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THE 10 BEST Austria Rail Tours

Rail tours in austria.

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1. Salzburg Sightseeing Day Trip from Munich by Rail

2. Skip-The-Line Salt-Mines and Bavarian Mountains Tour from Salzburg

3. Wachau Valley Wine Tasting Bike Tour from Vienna

4. Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner

5. Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on

6. Private city tour in Vienna

7. Panoramabahn Schoenbrunn

8. Full Day Round Private Tour to Hallstatt from Vienna

9. From Munich: VIP day trip to Salzburg

10. Vienna Woods Wine Tour - Wines, Vines & Good Times!

11. Private Vienna Woods Wine Tour

12. Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets

13. Private Tour of Salzburg's Old Town from Munich by Train

14. Small-group Vienna Wine Tour

15. Semmering Alpine Railway Hike

16. 5 Days Vienna and Munich by Train

17. 7 Days Salzburg-Innsbruck and Munich by Train

18. 6 Days Discover Vienna, Innsbruck and Munich by Train

19. Private Semmering Railway Hike

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Rail Tours in Austria

Train travel from/to your departure station is included

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Overnight stays in small-scale hotels within walking distance of the station, run by enthusiastic hotel owners

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Austria on rail tours that reveal the alpine splendor, rich cultural heritage, and charming towns of this Central European gem. From the grandeur of Vienna to the idyllic landscapes of the Austrian Alps, Austria offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored. Join us as we guide you through a rail adventure that will immerse you in Austria's unparalleled beauty and culture.

Why Choose Rail Tours Across Austria?

Spectacular Alpine Landscapes : Austria is renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, with towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. Rail tours provide panoramic views of these natural wonders, with comfortable train cars and large windows to soak in the scenery.

Effortless Travel : Navigating Austria by rail is efficient and convenient. Relax and enjoy the journey while experienced rail operators handle the logistics. Austrian rail infrastructure is known for its reliability and punctuality.

Cultural Enrichment : Austria boasts a rich cultural heritage, from the classical music of Vienna to the historic architecture of Salzburg. Rail tours offer access to world-class museums, historic landmarks, and charming towns that showcase Austrian traditions.

Culinary Delights : Savor Austrian cuisine, known for its delicious pastries, schnitzels, and strudels. Rail tours often include opportunities to indulge in authentic Austrian culinary experiences, making it a culinary journey as well.

Top Austrian Rail Tours to Consider

Vienna to Salzburg : Travel from the elegant capital of Vienna to the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg. Explore Vienna's imperial palaces, then venture to Salzburg to visit the iconic Mirabell Palace and the historic Old Town.

Innsbruck and the Austrian Alps : Discover the alpine wonders of Innsbruck and the Austrian Alps. Visit the famous Swarovski Crystal Worlds, explore Innsbruck's historic center, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.

Danube River Cruise : Combine rail and river travel on a Danube River cruise through Austria. Explore cities like Linz and Melk, visit the stunning Melk Abbey, and cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley.

Salzkammergut Lake District : Journey through the Salzkammergut Lake District, home to crystal-clear lakes and charming villages. Explore Hallstatt, often called the "Pearl of Austria," and admire the beauty of Wolfgangsee and Mondsee.

Book Your Austrian Rail Adventure Today!

Austria's alpine majesty, rich culture, and culinary delights await you on rail tours that promise unforgettable memories. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, Austria has something to offer every traveler. Start planning your Austrian rail tour today and embark on a journey that will take you deep into the heart of this enchanting European country.

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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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Landscape seen from a train ÖBB / Barbara Seyr media_content.tooltip.skipped Discover All of Austria by Train

• Austria's Beauty Secrets
• Explore Austria with ÖBB
• All of Austria by Train

Experience the scenic beauty of Austria in one of the most captivating ways—by train. Relax in a comfortable seat and enjoy the dramatic landscapes rolling past you on your journey to the next destination.

Getting Around with ÖBB

Getting around this way is easy, convenient, and surprisingly luxurious: The ÖBB Railjet trains are fast, efficient, and well-designed. While even Second-Class cars are more stylish and friendly than your average train carriages, the First-Class experience is on a whole different level. You can comfortably tour the entire country by train in less than two weeks, and this itinerary shows you how.

Austria’s public transportation infrastructure is set up as an alternative to car travel in the city as well as the countryside, and it works remarkably well. A punctuality rate of 95% makes planning itineraries a breeze. No need to factor in delays; you just hop on the train, lean back, relax, and get off refreshed at your next destination. All train stations are close to the respective city centres and well connected by public transportation.

Your 12-Day Itinerary

Day 1: vienna.

Start your journey in Austria’s largest city, the seat of the former Empire and a multicultural metropolis. According to The Economist, Vienna is one of the most charming cities in Europe and the number 1 most liveable city in the world.

On the morning of Day 1, explore Schönbrunn Palace , a beautiful Baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played for Empress Maria Theresia here when he was just five years old. The extraordinary Imperial park houses the world’s oldest zoo and delivers spectacular views from the Gloriette monument, where you can also enjoy their famous hot chocolate.

Enjoy an afternoon stroll through downtown Vienna . Here you will find the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral , the Hofburg Palace, countless narrow streets, hidden squares and grand boulevards.

If you have time, stop at the Albertina or the MuseumsQuartier for spectacular art experiences. Take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee with some apple strudel at one of the many coffeehouses as part of a genuinely authentic Viennese experience.

In the evening, enjoy local fare and traditional music at a wine tavern in the neighbourhood of Grinzing (take tram 38) or a classical music night at the esteemed State Opera or the renowned Musikverein .

Day 2 & 3: Graz

Head to Vienna’s Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), easily accessible by metro (U1 line). The newly rebuilt station is now as much a first-rate transit hub as a shopping centre and architectural attraction. From here, take the train to Graz (approx. 2h 30m).

The old town of Austria’s second-largest city is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, and exploring it is an excellent start to your first day here. Enjoy the fantastic views over the medieval roofscape from the top of the Schlossberg (city mountain), and marvel at the Armoury , with the world’s most extensive collection of medieval arms. Sample local delicacies at the farmer’s markets and end the day with dinner at the restaurant Der Steirer , which serves Styrian tapas.

Day 3: Time to explore Graz’s contemporary side. As a UNESCO City of Design, Graz features many architectural highlights such as the Kunsthaus : Blue and bubble-shaped, the construction looks like a spaceship landed in Graz’s stuccoed old town, located right along the trendy Mariahilferstrasse, with cute design & coffee shops.

The Mur-Insel , a shell-like construction in the adjacent river, is another significant contemporary accent. Graz’s innovative architecture follows you all the way back to the train station, located conveniently close to the city centre. The main terminal’s interior is decorated with abstract graphics, and the platform shelter is one undulating metal wave.

Day 4 & 5: Salzburg

The train ride to Salzburg takes about 4 hours. We recommend buying the 48h Salzburg Card as ÖBB Plus Ticket together with your train ticket in the ÖBB ticket shop . The Salzburg Card offers free public transport and entry to attractions.

Magical mountains surround Salzburg, and its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is most famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the film location of The Sound of Music . Its true attraction is its magnificent Baroque architecture, the Hohensalzburg Fortress castle perched majestically on the Mönchsberg mountain and its many internationally renowned cultural events. For splendid city views and a great contemporary art experience, take a walk to the Museum of Modern Art .

Try local dishes, such as Kaspressknödel (bread dumplings filled with cheese) or Salzburger Nockerl , at one of Salzburg’s most attractive markets on Universitätsplatz square. Through a narrow passage, walk to Getreidegasse , the iconic main street with many interesting shops, charming courtyards, and Mozart’s birthplace .

Day 5: Take Bus 25 to Hellbrunn Palace to experience the unique trick fountains. Then dive into Salzburg’s famous beer culture and relax in one of the many beer gardens. Learn about local brewing history at the Stiegl-Brauwelt . Salzburg is renowned for its music, and seeing an opera or a concert at the famous Salzburger Festspiele in the summer month is an unforgettable experience.

Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) Cityjet at Salzburg ÖBB Personenverkehr AG / Georg Pölzleitner media_content.tooltip.skipped

Day 6 & 7: Excursions from Salzburg

Take the train from Salzburg to Hallstatt (2h 30m). Beautifully nestled between mountains and a lake, Hallstatt is a real feast for the eyes. Visit the world's oldest salt mines and the viewing platform above the village.

After lunch, take the train from Hallstatt to Bad Ischl (25 min), a small historic town with hot thermal springs. Visit Café Zauner and try their signature pastry, the "Zauner Stollen." Continue on bus 546 (25 min) to St. Wolfgang , a charming village, and take a boat ride on Wolfgangsee lake (45 min) to St. Gilgen , where Mozart's sister lived. Then take bus 150 (45 min) back to Salzburg.

Day 7: Take the train to Werfen (40 min). Tour the medieval Hohenwerfen Fortress perched on a hill with impressive views of the mountains. Don't miss the falconry demonstration in the expansive courtyard gardens. Have lunch at Obauer , one of Werfen's gourmet restaurants, before hiking the nearby Sound of Music trail .

Day 8: Kufstein

In the morning, take the Railjet from Salzburg to Kufstein (1h 10m). In the centre of the beautiful town in Tyrol’s north, you will find an impressive medieval fortress . Explore the stronghold and enjoy the spectacular views over the region. Kufstein’s fortress has a local history museum and the world’s largest free-standing organ. Next, stroll through the town centre and down Römerhofgasse , a charming street lined with wine taverns. Kufstein’s parish church is a late Gothic building dating back to around 1400.

About a 15-minute walk south of the church, you will find a traditional Tyrolean glassmaker : Riedel’s glasses are known worldwide for their delicate design. At the factory, you can watch the glassblowers do their work, then shop Riedel’s collection of stemware and artful decanters.

Depending on the time of year, you might be able to watch a performance at the Tirol Festival Erl . The classical music festival’s repertoire spans popular operas and is known for its Passion Plays.

Day 9 & 10: Innsbruck

Take an early train from Kufstein to Innsbruck (40min). We recommend buying the Innsbruck Card , which includes free public transportation in the city and surrounding villages and access to many attractions and cable cars. You can save money when purchasing the Innsbruck Card (ÖBB Plus Ticket) along with your train ticket in the ÖBB ticket shop .

This beautiful alpine city with its medieval old town is nestled in the Nordkette mountains. Hungerburgbahn Station is one of Tyrol's most magnificent examples of modern design by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. A rack railway and a cable car take you up to an Alpine landscape at over 2,000 meters (6,562 ft), from where you can enjoy stunning city views. Save money by purchasing the ÖBB Plus Ticket 'Top of Innsbruck' alongside your train ticket in the ÖBB ticket shop .

If the mountain air has made you hungry, try local specialities such as Schlutzkrapfen (dumplings stuffed with cheese or spinach), Käsespätzle (pasta tossed with onions and cheese) and Tiroler Gröstl (a pan of potatoes, meat and vegetables) in one of the traditional restaurants. Dedicate the rest of the day to sightseeing and shopping in the city centre.

Day 10: Spend the day visiting three emblematic places around Innsbruck. Take tram 1 to the Bergisel Ski Jump , then continue to the small mountain village of Igls (only 15 min on the J bus). In the afternoon, take tram 3 to Ambras Castle , with beautiful gardens and a unique art collection.

Day 11: Excursions from Innsbruck

Explore the Swarovski Crystal Worlds (incl. in the Innsbruck Card) in Wattens. Either take a shuttle bus (4 times/day, around 30 min) directly to the entrance or a commuter train to Fritzens-Wattens (16 min) and continue 15 min. by foot.

If you prefer an active morning, take the STB train from Südtiroler Platz station (30 min) to the village of Mutters . Walk towards the parish church on the main street, and you will find a beautifully traditional Tyrolean farmhouse with wooden balconies and painted facades. Continue to the Mutteralm cable car (incl. in the Innsbruck Card), and take it up the mountain to enjoy a great hike followed by lunch in a traditional mountain hut.

Afterwards, take a regional train (8 min) to Hall in Tirol . This beautiful Medieval town with picturesque streets and squares is well worth a visit with its Hasegg Burg castle (home of the Mint Museum, also called the birthplace of the Taler coin and the modern-day Dollar), the Magdalena chapel with its frescoes and altar, and the churches of St. Nikolaus and the Jesuits.

Houses in St. Anton TVB St. Anton am Arlberg / Christoph Schöch media_content.tooltip.skipped

Day 12: Arlberg Region

Take a 1-hour morning train directly from Innsbruck to St. Anton am Arlberg and find yourself amid an alpine paradise. The Arlberg is one of Austria’s westernmost mountain resorts and is famous for stunning hikes, upscale entertainment, and an elegant atmosphere. Explore the town of St. Anton , where the Galzig and Valluga cable cars whisk you up to 2,811 m (9,222 ft) of the region’s tallest mountain. Incidentally, one of St. Anton’s best gourmet restaurants, the Verwallstube , is located at the top of the Galzigbahn. Visit the St. Anton MUSEUM , housed in a lovely historic building that focuses on the village’s history and the closely linked history of skiing.

As an alternative, or if you like to add another day in this lovely region, take Bus 91 from St. Anton to Lech , another one of Arlberg’s idyllic villages. In Lech, grab a gourmet lunch at Hotel Post Lech before embarking on a walk down the lively main street. Enjoy shopping at stores like Sagmeister and Strolz, which offer a combination of traditional alpine designs and international designer names.

If you’re feeling sporty, embark on one of the region’s many hiking trails . Take your time marvelling at the picture-perfect Alpine scenery before descending back into the village. Art enthusiasts will love Skyspace Lech , the fascinating light installation by James Turrell.

Good to Know about Traveling by Train

Austria's extensive train system is easily one of the most convenient ways to travel between its major cities and small forgotten hamlets. Here is what you need to know before hopping on board!

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"From schnitzel to strudel, from The Sound of Music to Strauss, from the snow capped mountains to Salzburg - Austria is simply sensational"

Evana, Travel Director

Waltz through the scenic Austrian countryside

There is no shortage of countryside to allure us in Austria. Wander just beyond the well-trodden cities or further to towns like Hallstat and Durstein and float between the glassy lakes, soft grass hills and trails that wind around mountains.

Walk through the Baroque city of Salzburg

Trips to Salzburg come with a side of opulent architecture. Amble through this town overflowing with charming fountains, squares, cathedrals and cafes, taking time to soak up the immense elegance found in centuries-old spires and domes.

Take an elevator up to the Eagle's Nest

A short drive from Salzburg, through hollowed-out mountains, the Eagle’s Nest – or Kehlsteinhaus – is a monument to the greed of the Nazi regime. Rise up to this chalet perched on a sheer rock wall and be struck by the eerie contrast of the idyllic setting and the people who once roamed its halls.

See the State Opera in Vienna

With the ghosts of Mozart and Strauss in your presence, you can hear the unforgettable sounds of authentic opera at the State Opera in Vienna. The theater come alive as the curtains rise and the performance begins, so powerful you can hear the Soprano reaching her high notes from across the street.

Admire Emperor Maximilian's Golden Roof in Innsbruck

The 2,657 gleaming copper tiles that adorn this building are hard to miss. Enter the historic old town and catch sight of the roof glistening between storybook buildings and bright alps. Walk closer to study scenes of Maximilian’s life richly decorating the alcove.

Our top 5 things to do in Austria

With Trafalgar guiding the way, you'll do so much more than admire storybook towns and see the country’s most iconic spots. These are just a few of the culture-drenched things to do in Austria.

Belvedere Museum

Give yourself a day of freedom to uncover this vast collection of art and treasures. A highlight of any Vienna trip, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Belvedere Museum features three sites with baroque palaces, parks, views and 800 years of priceless artwork. Every corner commands your awe and attention.

Natural History Museum

Discover the depths of Mother Nature at the Natural History Museum in Salzburg. Your visit will reveal the edges of outerspace and what the world looked like millions of years ago when dinosaurs roamed. You can then get aquainted with their distant relatives who amble around the museum’s reptile zoo.

Mozarts Wohnhaus

Step into the Mozart family residence, where Wolfgang wrote piano and violin concerts, serenades and symphonies. Witness the pianoforte on which the young prodigy used to play and gain a deeper insight into the fascinating life and work of this talented family.

Best museums in Austria

Austria's museums are a reflection of the country's reverence for all things natural, musical and artistic. Take a journey with Trafalgar into the museums of this country, and discover why Austria is still a culture capital of Europe.

Käsekrainer

Visit one of the Vienna’s beloved 'würstelständer' sausage stands to try the street food treat that’s an emblem of the country. Each satisfying bite of käsekrainer is a mix of Austrian sausage and rich melted cheese that oozes from within.

Wiener Schnitzel

Famed for servings so large, they spill off the plate, Austrians have long perfected this dish of tender veal coated in crunchy golden breadcrumbs. One of the country’s icons and a must-try on your trip to Austria, devour wiener schnitzel like a local with a petite side of potato salad.

Apfelstrudel

Get lost in layers of buttery pastry that swirl around baked apple and cinnamon in a dish that translates to ‘whirlpool’. Apfelstrudel tastes best in a cosy Viennese coffee house with a warm brew beside you.

Best food in Austria

Austrians are known for their love affair with meat and nostalgia-inducing desserts. Take a culinary adventure with Trafalgar, and we’ll delight you with the country’s very best gastronomical experiences.

What to pack for Austria

Opera attire

The opera is a must-do attraction in Austria, made even more enjoyable when you dress the part. If you have room, pack an elegant option in with your travel staples for this very special occasion.

Extra storage

Somewhere between the architecture and the alps, you’re bound to find your camera storage full. Pack an extra SD card or hard drive so you can click away without worry.

A train ticket

With one of the best train networks in the world, excellent overnight services and countryside galore, rail is easily the best way to get around Austria. Thankfully, this is part of the package when you travel with Trafalgar.

Antihistamines

A trip surrounded by lush countryside means the possibility of pollen. Make sure you have some antihistamine tablets on hand incase your outdoor adventures induce allergies.

Chances are you’ll be enjoying a substantial serving of the great outdoors on your Austria tour. Protect your eyes from the summer sun and winter snow with some polarized lenses.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Rail travel in Austria will leave you breathless. Trains run along jagged mountains, through lush valleys, and around crystal-clear lakes. The Alps are perfect for viewing from your train window. Austria is also a cultural highlight of Europe. From beautifully preserved old towns to grand castles, and world-famous composers, this charming country will put you under its spell!

Itinerary highlights 

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Vienna (Wien), Austria

Vienna is bursting with beauty and culture. It’s consistently voted as the most livable city in the world. From its Old Town to the MuseumsQuartier complex, historical and contemporary creations coexist with inspiring results. Make sure you add these areas to your Vienna itinerary. Enjoy classical music by local composers Mozart and Strauss at the Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper). To truly experience Vienna’s splendor, tour Hofburg Palace , the residence of the former Austrian Monarchy. Then feast on a Wiener Schnitzel fit for a king!

From Vienna to Graz

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Vienna, Austria

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Graz, Austria

Graz is a bustling student city with a stunning Old Town . Go up the Schlossberg , the site of a fortress with amazing views over the city. Its Clock Tower (Uhrturm) is a local icon. Schloss Eggenberg is a Baroque palace with roaming peacocks and an extensive art collection. Graz has an active nightlife in the old town and near Karl-Franzens University , founded in 1585. If that’s not enough to entice you, let the name Arnold Schwarzenegger sink in. The actor and former Governor of California grew up in the village Thal, just a few miles from Graz.

From Graz to Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt, austria.

Klagenfurt Hbf 

Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria

Klagenfurt is a popular gateway to neighboring countries. It’s also the eastern portal to Wörthersee , a beautiful alpine lake with clean, warm, turquoise water. The lake invites a range of water activities like canoeing and waterskiing. Hire a bike, ride to the shore, and cycle around the entire Wörthersee! Stop off at the different lakeside villages along the way. Back in the city center, see the 16 th century Dragon Fountain (Lindwurmbrunnen). Legend has it, a dragon terrorized the city before being slain by knights.

From Klagenfurt to Salzburg

Salzburg, austria.

Salzburg Hbf

Salzburg, Austria’s gem of a city was the birthplace and home to Mozart. Check out the 2 fascinating museums dedicated to the city’s prodigy, both of which he once lived in. Wander aimlessly through the old town and step back to a period of magnificent architecture and riches. From atop the Hohensalzburg Fortress enjoy enchanting views of the city and the Salzach river as it radiates through the city.

A trip to Salzburg wouldn’t be the same without joining the Sound of Music Tour , taking you on a whistle-stop tour of the film’s key locations, passing the snow-capped mountains, sprawling green meadows and crystal blue lakes of Salzburg’s Lake District. You’ll also be let into the facts and fiction of the Von Trapp family as portrayed in the Hollywood movie.

From Salzburg to Innsbruck

Innsbruck, austria.

Innsbruck Hbf

The first thing you’ll notice on stepping out of Innsbruck train station is the mountain vista that surrounds the entire Austrian town. The old town is the city’s beloved center, dressed in bright-coloured medieval buildings and home to the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) – an intricately-detailed gothic balcony.

For great views of the Tyrolean capital you’ve got plenty of options – take the Hungerburg Funicular up the mountain side, or visit the Bergisel Ski Jump Stadium where you can also take in views of the jump used in the 1976 Winter Olympics. Alternatively take the sightseeing bus to Ambras Castle perched up on the Innsbruck mountainside. For the adrenaline junkies there are heaps of adventure sports to partake in, come snow or shine.

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Austria Itinerary: 11 Days by Train

Updated March 19th, 2019

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Are you looking for an Austria itinerary? Do you hope to include the must-see cities of Salzburg and Vienna as well as some smaller towns in-between? This Austria itinerary by train includes the country’s most well-known cities and some lesser known gems. It’s perfect for anyone who is hoping to start and end their time in Vienna. 

Even though we would have loved more time at each location and of course wanted to visit more places, my mom and I were both very happy with this Austria itinerary for the 11 days, including flying days, that we had in in the country.

General Train Information

For all our transportation between cities we used trains, the express railjets and the regional trains. To buy train tickets ahead of time use oebb Austrian rail site . All the different types of transportation, including buses, are used on this site and can be bought together. It conveniently shows all of your options.  

You can buy your tickets from machines at the train station, but it is typically cheaper to buy ahead of time and get the ‘sparschiene’ discounted rate.

There is a small extra charge for reserved seating on railjet trains. We never did this and there was only one time we wished we did, from Innsbruck to Vienna. If you do not have a reserved seat you need to make sure you do not sit in a reserved seat. Above the seats and just below the overhead luggage racks you can see an electronic strip with the seat number. The cities written next to it tell when the seat is reserved. If nothing is there is means the seat is not reserved.

Rail platforms are easy to find within every station. Almost everyone we met spoke English well and was more than willing to help with directions whether at a train station or on a city bus.

Remember that Bahnhof means train station and Hauptbahnhof means the main train station in the city. Also note that Wien is Vienna.

There is one or two larger luggage racks in each car as well as the overhead luggage space. As long as you can drag it onboard, you can bring it.

On both regional and railjet trains there are toilets. Railjet trains have a dining car with a fairly good selection of decent meals and snacks.

Within the train electronic screens show the upcoming stops. On the railjets they give precise information with the times in English and German.

Day 1: Flying Day into Vienna & Train to Gmunden

Vienna International Airport is probably the easiest to fly into and out of . Right at the airport is the train station, which provides easy connections to anywhere else you want to go in Austria. You could spend time in Vienna at the end or beginning of your trip. We decided to stay in Vienna at the end because it worked better for obtaining ballet tickets.

Day 2 : Exploring Gmunden & Train to Salzburg

The first stop on our Austrian itinerary was Gmunden, a small town between Vienna and Salzburg within the Salzkammergut region on Lake Traunsee.

From Vienna International Airport to Gmunden Bahnhof it is about a 3 hour trip on two trains. We took a railjet train to Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof and then a regional train to Gmunden Bahnhof, but there are other options available as well. There are buses within the city, but there would be nothing available at our evening arrival so we pre-booked a taxi with our hotel. They booked us with Taxi Prehm, which was very reliable. If you plan on taking a taxi back to the train station make sure to pre-book. We left it until the last minute and there wasn’t enough time to get a taxi. The kind owners of the hotel gave us a ride instead….but I wouldn’t count on that!

The lake and the main part of town is walking distance (~10 – 20min) from Hotel Magerl.

Hotel Magerl : Ackerweg 18, 4810 Gmunden, Austria

I loved the feel of this hotel with old world charm alongside modern convenience.

Activities 

Kayaking and Walking around Lake Truansee

Take a Steamboat on Lake Traunsee

Exploring the Town

Grunberg Cable Car   to Grunberg Mountain for hiking, biking, paragliding and more

Gmunder Keramik for a tour of the ceramic factory

Within the main part of town along the lake there are several options. We were not disappointed with our Italian meal at Vienna Cafe DP Gastro GmbH :  Sparkassegasse 1, 4810 Gmunden, Austria.

Days 3 – 6: Salzburg

From Gmunden we took a regional train back to Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof and switched to a railjet to Salzburg. We arrived in Salzburg at the main train station ( Hauptbahnhof). The city buses stop directly outside of the train station. From our pre-booked tickets I knew which platform to stand and wait.

We bought the Salzburg card which included free transportation. Other than the initial bus ride, the rest of our time in Salzburg that we needed transportation was within the two day pass time frame. With the pass you do not need to do anything, simply board the bus.

Alstadt Hotel Hofwirt : Schallmooser Hauptstraße 1, Schallmoos, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Convenient location to the New Town and about a 15 minute walk to the old town. A modern and clean hotel with friendly staff and large selection of breakfast items.

I recommend buying the Salzburg City Card that gives you free transportation and entrance to all of the activities below except the Sound of Music Tours.

Sound of Music Tour – I suggest Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tour s if you want an active tour. If not there The Original Sound of Music Tour is another great option for a bus tour.

Museums : Christmas Museum , Mozart’s Birthplace , Mozart’s Residence , Panorama Museum , Salzburg Open Air Museum

Hohensalzburg Fortress – one of the largest medieval castles in Europe

Salzburg City Cruises

Guided Tours of the Festival Halls

Dom Quartier Salzburg

Untersberg Mountain – enjoy a beautiful hike in the snow after taking the cable car

Hellbrunn Palace, Trick Fountains, Folk Art Museum & Salzburg Zoo  

Gasthof Alter Fuchs :  Linzer G. 47-49, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.  Located on the other side of the river from the old town, this cozy place with classic dishes on the menu had a traditional Austrian feel.

Pretzel Stand in Kapitelplatz :  The square with a man standing on top of a big gold sphere.  During our Sound of Music tour our guide recommended this pretzel place to everyone and announced that it had the best pretzels in Salzburg. Sometimes I am skeptical of tour guide recommendations mid-tour, thinking that they are only trying to promote a specific business. Our guide was right about this one! With almost ten different varieties of pretzels as big as your head, you are sure to find a flavor you will enjoy.

Die Wiesse:  Rupertgasse 10, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.  We didn’t know if our hunger could hold on long enough to reach this locally recommended biergarten and were about to give up when we heard music. By following the sound of a tuba we made it to this biergarten that was full of Austrians in their traditional dirndls and lederhosen. As it was a national holiday we were treated to a festive and authentic display of music, dancing, and eating. Even if you don’t luck out with the festive atmosphere we experienced, the outdoor garden and food are still worth a visit. Another great recommendation from our tour guide that is a little off the beaten path.

Hochalm am Untersberg:  Located on top of Untersberg Mountain, this traditional looking restaurant offers classic fare at reasonable prices and close up views of the surrounding alps.

Café Latini :  Judengasse 17, 5020 Salzburg, Austria. This café is good if you want something a little quicker within the old town close to all the sights. I particularly recommend the ice cream and a nice outdoor table for prime people watching.

Days 7 – 8: Seefeld & Mittenwald

To get to Seefeld from Salzburg we took a railjet train to Innsbruck , which I would recommend spending some time in if your schedule allows. There is so much to see and do in Innsbruck . Then we took a regional train to Seefeld. Within Seefeld we walked everywhere. Either google maps seemed a little strange or I wasn’t following the map correctly, because it was a tad difficult finding our hotel initially, but easy every time after that. 

To get to Mittenwald from Seefeld I recommend taking a train. It is about a 22 minute journey. Tickets can be bought ahead of time or at the machine in Seefeld. The cost is so low, about 5 euros, that unless you are positive of your departure times you might as well buy them at the station. Like any train journey, make sure to plan ahead with times. On the way back from Mittenwald there were no machines selling our particular journey back to Seefeld so we bought tickets on the train.

Landhaus Klausnerhof Hotel : Alte Leutascher Straße 57, 6100 Seefeld in Tirol, Austria

A well kept alpine hotel with a friendly and helpful manager. The hotel is close to restaurants in town, the train station and Lake Wildsee.

Seefeld: Visiting Lake Wildsee

Seefeld: Hiking – Many trails in the area.

Mittenwald:  Leutaschklamm Gorge Hike  

Mittenwald: Take a stroll around the town to see the beautifully painted buildings and maybe visit the violin museum.

Restaurant Seefelder Stube:  Innsbrucker Str. 23, 6100 Seefeld in Tirol, Austria.  Our pizza and pasta dishes here arrived exactly as we ordered them and full of rich flavors.

Mittenwald : Several restaurants, cafés and bakeries along the main street around the square.

Day 8 – 11: Vienna

From Seefeld we took a regional train back to Innsbruck and then the high-speed railjet to Vienna , the last stop on our Austria Itinerary. The whole journey takes about 5.5 hours. It is the longest train journey of this itinerary and the one I would recommend booking reserved seats for. Perhaps it was our particular time we traveled, but the train was incredibly booked and it was initially hard to find single seats open, much less two seats together.

We had tickets for a tram that stopped a couple of minutes away from our hotel. Within Vienna we mostly walked. To take the metro you need to buy a ticket from a machine before boarding. Make sure you validate the ticket, by sticking it inside a little box, before going down the escalators to the metro train.

Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper :   Wiedner Hauptstraße 44, 04. Wieden, 1040 Vienna, Austria

The hotel is an pleasant 10 minutes or so walk from the Opera house and other central attractions. The tram stops only a couple of minutes from the front door.

Sisi Museum : Learn about the intriguing life of Empress Sisi.

Albertina Museum : An art museum known for its print rooms.

Vienna Museum : Overview of the history of Vienna with some special exhibitions.

Schönbrunn Palace : More on the life of the Imperial family and fun gardens to explore.

Free Walking Tou r : Good to do your first morning in the city as it gives an overview of Vienna.

Austrian National Library : Where you can visit the impressive great hall.

Spanish Riding School : Along with seeing a show you can buy tickets for the morning practice or for a guided tour.

Vienna Opera House : For a night on the town this is a classic and elegant choice. Guided tours are also available some days.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral : Visit the gorgeous interior or pay to walk up the tower for a view of the city.

Bierhof:  Haarhof 3, 1010 Wien, Austria

We weren’t quite ready for lunch when we stumbled upon this restaurant, but it was too good to pass up. It was almost hidden within a little courtyard. I had a chicken salad here. It sounds really basic, but the spices in it made me scarf down my salad at the rate of which I would usually eat a piece of chocolate cake.

Restaurant in the center with green boards:  Intersection of Ballgasse & Blumenstockgasse  

Another slightly more secluded area with several cafés. Although we typically ate outdoors only for lunch when it was warm enough, we wanted to experience the area outdoors for dinner as well. We were given blankets as we enjoyed our top notch salmon and schnitzel dishes.

Ristorante San Carlo:  Mahlerstraße 3, 1010 Wien, Austria

This ristorante near the Opera House has a slightly more elegant feel so when we came in drenched from the rain we wondered if they would even let us get a table. When the waiter led us to a table and then turned around we were left standing awkwardly in the middle of the room starting to get concerned that we wouldn’t get a table for real. It was our last meal in Austria so we were starting to get the hang of the Austrian restaurant world so we kept calm and waited until we finally got a drafty table near the door to the rainy weather outside. Soon enough we were served our food and my luscious pasta dish made me quickly forget about the temperature.

Salud Restaurant and Bar:  Johannesgasse 23, 1010 Wien, Austria

Don’t go here if you want attentive service, but do go here for some good tex-mex food.

Viennese café culture:  Most importantly don’t leave Vienna without having cake. So many cafés to choose from!

I hope this suggested Austria Itinerary by train will help you prepare your travels throughout the country! 

Not quite what you are looking for? Don’t worry, I can help! Through my Personal Travel Planning service I can plan the perfect Austria itinerary to meet your travel needs…or any other place you dream of visiting! 

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Our Ventures in Vienna

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11 comments.

What a great itinerary. I live in Austria – but whenever someone asks me what can I visit , I suddenly am at a lost. So you provided me with a solution, that I will just send this link to someone who asks. Nice tips on the restaurants as well , that I will be using it for myself 🙂

Thank you, that is so nice to hear from someone who lives in Austria! I would love it if you share this Austria itinerary with anyone planning to visit and I hope it is helpful to you too! Where do you live in Austria?

I live in Villach – great location at the border of both Slovenia and Italy – do holler If you are ever in the region and we can have a cuppa coffee

Will do, I have never heard of Villach, but the google images look beautiful!

Follow My Anchor

Very informative post with useful details. I love touring journeys by trains and see different places on the same trip. I have been to a few places in Austria like Salzburg, Innsbruck and Kitzbuhel but I definitely need to go back and visit Vienna. I’ll make sure I’ll visit Gmunden too as it looks a very cute town on your picture!

I always enjoy exploring different places on the same trip too and getting to know a country by visiting both the larger and smaller cities.

Wow! You’ve really covered everything here. I love Austria and have been there many times. Your in-depth comments are really valuable for everyone.

Thank you! I would love to go back and visit again.

This is a great itinerary and fabulous tips! I’ve wanted to go back to Austria to explore it more but didnt know how to get around and definitely didn’t want to drive. Great information.

I don’t like to drive abroad, so I was happy that Austria is really easy to get around on your own without a car!

This looks like a great itinerary. I’ve only visited Salzburg and Vienna as part of a larger trip to Europe but would love to go back to Austria and see some smaller towns.

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Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

Duration 3 days

Price from USD $730 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Sightseeing

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Home / Moscow Tours / Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

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This short Moscow tour will give you a true taste of the history, culture and incomparable urban vibe that define one of the world’s largest metropolises. In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we’ve set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures

3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

• Panoramic Tour of Moscow: See Moscow beyond the postcard images on a private excursion by car through the city streets including a drive along the banks of the Moskva River. Visit the famous Bolshoi Theatre, pass by Gorky Park and the Novodevichy Convent, and admire the city from on high at the Sparrow Hill observation platform.
• Moscow Historical City Centre Guided Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises and discover local haunts on foot, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and the multi-coloured domes of St Basil’s Cathedral.
• Armory Chamber tour: Explore the endless treasures of this unique museum, displaying the wealth accumulated by Russian rulers from the 12th century until the October Revolution of 1917. Walking through the exhibition halls is a journey through the centuries.
• Moscow Metro Tour : Go deep underground on a subway tour of the famous Moscow metro. The world’s deepest metro system is renowned for its palatial, art-adorned stations, complete with marble columns and chandeliers.

On your first day, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, drive-by tour of Moscow to get a feel for the immense scale of one of the world’s most rapidly developing urban centres. The city’s history unfolds in real-time as you pass lavish imperial mansions, solemn Soviet structures and luxurious modern shopping centres.

Day two kicks off exploring Moscow’s historic centre on foot, followed by a tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russian power and political intrigue for centuries. Stand in the Red Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture as you hear stories of the people and events behind many of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks.

On your final day, we’ll head beneath the city for a tour of the Moscow Metro and its famously ornate underground stations. Art lovers should hit up one of Moscow’s many world-class galleries such as the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum or Garage, Moscow’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. History fans can follow a Soviet trail through the city including Stalin’s Bunker, while those seeking a more indulgent experience can browse trendy neighbourhoods like Kitay Gorod or shop for everything from fashion to kitsch souvenirs at the enchanting Izmaylovo Flea Market. Foodies can head to one of the countless speciality stores sampling vodka, caviar and chocolate.

If you only have a few days to spend in Moscow, this tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city. Let the experts navigate you through this complex and occasionally overwhelming capital, giving you plenty of time to soak up the city’s most unmissable attractions.

Accomodation

Not Included

Sightseeing

Action rating ?

Type of tour

3 days / 2 nights

Private - Any Date

Day 1 Panoramic city tour

Welcome to the glorious capital of Russia, Moscow! You’ll be met by your driver at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel.

After check-in and rest, meet your private guide at the hotel lobby for a comprehensive tour of Moscow by car. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre, pass Tverskaya Street, the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Day 2 Red Square and Kremlin

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the historical city centre. Stroll through the Red Square, the hub of cultural life in Moscow, with its elaborate ‘stone flower’ fountain and fantasy-like St Basil’s Cathedral – a postcard-perfect symbol of the nation. Admire the grandiose façade of GUM, the city’s most luxurious shopping centre, and visit Alexander’s Garden, with its eternal flame and the chance to watch a changing of the guards.

Break for lunch before continuing on a tour of the Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous of its collection of tsarist fashion, with regalia such as jewel-encrusted crowns, orbs and sceptres as well as arms and armour, exotic gifts from the leaders of faraway lands, and an illustrious case of Imperial Faberge eggs.

As an option* spend an evening on a sumptuous dinner cruise, taking in the stunning sights and city lights of this mesmerising metropolis by night.

Day 3 Metro and Arbat Street

Start a day with a tour of Metro, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Take a stroll along Old Arbat street - the most famous street in Moscow. Through the centuries Arbat used to be one of the most bohemian places in Moscow. Today Arbat is a promenade full of small cozy cafes and street life.

The afternoon is free for you to either enjoy the rest of the day on your own or choose among optional excursions to explore more of Moscow. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin State Museum to admire Russian art. Join locals for a stroll at the Gorky or VDNH park.

Visit beautiful Kolomeskoye Estate or Izmailovo Kremlin, or spend a day exploring the beautiful city of the Golden Ring (Russian province) - Sergiev Posad. In the evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure to your next destination.

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Group airport/train-station arrival and departure transfers

All transportation according to the itinerary with a private driver

4* hotel accommodation in the historical city center (twin/double)

Local licensed English-speaking guide

All activities, indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry fees according to the itinerary (skip-the-lines policy)

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Optional excursions/activities

*Private tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

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