Train service
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
The Interrail Global Pass is generally valid for international and domestic travel within Europe, including travel from Vienna to Salzburg. However, it is not valid for residents of the country in which travel is taking place, so if the traveler is a resident of Austria, this pass would not be applicable. The Interrail One Country Pass for Austria would allow for train travel between Vienna and Salzburg if the traveler is not a resident of Austria. The Eurail Pass can be used by non-EU residents for travel between Vienna and Salzburg, as it is designed for those who are not residents within the EU.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Salzburg by train, you'll likely find yourself at the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, the main railway station. From here, getting around the city using local transportation is quite convenient. Salzburg does not have a metro system, but it does have a well-organized network of buses. You can take the Salzburg StadtBus, which is operated by Salzburg AG, and covers all parts of the city. The lines are numbered, and you can catch buses directly from the Hauptbahnhof. For more remote areas, you might use regional buses that connect the outskirts with the city center. Taxis are readily available at designated taxi stands outside the train station and throughout the city. Salzburg also offers ridesharing services with companies like Uber, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxi services. If you prefer a bicycle, there are bike rental services, including rail and rent options at the Hauptbahnhof. Simply follow the city’s well-marked bike lanes to explore Salzburg's scenic routes comfortably on two wheels.
Onward connections
Salzburg is a well-connected hub for both domestic and international train travel. Domestically, one of the most popular rail connections is between Salzburg and Vienna. This route is efficiently serviced by ÖBB Railjet and Westbahn trains, offering frequent departures and taking approximately 2.5 hours. Another important domestic connection is to Innsbruck, serviced by ÖBB trains, with scenic routes through the Alps, taking about 2 hours. For international travel, Salzburg to Munich is a popular route, accessible through Deutsche Bahn (DB) services, providing frequent and direct options with travel times around 1.5 hours. Zurich, Switzerland, is another key international connection, served by Railjet and EuroCity trains, taking approximately 5.5 hours. Additionally, trains to Venice, Italy, offer a scenic journey with multiple connections, primarily via ÖBB, taking around 7 hours. These routes underscore Salzburg's strategic location as a gateway to both Austrian destinations and neighboring countries.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Salzburg primarily depends on what you want to experience. For pleasant weather, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are ideal, offering mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities and the beautiful Alpine scenery without the summer crowds, and prices for accommodations and travel, such as train fares, may be slightly lower. If you're interested in festivals, visiting in July and August allows you to experience the renowned Salzburg Festival, though these months can be crowded and more expensive. For those who enjoy winter activities and festive atmospheres, December is perfect for exploring Salzburg's charming Christmas markets and enjoying the potential for snow, while January and February offer opportunities for winter sports nearby. Trains to and from Salzburg tend to be well-connected year-round, but booking tickets in advance during peak seasons can help secure better prices.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Vienna to Salzburg?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from Vienna to Salzburg are dynamic. Demand significantly influences pricing. Peak travel times lead to higher fares. Booking well in advance usually ensures lower prices. Last-minute purchases typically cost more. Weekday travel can be cheaper than weekends. Special events in either city might increase prices. Discounts and promotions affect overall cost. Traveler age and status can also impact pricing.
What trains run from Vienna to Salzburg?
SNCF does not operate trains from Vienna to Salzburg. Flixbus operates buses from Vienna to Salzburg. Leo Express does not operate trains from Vienna to Salzburg.
How long does the train from Vienna to Salzburg take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Vienna to Salzburg takes 7 to 9.5 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Vienna to Salzburg?
The best time depends on personal preferences. Mornings tend to be less crowded. Midweek travel often sees lower demand. Avoid peak tourist seasons for quieter journeys. Ticket prices vary with demand. Early bookings can offer better deals. Occasional promotions may affect prices. Consider off-peak travel for comfortable seating.
What’s the best route or train to take from Vienna to Salzburg?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from Vienna to Salzburg.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Vienna to Salzburg?
According to EveryRail, no rail pass covers this route correctly. Interrail and Eurail passes only apply based on residency, not on the route's location. A One Country Pass does not apply because the origin and destination are in different countries. A Global Pass isn't applicable as both cities must be in different countries, and Vienna is incorrectly referred to as being in France instead of Austria.