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7 Scenic Train Routes in Austria Every Tourist Must Take
Sure, Switzerland is known for its scenic train rides—snowy Alps, rolling meadows, all that good stuff.
But did you know its Central European neighbour, Austria, has train rides that are just as breathtaking, making travelling in Austria by train a dream?
I didn’t either — until I spent two weeks travelling across Austria by train-
Deliberately choosing slower regional routes over high-speed connections to experience the most scenic mountain railways and panoramic train rides through the Austrian Alps.
Another thing is taking scenic journeys in Austria is much cheaper than those pricey Swiss routes.
In this post, I’ll take you through 7 scenic train rides in Austria — from historic mountain railways in the Austrian Alps to panoramic valley routes — with practical tips on tickets, planning, and the best seasons to travel.
By the end, you’ll be ready to add these unforgettable rides to your Austria trip.
Every route listed below is either one I personally took or carefully researched using official ÖBB railway data,
1. Salzburg to Innsbruck (via Bischofshofen)
This route from Salzburg (a historic city famous for it’s Hilltop Fortress) to Innsbruck (a mountain town known for hikes in summer and winter sports) is one of the most picturesque train rides in Austria.
I deliberately skipped the fast Railjet and chose the slower Regional Express via Bischofshofen after a local recommendation from my Salzburg hotel receptionist in Neustadt — and that decision completely changed how I experienced this Austrian Alps train ride.
The trip kicks off with peaceful cornfields, but soon, an ancient castle pops up on a hill by the river.
It’s like a scene from a postcard and makes this a memorable Austrian train journey.
Passing through Zell am See, the lake views are magical—calm blue waters, graceful swans, and green mountains hugging the shores.
As the train rolls into the Tyrolean hills, you’ll see charming villages with wooden houses covered in bright flowers and open meadows stretching forever.
And yes, there are glimpses of the Dolomites, standing tall in the distance.
If you only have time for one classic Austrian scenic train experience that balances affordability with scenery, Salzburg to Innsbruck via Bischofshofen is the one I’d personally recommend.
Photography tip
Sit on the right side from Salzburg to Innsbruck for Zell am See, villages, and countryside views. Use a fast shutter speed and clean windows for sharp shots.
Planning multiple train trips in Austria? Read my complete guide to getting around Austria by train — including ÖBB ticketing, passes, seat reservations, and budget-saving tips.
2. Semmering Railway – Vienna to Graz
If you’re after a historic mountain railway in Austria with jaw-dropping alpine views, the Semmering Railroad in eastern Austria (running from Gloggnitz to Semmering) is one of the best train journeys in Austria.
Built way back in the 1850s by Carl Ritter von Ghega, it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This route is packed with scenery: 16 viaducts with arches, 15 tunnels (including a 1,430-metre one that was a big deal back then), and endless mountain views.
It reminds you of Nine Arch bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka – But a bigger version with mountains anot tea estates.
It’s part of the Südbahn line that links Austria’s capital Vienna and Graz, and it even continues beyond Austria to cities like Maribor and Ljubljana in Slovenia, Trieste in Italy.
Semmering itself is this cute mountain town famous for fresh air, skiing in winter, and hiking in summer.
Photography tip
Sit on the left side from Vienna to Graz for Semmering views. To photograph the bridges, walk 1.5km from Semmering to Wolfsbergkogel or 21km to Payerbach.
3. Wachaubahn (Krems to Emmersdorf)
While Austria has plenty of `scenic` train rides through hills and lakes, the Wachau Bahn stands out.
This 34 km route winds through vineyards and medieval villages in the beautiful Wachau Valley, with the Danube River on one side and endless vineyards on the other.
I spent two days here, sipping Grüner Veltliner wine and enjoying the stunning views – an experience I’ll never forget.
The train runs from Emmersdorf, near the quaint town of Melk, all the way to Krems, passing through lovely villages and vineyards along the river. It’s run by NÖVOG, not the national ÖBB Railways.
It’s a bit on the expensive side, but it’s worth it. You don’t have to do the full 34 km. For under €3, you can hop on for just a few stops and still enjoy the amazing views like I did.
With 13 stations linked to bus stops, cruise docks, and bike-friendly options, it’s a great spot for cyclists.
Whether you’re visiting historic towns like Dürnstein or just taking in the views, the Wachau Bahn is a relaxing way to see the beauty of the Wachau Valley. Combine it with local transport like VOR buses to see more of the valley– You will thank me later.
Photography tip
Sit by the window with a polarizing filter for vibrant vineyard views. Both sides offer great scenery. For shots of the train through vineyards, get off at Spitz, Dürnstein, or Emmersdorf. Trains run every two hours, giving you time to find the perfect viewpoint.
4. Schafberg Railway (St. Wolfgang to Schafbergspitze)
Looking for a goregeous ride on Austria’s steepest railway, with lush meadows and amazing lake views at the top? Then hop on the Schafbergbahn in the Salzkammergut region!
This cog railway climbs 1,200 metres over 6 km with a 25.5% incline, powered by historic steam engines from the 1890s, though today’s trains are replicas from 1992. The charm, however, hasn’t changed one bit.
Before the railway opened in 1893, wealthy visitors were carried up Schafberg by “litter bearers” from St Wolfgang. Thankfully, an engineer came up with a faster solution, and now, it’s one of the most beautiful train rides in Austria.
I took this train on a day trip to St Gilgen, and though it’s a bit expensive, it was definitely worth it.
Sitting in an old-style coach, I watched green meadows pass by, then reached the top to a priceless view.
The dark green Austrian forests and the turquoise lakes of the Salzkammergut—Wolfgangsee on one side, Mondsee and Attersee on the other—looked like a painting.
You can take a ferry from St Gilgen to St Wolfgang (just like I did) or catch a bus from Strobl or Bad Ischl if you’re heading to Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most famous villages.
Photography tip
To photograph the train climbing the slope, hop off at Dörneralpe for a great shot, then wait for the next train – You can hike up or take the train again to go to the top.
At Schafbergspitze, take a short hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Salzkammergut lakes and Alps—perfect for wide-angle landscape shots.
5. Arlberg Scenic Train Ride – Innsbruck to Zurich
Combining a neighbouring country like Germany or Slovenia with Austria is common. But it gets even prettier when you take the scenic train route from Austria to Switzerland.
The journey from Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, to Zurich is one of the most scenic international train routes through the Austrian Alps.
You’ll pass through charming Alpine villages, snowy peaks, deep valleys, and wide meadows, making this ride magical. The town Bludenz is the highlight.
Bludenz, a quaint town in the southernmost corner of Vorarlberg, is the heart of five valleys. If you have time, stop here for a day or two—it’s perfect for those who love outdoor adventures like skiing in winter.
The Railjet Express is the best train for enjoying the views during daylight, so don’t take the Nightjet or Euro Night trains—you’ll miss out on the beautiful scenery.
If you’re after a more leisurely trip, the Bludenz stop is a great place to break up the journey.
Photography tip
Sit on the left side when travelling towards Zurich for stunning alpine and village views. Use a fast shutter speed and clean windows for sharp shots.
6. The Mariazellerbahn (St. Pölten to Mariazell)
If you’re looking for a fairytale train journey, hop on the Mariazell Railway from St. Pölten to Mariazell.
It’s a scenic route through peaceful forests, cliffs, and charming little stations—perfect for a quick wander.
Start your day trip from St. Pölten, just 60 km west of Vienna (only a 30-minute train ride away). It’s close to the stunning Wachau Valley that got beautiful villages and Abbeys like the one at Melk, making it an easy and beautiful starting point.
The ride covers about 84 km and takes roughly 2.5 hours, but trust me, you won’t notice the time with those views!
The train crosses 19 viaducts and 21 tunnels, offering a full-on experience of valleys, forests, and mountains.
The modern Himmelstreppe trains run all year and are super comfy. With big windows, space for bikes and skis, and plug sockets, you’re all set for a relaxing trip.
Trains run every couple of hours, and more frequently in July and August. If you visit in December, don’t miss the festive Advent markets – the journey there is magical.
Want a top-tier experience? Book a seat in the panorama carriages (weekends, holidays, and Advent). You’ll get the best views through massive windows, plus tasty local snacks served at your seat.
For an old-school vibe, hop on the Mh.6 steam train, running since 1908. It does select trips from May to December, and it’s a must if you love vintage trains.
If you’ve got kids, the Ötscherbär adventure train is perfect. With fun activities on board and yummy treats from the buffet car, it’s a family-friendly ride.
Just be sure to book early, especially for the panorama and steam trains. You’ll thank me later!
7. Achenseebahn in Tirol (Jenback to Achensee)
The Achensee Railway is a must for train lovers and anyone who enjoys a picturesque route. It stretches 6.7 km from Jenbach to the southern tip of Lake Achensee in Tirol for 50 miutes.
Getting there is easy—Jenbach is just 15 minutes direct train ride from Innsbruck, Austria’s mountain gem.
The lake itself is stunning, nestled between the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges. With its crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder people call it the “Tyrolean Sea.”
This historic route goes way back to 1889, when Emperor Franz Josef I (the famous Hofburg king with a tragic story) gave the go-ahead to build this narrow-gauge, steam-powered beauty.
Expect gorgeous views as the train chugs through forests, mountain slopes, and little villages.
As you near Seespitz, you’ll catch a glimpse of the lake—it’s like something out of a postcard. With 5 stops along the way, you’ll get a taste of the peaceful Alpine life.
The train itself mixes old-school charm with modern comfort. It’s powered by original steam engines (I saw them in Kitzbühel), and you can choose between classic wooden seats or more cushioned options.
Once used to transport timber, the Achensee Railway now gives a scenic journey. If you’ve got time, don’t miss out on hiking, boating, and chilling by the lake.
Photography tip
Sit on the right side for uninterrupted views of Lake Achensee as the train ascends. Get off at the lake, explore the surroundings, and wait about an hour to capture the iconic shot of the train passing by the water, as trains run roughly every hour.
The Best Scenic Train Rides in Austria: Quick Summary
Whether you’re looking for a historic mountain railway, a panoramic train through the Austrian Alps, or a relaxed vineyard journey along the Danube, Austria offers some of Europe’s most underrated scenic rail experiences.
What Next?
Austria can be pricey for tourists, so check out these tips to save money without missing out on experiences.
Read this post to learn how to use the regular trains to get around the country easily.
If you’re planning scenic train rides in Austria, start with one of these mountain railways and build your itinerary around it — the views truly shape the entire trip.
Thank you. A very informative and well-illustrated guide.
Wow
Such a comprehensive and generous informal
Fantastic insights
Greatly appreciated
Hey Matt 🙂 Thank you 🙂