8 best trips from Vienna by train for your next adventure

Considered a tourism hub in central Europe, Vienna makes an excellent starting point for exploring nearby towns via the expansive rail network. Delight your tastebuds on a food tour in Bratislava, learn about centuries-old winemaking techniques in Klosterneuburg, or walk Roman roads in Carnuntum.

If majestic Habsburg palaces or the serene mountain landscapes of the Alps are calling your name, Vienna's rail network makes it easy to answer. Some of the most beautiful and interesting places are all within easy reach. This guide highlights the best train trips from Vienna, ideal for a quick escape or an all-out weekend trip.

Trips via train from Vienna at a glance

Best destination for families: Laxenburg and Carnuntum
Best destination for couples: Gmunden and Krems an der Donau
Best destination for culture: Salzburg and Brno
Best destination for food: Bratislava

1. Salzburg, Salzburg District

Best for a weekend culture trip

For culture lovers looking for weekend trips by train from Vienna, there is no better choice than Salzburg. Nestled in the Austrian Alps near the German border, this city is packed with exciting activities. Climb up to the looming Fortress Hohensalzburg high above the city or meditate in the quiet gardens of St. Peter's Abbey. For music lovers, don't miss the Mozart Museum located in the 16th-century home where the composer was born.

Salzburg also makes an excellent base for exploring the picturesque mountain village of Hallstatt on a day tour.

Getting there

Nearest station: Salzburg Central HBF, two-and-a-half hours on a direct train from Vienna

2. Carnuntum, Lower Austria

Best for ancient history

Carnuntum is one of the quickest day trips by train from Vienna, making it an excellent choice for families with young children. Step back in time at this reconstructed Roman military fortress dating back to the 1st century. This settlement was once home to 50,000 people and held a flourishing community. With a spacious courtyard to let the kids run free, a fun-filled day awaits at Römerstadt Carnuntum.

Getting there

Nearest station: Petronell-Carnuntum Bahnhof, a 45-minute regional train from Vienna

3. Klosterneuburg, Lower Austria

Best for a quick day trip

If you've run out of neighborhoods to explore in Vienna, take a day trip to the suburban town of Klosterneuburg. Known as "Kloburg" by the locals, the main draw of this Austrian river town is the towering Klosterneuburg Abbey. Dating back to the 12th century, the abbey is the oldest winery in Austria, actively producing vintage reds for more than 900 years. Spend an afternoon wandering the marble halls and learning about the abbey's pivotal role in Austrian politics at the on-site museum. End with a tour of the wine cellars and a tasting to cap off your day.

Getting there

Nearest station: Klosterneuburg Kierling Bahnhof, reachable in 30 minutes from Vienna by train or metro

4. Bratislava, Slovakia

Best for a foodie weekend away

The beauty of the well-connected European train network is that you can hop into another country for a day trip. Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, is an ideal destination for budget travelers or anyone hoping to escape the summer crowds in Vienna. Spend a weekend exploring the well-preserved medieval streets and delve into the city's rich history at Bratislava Castle. Delight your tastebuds by trying Bryndzové Halušky, made with boiled potatoes, goat cheese, and smoked pork, or Kapustnica (sausage soup) on one of Bratislava's food tours.

Getting there

Nearest station: Bratislava Most SNP, a 45-minute fast train from Vienna

5. Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria

Best for wine tours

The scenic journey to Krems an der Donau through rolling hills and past rural villages is one of the best day trips via train from Vienna. Part of Austria's Wachau wine region, this historic town is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. Spend an afternoon on a cycling tour of local wineries, learning about the distinct terraced vineyards that have earned this region a designation as a World Cultural Heritage site. Taste a Riesling or a Grüner Veltliner, two of the signature dry whites that Wachau is famous for.

Getting there

Nearest station: Krems / Donau station, one hour from Vienna, typically with one train change

6. Laxenburg, Lower Austria

Best for medieval castles

Stroll in the footsteps of the famous Habsburgs at their summer palace just outside Vienna. History nerds and castle lovers will find Laxenburg to be one of the best trips from Vienna. This market town is home to Laxenburg Castle Park, with its beautifully manicured gardens and elegant castles. Franzensburg Castle is undoubtedly a highlight, with its picturesque turrets reflected in the still waters of the nearby artificial lake.

Getting there

Nearest station: Laxenburg-Biedermannsdorf Bahnhof, a short 20-minute ride from central Vienna.

7. Gmunden, Upper Austria

Best for romantic mountain views

Get ready to star in your very own "Sound of Music" when you visit the charming village of Gmunden on the shores of Lake Traunsee. A top destination for romantic weekend getaways and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a change of scenery, the lakeside town is one of the best day trips by train from Vienna.

With ample opportunities for hiking in the surrounding mountains and dozens of spas and wellness centers to recover at, this lakeside town is one of Austria's hidden gems. Walk the wooden pier out to the Schloss Ort, a brilliant white castle on an island close to shore. Hop aboard one of the many public ferries to cruise around the lake and revel in the stellar mountain views from every angle.

Getting there

Nearest station: Gmunden Rathausplatz, a two-and-a-half-hour journey from Vienna with a changeover in Linz

8. Brno, Czechia

Best for a laid-back escape

A city that seamlessly blends the atmosphere of Vienna and the architecture of Prague, Brno is one of the best train trips from Vienna for city hoppers. Uncover the city's dark history in the prison tunnels under Špilberk Castle, or spend a family-friendly day with the kids at VIDA! Science Center. Don't forget to set aside a morning to grab a seat, sip a coffee, and watch local life go by at one of Brno's famed cafes.

Getting there

Nearest station: Brno, a one-and-a-half-hour direct train from Vienna

FAQs: Train trips from Vienna

Generated with the help of AI

What is the most scenic train ride from Vienna?

The journey from Vienna to Graz via the Semmering line is renowned for its stunning views. This route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and impressive engineering. The trip takes under 3 hours and is included in the Global Pass.

What are popular train destinations from Vienna?

From Vienna, you can travel by train to several exciting destinations. Budapest is just 2 hours and 20 minutes away, with trains running from 6:40 to 21:40. Bratislava can be reached in 1 hour and 9 minutes, with services from 5:20 to 23:19. Munich is a 3 hour and 56-minute journey, with departures between 0:15 and 22:02. For a longer trip, you can reach Paris in 9 hours and 39 minutes, with trains operating from 0:15 to 23:35.

What cities can you visit from Vienna by train?

From Vienna, you can enjoy train trips to several captivating cities. Salzburg offers a blend of history and music, while Hallstatt is known for its picturesque lakeside views. Bratislava, just an hour away, provides a charming old-town experience. For a longer journey, Budapest presents a vibrant cultural scene and stunning architecture. Each destination offers unique attractions, making them perfect for day trips or short getaways.

Which countries can be reached by train from Vienna?

Vienna is well-connected by train to several neighboring countries. You can easily travel to Switzerland, with direct services to Zurich. Other accessible destinations include Italy, France, Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic, all offering direct rail connections.

What is the most scenic train journey from Vienna?

The train journey from Vienna to Graz via the Semmering line is renowned for its stunning scenery. This route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the Austrian landscape. The trip takes under 3 hours and includes a Global Pass.