 1 & 2 bed compartments with washbasin, several larger 1 & 2 bed deluxe compartments with shower & toilet, and several 3-berth compartments with washbasin.  It has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments & ordinary seats.  The sleeper attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  Sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee in the morning, served in your compartment, see the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Fares start at €49.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €59.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €69.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €89.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €139.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Tip:   If you have a sleeper ticket, you can use the ÖBB 1st class lounge at Vienna Hbf before boarding, with tea, coffee, soft drinks & free WiFi.

Buy tickets at either www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards accepted, small booking fee, this keeps all your bookings together in one place) or using the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.

Option 4, Vienna to Paris with overnight stop in Zurich, via the Arlberg Pass - the scenic route, watch the video!

This is the leisurely scenic route from Vienna to Paris via the lovely Arlberg Pass between Austria & Switzerland, see the Arlberg Railway page & watch the video here .  This route takes longer, so is best done in 2 stages with an overnight stop in Zurich.

Buy tickets at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or using the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Crossing the Salzach at Salzburg :  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the left hand side as the railjet crosses the river after leaving Salzburg Hbf .

Cutting across Germany :  From Salzburg to Kufstein the train takes a short cut through Germany without stopping, see the route map here .  All fast Vienna-Salzburg-Innsbruck trains do this, they're still considered Austrian domestic trains even they spend an hour on German territory!  Such a train is called a Korridorzug .

Kufstein :  The train stops at Kufstein, where the castle towers above the station.

Above right, lunch is served.  In railjet first & business class, the steward takes your order & serves lunch at your seat.

Mountains near Innsbruck .  The train calls briefly at Innsbruck Hbf .

River Inn :  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Ötzal & Landeck.

Arlberg Pass :  Above, brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel :  Between St Anton am Arlberg & Bludenz the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel .

Swiss lakes :  Between Sargans & Zurich the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Walensee and then the Zürichsee.

Vienna to Bordeaux , Toulouse, Lourdes, Brittany & northern France

Option 1, via Paris.  You can get to anywhere in France via Paris, although it usually means changing stations by taxi or metro .

The most time-effective way is to take the Nightjet sleeper train from Vienna to Paris, arriving Paris Gare de l'Est in the morning.  Buy tickets as shown in the Vienna-Paris section .

Or you can travel from Vienna to Paris by day & stay overnight.  Hotels near Paris Gare de l'Est with good reviews include the Libertel Gare de l'Est Français (opposite the station, 3-star);  Libertel Gare du Nord Suede (350m from the station, 2-star), OKKO Hotels Paris Gare de l'Est (2-star).

Step 2, take an onward train from...

Paris Montparnasse to Le Mans, Tours, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Biarritz, Lourdes, Brittany.

Paris Austerlitz to Orleans, Limoges, Brive, Cahors

Paris St Lazare to Rouen, Le Havre, Caen, Cherbourg.

How much does it cost?

How to buy tickets

Buy tickets from Vienna to Paris as shown in the Vienna-Paris section above .

Buy tickets from Paris to any French city at www.raileurope.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Booking for French trains opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone.

Vienna to Strasbourg

Option 1, Vienna to Strasbourg by daytime trains

Take a fast ICE-T from Vienna to Frankfurt and a double-deck TGV Duplex to Strasbourg.  There are two daily departures with 1 change:

Leave Vienna Hbf 06:49, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Strasbourg 16:02.

Leave Vienna Hbf 09:13, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Strasbourg 18:48.

Vienna to Regensburg (where we're going to split the booking) starts at 27.90 in 2nd class, €37.90 in 1st class.

Regensburg to Strasbourg starts at 39.90 in 2nd class, €69.90 in 1st class.

There are no through tickets from Vienna to Strasbourg, at least not at affordable advance-purchase prices, so split the booking.  Instead of splitting at Frankfurt, it's better to split the booking at Regensburg, as then you'll be on a through ticket Regensburg-Strasbourg and your connection in Frankfurt will be 100% legally protected by the CIV international conditions of carriage should there be a delay and missed connection.  Just common sense, really.

Step 1, go to the German Railways website int.bahn.de and book from Vienna to Regensburg on the departure you want, 06:51 (ICE 228) or 09:15 (ICE 28).

Step 2, still at int.bahn.de , now book from Regensburg to Strasbourg, leaving Regensburg on exactly the same train, ICE 228 leaving 10:32, or ICE 28 leaving 12:32.

Option 2, Vienna to Strasbourg by Nightjet sleeper train , 3 times a week - the time-effective option

Option 3, Vienna to Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train , onward trains to Strasbourg

Book the Vienna-Zurich sleeper at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, more fiddly, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.

Book from Zurich to Strasbourg at www.thetrainline.com (keeping all your bookings together in one place) or at www.raileurope.com or at the Swiss Railways website www.sbb.ch .  Booking opens 60 days ahead for Swiss trains, up to 4 months ahead for French TER trains.  You print your own ticket.

Vienna to Lyon, Avignon, Aix, Marseille

Option 1, Vienna to Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train, Swiss train to Geneva, regional train to Lyon

Book the Vienna-Zurich sleeper at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, a bit more fiddly, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead and you print your own ticket.

Book Zurich to Geneva at www.thetrainline.com (keeping all your bookings together in one place) or at the Swiss Railways website www.sbb.ch .  Booking opens 60 days ahead for Swiss trains, up to 4 months ahead for French TER trains.  You print your own ticket.

Vienna to Nice , Antibes, Cannes, Monte-Carlo

Option 1, Vienna to Monaco, Nice & Cannes using the Vienna-Milan/Genoa sleeper, then a scenic coastal ride

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Fares start at €59.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €69.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €89.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.

When travelling via Milan, transfer from Milan Porta Garibaldi to Milan Centrale by taxi (€6, 10 minutes) or walk (25 minutes) or local train .

This is a lovely scenic ride along the Italian Riviera between Genoa & Ventimiglia.  There's a refreshment trolley.

Fares start at €19.90 in 2nd class or €26.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

The fare is €9.20, promotional fares of €5 or €7.50 are sometimes available.  2nd class only.

Buy a ticket at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com .

Option 2, Vienna to Monaco, Nice & Cannes with overnight stop in Verona - the scenic route, mountains & coastline

It's a lovely scenic ride along the Italian Riviera between Genoa and Ventimiglia, through Savona and San Remo.  If you'd like a morning in Verona, a 13:02 departure from Verona to France is also available, see the timetable on the Nice to Italy by train page .

Fares start at €38.90 in 2nd class or €59.80 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy a ticket at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com .  You can also book at the French Railways website, www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Option 3, Vienna to Monaco, Nice & Cannes with overnight stop in Venice

Or take the earlier railjet leaving Vienna Hbf at 06:25 & arriving Venice Santa Lucia 14:05 and spend an afternoon in Venice.

The railjet has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It takes the lovely UNESCO-listed Semmering route through the mountains between Vienna & Villach , a real treat.

Fares start at €28.30 in 2nd class, €56.60 in 1st class or €71.60 in business class (premium 1st class).  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

It's a lovely scenic ride along the Italian Riviera between Genoa and Ventimiglia, through Savona and San Remo.  If you prefer, an earlier 07:18 departure from Verona to the South of France is also available, see the timetable on the Nice to Italy page .

The fare is a fixed-price €8, though promotional fares of €5 or €7.50 are sometimes available.  2nd class only.

Buy a ticket at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com , keeping all your bookings in one place, or book this ticket at the French Railways website, www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Vienna to Brussels & Bruges from €59.90

Option 1, Vienna to Brussels by direct Nightjet sleeper train on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays - safe, comfortable, time-effective

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has two air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-cars each with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has two couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Tip:   If you have a sleeping-car ticket, you can use the ÖBB 1st class lounge at Vienna Hbf before boarding, with tea, coffee & free WiFi.

Buy tickets at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own tickets.  Child under 6?  See here .

Option 2, Vienna to Brussels using the Vienna-Cologne Nightjet sleeper train - on days when the direct Vienna-Brussels sleeper isn't running

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The train has several couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Buy tickets for this Nightjet sleeper train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, easy to use, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (on €, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own tickets.

Option 3, Vienna to Brussels in a single day - the daytime option

Leave Vienna Hbf at 06:49, change Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Brussels Midi 17:35,

Leave Vienna Hbf at 09:13, change Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Brussels Midi 19:35.

Tip:   Look for journeys with just 1 change.  If you click Stopovers , enter Frankfurt (Main) Hbf with a length of stay of 20 minutes, this should then show the 1-change options via Frankfurt with few irrelevant multi-change options.

Stopover in Nuremberg or Cologne?

Vienna to Amsterdam from €49.90

Option 1, Vienna to Amsterdam by direct Nightjet sleeper train - safe, comfortable, time-effective

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has several couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

From April 2025 this train is due to become a new generation Nightjet , with new rolling stock including individual mini cabins .

Tip:   If you have a sleeping-car ticket you can use the ÖBB 1st class lounge at Vienna Hbf , with complimentary tea, coffee & WiFi.

Option 2, Vienna to Amsterdam in a day - the high-speed daytime option

Leave Vienna Hbf 09:13, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arriving Amsterdam Centraal 20:29.

Vienna to Luxembourg

Option 1, Vienna to Luxembourg using the Vienna-Koblenz sleeper - the time-effective option

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Koblenz by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:38 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, arriving in Koblenz at 05:45 next morning.  This train is expected to become daily from Autumn 2024.

Step 2, travel from Koblenz to Luxembourg by regional train, leaving Koblenz at 06:03 Mondays-Saturdays arriving Luxembourg 08:23

On Sundays (or if the sleeper is late), leave Koblenz 07:06, change at Trier, arrive Luxembourg 09:23.

The line from Koblenz to Luxembourg is very scenic, much of it along the Moselle valley past river boats and vineyards.  For the best river views, sit on the left hand side when going west from Koblenz (the train leaves Koblenz station heading north before turning west).

The fare is €31.50 in 2nd class or €53.40 in 1st class, fixed price, always available.

Buy this ticket at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Option 2, Vienna to Luxembourg by daytime trains

You can travel from Vienna to Luxembourg in a single day with just 1 change at Koblenz - these are the ones to go for:

Leave Vienna Hbf at 09:13, change at Koblenz Hbf, arrive Luxembourg 20:23.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 11:13, change at Koblenz Hbf, arrive Luxembourg 21:29.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 13:13, change at Koblenz Hbf, arrive Luxembourg 00:34.

You travel from Vienna to Koblenz by superb ICE-T train with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

This train travels along the Rhine Valley from Mainz to Koblenz, past vineyards, river boats, castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock, it's worth making sure you do this bit in daylight.  See the Rails Down the Rhine page .

You then travel on a CFL (Luxembourg Railways) double-deck regional train from Koblenz to Luxembourg, along the Moselle valley which is also a scenic ride at least in summer when it's light, see the photos above.

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.

These fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy tickets at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in & check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.

Vienna to Zurich , Basel, Geneva & Switzerland from €39.90

Option 1, Vienna to Switzerland by daytime train - the direct route through the beautiful Arlberg Pass

These railjet trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, treat this as a chill-out day, especially if you splurge on business class, a real treat.  Railjets travel at up to 230 km/h (143 mph) on new sections of line, and at lower speed on the classic lines, which account for the vast majority of this route.  They call at Linz, Salzburg and Innsbruck , then travel through the Arlberg pass, clipping a corner of Lichtenstein before running alongside the Walensee & Zürichsee lakes into Zurich.  The Arlberg offers some superb scenery, watch the Arlberg Pass video & see the Arlberg Railway page .  It's worth checking sunset times for your date of travel and making sure you do the Innsbruck-Zurich bit in daylight.

Option 2, Vienna to Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train - the comfortable & time-effective option that saves a hotel bill

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has two air-conditioned double-deck sleeping-cars with compact 1 & 2 bed compartments with washbasin, four larger 1 & 2 bed deluxe compartments with shower & toilet, and several 3-berth compartments with washbasin.  It has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments & ordinary seats.  The sleeper attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  Sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee in the morning, served in your compartment, see the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Change in Zurich for destinations all over Switzerland.

Tip:   In the search results you'll see a second sleeper train leaving Vienna around 23:25 and also arriving 08:20.  This is the Hungarian EuroNight (EN) sleeper train from Budapest to Zurich which gets combined with the Vienna-Zurich Nightjet (NJ) in Salzburg.  By all means take this if you need to be in Vienna until late, but otherwise I'd stick with the Austrian Nightjet leaving 21:39 as this has higher quality cars, the option of deluxe sleepers with shower & toilet & a better breakfast.

Option 3, Vienna to Zurich using the Vienna-Feldkirch new generation Nightjet .

If the direct sleeper is sold out or you find fares too expensive, this is a great alternative which is often cheaper.  And you get to experience a new generation Nightjet .  The inexpensive privacy of the new-generation mini cabins is reason enough on its own!

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Feldkirch by new generation Nightjet , leaving Vienna Hbf at 22:55 or Vienna Meidling 23:03, arriving Feldkirch 07:49.

This modern sleeper train offers 1 & 2 bed sleepers all with shower & toilet, 4-berth comfort couchettes, individual mini cabins and ordinary seats, see the new generation Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips & photos .  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers, couchettes & mini cabins.

Wake up to the great scenery of the Arlberg Pass .

Fares start at €59.90 in a mini cabin or 4-berth couchettes, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Step 2, travel from Feldkirch to Zurich by Austrian railjet , leaving Feldkirch at 09:44 and arriving Zurich HB 11:20.

The railjet has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Fares start at €14.90 in 2nd class, €24.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares so book ahead.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in CHF, €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead , you print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

Vienna to Feldkirch by Nightjet sleeper train.  More about new-generation Nightjets

Vienna to Venice, Milan, Florence, Rome & Italy from €29

Option 1, Vienna to Italy by nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective overnight option

From 10 September 2024, the Nightjet to Bologna, Florence & Rome becomes a new generation Nightjet with 1 & 2 bed sleepers all with shower & toilet, 4-berth comfort couchettes, individual mini cabins and ordinary seats, see the new generation Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips & photos .  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers, couchettes & mini cabins.

The Nightjets to Venice and to Milan, Genoa & La Spezia each have an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet.  There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Tip:   You can check the train formation, check car numbers & see in what order cars for different destinations are marshalled using www.vagonweb.cz .  Change cs to English upper left, then click Train formations, scroll down to Austria & click nj .

Tip:   If you have a sleeping-car ticket, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf before boarding, with tea, coffee & free WiFi.

Fares for the new-generation Nightjet start at €59.90 in a mini cabin or 4-berth couchettes, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Fares for the original Nightjets start at €49.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €59.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €69.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €89.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €139.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 2, Vienna to Italy via Venice - the scenic daytime option

Step 1, two smart Austrian  railjet trains link Vienna with Venice every day:

The morning railjet train leaves Vienna Hbf at 06:24 and arrives Venice Santa Lucia at 14:05.

The afternoon railjet train leaves Vienna Hbf at 12:24 and arrives Venice Santa Lucia at 20:05.

These smart modern railjet trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

They travel via the UNESCO-listed Semmering railway through the mountains , a real treat.  More about the journey from Vienna to Venice .

Fares start at €28.30 in 2nd class, €56.60 in 1st class or €71.60 in business class (premium 1st).  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Step 2, travel from Venice to Florence, Rome or Naples by Frecciarossa .

If you take the morning railjet from Vienna, you can leave Venice S. Lucia 15:26 arriving Florence SMN 17:39, Rome 19:25 & Naples Centrale 20:48

If you take the afternoon railjet, stay overnight in Venice and continue next morning.

These high-speed Frecciarossa trains have a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Tip:   You can arrive an hour earlier by changing at Venice Mestre on the mainland, but I wouldn't risk any tight connections on separate tickets and I couldn't pass through Venice without at least a glimpse of the Grand Canal outside Venice Santa Lucia .  In fact, I'd be tempted to book the later 16:26, 17:26 or 18:26 Frecciarossa and have a quick scoot to the Rialto Bridge & Piazza San Marco between trains.

Venice to Florence starts at €19.90 in 2nd class, €29.90 1st class.

Venice to Rome or Naples starts at €29.90 in 2nd class, €39.90 1st class.

Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (keeping all your bookings together in one place) or at www.italiarail.com (easy to use, the small booking fee will be refunded if you email them at [email protected] afterwards) or Italian Railways' own website www.trenitalia.com (requires Italian-language place names, read this advice on using it first ).  Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  It's ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.

Option 3, Vienna to Italy via the Brenner Pass - another scenic daytime route

Leave Vienna Hbf at 06:28, change Innsbruck Hbf , arriving Verona Porta Nuova 14:58 & Bologna Centrale 16:19.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 08:28, change Innsbruck Hbf , arriving Verona Porta Nuova 16:58 & Venice Santa Lucia 18:25.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 10:28, change Innsbruck Hbf , arriving Verona Porta Nuova 18:58 & Bologna Centrale 20:16.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 12:28, change Innsbruck Hbf , arriving Verona Porta Nuova 20:56.

You travel west from Vienna to Innsbruck by fast railjet train , then south by comfortable Austrian EuroCity train through the Brenner Pass to Verona.  One or two trains a day continue to Bologna, one or two a day to Venice.

Step 2, take an onward Frecciarossa from in Verona (or on the 1st & 3rd train of the day, from Bologna) to Florence, Rome & Naples.

If you left Vienna Hbf at 06:28:  Leave Bologna Centrale at 17:27, arriving Florence SMN 18:04, Rome Termini 19:49, Naples Centrale 21:13.

Vienna to Verona, Bologna or Venice starts at €29.90 in 2nd class, €39.90 1st class.

Verona to Florence starts at €19.90 in 2nd class, €29.90 1st class.

Verona to Rome or Naples starts at €29.90 in 2nd class, €39.90 1st class.

First try booking from Vienna to your Italian destination all in one go at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.

Booking for the Austrian trains opens up to 6 months ahead , booking for Italian trains opens up to 4 months ahead , but can vary.

For Austrian trains, you print your own ticket, the Italian trains are ticketless, you print your booking reference or show it on your phone.

Option 4, Vienna to Rome or Naples using the Udine-Rome sleeper - another sleeper option

This option can be cheaper than the direct Nightjet and it gets you to Rome before the start of the business day.

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Udine by smart Austrian  railjet trains leaving Vienna Hbf at 12:24, arriving Udine 18:16.

This is a scenic ride via the UNESCO-listed Semmering railway through the mountains , a real treat.

Fares start at €20.40 in 2nd class, €46.40 in 1st class or €61.40 in business class (premium 1st).  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Have dinner in Udine.

The Intercity Notte has sleeping-cars with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, and 4-berth Comfort couchettes.  There's no restaurant car, so take your own supplies and maybe a bottle of wine, although in the sleepers the attendant will serve you morning tea or coffee, included in the fare.  More about Intercity Notte trains .

Fares start at €39.90 in a 4-berth comfort couchette, €49.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €59.90 in a 2-bed sleeper, €89.90 in a single-bed sleeper. Prices are per person per bed.

Above, an Intercity Notte sleeping-car

Vienna to Trieste

Option 1, Vienna to Trieste by EuroCity train

A EuroCity train called the Emona leaves Vienna Hbf at 07:58 every day, arriving Trieste Centrale at 17:16.

The Emona has comfortable air-conditioned Austrian 1st & 2nd class cars, 1st class is open-plan seating, 2nd class offers a choice of open-plan saloon seating or classic 6-seat compartments.  An excellent Slovenian restaurant car (cash only) & Slovenian seats cars are attached between Vienna and Ljubljana.  Emona is the Roman name for Ljubljana.

It's a lovely scenic ride.  South of Vienna the train travels over the UNESCO-listed Semmering Railway , a real treat, with more great scenery across the border in Slovenia along the beautiful River Sava.  Between Ljubljana & Trieste you'll discover where Prosecco comes from as you pass through Prosecco station, closed to passengers since 2012, see the photo & account of the journey on the Ljubljana-Trieste page .  And in my opinion, Trieste is one of Italy's most under-rated cities, along with Turin.

Option 2, Vienna to Trieste using the Vienna-Venice sleeper train

Vienna to Sicily

Option 1, Vienna to Sicily using the Vienna-Rome sleeper

Option 2, Vienna to Sicily by daytime trains with overnight stop in Rome

Vienna to Barcelona , Madrid & Spain

Option 1, Vienna to Barcelona & Spain via Zurich & Paris - the most time-effective option

This impressive 320 km/h (199 mph) double-deck TGV Duplex has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It's a comfortable & scenic journey - I recommend an upper deck seat for the best views. More about the Paris-Barcelona journey .

Fares start at €39 in 2nd class or €59 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Stay overnight in Barcelona.  The Hotel Barcelo Sants is top choice here, it's part of Barcelona Sants station so easy to use when arriving & departing by train, with great reviews & good feedback from Seat61 users.  See other suggested hotels near the station .

Day 3, travel from Barcelona Sants to any Spanish destination next morning by high-speed train.  Check times & book at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com .  Booking opens 60 days ahead , but this varies as Renfe loads blocks of dates at a time.

For Madrid:   AVE-S103 high-speed trains link Barcelona Sants with Madrid Atocha every hour or two in as little as 2h30 from €35, check times at www.raileurope.com .

For Granada:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 06:45 by AVE S112 high-speed train arriving Granada at 13:10.

For Malaga:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 08:35 by AVE S103 high-speed train arriving Malaga Maria Zambrano at 14:51.

For Cordoba & Seville:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 08:35 by AVE S103 high-speed train arriving Cordoba 13:42 & Seville Santa Justa 14:32.

For Valencia & Alicante:   Euromed trains link Barcelona with Valencia & Alicante regularly through the day, for example one leaves Barcelona Sants at 07:15 Mondays-Fridays arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 10:55 & Alicante 12:45 or at 10:15 every day arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 12:55 & Alicante 14:48.  Fares from €23.

For Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña & Vigo , there's a morning Alvia train to Galicia, see details here .

Option 2, Vienna to Barcelona & Spain with overnight stop in Geneva

The TGV Duplex passes Béziers cathedral, flamingos on the lakes between Montpelier & Narbonne, the historic Fort de Salses right by the tracks before Perpignan, with great views of the imposing 2,784m Mt Canigou as the train rounds the southern end of the Pyrenees, see more about the journey .

Book from Geneva to Barcelona at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, small booking fee) or the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own tickets or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.

Day 2, travel from Barcelona to Madrid, Malaga, Cordoba, Seville, Valencia or Alicante and so on by high-speed train.

A high-speed AVE leaves Barcelona Sants at 18:25, arriving Madrid Atocha 20:55, with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

A fast Euromed train leaves Barcelona Sants at 18:15 arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 21:07 & Alicante 23:40.

For Granada, Seville, Cordoba & Malaga, stay in Barcelona overnight, I recommend the Hotel Barcelo Sants inside the station.  Next morning direct high-speed AVE trains leave Barcelona Sants at 06:45 for Granada and 08:35 for Cordoba, Seville Santa Justa & Malaga Maria Zambrano .

Check times & buy tickets using either www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (both easy to use, in €, £ or $, small booking fee) or Spanish railways own site www.renfe.com (in €, much more fiddly, may reject some overseas credit cards, see advice on using it ) or www.petrabax.com (in $, small mark-up).  You print your own ticket.

Booking normally opens 60 days ahead , but this varies greatly.  Allow at least 60 minutes between trains in Barcelona.

Mt Canigou & the Pyrenees.   Seen from the train and one of the highest peaks in the mighty Pyrenees, the 2,784m (9,137 feet) high Mt Canigou dominates the skyline all the way from Girona to Perpignan.

Vienna to San Sebastian

Option 1, Vienna to San Sebastian using the Vienna-Zurich sleeper - the most time-effective option

Book this train at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone.

Day 2, travel from Hendaye to San Sebastian Amara by Euskotren, every 30 minutes, journey time 37 minutes, fare €2.75.

Simply walk out of Hendaye station and turn right, the little Euskotren station is just 50m away.  Buy a ticket at the Euskotren station from the machines or staffed counter with cash or card and hop on the next half-hourly Euskotren to San Sebastian Amara .  Check Euskotren times at www.euskotren.eus .  More about the Paris to San Sebastian journey .

Option 2, Vienna to San Sebastian with overnight stop in Paris

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone.

Simply walk out of Hendaye station and turn right, the little Euskotren station is in a corner of the main station forecourt.  Buy a ticket at the Euskotren station from the machines or staffed counter with cash or card and hop on the next half-hourly Euskotren to San Sebastian Amara .  More about the Paris to San Sebastian journey .

Vienna to Lisbon & Portugal

Option 1, Vienna to Lisbon via Paris

Stay overnight in Paris .  The Mercure Paris Gare De Lyon is part of the Gare de Lyon station complex, ideal for an early train next morning.  See other suggested hotels near the Gare de l'Est & Gare de Lyon .

Option 2, Vienna to Faro & the Algarve using a bus from Seville

Stay overnight in Barcelona.  The Hotel Barcelo Sants is top choice here, it's part of Barcelona Sants station so easy to use when arriving & departing by train, with great reviews & good feedback from Seat61 users.  Other suggested hotels near the station .

Day 2, travel from Seville to Faro by bus.  Buses run from Seville Plaza de Armas to Faro several times daily, journey time around 3h40, fare around €16-€20.

Buses are run by Damas, Eva-Bus & Alsa amongst others, you can check times & buy tickets for various bus companies all in one place at Omio.com .  You print your own ticket.

Vienna to Andorra

Fares start at €25 in 2nd class or €45 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Paris to Toulouse by TGV Duplex:   This is a TGV Duplex at Paris Gare Montparnasse . Click the images below for larger photos.

TGV Océane cafe-bar (above left) and 2nd class seats (above right).

TGV Océane 1st class seats.  All 1st class seats (except the end ones) rotate to face direction of travel.  There are USB & 2-pin outlets above each drop-down table.

Vienna to Nuremberg, Frankfurt, Cologne & Germany from €27.90

Option 1, Vienna to anywhere in Germany by ICE  - the daytime option

Every hour or two, a luxurious German ICE-T train leaves Vienna Hbf for Regensburg, Nuremberg & Germany

Leave Vienna Hbf 06:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Berlin Hbf & Hamburg Hbf .

Leave Vienna Hbf 07:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & via the Rhine Valley to Koblenz, Cologne. Dusseldorf & Dortmund.

Leave Vienna Hbf 09:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & via the Rhine Valley to Koblenz, Cologne. Dusseldorf & Dortmund.

Leave Vienna Hbf 10:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Berlin Hbf & Hamburg Hbf .

Leave Vienna Hbf 11:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & via the Rhine Valley to Koblenz, Cologne. Dusseldorf & Dortmund.

Leave Vienna Hbf 13:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Hannover & Hamburg Hbf .

Leave Vienna Hbf 15:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & via the Rhine Valley to Koblenz, Cologne. Dusseldorf & Dortmund.

Leave Vienna Hbf 17:13 for Regensburg, Nuremberg, Frankfurt (Main) Hbf .

Change at Nuremberg or Frankfurt for destinations all over Germany. 

ICE trains are a pleasure to travel on, with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICE trains .

Enjoy the scenic ride along the Rhine Valley if going to Koblenz, Cologne, Dusseldorf or Dortmund.

Fares from Vienna to Germany start at €27.90 in 2nd class or €56.90 in 1st class.

You can book from Vienna to anywhere in Germany for an inclusive price.

Option 2, by Nightjet sleeper train - the comfortable overnight option

There are excellent Nightjet sleeper trains from Vienna to Munich, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hannover, Hamburg & Berlin.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 19:38 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (expected to be daily from October 2024), Koblenz 05:45, Cologne Hbf 06:58.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 20:10, arriving Cologne Messe-Deutz 06:53 & Düsseldorf 07:23 en route to Amsterdam.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 20:10, arriving Hannover 06:49 & Hamburg Hbf 08:47.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 22:10, arriving Berlin Hbf 08:15.

Tip:   If you have a sleeping-car ticket, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf , with complimentary refreshments & free WiFi.

Vienna to Berlin from €37.90

Option 1, Vienna to Berlin by ICE train - the daytime option

Stopover in Nuremberg?

In Nuremberg you'll find a pleasant old town, a railway museum and of course the thought-provoking Party Rally Grounds (take tram 9 from outside Nuremberg Hbf, it's well worth the trip).

Option 2, Vienna to Berlin by railjet train departing 13:10 - another comfortable daytime option

A swish railjet train called the Vindobona leaves Vienna Hbf at 13:10 every day, arriving Berlin Hbf 21:54.

This modern Czech railjet train has 2nd class, 1st class, business class (premium 1st class, just 6 luxurious seats at one end of the train) and a restaurant car.  There's free WiFi & power sockets at all seats.  In 1st & business class a steward takes food orders from the restaurant menu and serves them at your seat.

Although it takes a bit longer than the direct ICE train in option 1, this train is routed via Prague & Dresden, and in summer when it's light the scenery along the Elbe river valley between Prague & Dresden more than makes up for that, see the scenery photos & video for the Prague to Berlin part of the journey .

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class, €69.90 in 1st class or €84.90 in business class (premium 1st).

Option 3, Vienna to Berlin by nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective overnight option

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead and you print your own ticket.

Option 4, Vienna to Berlin by day trains with overnight stop in Prague from €37.90

Vienna to Hamburg

Option 1, Vienna to Hamburg by daytime train:

Three direct ICE trains now link Vienna & Hamburg every day.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 06:13, arriving Hamburg Hbf 16:00.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 10:13, arriving Hamburg Hbf 19:51.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 13:13, arriving Hamburg Hbf 21:55.

ICE trains are a pleasure to travel on, with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Treat yourself to lunch and an Erdinger Weissbier in the restaurant car - in 1st class class a steward takes orders and serves you at your seat.  More about ICE trains .

Fares start at €27.90 in 2nd class or €56.90 in 1st class.

Option 2, Vienna to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper

From the timetable change on 10 December 2023 this train is a new generation Nightjet with 1 & 2 bed sleepers all with shower & toilet, 4-berth comfort couchettes, individual mini cabins and ordinary seats, see the new generation Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation .  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  A light breakfast is included in the sleepers, couchettes & mini cabins.

Vienna to Munich from €27.90

Option 1, Vienna to Munich by railjet train - the most frequent & fastest option

Option 2, Vienna to Munich by Westbahn - up to 6 per day, cheaper at short notice, great double-deck trains

In April 2022, private operator Westbahn started operating up to 6 daily trains from Vienna Westbahnhof to Munich Hbf .

Their swish modern double-deck trains compete with the ÖBB's railjet trains, with 1st class, comfort class and standard class.  There are power sockets at seats & free WiFi.  There's no restaurant car, but self-service areas have vending machines for tea & coffee and snacks.  In WESTbahn first class, food & drink orders are taken and served at your seat.

Advance-purchase fares start at €23.99 if you book ahead.

Buy tickets at www.thetrainline.com , this shows both railjets and Westbahn trains.

Option 3, Vienna to Munich by sleeper train - the time-effective option

The daytime journey only takes 4 hours so most people travel by day.  But to save both daytime hours and a hotel bill, there's also a sleeper although even by night it only takes 7 hours.

The sleeper train Kalman Imre leaves Vienna Hbf at 23:28 and arrives Munich Ost at 05:50.

This is a Hungarian sleeper train en route from Budapest to Munich, it has an air-conditioned Hungarian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, and an air-conditioned Hungarian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments.  See the Hungarian sleeping-car video & see photos of the sleeper & couchettes on this train in the Budapest to Munich section .

Fares start at €49.90 with couchette in 6-berth, €59.90 with couchette in 4-berth, €89.90 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper, or €129.90 with a bed in a single-bed sleeper.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Vienna to Passau

Many river cruises start from Passau in Germany, just over the border from Austria.

Superb German ICE-T trains run from Vienna Hbf to Passau Hbf in around 2h16 with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Vienna to Copenhagen , Gothenburg & Stockholm

Option 1, Vienna to Copenhagen in a single day.  Overnight stop, on to Gothenburg & Stockholm next day.

The ICE train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Fares & booking are shown in step 2.

Step 2, travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train , leaving Hamburg Hbf at 16:53 & arriving Copenhagen at 21:34.

Fares from Vienna to Copenhagen start at €49.90 in 2nd class or €79.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares so book ahead.

Book from Vienna to Copenhagen at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Stay overnight in Copenhagen .  The friendly Astoria Hotel is a 1930s design classic right outside Copenhagen station main entrance, see photos & information here .  Other hotels near the station with good reviews include the Nimb Hotel (5-star luxe), Radisson Blu Royal Hotel (5-star), Axel Guldsmeden (4-star), Andersen Boutique Hotel , First Hotel Mayfair (3-star), Hotel Ansgar (3-star), City Hotel Nebo (2-star).

Option 2, Vienna to Stockholm using the Hamburg-Stockholm sleeper train - the time-effective option

The ICE train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Always allow at least an hour when connecting with a sleeper train you don't want to miss.  Have dinner in Hamburg, see suggested restaurants near Hamburg Hbf .

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Fares start at €44.90 with a couchette in 6-berth, €69.90 with a couchette in 4-berth, €79.90 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper or €164.90 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per bed, fares vary like air fares so book ahead.

Book tickets at the Swedish Railways website www.sj.se .

Option 3, Vienna to Copenhagen, Malmö, Gothenburg or Stockholm with an overnight stop in Hamburg

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Hamburg by ICE train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 13:13 and arriving Hamburg Hbf at 21:55. 

This comfortable ICE-T train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  By all means take an earlier train if you like for a leisurely evening in Hamburg.

Book at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Day 2, travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train , leaving Hamburg Hbf at 08:50 & arriving Copenhagen at 13:34.

If you're only going as far as Copenhagen , book from Hamburg to Copenhagen from €27.90 in 2nd class or €59.90 in 1st class at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Tip:   If you're only going as far as Copenhagen, it can be cheaper to book from Vienna to Copenhagen as one transaction, clicking Stopovers , entering Hamburg Hbf with length of stay 11 hours.

Day 2, travel from Copenhagen to Sweden:

For Malmö, travel from Copenhagen to Malmö Central by Öresund train , these run every 20-30 minutes, taking 39 minutes.  Book from Hamburg to Malmö as one transaction at int.bahn.de .

For Gothenburg, travel from Copenhagen to Gothenburg Central by Öresund train , these run every hour, journey time 3h50.  Book from Hamburg to Gothenburg as one transaction at int.bahn.de , Gothenburg is listed as Göteborg Central.

Book from Hamburg to Stockholm as one transaction from €56.90 at int.bahn.de , looking for the morning departure with 1 change marked EC, X2 (X2000s are shown as X2 on bahn.de).

Step 2, Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train .  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo .  Larger photo .

Option 4, Vienna to Copenhagen by daytime trains with an overnight stop in Munich

Day 2, travel from Munich to Copenhagen, leaving Munich Hbf at 08:20, change at Hamburg Hbf , arriving Copenhagen 19:34.

Or there's a later departure leaving Munich Hbf at 10:21, change at Hamburg Hbf , arriving Copenhagen 21:34.

How much does it cost? 

Vienna to Munich starts at €27.90 in 2nd class, €56.90 in 1st class.

Option 5, Vienna to Copenhagen & Malmö using the Vienna-Hamburg sleeper train

From the timetable change on 10 December 2023 this train is a new generation Nightjet with 1 & 2 bed sleepers all with shower & toilet, 4-berth comfort couchettes, individual mini cabins and ordinary seats, see the new generation Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips & photos .  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers, couchettes & mini cabins.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead and you print your own ticket.

Fares start at €27.90 in 2nd class or €56.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

If you're going to Malmö or Gothenburg , travel from Copenhagen to Malmö or Gothenburg by Öresund train , these run several times each hour to Malmö taking 39 minutes, and once an hour to Gothenburg taking 3h50.  Book from Hamburg to Malmö or Gothenburg as one transaction at int.bahn.de (Gothenburg is listed as Göteborg Central).

Step 1, Vienna to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train .  Above, a new generation Nightjet ready to leave.  More about new-generation Nightjets .

Vienna to Oslo & Norway

Option 1, Vienna to Oslo with overnight stop in Copenhagen

Day 1, travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train , leaving Hamburg Hbf at 16:53 & arriving Copenhagen at 21:34.

Day 2, travel from Copenhagen to Oslo, leaving Copenhagen at 07:30, change at Gothenburg Central, arriving Oslo Sentral 15:47.

Earlier & later departures are available, see the Copenhagen-Oslo timetable & how to buy tickets .

Option 3, Vienna to Oslo with overnight stop in Hamburg

Day 2, travel from Hamburg to Gothenburg by EuroCity train & Öresund train :

Leave Hamburg Hbf 08:50, arriving Copenhagen 13:34.  Leave Copenhagen at 14:30, arriving Göteborg Central at 18:20.

The EuroCity train from Hamburg to Copenhagen has power sockets at all seats & a refreshment trolley.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .  The Öresund train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg has power sockets & free WiFi, but bring your own food & drink.

Have an early dinner in Gothenburg.

Fares from Hamburg to Gothenburg start at €56.90.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy a ticket from Hamburg to Gothenburg at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log on at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Tip:   If you're clever, you may be able to book a through ticket all the way from Vienna to Gothenburg using int.bahn.de .  To get the overnight stop in Hamburg, click Stopovers and enter Hamburg Hbf with a suitable length of stay, say 10 hours.  Adjust departure time and length of stay to get the departure from Brussels you want and the 08:50 departure from Hamburg next morning.

Tip:   If you don't see any affordable fares (which may be the case if you want 1st class), split the booking:  First book Hamburg to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de .  Then buy a ticket from Copenhagen to Goteborg Central at www.oresundstag.se .

Day 2, travel from Gothenburg to Oslo by Norwegian train, leaving Göteborg Central at 20:10 and arriving Oslo Sentral at 23:47.

Option 3, Vienna to Oslo via the Kiel-Oslo cruise ferry - the most comfortable way to Oslo

Money-saving tip:   It's considerably cheaper to book on Color Line's Norwegian website www.colorline.no in Norwegian Krone, for example a €274 fare becomes the equivalent of €164.  You'll need to use Google Chrome translation to translate the Norwegian.  You are still able to enter a UK or other European address and contact details.  Feedback appreciated .

Step 1, Vienna to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train & regional train to Kiel.  Above, a new generation Nightjet.  More about new-generation Nightjets .

Step 2, sail from Kiel to Oslo with Color Line.  It's just a 6 minute walk across from Kiel Hbf to the Color Line terminal.  There's a lift up to a connecting walkway which takes you to the ferry terminal.  If you've booked one of Color Line's 5 star suites, check in at the desk rather than the machines to be directed to a VIP lounge with free tea, coffee, juice, snacks & WiFi.  You'll have priority boarding & free access to the on-board spa.  Photos courtesy of Philip Dyer-Perry except where shown.

Above left, cabin with TV, shower & toilet, luxury suites are also available.  Above right, restaurant with a view.

Restaurant and lounge on the Kiel-Oslo ferry.

Wake up to lovely scenery sailing up Oslo Fjord.

The Color Line ferry, arrived at Oslo.  Above right, there's a transfer bus to Oslo Sentral, photo courtesy of Andrew Leo.

Vienna to Helsinki

Option 1, Vienna to Helsinki using a Finnlines ferry from Germany - the easiest option

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Hamburg, leaving Vienna Hbf at 10:13, arriving Hamburg Hbf 19:51 (times may vary).

Day 1, transfer from Hamburg Hbf to the Travemünde ferry terminal by train+bus and sail from Travemünde to Helsinki with Finnlines, see the Hamburg page for full details of the transfer, check-in arrangements & ferry crossing .

Finnlines sail from Travemünde in northern Germany to Helsinki every day, boarding at 23:30, sailing at 02:45 (the exact time varies) and arriving at Helsinki's Hansa Terminal in Vuosaari at 09:15 2 nights later (Day 3 from Munich).

Check sailing dates, times & book the ferry using the Direct Ferries website or at www.finnlines.com .

Book onward trains within Finland at the Finnish Railways website www.vr.fi .

Option 2, Vienna to Helsinki by train to Stockholm, then ferry

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Stockholm as shown above .

Vienna to Prague from €14.90

Option 1, Vienna to Prague by railjet

Option 2, Vienna to Prague by competing RegioJet train

Vienna to Český Krumlov from €12

The Austrian regional express (REX) train from Vienna to České Velenice is a comfortable City Shuttle train using ÖBB's double-deck air-conditioned Weasel trains .  2nd class only, sit upstairs for the best views!

At České Velenice you simply get off and walk a few metres across the same platform to the waiting Czech regional train for České Budejovice.  If the Austrian train is a few minutes late the Czech train will wait for it.

The Czech train from České Velenice to České Budejovice is also 2nd class only, modern & air-conditioned.  Both Austrian & Czech trains have plenty of luggage space & toilets.  Bring your own food & drink.

If you're happy to commit to a specific departure, advance-purchase fares from Vienna to Ceský Krumlov start at €12.

If you want to stay flexible, a Standard-Ticket (Local Trains in Czech Republic) from Vienna to Ceské Budejovice costs around €38.10, good for any train on this route that day, unlimited availability so it cannot sell out.  You need to pay separately for the GWTR local train from Ceské Budejovice to Ceský Krumlov, this costs 40 Koruna (€1.55), bought from the GWTR kiosk in the main hall at Ceské Budejovice station or on board the train.

How to buy tickets - if you want the cheapest price

If you are happy committing to a specific departure, go to the Czech Railways website www.cd.cz .

Search for Vienna to Ceský Krumlov.  Booking opens 3 months ahead .  In the results, look for journeys via České Velenice & České Budejovice.

You'll also see journeys from Vienna Hbf via Linz (Donau) & Ceské Budejovice, this is a longer way round but the trains are faster so it only takes a little longer.  The trains have 1st class on this route.  However, it's less frequent and more expensive, so I'd stick with the direct route via České Velenice unless the main Vienna Hbf is significantly more convenient for where you're staying.

You'll see prices in a green button.  If you are happy committing to a specific departure, click one of those.  You'll get a First Minute advance-purchase fare for the Vienna-České Budejovice trains plus a OneTicket fare to cover the GWTR local train between České Budejovice & Ceský Krumlov, all booked as one easy transaction.

You can also buy flexible full-price tickets at www.cd.cz , these are called International ticket , good for any train that day.  But this is over €50, for flexible tickets it's cheaper to use www.oebb.at as I'll explain now:

How to buy tickets - if you want to stay flexible

If you want to remain flexible and not commit to a specific departure and/or want to buy on the day, go to the Austrian Railways www.oebb.at and run an enquiry from Vienna (just plain Vienna ) to Ceský Krumlov.

In the search results, look for journeys from Vienna Franz Josefs Bahnhof with 2 changes marked REX, Os and then a greyed out train symbol.  It'll specify via Ceské Velenice and Ceské Budejovice underneath.

Oebb.at will show fares including advance-purchase Sparschiene tickets, but it will say Ticket for section only because ÖBB can't sell tickets for the GWTR local train from Ceské Budejovice to Ceský Krumlov.  The fares shown are only for Vienna to Ceské Budejovice.

Click on the Sparschiene fare and other fares appear.  To remain flexible, select Standard-Ticket (Local Trains in Czech Republic) for around €36 .  You can either carry on and buy this online or buy it at the station on the day, fixed-price, it cannot sell out.

Vienna to Brno from €7

Vienna to ostrava.

Several times a day, direct EuroCity trains link Vienna Hbf with Ostrava, journey time 2h50.

Check times at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .

The final destination of these trains is usually Warsaw, carriages are usually supplied by Polish Railways, comfortable and air-conditioned, and there's usually a restaurant car and power sockets at seats.  You can see the train formation, on-board facilities and photos if you go to www.vagonweb.cz and search for the train number once you have found that at www.oebb.at .

Fares start at €19.90.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead

Book at the www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (booking opens up to 6 months ahead) or at the Czech Railways website www.cd.cz (where booking usually opens 90 days ahead).  You print your own ticket.

Vienna to Bratislava for €11.60

Regional express trains link Vienna Hbf with Bratislava Hlavna every hour in 1h09, see the Vienna to Bratislava page .

Important:  If travelling between 4 March & 14 December 2024, see the update here .

Vienna to Poprad-Tatry & Kosice

This excellent air-conditioned Slovakian Intercity train has a Slovakian restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Book this train at the Slovakian Railways website www.zssk.sk .

Booking opens 60 days ahead .  Switch it to English by clicking EN top right.  It's a little fiddly, but it works.  You print your own ticket.

Vienna to Budapest from €9

Advance-purchase Sparschiene fares start at €19.90.

Vienna to Sighisoara, Brasov & Bucharest from €58

Option 1, Vienna to Sighisoara, Brasov & Bucharest by Dacia Express sleeper train - safe, comfortable, time-effective & scenic

The Dacia Express leaves Vienna Hbf at 19:42 arriving in Simeria 07:10, Sighisoara 09:13, Braşov 12:36, Ploeşti 14:28 & Bucharest Nord 15:06.

It has a modern air-conditioned Romanian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 berth compartments with washbasin, plus several deluxe compartments with en suite shower & toilet.  It has a Romanian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.

A Hungarian restaurant car is attached in the evening, treat yourself to dinner with wine.  A Romanian bar car is attached in the morning between Arad & Bucharest, serving drinks & snacks.  There's wonderful almost Alpine scenery through the Carpathian mountains between Brasov and Bucharest, a real treat.

The Dacia Express also conveys a portion from Vienna to Cluj Napoca, also leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:42 and arriving Cluj Napoca at 10:47. This portion has a Romanian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.

Fares start at €59 with a couchette in a 6-berth compartment, €69 with a couchette in a 4-berth compartment, €79 with a bed in a 3-berth sleeper, €99 with a bed in a 3-berth sleeper or €159 with a bed in a single-berth sleeper all to yourself.  All per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .

Booking normally opens 90 days ahead .  In the search results, look for the direct train marked D with no changes.  If it says not available you can't book it (booking may not have opened yet), but if a Sparschiene fare is shown you can.

You can also book this train in either direction at the Romanian Railways website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro .

Click EN top right for English.  Booking opens 60 days ahead .  For Vienna type Wien , for Bucharest type Bucuresti.   It can book seats, couchettes or sleepers.  For Austria to Romania journeys you print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone. 

Tip:   Prices might be cheaper than on oebb.at, so check both sites!

Option 2, Vienna to Romania using the sleeper train Ister from Budapest to Brasov & Bucharest - a good alternative

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Budapest by EuroCity train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 14:42 and arriving Budapest Keleti 17:19.

The EuroCity train has a restaurant car.  By all means take an earlier train and spend a day or an afternoon exploring Budapest.

Fares start at €19.90 in 2nd class, €29.90 in 1st class, €44.90 in business class (premium 1st).  Fares vary like air fares, book ahead.

Step 2, travel from Budapest to Romania by sleeper train , leaving Budapest Keleti at 19:10, arriving Brasov 08:50, Bucharest Gara de Nord 11:30.

This comfortable sleeper train is called the Ister , the ancient name for the river Danube.  It has an air-conditioned Romanian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, a Romanian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  There's no restaurant car so take a picnic and bottle of wine.  Enjoy the alpine scenery through the Carpathian mountains between Brasov & Bucharest.

Fares start at €39 with a couchette in 6-berth, €46 with a couchette in 4-berth, €69 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper, €84 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper or €162 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

You can also book at the Hungarian Railways website www.mav-start.hu , see my advice on using it .

For Bucharest type Bucuresti .  You show your ticket in the MAV app on your phone.  Tip:   If it won't offer tickets for a 2-bed or 1-bed sleeper, book 3 tickets in a 3-bed sleeper to get sole occupancy.

Option 3, Vienna to Romania with an overnight stop in Budapest - if you prefer day trains & hotel to sleepers

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Budapest by railjet , leaving Vienna Hbf at 18:42 and arriving Budapest Keleti at 21:19.

The swish Austrian railjet train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  By all means take an earlier train and spend a pleasant afternoon or evening in Budapest.

Fares start at €19.90 in 2nd class or €29.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Stay overnight in Budapest .  Top choice for an inexpensive stay next to Budapest Keleti is the Intercity Hotel just across the square in front of the station.  Also try the Royal Park Boutique Hotel , the inexpensive Baross City Hotel across the road or the Elit Hotel two minutes walk away. Of course, if you want to push the boat out, the luxurious Corinthia Hotel opened in 1896 was almost certainly the inspiration for the 2014 film The Grand Budapest Hotel , 20 minutes walk or 9 minutes by taxi from Keleti station .  More hotels in Budapest .

Day 2, travel from Budapest to Transylvania & Bucharest by daytime train.

A comfortable air-conditioned InterCity train called the Traianus leaves Budapest Keleti at 07:10 and arrives Bucharest Nord at 00:31. 

Another InterCity train leaves Budapest Keleti at 09:10 via Simeria & Sibiu arriving Brasov 22:42.

Fares start at €26.30 in 2nd class or €40.50 in 1st class.

These are advance-purchase fares with limited availability.

Book these trains at the Hungarian Railways website www.mavcsoport.hu , see my advice on using it . 

Booking opens 60 days ahead .  You show the ticket in the MAV app on your phone.

You can also book at the Romanian Railways website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro .  Click EN top right for English.  Booking opens up to 90 days ahead .  For Bucharest type Bucuresti.   You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Vienna to Bled, Ljubljana & Slovenia

Option 1, by direct EuroCity train Emona

Fares start at €23.30 in 2nd class or €32.60 in 1st class.

Option 2, Vienna to Bled & Ljubljana with a change of train

Leave Vienna Hbf at 08:24, change at Villach, arriving Lesce-Bled 13:50 & Ljubljana 14:31.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 10:24, change at Villach, arriving Lesce-Bled 15:48 & Ljubljana 16:58.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 12:24, change at Villach, arriving Lesce-Bled 17:50 & Ljubljana 18:32.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 14:24, change at Villach, arriving Lesce-Bled 19:50 & Ljubljana 20:34.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 16:24, change at Villach, arriving Lesce-Bled 21:47 & Ljubljana 22:38.

Vienna to Zagreb , Split, Dubrovnik & Croatia

Option 1, Vienna to Zagreb & Croatia, every day all year round

Other departures are available:

Leave Vienna Hbf at 08:24, change at Villach, arriving Zagreb 17:10.

Leave Vienna Hbf at 12:24, change at Villach, arriving Zagreb 20:45. 

These trains also take the UNESCO-listed Semmering route .

Fares start at just €29.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.

For Split , stay overnight in Zagreb and take a train from Zagreb to Split next day, a lovely scenic ride.

The fare is only around €20 in 2nd class.  See the Trains from Zagreb page for details .

Buy tickets at the Croatian Railways website www.hzpp.hr , though it's not usually a problem to get places on the day.

For Dubrovnik , take a train to Split then a bus from Split to Dubrovnik.  Buses leave every hour or even every half hour from Split bus station taking between 3h45 and 4h35 to Dubrovnik bus station.  There are various operators, the fare is between €13 & €17.  Buy at the bus station on the day, it's easy.

Suggested hotels in Zagreb & Split .

Option 2, Vienna to Split by direct sleeper train (for bus to Dubrovnik), 3 times per week in summer - recommended

A EuroNight sleeper train links Vienna with Split 3 times a week in summer.

It runs on Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays from 3 May to 2 October 2024.

It leaves Vienna Hbf at 18:05 and arrives in Split at 08:10 next morning.

The train starts its journey in Bratislava, with three comfortable air-conditioned Slovakian sleeping-cars with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, a Slovakian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments and ordinary seats.  You can see details of train formation & carriages if you go to www.vagonweb.cz switch it to English, click train formations and search for train number EN 1153.

Fares start at €29.90 in a seat, €49 in a couchette, €79.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €99.90 in a 2-bed sleeper, €149.90 in a single-bed sleeper.

Book at either www.thetrainline.com (easy, in €, £ or $, small booking fee, international credit cards no problem) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead , you print your own ticket.

For Dubrovnik, take a bus from Split .  There are buses every hour or even every half hour, run by several companies.  Journey time between 3h45 and 4h35, fare around €13-€17.  Buy a ticket at the bus station in Split.

Option 3, Vienna to Split using the Budapest-Split sleeper train Adria , 3 times per week in summer - if option 2 is fully-booked or expensive

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Budapest by railjet train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 13:40 and arriving Budapest Keleti 16:19.

Step 2, travel from Budapest to Split by sleeper train Adria.

The Adria runs on Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays from 18 June to 30 September 2024.

It leaves Budapest Keleti at 18:45 and arrives in Split at 08:46 next morning.

The Adria is a pleasure to travel on.  It has two comfortable air-conditioned Hungarian sleeping-cars (with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin) and three or four couchette cars with 4 & 6 bunk compartments.  There are no seats cars.

It has a Hungarian restaurant car serving dinner and breakfast - start your day in Croatia with a cooked breakfast of ham & eggs!  The restaurant car usually used on this train is an older wood-panelled type which used to be part of the Hungarian governmental train, see the photo below.

Fares start from €49 with couchette in 6-berth, €59 with couchette in 4-berth, €64 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper, €79 with a bed in a cosy 2-bed sleeper or €119 in a single-bed sleeper.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

You can book it at the Hungarian Railways website www.mavcsoport.hu , see my advice for using it .  Booking opens 60 days ahead .

Option 4, Vienna to Croatia using the Regiojet sleeper from Bratislava to Rijeka - summer only, 3 per week

Step 1, travel from Vienna Hbf to Bratislava Hlavna by regional train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:16 and Bratislava Hlavna at 20:23.

By all means travel earlier and have dinner in Bratislava, these trains leave every hour at xx:17 minutes past each hour, journey time 1h09.  See the Vienna to Bratislava page .  Transfer to Bratislava Nove Mesto by local train or taxi.

Step 2, travel from Bratislava to Rijeka by Regiojet sleeper train, 3 times a week from 16 June to 30 September 2023.  2024 dates to be confirmed.

It leaves Bratislava Nove Mesto (4km from Bratislava Hlavna ) at 21:26 on Tuesday, Friday & Sunday, arriving Rijeka at 10:40 next morning.

This excellent train has 4-berth couchettes & seats.  The couchette fare includes all necessary bedding and a light breakfast.   There's excellent on-board at-seat service from an extensive menu, with complimentary bottled water and excellent Illy coffee.  There's free WiFi.

Open-access operator Regiojet introduced this train in 2020 and it was the surprise runaway success of that year, with every 500-seat train averaging 90% occupancy and carrying tens of thousands of passengers on holiday.  It came back for summers 2021 & 2022, expanded to serve Zagreb, Rijeka and Split, with bus connections to other resorts along the Croatian and Montenegrin coast.  It's back again in 2023, but without a portion for Split.

The fare is €22.90 in a seat or €29.90 with a couchette in a shared 4-berth compartment, or €89.60 for sole occupancy of a private couchette compartment for 1 to 4 people.

Buy an e-ticket online at www.regiojet.com .  Booking is a breeze, it even allows you to choose your exact place from a carriage plan.

Vienna to Belgrade & Montenegro

Option 1, Vienna to Belgrade with overnight stop in Zagreb

This is a round-about route, but the direct Vienna-Budapest-Belgrade route is currently blocked for several years by major track rebuilding.

Step 1, travel from Vienna to Zagreb by EuroCity train Croatia, leaving Vienna Hbf at 15:58 and arriving Zagreb at 22:20.

The Croatia has a restaurant car serving snacks, meals, beer & wine so treat yourself to dinner, and at least in summer enjoy the fabulous scenery along the beautiful UNESCO-listed Semmering route through the mountains between Vienna & Graz .

Fares start at €29.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (easiest to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  You print your own ticket.

Stay overnight in Zagreb .  There are good hotels just a stone's throw from the station, I suggest the historic Esplanade Hotel , the Palace Hotel or Central Hotel , all near the station with good reviews.

Step 2, travel from Zagreb to Belgrade by train, leaving Zagreb at 11:04 and arriving Novi Beograd 18:04 & Belgrade Centar at 18:12.

This train was suspended due to Covid-19 and remains suspended in 2024.

This train has air-conditioned Serbian carriages with comfortable 2nd class seats, but no 1st class.  There's no catering, so bring a picnic and some beer or wine.

Option 2, Vienna to Belgrade with overnight stop in Budapest - slower, but by train all the way

Day 1, travel from Vienna Hbf to Budapest Keleti in 2h40 on any train you like, see the timetable here .

Transfer by taxi, tram or metro to Budapest Nyugati .

Stay overnight in Budapest .  The highly-recommended 3-star  T62 Hotel is across the road from Budapest Nyugati and a traveller's favourite.  The cheaper 3-star Star Inn Budapest Centrum is few minutes walk away.  The 4-star Radisson Blu Béke Hotel is one block away.

Day 2, travel from Budapest to Belgrade as shown on the Budapest-Belgrade page .

You leave Budapest Nyugati at 05:50, change at Szeged, Subotica & Novi Sad, arriving Belgrade Centar at 20:27.

All direct Budapest-Belgrade mainline trains remain suspended until at least 2025 while the line is modernised for 200 km/h operation.  However, in 2024 it's possible for the determined traveller to reach Belgrade on local trains via this somewhat round-about route.  It's a long but interesting journey, with time for lunch in Subotica.

Serbian local train of the type used between Szeged & Subotica and Subotica & Novi Sad.  They are air-conditioned, 2nd class only, with toilets.  Courtesy of @AndyBTravels , DiscoverByRail.com .

Vienna to Sofia

Option 1, Vienna to Sofia via Bucharest

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Budapest by railjet train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 11:40 and arriving Budapest Keleti 14:19.

The swish Austrian railjet train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  By all means take an earlier train if you'd like more time in Budapest, perhaps for lunch.

The Muntenia has 4 & 6-berth couchettes and ordinary seats.  A Romanian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments is attached from Arad (depart 21:04) to Bucharest.  There's no catering car, so bring your own food & drink.

Fares start at €40 with a couchette in 6-berth or €47 with a couchette in 4-berth.  These are limited-availability advance-purchase fares

Book this at the Romanian Railways international website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro/en .  You print your own ticket.

The fare is around €34.

Option 2, Vienna to Sofia via Belgrade

Not currently viable while Zagreb-Belgrade, Budapest-Belgrade and Belgrade-Sofia trains remain suspended.

Vienna to Warsaw from €42.90

Option 1, Vienna to Warsaw by daytime train - the leisurely daytime option

The EuroCity Sobieski leaves Vienna Hbf at 06:10 and arrives Warsaw Gdanska at 13:45.

The EuroCity Polonia leaves Vienna Hbf at 14:10 and arrives Warsaw Centralna at 21:34.

Option 2, Vienna to Warsaw by sleeper train - safe, comfortable, time-effective

Fares start at €53.50 in a 3-bed sleeper, €68.20 in a 2-bed sleeper, or €126.70 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per bed as berths are sold individually.  Prices vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 3, Vienna to Warsaw using the Bratislava-Warsaw sleeper - often cheaper than option 2 and you get to bed earlier!

These regional express trains run every hour, why not leave earlier and have dinner in Bratislava?  More about Bratislava to Vienna trains .

The fare is €11.60, fixed-price, unlimited availability.

Buy at the station on the day or at www.thetrainline.com or www.oebb.at .

Booked via Czech Railways, the base fare is around €74, plus one of the following supplements:  Couchette in 6-berth €14, couchette in 4-berth €21, bed in 3-berth sleeper €24, bed in 2-berth sleeper €34, bed in single-berth sleeper €72.

Buy tickets at the CD (Czech Railways) website www.cd.cz .

Vienna to Krakow from €32.90

Option 1, Vienna to Krakow by daytime train - morning departure

An air-conditioned EuroCity train called the Porta Moravica leaves Vienna Hbf at 08:10 and arrives Krakow Glowny 13:56.

Option 2, Vienna to Krakow by daytime train - afternoon departure

From 10 December 2023 there's a second direct daytime EuroCity train between Vienna & Krakow called the Danubius , leaving Vienna Hbf at 16:10 and arriving Krakow Glowny at 21:13.  It has a through car to Wroclaw, arriving 21:30.

The Danubius has one Austrian 1st class car with open-plan seating and two Polish 2nd class cars with 6-seat compartments.  Refreshments are available.  It has a Czech through carriage to Wroclaw, 2nd class only.

Step 2, Vienna to Warsaw or Krakow by EuroCity train.  This is the Danubius to Krakow at Vienna Hbf on a winter afternoon.  That's the Czech through car to Wroclaw nearest the camera, the Polish cars to Krakow are ahead of it.  Courtesy of Helmut Uttenthaler.

Most 2nd class cars have compartments like this with side corridor & 6-seat compartments.

Option 3, Vienna to Krakow by sleeper train - the time-effective option

Fares start at €43.50 in a 3-bed sleeper, €58.20 in a 2-bed sleeper, or €116.70 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per bed as berths are sold individually.  Prices vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 4, Vienna to Krakow using the Bratislava-Krakow sleeper - often cheaper than option 2 and you get to bed earlier!

Vienna to Vilnius , Riga, Tallinn

Day 1, travel from Vienna Hbf to Warsaw by EuroCity train, as shown in the Vienna to Warsaw section .

Or take the overnight sleeper & spend the following day exploring Warsaw.

Vienna to Lviv, Kyiv & Ukraine

Option 1, Vienna to Lviv & Kyiv by direct sleeping-car, still running in spite of the war.

Introduced in 2017, this train consists of 2 or sometimes 3 direct Ukrainian sleeping-cars attached to a Vienna-Zahony EuroCity train.  The sleeping-cars have comfortable 1, 2 & 3 berth compartments with washbasin, see the photos below.  At Chop on the other side of the border the through sleeping-cars are jacked up to have their wheelsets changed from European standard gauge (4'8½") to Russian gauge used in Ukraine (5').

Vienna to Kyiv costs €89.60 in a 3-berth sleeper, €99.60 in a 2-berth sleeper or around €170 in a single sleeper.

Booking for these direct sleeping-cars opens 20 days ahead, but tickets sell out a day or two after booking opens, so book as soon as the booking period opens.  If the ÖBB website says Ticket not available within 20 days it means fully-booked , if it says that more than 20 days ahead it means booking isn't open yet.

Tickets can now be printed out so you can book in either direction.  However, you must print the ticket, it cannot be shown on a mobile device.

Option 2, Vienna to Lviv using the Vienna-Lviv daytime connection, useful when the direct sleeping-cars are full

 Option 3, Vienna to Lviv & Kyiv using the Vienna-Chop daytime train then sleeper, useful when the direct sleeping-cars are full

This train has comfortable 2nd class 4-berth sleepers.  Bring your own food & drink.

 Option 4, Vienna to Lviv & Kyiv with overnight stop in Krakow - comfortable, easily booked online & usually has availability

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Krakow by EuroCity train Danubius , leaving Vienna Hbf at 16:10 and arriving Krakow Glowny at 21:13.

The Danubius has one Austrian 1st class car with open-plan seating and two Polish 2nd class cars with 6-seat compartments.  Refreshments are available.

Fares start at €32.90 in 2nd class or from €42.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy tickets at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .

Leave Krakow Glowny at 05:05, change at Przemysl (arrive 07:33, depart 09:35), arriving Lviv 12:27 & Kyiv 19:57.

Krakow to Lviv starts at €24.80, Krakow to Kyiv starts at €44.80.  The fare varies by date, check your date online.

Vienna to Moscow , St Petersburg & Russia

Vienna to athens & greece.

Option 1, Vienna to Athens & Greece via ferry from Italy - currently the most practical route

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Bologna by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:18 & arriving Bologna Centrale at 05:36.

From 10 September 2024, this train becomes a new generation Nightjet with 1 & 2 bed sleepers all with shower & toilet, 4-berth comfort couchettes, individual mini cabins and ordinary seats, see the new generation Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips & photos .  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers, couchettes & mini cabins.

Day 2, travel from Bologna to Bari by Frecciarossa , leaving Bologna Centrale at 09:45 arriving Bari Centrale at 15:27.

The train has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It's a pleasant run along the scenic Adriatic coast.

In Bari, transfer from station to port, see map of Bari showing station, port entrance, check-in building & Superfast Ferries berth .

You can walk the 1.9 km from the station to the port entrance in 25 minutes, a stroll through Bari's pleasant old town, see correct walking map from the station to the port entrance gate - if Google tells you any different, trust me, not Google!

Alternatively, bus 50 runs from Bari Centrale station to the road outside the port gate roughly every 40 minutes.  A taxi will take 10 minutes.

Day 2, sail overnight from Bari to Patras in Greece with Superfast Ferries.

The ferry sails from Bari at 19:30 on Mondays-Saturdays, arriving Patras at 13:00 next day (Day 3).

On Sundays the ship sails at 13:30, too early to make connections from Milan.

You can check sailing times & dates at using the Direct Ferries website or at www.superfast.com or www.ferriesingreece.com .

You should check in at the Superfast desk on the ground floor of the cruise terminal (Terminal Crociere) at Bari port with passport & booking number to get your boarding pass, ideally 3 hours before departure in summer, although in practice 2 hours or even 1½ hours is normally fine.

You then walk 500m from check-in to the ferry, board the ferry via the foot passenger gangway at the stern and head up the escalator to the main lounge and reception desk to get your cabin key.

The ship is comfortable, with self-service restaurant, lounge, bar and sun deck.  You can book a deck place (a good & cheap option in summer if you have your own sleeping bag), a reclining seat or various types of cabin, all with private shower & toilet.  Strolling the decks in the morning sun as the ship cruises past the islands of Cephalonia and Ithaca is the nicest part of the trip, and it's a wonderful way to arrive in Greece.

Day 3, travel from Patras to Athens by Greek Railways bus/train combo.

Corfu:  The Bari-Patras ferry calls at Corfu on certain dates in summer.  It calls at Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland on all departures year-round.  If you can't find a direct ferry to Corfu, book the ferry from Bari to Igoumenitsa, then take the local ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu with Kerkyra Lines ( kerkyralines.com ).  These sail half a dozen times a day, crossing time 60-90 minutes, fare around €5-€10.  Buy a ticket at kerkyralines.com or when you get to Igoumenitsa.

Option 2, Vienna to Athens & Greece by train through the Balkans - currently suspended

Vienna to Istanbul & Turkey

Option 1, Vienna to Istanbul via Budapest & Bucharest - 3 nights, 2 days, currently the most viable route

Day 1, travel from Vienna to Bucharest overnight on the sleeper train Dacia Express as shown above .

Day 2, stay overnight in Bucharest.  The Hotel MyContinental Bucuresti Gara de Nord is walking distance from the station, inexpensive and gets great reviews.

Day 3, travel from Bucharest to Istanbul by sleeper train as shown on the Bucharest to Istanbul page , arriving in the morning on Day 4.

Option 2, Vienna to Istanbul via Belgrade & Sofia

Take a train from Vienna to Sofia as explained above .

Stay overnight in Sofia.

Then take overnight sleeper train from Sofia to Istanbul as explained on the as shiown on the Trains from Sofia page .

Railbookers custom-made tours

If you just want to buy train tickets at the cheapest price, book online as shown on this page.  However, if you want someone to sort out your whole trip for you, arranging all your trains, hotels and transfers, and to look after you if anything affects your arrangements, the people to talk to are Railbookers.  Railbookers can tailor-make a train trip around Europe to your own specification.  Just tell them what you want and they'll advise you on the best trains, routes & hotels.  They get good reports and a lot of repeat business!  They now have offices in the UK, North America and Australia.

  UK call 0207 864 4600, www.railbookers.co.uk .

  us call free 1-888-829-4775, see website .,   canada call free 1-855-882-2910, see website .,   australia call toll-free 1300 971 526, see website .,   new zealand call toll-free 0800 000 554 or see website ., hotels in vienna, hotels near vienna hbf, hotels close to the sights, backpacker hostels.

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

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Related Content

How to take the rail journey from Venice/Venezia to Vienna/Wien

Share this journey with a friend..., venezia / venice / venedig to wien / vienna by train.

This journey by train from to Venice/Venezia to Vienna/Wien is near the top of Europe's must do journeys by train lists. The two beautiful cities are connected by top tier day and night trains and the route between them is stunning!

Routes you can take to go from Venezia / Venice / Venedig to Wien / Vienna

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:

Looking for connections, route information, option 1: travel during the day, station guides.

Travel Time (approx)

Travel info.

2 x trains per day

Is the journey from Venice to Vienna direct? Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route

Is the journey scenic? It is exceptional - check the 'Journey Information' for photos and videos.

What other tourist locations are along the route from Venice to Vienna? Villach and Klagenfurt

When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Wien Hbf ? Before 17:40 daily Source = European Rail Timetable

How easy is it to travel on from the station in Vienna? The U-bahn line 1 links Wien Hbf to the heart of the city. Lines S1, S2 and S3 of the city’s commuter train (S-Bahn network) all provide a useful link from Wien Hbf to the eastern areas of the city centre. See the Station Guide for more information, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.

When is the usual approximate latest departure from Venezia S. Lucia? Before 16:00 daily

How easy is it to get to the station in Venice? Santa Lucia station has a fantastic location on the Grand Canal and multiple boat bus routes arrive at the piers directly in front of the station - see the Station Guide for more information and easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.

Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for this train? Yes, and they can be purchased from a choice of booking agents - see below.

How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for this train? Typically up to 4 months ahead of the travel date; though this period of time can be shorter, particularly when searching for journeys more than three months ahead during October and March.

What are the child ticket terms for this train? Up to four children aged 15 and under can travel for free when accompanied by a fare paying Adult.

Does the ticket for this train include assigned seats? Yes - See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train.

Do rail pass users need to book reservations for this train? Yes - See the rail pass reservation guide for info on the multiple booking options.

Is catering available on this train? Yes, there is a bar/bistro car and a restaurant car. See the Train Guide in the Journey Information.

What else is good to know about Italian rail travel? Check out the guide to travelling by train in Italy .

What else is good to know about Austrian rail travel? Check out the guide to travelling by train in Austria .

Purchase Tickets

First time bookers using the Omio mobile apps (Find them at www.omio.com/apps) can save 10% on purchasers of up to €100 by using the promo code SEP24 Valid for bookings by September 30th, 2024 (11:59 pm CET).

Omio is an online ticket agency which offers tickets for rail journeys in France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy and Spain.

The three key advantages of using Omio are

• it offers prices in multiple currencies
• it usually offers price comparison with other modes of travel including flights and buses
• when visiting Europe, you can book journeys in multiple countries in one transaction.

The disadvantage of booking with Omio is that it often adds a booking fee to the final price; therefore when it does so without offering a price advantage, SMTJ doesn't tend to offer Omio as a booking option.

ShowMeTheJourney earns a small commission on Rail Europe ticket sales. It can be a particularly good option when booking international journeys with connections and for travellers who don't reside in western Europe. Use the easy options on its home page if you will be booking tickets with a railcard: Or purchasing rail pass reservations.

Other Ticket Providers

OBB is the national rail operator and its booking service offers journeys by express trains within Austria, as well as international journeys which don't involve making a connection outside of Austria.

It pays off to book online, as the discounted 'Sparscheine' tickets are only ever made available on the website, and when making international journeys to and from Austria, these Sparscheine tickets tend to be cheaper. OBB can offer particularly good value for money when travelling with children on international rail journeys, but something to watch out for when travelling between Austria and Germany on daytime trains, is that reservations are an optional extra; but if you book 1st class tickets with the Germany railways website DB, the reservations are complimentary.

OBB often takes a unique approach to its booking path, but a key thing to keep in mind is that the first price you will see for any journey is that of a Second Class seat. The costs of upgrading to first class, a reservation, or a sleeping cabin etc, is then added to this price.

Italia Rail Guide

Italiarail lives up to its name by selling tickets for rail journeys within Italy and the core feature of its service is that it is primarily designed to be used by international visitors to Italy. So the English translations of place names are used when looking up journeys and the terms and conditions for using each type of ticket are clearly explained. It also clearly points out the additional costs of upgrading to other classes and types of tickets while spelling out the additional benefits of doing so. Though Italiarail will charge a booking fee, typically of around €3.

The Early Bird service

Italiarail has launched an 'early bird' pre-booking service for journeys by Frecce trains. Tickets can be booked up to a year ahead of travel at a flat-rate price per route, before the tickets have been released for sale by Trenitalia. If when they are placed on sale, the price is cheaper than what you have already paid to Italiarail, it will automatically refund the price difference. Conversely, if the price is more expensive, you won't be charged the price difference. You can also have the peace of mind of securing your seat(s) on the Frecce train(s) when you are first planning a trip. If before the tickets are placed on sale, you decide to change your plans, you can request a refund; but once the tickets are released for sale, you will then be bound by the terms and conditions of the ticket(s) you have booked.

Trenitalia Guide

Trenitlalia is the national rail operator in Italy and in addition to its cheaper types of ticket ; it also typically offers other discounts available to non-Italians, which include:

• Group Offers , provides for a discount of up to 50% when 3-5 Adults travel together.
• Family Offer for when groups of 2 - 5 people are travelling together and at least one of the party is a aged 11 and under.
• The Children Free Offer is available for journeys by Frecce trains , when groups of 2 - 5 people are travelling together and at least one of the party is a aged 15 and under. Those aged 15 and under travel for free, but the Adults will need to purchase full price 'Base' tickets.

Happy rail Guide

Happy Rail is a Netherlands rail ticket agency which sells tickets for both national and international journeys within a range of countries including Belgium France, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland.

HappyRail doesn't charge booking fees in the conventional sense, but if you're not Dutch you can expect to pay additional transaction fees, which will be added to the total cost. That's because the most common form of online payment used in The Netherlands is 'iDEAL' and HappyRail doesn't charge a transaction fee for 'iDEAL' payments, but only Dutch residents can sign up to 'iDEAL'. Other forms of payment include Visa debit cards will incur a fee.

Travel Information

These trains are usually scheduled to depart from Venezia S. Lucia station daily at around 09:55 and 15:50.

Final Destination: Wien Hbf

These trains also call at: Villach (connect trains to Salzburg and buses to Ljubljana), Klagenfurt , Leoben , Bruck an der Mur (connect for Graz), Wiener Neustadt and Wien Meidling.

Check the location of your final destination in Wien/Vienna.

If you're heading to the south west corner of the city, or the area on the ring road around the Opera House - then it's likely that you'll have a faster and more convenient journey if you leave the train at Wien-Meidling station.

Wien Meidling is connected to line U6 of the Vienna Metro , which serves the western side of the city centre.

These trains also call at Venezia Mestre after they depart from Venezia St Lucia, which is the station in the historic heart of Venice/Venezia.

If you will be heading from historic Venice/Venezia take care when booking online, or using an agent, that your ticket is valid FROM Venezia St Lucia. Booking agents can enter Venezia to Wien into their systems and see that journeys from Venezia Mestre are faster AND assume that you want to join the train there.

This is a direct journey

You will be travelling on one of these trains....

Journey Features

Good to know.

Take the first departure of the day in order to see the stunning scenery as the train travels over the Semmering Pass.

(all of the videos were taken from a train travelling in the opposite direction)

Great news, the addition of a morning departure from Venezia/Venice means that this fabulous journey can be enjoyed in full by daylight when heading north to Austria!

If you take the afternoon departure or the alternative overnight train , you will miss out on a fabulous travel experience.

The journey begins with a wow moment, as the train heads out across the Venetian lagoon when it departs from Santa Lucia station - the best of the views here are on the right.

For the next 90 mins the there is nothing of note to see, but try to stay awake. The next highlight of the trip comes as the train leaves Udine behind and threads through the jagged peaks of the Dolomites on its way to Tarviso - though much of this part of the route is in tunnels.

Between Villach and Klagenfurt, from the right, there are some beautiful views over the lake named the Worthersee.

Then between Klagenfurt and Leoben comes arguably the most pleasing part of the journey with frequent  sweeping vistas over valleys to be enjoyed from both sides of the train.

After Bruck an der Mur the train heads towards the star attraction of the journey -  the passage over the The Semmering Railway

The best of the views between Bruck and Wiener Neustadt are on back the right, but keep your eyes peeled for when the train crosses the viaducts - between the frequent tunnels. And in summer the foliage obscures many of the most spectacular views on this part of the train ride.

This journey, in the opposite direction, is featured on the The Daily Telegraph's list of Best Rail Journeys to take in 2018 .

Book early and save: Yes

Online bookings open: 6 months ahead of the travel date*

*3 months ahead on Trenitalia

When looking more than 5 months ahead on OBB, if you only see 1st class tickets available for sale , check back a few days later to see if the 'Sparscheine' 2nd class tickets have been added to the booking service.

Reservations:

These Railjet trains are operated by Austria's national rail operator OBB, but unlike the other Raijet services, seat reservations ARE now mandatory on these trains when travelling from (and to) Italy.

If you book tickets online, the seat reservation should be automatically included.

Using rail passes on the Venice to Vienna trains:

The rules are different to the norm when using a rail pass to travelling within Austria by these trains. Rail pass users must pay a supplement of €15 in 1st class and €10 in 2nd class. However, there are two elements to the rail pass supplement; the seat reservation and the rail pass surcharge for travelling on an express train in Italy.

You can pay a single charge, which covers both elements, by using the Eurail reservation service or the InterRail reservation service - though you will be charged a €2 booking fee per reservation, per person

Paying the 'supplement' at a Trenitalia ticket desk is a more expensive option, as in addition to the supplement costs you will also have to pay a €2 booking fee for using the ticket desk + the seat reservation will cost an additional €3.50; as per the info on this page .

OR if you book the 'Tarvisioverkehr Pass1' supplement on the OBB website, the instructions are here, you will need to also select the seat reservation and pay the additional €3.50 cost.

But there is an option for avoiding all rail pass fees when taking this route.

Option 2: travel overnight

10hr 50min (approx)

1 x train per night

The train is usually scheduled to depart Venezia S. Lucia at 21:05 and and arrive in Wien Hbf shortly before 08:00.

The train also calls at: Linz*, St-Polten, and Wien-Meidling

*It takes a different route to the daytime trains , which don't travel via Linz.

On departure from Venice, the train heading for Wien will be attached to another train heading to Munchen. There is no need to be overly concerned about this as your reservations will be in a coach/car heading to Wien/Vienna. Though any info on the departure screens for the NJ train to Munchen will also apply to this train.

If you're a landscape lover, then if you can make the timings suit, this is a route on which we recommend taking the first train of the day from Venice to Vienna - it's a journey packed with wow moments.

Online bookings open: 6 months ahead of the travel date

The train conveys:

- Compartment Seats (Sitzwagen) - Couchettes (Liegewagen); 4 berths AND 6 berths - Standard sleeping cars (Schlafwagen) with 3 bed, 2 bed and 1 cabins - Deluxe sleeping cars with showers (Schlafwagen) with 3 bed, 2 bed and 1 cabins

The first price you will see on the OBB ticketing site will be for the compartment seats.

Click the train details for more info including the rail pass reservation fees:

Rail pass users must reserve before boarding these trains.

You can now book rail pass reservations without paying booking fees on the OBB website (OBB operates these trains).Though the process for doing so isn't particularly obvious, hence this step-by-step guide .

OR reservations can be arranged and paid for at Venezia S.Lucia station, or at the reservation desks at major Italian stations (ideally do this when you first arrive in Italy on your itinerary).

Making the rail pass reservation in advance is particularly recommended if you will be traveling between June and September. If you wait until arriving in Venezia/Venice to reserve, your first choice of accommodation may have sold out.

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Most Scenic Rail Journeys In India

Image: X/@AshwiniVaishnaw

India boasts of some of the world's most scenic rail journeys, where trains wind through lush valleys and steep inclines, offering breathtaking views

Here is a list of six most scenic rail journeys in india, a journey to kutch is considered one of the most picturesque rail journeys in india with namo bharat rapid rail, nilgiri mountain railway, a renowned unesco world heritage site, also has one of the most beautiful railway routes in india, banihal to budgam in jammu and kashmir is a route filled with snow-clad mountains and flawless skies, a journey through dudhsagar falls in goa is also spectacular, a feast of rich biodiversity, lush forests and one the country's tallest waterfalls., kappil in thiruvananthapuram also offers a scenic rail route with its tranquil shores and coconut groves, the kalka-shimla route is a ride through the breath-taking himalayan vista on the historic unesco heritage toy train, check more stories.