You can buy train tickets directly from the operator or through a reseller. The reseller is typically slightly more expensive (3-5%) but can provide an easier booking experience, especially if you travel with more than one operator.
These operators provide a complete journey either as a direct connection or through their partners. Even if a change of trains is involved, it’s all part of a single itinerary managed by the same train company or its partners, offering a smoother and more coordinated travel experience.
Some operators don’t run direct trains the whole way, but they serve either the departure or arrival station. In many cases, you can combine two of these operators to complete your journey by changing trains along the way. This is often a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel — especially if you’re comfortable piecing together your own itinerary.
Just keep in mind that these are separate journeys, which means a delay on the first leg could cause you to miss the second without automatic compensation or rebooking. It’s a great option for confident travelers who don’t mind a bit of extra planning.
FlixBus is actually not a rail operator, but rather a long-distance bus service primarily operating in Europe. While FlixBus facilitates travel in and around Austria, it does not operate train services. However, if one were to consider rail travel between Salzburg and Vienna, Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) and Westbahn are the main operators offering train services on this route.
ÖBB, the Austrian Federal Railways, operates several types of trains including Railjet and InterCity. Railjet is the high-speed service, providing fast and comfortable journeys with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, an on-board restaurant or bistro, and power outlets at seats. They offer three classes of service: Economy Class, First Class, and Business Class, each with varying levels of comfort and additional perks like quieter cabins or more spacious seating arrangements in higher classes. ÖBB’s customer support is accessible through their website, customer service centers at stations, and a phone service where travelers can ask questions or solve issues regarding bookings and travel.
Westbahn is a private railway operator offering an alternative to ÖBB for travel between Salzburg and Vienna. Their trains blend comfort with affordability and feature a single class of travel with modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and a lounge-style setting with more personal space. Westbahn provides an on-board bistro service where passengers can purchase refreshments. Concerning customer support, Westbahn offers assistance through their website and customer service hotlines, ensuring travelers can access help with reservations, ticket changes, or general inquiries.
Both ÖBB and Westbahn are reliable options for train travel in Austria, providing punctual services with ample options for direct routes, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between Salzburg and Vienna.
The Interrail Global Pass and Interrail One Country Pass can be used for train travel from Salzburg to Vienna if the traveler is not a resident of Austria. The Eurail passes, which are only valid for non-EU residents, can also be used for this journey.
Upon arriving in Vienna by train, you’ll find that the city boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation network. The Vienna U-Bahn, or metro, is one of the most convenient ways to navigate the city. It consists of five lines (U1, U2, U3, U4, and U6) that cover a large area and connect to major attractions and districts. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines in U-Bahn stations and need to be validated before travel.
Trams are another popular option and are especially scenic. Vienna has an extensive tram network with over 30 lines, making it possible to access even the parts of the city not covered by the metro. Buses supplement these tram and metro systems, reaching many suburban areas and less accessible neighborhoods.
Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street, at taxi ranks, or booked through various apps. They are a comfortable option for more direct travel or when public transportation is less convenient. Vienna also offers ridesharing services like Uber, which can be booked via smartphone apps providing a similar function to taxis but often at a different pricing structure.
For those interested in an environmentally friendly option, Vienna’s bike-sharing program, Citybike Wien, allows for flexible short trips around the city. Bikes can be rented and returned at numerous stations spread throughout Vienna.
The city also has shared electric scooters, enabling quick and convenient travel for short distances. Using these requires a smartphone app to locate and unlock them.
Vienna’s public transportation is integrated, so a single ticket is valid across all modes, including trams, buses, and the metro. Daily and multi-day passes are available, offering unlimited travel within the selected time frame and zone, making them an economical choice for tourists.
Vienna is well-connected by train to various destinations, both within Austria and internationally. Domestically, one of the most popular routes is the service to Salzburg, which is operated by ÖBB Railjet and Westbahn. This journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, offering fast and frequent connections. Another key domestic route is from Vienna to Innsbruck, with Railjet services providing comfortable travel through stunning Alpine scenery in approximately 4.5 hours. Additionally, the route to Graz is a common connection, taking about 2.5 hours on ÖBB services.
Internationally, Vienna serves as a major rail hub in Central Europe. The train to Budapest is particularly popular, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours with frequent EuroCity and Railjet services. Another notable route is to Prague, with the journey taking about 4 hours on direct EuroCity trains. Vienna also offers connections to Bratislava, the Slovak capital, which is a short ride of about 1 hour, accessible via regional trains. For those traveling further afield, the Nightjet services link Vienna with destinations like Zurich and Venice, providing overnight journeys with sleeper and couchette options. Vienna also connects to Munich, a major city in Germany, with Railjet services covering the distance in approximately 4 hours. These connections highlight Vienna’s strategic position as a gateway between eastern and western Europe, providing travelers with a wide array of convenient and efficient rail journey options.
The best times to visit Vienna are generally in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). In spring, Vienna comes alive with mild weather and blooming gardens, making it perfect for strolling through the city’s many parks and enjoying outdoor cafes. Fall offers similarly pleasant temperatures along with vibrant autumn colors. During these shoulder seasons, you can also find more affordable travel and accommodation options compared to the peak summer season.
Summer in Vienna (July and August) is popular due to warm weather and the vibrant festival scene, including events like the Vienna Film Festival and the Danube Island Festival. However, it can be crowded, and prices for accommodations tend to be higher.
Winter, particularly December, has its charm with Vienna’s famous Christmas markets, festive decorations, and the potential for a magical snowy backdrop. While it can be cold, the atmosphere is enchanting, and prices may drop in the post-holiday months of January and February, though some attractions may have limited hours.
Arriving by train to Vienna is convenient year-round due to its excellent rail connections and efficiently operated stations, such as Wien Hauptbahnhof, ensuring a seamless travel experience regardless of the season.
When traveling from Salzburg to Vienna by train, consider packing a valid identification document such as a passport or EU ID card for ticket checks if required, especially for international tourists. Bring your train ticket or electronic ticket confirmation on a mobile device. Pack a European power adapter, as both Salzburg and Vienna use Type F plugs with a voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz, useful for charging electronic devices during the journey and at your destination. Carry a fully charged mobile phone along with a portable charger to remain connected and capture photos. Bring comfortable clothing and a light jacket or sweater as temperatures can vary on the train. Have a reusable water bottle and some snacks for the journey. Travel guides or maps of Vienna will be helpful for planning activities upon arrival. It’s also practical to have a small first-aid kit including any personal medications. Finally, packing a book, magazine, or your preferred form of entertainment will add comfort to your travel experience.