Austria is known around the world for its extensive – and reasonably-priced – rail network.
And to top it off, the views are stunning. So there really could be no better start to your summer holiday than leaving behind the stress of busy roads and watching the world go by on a scenic route.
It's no wonder then that Austrian residents are some of the most enthusiastic rail travellers in the world.
According to Eurostat figures published at the start of 2026, Austrians travelled 1,513 km per inhabitant in 2024, putting them top of the scoreboard, just behind Hungary and ahead of France.
A quick word on tickets
Train travel in Austria is fairly affordable especially when you compare it to other western European countries.
However, it pays to get a ticket early. Sparschiene (saver fares) are available up to six months before travel, and cost as little as €9.90.
If you travel regularly, cards like the Vorteilscard give discounts on various standard fares, while the Klimaticket Ö, is a nationwide annual pass valid on most trains and local public transport across Austria. Pricing varies but it costs around €1,400 for adults in 2026, with the reduced version costing €1,050.
Interrail/Eurail passes and extensive multi‑day rail passes are a good cost-effective option for non‑Austrian residents doing lots of travel.
READ ALSO: Everything you need to know about travelling by train in Austria
Where to go...
Austria is home to some of the most stunning rail journeys in the world, showcasing deep valleys and Alpine mountain ranges.
In summer, expect lush green trees, bursts of colourful plants and flowers paired with sun and blue skies – with the odd dramatic summer storm thrown in.
Here are five destinations you should consider travelling to by train this summer:
Innsbruck
Right in the heart of the Austrian Alps in Tyrol, Innsbruck offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks at almost every angle.
That makes it the perfect place to sit and enjoy a cold brew or glass of Prosecco.
Whether you choose to hike along the Nordkette mountain trails during the day, soak up the beautiful scenery or spend an afternoon browsing boutiques, there is always something fun to do.
In the evening, you can relax with a schnitzel (vegetarian options are on offer too!), or visit an underground bar.
READ ALSO: How to make the most of 24 hours in Innsbruck
Getting there: Innsbruck is one of Austria's best-connected Alpine cities. Direct Railjet services run from Vienna in around 4 hours 15 minutes, while travellers from Salzburg can reach Innsbruck in under two hours.
Visitors can also arrive by train from Munich in less than two hours, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway without a car.
The city's efficient public transport network and the Nordkette cable cars make it easy to explore both the centre and surrounding mountains.
Zell am See
Zell am See is the ultimate destination for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Nestled between a stunning lake and mountains, it's the ideal place for a leisurely hike or water sports.
Visit the Kitzsteinhorn glacier before enjoying local delicacies in a cafe.
In between, a visit to the Krimml Waterfalls is well worth it, and you should plan at least a full day for the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Getting there: Zell am See is easily reachable by train from Vienna in around four hours via Salzburg.
There are also regular rail connections from Innsbruck and Munich.
And by the way: in the Zell am See-Kaprun region, visitors can take the ÖBB Transfer Shuttle directly from the train station to their accommodation, making it easy to enjoy a car-free holiday.
Salzburg
Thanks to its hilltop fortress and rich musical heritage, Salzburg is a the perfect city break and is an excellent base for exploring western Austria.
You can spend the morning exploring the charming streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before taking the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the urban area and surrounding mountains.
In the afternoon, stroll through the Mirabell Gardens – a famous film location for The Sound of Music – browse independent shops or enjoy an in ice cream at one of Salzburg's historic cafes.
Don't forget to sample some of Mozart's Kugeln – chocolate balls – sold in the city where the composer was born.
Getting there: Salzburg can be reached from Vienna in around 2 hours 30 minutes on direct Railjet services.
Frequent trains also connect the city with Munich in around 90 minutes and Innsbruck in under two hours.
Südsteiermark
Known as Austria's Tuscany, Südsteiermark is famous for its vineyard-covered hills, picturesque wine roads and delicious regional cuisine.
Spend your day cycling between wineries, walking through the vineyards or sampling local specialities such as pumpkin seed oil, fresh seasonal produce and a crisp white wine.
The area is also home to numerous wine taverns, known as Buschenschanken, where visitors can enjoy snacks and a beverage with spectacular countryside views.
Getting there: The South Styrian wine region is easily accessible from Graz, with train connections to towns such as Leibnitz taking around 30 to 40 minutes.
From Vienna, travellers can reach the region in approximately two and a half hours by train. Local buses and cycling routes make it easy to explore once you arrive.
READ ALSO: The six most spectacular train trips in Austria
The Gastein Valley
The Gastein Valley, home to Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein, is the perfect retreat for anyone looking for relaxation paired with a little adventure.
As well as hikes and ski tours in the Gastein mountains, check out the suspension bridge on the Stubnerkogel, Klammstein Castle and the "Entrische Kirche" historical landmark.
After a long day of exploring, treat yourself to a relaxing massage at a spa or a blast of heat in your hotel sauna.
Getting there: The Gastein Valley lies on one of Austria's most scenic railway routes. Direct trains connect Vienna with Bad Gastein in around four hours, while Salzburg is just over an hour away.
Stations in Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein provide easy access to hiking trails, spas and mountain lifts.
READ ALSO: Austria's best 'Kur' towns and why you should visit
Vienna
A trip to the capital is a must while visiting Austria.
Indulge in some Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) at one of the historic coffeehouses, prepare to be wowed in a city tour, or visit one of the main museums or art galleries for inspiration.
In the warm weather, it's also a great idea to go for a swim at a pool like the Alte Donau or relax in a city park with a book.
In the evening, head to a local restaurant to people watch and mingle with locals.
READ ALSO: How to spend 24 hours in Vienna
Getting there: High-speed Railjet services connect the capital with major cities including Salzburg, Linz, Innsbruck and Graz. Journey times range from around 1 hour 15 minutes from Linz to around 4 hours 20 minutes from Innsbruck, with frequent departures throughout the day.
Vienna is also well-connected to neighbouring countries. Direct trains run regularly from Munich (around 4 hours), Prague (around 4 hours), Bratislava (just over 1 hour) and Budapest (around 2.5 hours).
Local transport is also easy to navigate. Jump on the U-Bahn, bus or tram system or hire a bike to cycle around.
READ ALSO: The big changes for travel to and from Austria in 2026
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