Traveling from Vienna to Salzburg by train is fast, scenic, and convenient. Here’s everything you need to know:
- Distance: 192 miles (309 km)
- Travel Time: As fast as 2 hours 22 minutes
- Operators: ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) and Westbahn
- Daily Departures: 38 trains, from early morning to late evening
- Ticket Prices: Starting at $21.90 (€19.90) with advance booking
- Key Features: Free Wi-Fi, spacious seating, power outlets, and stunning views of the Austrian countryside and Alps
Quick Comparison of Train Operators
| Feature | ÖBB Railjet | Westbahn |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 2h 22m to 2h 53m | About 2h 28m |
| Classes | Economy, First, Business | Standard, Comfort, First |
| Starting Price | $21.90 (€19.90) | $21.99 (€19.90) |
| Amenities | Restaurant car, at-seat dining | Vending machines, at-seat service |
| Stations | Vienna Hauptbahnhof | Vienna Westbahnhof |
Both operators provide reliable service, comfortable seating, and breathtaking scenery. Book tickets online (ÖBB or Westbahn websites) or through apps, and consider advance booking for the best fares. Enjoy a smooth and scenic journey!
Route Basics: Vienna to Salzburg
Journey Length and Time
The train journey from Vienna to Salzburg spans 192 miles (309 km) across Austria. Travel times depend on the type of train you choose, with the quickest option taking just 2 hours and 22 minutes.
Here’s a quick look at travel times by train type:
| Train Service | Travel Time | Daily Departures |
|---|---|---|
| ÖBB High-speed | 2h 25m | 18 |
| EuroCityExpress | 2h 39m | 1 |
| ÖBB Intercity | 2h 54m | 2 |
| ÖBB Comfort Night | 3h 05m | 1 |
With 38 trains running daily from early morning to late evening, scheduling is flexible. The first train departs Vienna at 5:04 AM, while the last leaves at 11:28 PM. Morning hours are particularly busy, offering 15 departures before noon. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride and plenty of picturesque views.
Stops and Views
Heading west, the train route takes you through Lower Austria, Upper Austria, and the Salzburg region, showcasing Austria’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Some highlights along the way include:
- Rolling countryside in Lower and Upper Austria
- Stunning lake views, including glimpses of Mondsee
- A view of Salzburg’s historic fortress as you approach the city
The trains make stops at key stations, balancing convenience with efficient travel times. This ensures you can take in the scenery while enjoying a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Vienna to Salzburg via Westbahn
Train Companies and Service Types
Two main railway operators connect Vienna to Salzburg, each offering different travel experiences. Here’s a look at what each operator provides.
ÖBB Railjet Services
Railjet trains offer three travel classes to suit different needs:
| Class Type | Features | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Free WiFi, power outlets | $21.90 |
| First Class | Extra legroom, at-seat dining | $32.90 |
| Business | Premium seating; add $16.50 to First Class fare |
These trains also include a restaurant car accessible to all passengers, with at-seat dining available in First and Business Classes. Departing from Vienna’s main station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), Railjet’s journey time ranges from 2 hours 22 minutes for express services to 2 hours 53 minutes for regular ones. It’s a fast and comfortable way to enjoy the scenic route.
Westbahn Services
Westbahn operates modern double-deck trains, leaving approximately every 30 minutes. They also offer three classes:
| Class Type | Features | Price Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Regular seating (2+2 layout) | From $21.99 |
| Comfort | Extra legroom, table seating | +$8.90 on Standard fare |
| First Class | 2+1 seating, at-seat service | +$27.90 on Standard fare |
Westbahn trains depart from Vienna Westbahnhof, with a travel time of about 2 hours 28 minutes. While there’s no restaurant car, vending machines provide snacks and drinks, and First Class passengers enjoy at-seat service.
Both Railjet and Westbahn offer free WiFi and power outlets at every seat, making the trip comfortable and convenient. Trains from both operators arrive at Salzburg’s main station, providing easy access to the city center.
Tickets and Fares
Ticket types and flexibility options match the range of services offered by ÖBB and Westbahn.
Economy and First Class Options
Both ÖBB and Westbahn provide economy, first-class, and upgraded ticket options. Here are the base fares in US dollars:
| Operator | Class Type | Advance Purchase | Full-Flex Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| ÖBB | Economy | From $21.90 | $65.60 |
| ÖBB | First Class | From $32.90 | $128.00 |
| ÖBB | Business | First Class + $16.50 | First Class + $16.50 |
| Westbahn | Standard | From $21.99 | $65.90 |
| Westbahn | Comfort | Standard + $8.90 | Standard + $8.90 |
| Westbahn | First | Standard + $27.90 | Standard + $27.90 |
Seat reservations are available for $3.30 and are highly recommended during busy travel periods.
Ticket flexibility is determined by whether you choose fixed or open fare options.
Fixed vs. Open Tickets
The choice between fixed and open tickets impacts how flexible your travel plans can be.
- Fixed-date tickets are the most budget-friendly but come with restrictions:
- ÖBB’s Sparschiene tickets start at $21.90. These are train-specific, non-refundable, and must be booked in advance.
- Westbahn’s Superpreis tickets, starting at $21.99, have similar conditions.
- Open tickets (Standardpreis) offer more freedom:
- Valid for any train on the chosen route, they can be used up to one year from the purchase date.
- They allow same-day travel without needing advance booking and include free changes and cancellations.
- However, this flexibility comes with a higher price tag.
Available Discounts
Both operators also provide discounts to help travelers save on fares.
- Children’s Discounts: Kids under 6 travel for free, and children under 15 can get reduced rates (specific conditions vary by operator).
- Advance Booking: Secure your tickets up to 6 months in advance to take advantage of discounts of up to 65% with Sparschiene and Superpreis tickets compared to full-flex fares.
- Special Offers: Westbahn offers a Comfort upgrade for an additional $8.90, while ÖBB allows you to add Business Class to any First Class ticket for $16.50, providing premium seating and enhanced services.
How to Buy Tickets
Buying from Train Companies
You can get tickets directly from the train operators’ websites:
- ÖBB: Head to www.oebb.at to book Sparschiene and Standardpreis tickets. Major credit cards are accepted.
- Westbahn: Visit www.westbahn.at to purchase Superpreis and standard tickets.
Both sites let you choose your travel class, add seat reservations, and download tickets as PDFs or mobile versions after purchase.
Online Ticket Sellers
The Trainline (www.thetrainline.com) is a convenient platform that compares options from both operators. Note that it includes a booking fee.
| Booking Platform | Features | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|
| ÖBB Website | No booking fees, Sparschiene fares from $21.90 | Credit/debit cards, PayPal |
| Westbahn Website | No booking fees, Superpreis fares from $21.99 | Credit/debit cards, PayPal |
| Trainline | Combines all operators, price comparison | Credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay |
These online options work alongside station counters and apps, giving you flexibility in how you buy your tickets.
Station Sales and Apps
If you’re traveling on short notice:
- Station Ticket Counters: Both Vienna and Salzburg main stations have staffed ticket offices and self-service machines. Standardpreis tickets start at $65.60 for ÖBB and $65.90 for Westbahn.
- Mobile Apps: Both operators offer free apps for easy ticket purchases:
- ÖBB’s app features real-time updates and mobile ticketing.
- Westbahn’s app allows quick purchases, though onboard purchases may include a surcharge.
Always buy your ticket before boarding, whether it’s a mobile ticket, PDF, or one from the station. These options make it easy to find the best method for your travel needs.
Station Information
Vienna Main Station Guide
Vienna’s main station, Wien Hauptbahnhof, is a bustling hub that serves around 145,000 passengers every day [3]. Opened in 2015, it includes the BahnhofCity mall, which offers plenty of amenities for travelers.
Here’s what you’ll find:
| Area | Services Available |
|---|---|
| Ground Level | Ticket offices, travel info desk, first-class lounge |
| Lower Level | Luggage storage, currency exchange |
| Throughout | Over 20 food outlets, restrooms, ATMs |
| Transport | Direct airport trains (every 30 minutes), U1 metro line, 12 S-Bahn lines |
Platform Layout: Long-distance trains, including those heading to Salzburg, usually depart from platforms 3-12. Electronic displays help you locate your train carriage using zones labeled A-E [4][7].
Navigation Tips: To get to your platform from the Südtiroler Platz entrance, plan for about 10 minutes. Check the departure boards roughly 20 minutes before your train leaves. Elevators and escalators are available for step-free access [4].
Salzburg Main Station Guide
Salzburg Hauptbahnhof combines a modern design with the city’s historic charm. Renovated between 2009 and 2014, the station is just 15 minutes from Salzburg’s famous historic center [5].
Getting to the City Center:
- Walking: Enjoy a 20-minute stroll to the Old Town.
- Public Transit: Trolleybus lines 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6 will get you there in about 10 minutes.
- Taxi: A taxi stand is conveniently located to the right of the main entrance [6].
Station Amenities: Next to the station, the Forum1 shopping mall includes restaurants, shops, and grocery stores [5]. For those driving, the Bahnhofsgarage offers underground parking [6].
Transit Connections: Südtiroler Platz links you to several transportation options:
- S-Bahn suburban trains
- ÖBB and DB long-distance trains
- Local trolleybus lines
- Postbus regional services [6]
If you’re heading to Salzburg Airport, trolleybus line 1 provides a direct connection in about 19 minutes [6].
Ways to Save Money
Early Booking Benefits
Planning ahead can make a big difference when traveling from Vienna to Salzburg. By booking ÖBB’s Sparschiene tickets early, you can snag some of the lowest fares available compared to standard ticket prices [2].
Here’s a quick breakdown of Sparschiene ticket options:
| Ticket Type | Features | Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Sparschiene Österreich | Standard domestic travel | Up to 6 months ahead |
| Sparschiene Komfort | Includes seat reservation | Up to 6 months ahead |
| Sparschiene Nightjet | Night train service | Up to 6 months ahead |
Keep in mind that Sparschiene tickets are non-refundable and must be used on the specific train you book [2]. To find these deals, check the ÖBB Ticketshop or app and stay flexible with your travel dates and times [2].
Rail Cards and Passes
Frequent travelers can save even more with the ÖBB Vorteilscard. This card offers discounts year-round, making it a great option for those who often travel between Vienna and Salzburg [8]. Here are the available options:
| Card Type | Ideal For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vorteilscard Classic | Regular travelers | Discounts on routes across Austria |
| Vorteilscard Family | Family travel | Special rates for family members |
| Vorteilscard Senior | Travelers aged 62+ | Discounts tailored for senior passengers |
Special Offers
ÖBB frequently rolls out promotions to help you cut travel costs even further. Sparschiene tickets, for instance, are priced based on demand and availability, so you can often find great deals by comparing prices at different times [2].
- Travel off-peak: Departing during less busy times often means lower prices.
- Consider first-class deals: Occasionally, first-class Sparschiene tickets are available at discounted rates, offering extra comfort without breaking the bank.
- Use the price calendar: The ÖBB Ticketshop’s price calendar is a helpful tool for spotting the cheapest travel dates [2].
While Sparschiene tickets offer excellent savings, they do require you to commit to a specific train in advance [2]. By combining these strategies, you can keep your travel budget in check and enjoy a smooth journey.
Travel Comfort Tips
Baggage and Train Features
Modern trains like ÖBB Railjet and Westbahn are designed with passenger comfort in mind, offering a range of amenities to enhance your journey. Both services include connectivity options to keep you online throughout the ride [1].
- ÖBB Railjet: Features a full-service restaurant car. First and business class passengers can enjoy at-seat service for added convenience.
- Westbahn: Provides vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks, and first-class passengers benefit from at-seat service [1].
When it comes to luggage, both services allow flexibility. There are no strict weight limits, but passengers are responsible for handling their own bags [9]. Here’s a quick guide to storage options:
| Location | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overhead Racks | Small/medium bags | Keep valuables within sight |
| Entrance Door Racks | Large suitcases | Conveniently near seating areas |
| Between Seat Backs | Medium bags | Available on some train models |
| Seating Area Stacks | Various sizes | Located inside passenger compartments |
To keep your belongings safe, store essential items like passports, laptops, and cameras in a daypack. Wheeled luggage is a smart choice for easier movement through stations and train aisles [9]. Lastly, ensure you have all necessary travel documents to avoid any hiccups.
Required Documents
Before boarding, double-check that you have the following:
- A valid ticket (digital or printed)
- Photo ID with proof of age
- Discount cards, if applicable (e.g., Vorteilscard)
For tickets purchased online or via the ÖBB app, you can simply show them on your phone, tablet, or laptop. However, if you’re traveling internationally, remember that PDF tickets need to be printed on A4 paper. This rule doesn’t apply to domestic routes within Austria, where digital tickets are sufficient.
If you have extra time between connections, most major stations offer luggage storage options, including lockers and staffed offices [9]. This can be especially helpful if you plan to explore nearby attractions before continuing your trip.
Next Steps
First, choose your departure station. ÖBB trains leave from Vienna Hauptbahnhof or Vienna Airport, while Westbahn trains depart from Vienna Westbahnhof. Both services arrive at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, which is conveniently located near the city center.
When booking, use the official websites. ÖBB offers Sparschiene fares starting at $21.90, and Westbahn has Superpreis tickets starting at $22.00. You can also add an optional seat reservation for about $3.30. Checking these options will help you find the best deal for your trip.
Before confirming your booking, check the ÖBB website for any scheduled track work or service changes [10].
Keep your ticket ready – whether digital or printed – along with a photo ID and any discount cards you may have if you’re traveling within Austria.
Lastly, plan to arrive early at your departure station. Both Vienna Hauptbahnhof and Vienna Westbahnhof have excellent transit connections, making it easy to find your platform and start your journey stress-free. Follow these tips to make your trip from Vienna to Salzburg smooth and enjoyable.
