Trains in Austria

Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station) is the main hub, handling most domestic and international routes. It connects to the U-Bahn, trams, and buses directly from the station. Some regional and international services also stop at Wien Meidling or Wien Westbahnhof, so check your ticket carefully for the correct departure station.

Yes, ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) and WESTbahn both operate frequent services between Vienna and Salzburg. The fastest trains cover the route in roughly two and a half hours. Booking earlier typically secures better fares. Both operators offer onboard Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, making it one of the most popular domestic rail routes in Austria.

You don't have to, but advance booking through ÖBB often unlocks lower fares called Sparschiene tickets. Walk-up tickets at the station or from platform machines are available but cost more. For popular routes like Vienna to Salzburg or Innsbruck, booking a few weeks ahead is worthwhile, during ski season and summer holidays.

Austria is well connected by rail to neighboring countries. Direct services run to Munich, Zurich, Budapest, Prague, Venice, and other major cities. ÖBB operates Nightjet sleeper trains to destinations including Rome, Hamburg, and Amsterdam. Vienna Hauptbahnhof and Salzburg Hauptbahnhof are the main international departure points. Check current routes and availability through booking tools.

There are no strict weight limits on ÖBB trains, but you're expected to store bags yourself in overhead racks or designated luggage areas near the doors. Bikes require a separate reservation on long-distance trains. For bulky luggage, ÖBB has a door-to-door shipping service called Gepäckservice that can send your bags ahead to your destination.

If you're spending a week or more traveling by train within Austria, the ÖBB Vorteilscard can pay for itself quickly. It gives roughly half off standard domestic fares for a year. There are versions for different age groups, including under-26 and over-65 options. Check current card types and pricing on the ÖBB website to see which fits your trip.

The City Airport Train (CAT) runs a nonstop service between Vienna Airport and Wien Mitte station. ÖBB's S-Bahn line S7 covers the same route with a few stops along the way and costs less. Both depart from the train station directly connected to the airport terminal. Travel time is roughly 15 to 25 minutes depending on which service you take.