7 Most Scenic Train Journeys in Austria You Shouldn’t Miss

From UNESCO-listed railways to breathtaking Alpine landscapes, these are Austria’s most unforgettable train journeys

An ÖBB Railjet train traveling through the Austrian Alps

Austria is one of the best countries in Europe to explore by train. Efficient, comfortable, and incredibly scenic, the country’s railway network connects vibrant cities, charming villages, sparkling lakes, and some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes on the continent.

Unlike many destinations where transportation is simply a way to get from one place to another, train travel in Austria is often one of the highlights of the trip itself. Large panoramic windows, punctual services, and routes that wind through Alpine valleys, historic towns, and UNESCO World Heritage landscapes make every journey an experience worth remembering.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover more of Austria, these seven scenic train journeys deserve a place on your itinerary. Many of these routes fit perfectly into the route described in my *7-Day Austria Itinerary*.

Why Travel by Train in Austria?

One of Austria’s greatest advantages is its excellent public transportation system. Major cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz are connected by fast and reliable trains, while regional railways reach many of the country’s most picturesque villages and mountain destinations.

Traveling by train also allows you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving, parking, or mountain roads. Many routes pass through landscapes that are difficult to appreciate from a car, making the journey itself part of the adventure.

Whether you’re looking for dramatic Alpine views, crystal-clear lakes, or historic railways, Austria offers some of Europe’s finest rail experiences.

1. Semmering Railway

Route: Gloggnitz — Semmering — Mürzzuschlag

Semmering Railway crossing the famous stone viaduct

No scenic railway list would be complete without the Semmering Railway.

Opened in 1854, it was the world’s first true mountain railway and remains one of Austria’s greatest engineering achievements. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its historic significance and remarkable design.

As the train climbs into the mountains, passengers pass through numerous tunnels, cross elegant stone viaducts, and enjoy sweeping views of forests, valleys, and traditional Alpine villages.

During autumn, colorful forests make this route especially beautiful, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland.

Although the journey lasts only around one hour, it offers some of the most memorable scenery in Austria.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• UNESCO World Heritage railway
• Historic stone viaducts
• Beautiful mountain scenery throughout the year

2. Arlberg Railway

Route: Innsbruck — St. Anton am Arlberg — Bludenz

Bludenz Station, the gateway to the spectacular Arlberg Pass railway

The Arlberg Railway is one of Austria’s most spectacular mountain routes, connecting the province of Tyrol with Vorarlberg.

As the train leaves Innsbruck, the scenery quickly transforms into a landscape of towering Alpine peaks, deep valleys, dense forests, and charming mountain villages. During winter, snow-covered slopes create postcard-perfect views, while summer brings green meadows filled with wildflowers.

One of the highlights of the journey is passing through St. Anton am Arlberg, one of Austria’s most famous ski resorts. Even outside the ski season, the surrounding scenery makes this section of the route unforgettable.

The combination of historic engineering, dramatic landscapes, and comfortable modern trains makes the Arlberg Railway one of Austria’s finest rail experiences.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• Spectacular Alpine scenery
• Views of St. Anton am Arlberg
• Beautiful in every season

3. Salzburg to Zell am See

Route: Salzburg — Bischofshofen — Zell am See

A train traveling beside Lake Zell with the Alps in the background

If you’re looking for classic Austrian scenery, few train journeys can compete with the route from Salzburg to Zell am See.

Leaving the historic streets of Salzburg behind, the train travels through rolling countryside before entering the heart of the Austrian Alps. Along the way, passengers are treated to picturesque villages, green valleys, and panoramic mountain views.

As you approach Zell am See, the scenery becomes even more impressive. The sparkling waters of Lake Zell, surrounded by mountains, create one of the country’s most photographed landscapes.

The journey is relatively short, making it an excellent day trip or an easy addition to a longer Austrian itinerary.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• Beautiful lake and mountain scenery
• Easy connection from Salzburg
• One of Austria’s most picturesque destinations

4. Innsbruck to Vienna (Railjet)

Route: Innsbruck — Salzburg — Linz — Vienna

An ÖBB Railjet crossing the Austrian countryside

Austria’s Railjet trains combine speed, comfort, and beautiful scenery, making long-distance travel both efficient and enjoyable.

The route between Innsbruck and Vienna takes passengers from the heart of the Alps to Austria’s elegant capital. During the first part of the journey, dramatic mountain landscapes dominate the view. Gradually, the scenery changes into rolling hills, farmland, and historic towns before reaching Vienna.

Modern Railjet trains offer spacious seating, onboard dining, free Wi-Fi, and large windows, making the journey relaxing from start to finish.

For travelers visiting several Austrian cities, this is one of the country’s most practical and comfortable rail routes.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• Comfortable high-speed trains
• Ever-changing landscapes
• Excellent connections between Austria’s major cities

5. Hallstatt Line

Route: Attnang-Puchheim — Hallstatt Station

A train traveling along Lake Hallstatt on the way to Hallstatt Station

Although this is one of the shorter train journeys in Austria, it’s undoubtedly one of the most memorable.

Unlike many destinations, Hallstatt doesn’t have a railway station in the village itself. Instead, trains arrive at Hallstatt Station on the opposite side of Lake Hallstatt. From there, passengers board a small ferry that crosses the lake directly to the village.

This unique combination of train and boat makes arriving in Hallstatt an experience unlike anywhere else in Austria.

As the ferry approaches the shore, you’ll be rewarded with postcard-perfect views of colorful lakeside houses, the church spire, and the dramatic mountains rising behind the village.

If you’re visiting Hallstatt for the first time, arriving by train is arguably the most scenic way to experience this world-famous destination.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• A unique train-and-ferry experience
• Stunning views across Lake Hallstatt
• One of Austria’s most iconic arrivals

Looking for quieter destinations along the way? My guide to *8 Hidden Austrian Villages You’ll Want to Visit Before Everyone Else* features charming places beyond the usual tourist trail.

6. Wachau Valley Railway

Route: Krems — Dürnstein — Emmersdorf

A train passing through vineyards overlooking the Danube River in Austria’s Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley Railway offers a completely different side of Austria.

Instead of towering mountains, this historic route follows the Danube River through one of the country’s most beautiful wine regions. Vineyards cover the hillsides, medieval villages sit along the riverbanks, and centuries-old castles overlook the valley.

The route passes through charming towns such as Dürnstein, famous for its blue church tower and picturesque streets.

Recognized as part of the UNESCO-listed Wachau Cultural Landscape, this railway is especially beautiful during late spring and early autumn, when vineyards are lush and the weather is ideal for exploring the region.

For travelers looking to combine scenic rail travel with history, culture, and local wine, this journey is hard to beat.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• Beautiful Danube River views
• Vineyards and medieval villages
• UNESCO-listed cultural landscape

7. Mariazell Railway

Route: St. Pölten — Mariazell

Mariazell Railway winding through forests and mountain landscapes

The Mariazell Railway is Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway and one of its most charming.

Leaving the city of St. Pölten behind, the train gradually climbs into the mountains, passing forests, rivers, wooden bridges, and peaceful rural landscapes.

Unlike Austria’s faster intercity routes, this journey encourages passengers to slow down and simply enjoy the scenery.

The final destination, Mariazell, is one of Austria’s most important pilgrimage towns. Its magnificent basilica and surrounding Alpine scenery make it well worth the trip.

For travelers seeking a quieter and more traditional rail experience, the Mariazell Railway offers a wonderful escape from the country’s busier tourist routes.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

• Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway
• Peaceful mountain scenery
• Charming final destination

Tips for Booking Train Tickets

Austria’s rail network is reliable throughout the year, but a little planning can help you save both time and money.

If you’re traveling between major cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, booking your tickets in advance often results in lower fares, especially during the summer and holiday seasons.

Most long-distance trains offer reserved seating, which can make your journey more comfortable on busy travel days.

For regional routes, such as the Hallstatt Line or the Mariazell Railway, tickets are generally easy to purchase on the day of travel, although checking schedules in advance is always a good idea.

If you’re planning to explore several cities, compare individual tickets with rail passes to see which option offers the best value for your itinerary.

Is a Rail Pass Worth It?

For many travelers, the answer is yes — but it depends on your travel plans.

If your itinerary includes several long-distance train journeys, a rail pass can offer both convenience and savings. On the other hand, if you’re only visiting one or two destinations, purchasing individual tickets in advance is often the more economical choice.

Austria’s trains are known for being clean, comfortable, and punctual, so whichever ticket option you choose, traveling by rail is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to discover the country.

Final Thoughts

Austria is one of those rare destinations where the journey is just as memorable as the destination itself.

Whether you’re crossing UNESCO-listed mountain railways, gliding past crystal-clear lakes, or traveling through picturesque Alpine valleys, every route offers a different perspective on the country’s remarkable landscapes.

If you’re planning to explore Austria beyond its major cities, traveling by train isn’t simply a practical choice — it’s one of the highlights of the experience.

From the historic Semmering Railway to the unforgettable arrival in Hallstatt by train and ferry, these scenic rail journeys prove that some of Austria’s best views are found right outside the train window.

Note: The images in the “Salzburg — Bischofshofen — Zell am See” and “Krems — Dürnstein — Emmersdorf” sections were created with AI to represent the landscapes described, as suitable royalty-free photographs matching these specific train routes were not available. All other images in this article are from publicly licensed sources or their respective photographers.