Leslie Massey
Austria's public transportation system is well-established, clean, fast, reliable, and affordable. The country's rail network is mostly operated by the state-owned ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn or Austrian Federal Railways), which offers various ticket options, including standard tickets, Sparschiene tickets, and different types of rail passes. Tickets can be purchased online, through third-party vendors, or at the train station, and prices vary depending on the type of train, the time of booking, and the traveller's age. Additionally, Austria's train stations are known for their modern amenities, including shops, ticket information, toilets, and lockers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Train Operators | Westbahn, ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn/Austrian Federal Railways) |
| Ticket Providers | ÖBB, Westbahn, The Trainline, Sparschiene, Railjet, Eurail, Interrail, RegioJet |
| Ticket Types | Standard-Tickets, Sparschiene, Vorteilscard Jugend, Vorteilscard Senior, Railjet, Eurail Pass, Interrail Pass, Standard Class, Comfort Class, First Class |
| Ticket Discounts | Families, Under-26s, Over-60s, Under-6s, Group Bookings |
| Ticket Validity | Tickets are valid for travel on the date of purchase, some tickets permit travel on the day after the day of validity |
| Ticket Flexibility | Cheaper tickets are less flexible, more expensive tickets are more flexible |
| Ticket Refunds | Refunds are available for voluntary cancellations, separate refund conditions apply for train cancellations or delays |
| Ticket Reservations | Reservations are available but optional for journeys within Austria, seat reservations are included in 1st-class tickets on DB (German national railways) but not on OBB |
| Payment Methods | Cash, Card |
| Amenities | Shops, Ticket Information, Toilets, Lockers |
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What You'll Learn
Discounted tickets for children, youths, seniors, and families
Austria's national railway, the Österreichische Bundesbahn (ÖBB), offers discounted tickets for children, youths, seniors, and families.
Children under six travel for free without a ticket, while those between the ages of six and fourteen (inclusive) pay the child fare. Children and youths can also travel for free on Wiener Linien's network during school holidays in Vienna, on Sundays and public holidays, as well as on the 2nd and 15th of November, until they turn fifteen.
Youths under twenty-six can benefit from discounted tickets. While the age limit for youth fares in most European countries is usually up to twenty-six, some related services may have a youth fare only up to the age of twenty-one.
Seniors aged sixty-two and above can save up to fifty per cent on point-to-point train tickets with a Vorteilscard. The card is valid for one year, requires a photo, and costs between €19 and €29. Additionally, single tickets for one or two journeys can be purchased at a reduced rate for senior citizens.
Families with children under fifteen can also save up to fifty per cent on point-to-point train tickets with the Vorteilscard.
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Buying tickets in advance
When it comes to buying train tickets in advance in Austria, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, the type of train you plan to take is important. For long-distance and intercity services such as the Railjet, the cheapest Sparschiene fares are available to book up to six months in advance. These tickets can sell out well before the date of departure, especially on popular routes. However, for regional services, ticket prices usually remain the same whether you book in advance or on the day of travel. So, there is less advantage to booking ahead for regional services.
It's also worth noting that the day of validity, or the date from which your ticket is valid for travel, is an important concept in Austrian train ticketing. Some ticket types even allow you to travel on the day after the day of validity. Additionally, the refund period varies between ticket types, so it's a good idea to check the terms and conditions before purchasing.
If you're looking to buy tickets in advance, Sparschiene tickets are a great option. They are offered by OBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn/Austrian Federal Railways), the main train operator in Austria. These tickets are available for both domestic and international journeys and can be purchased online through OBB's website or third-party apps such as Trainline. Sparschiene tickets are cheaper the earlier you book, but they are also less flexible, so make sure you're certain about your travel plans before purchasing.
Another thing to consider when buying tickets in advance is whether you want to reserve a seat. Reservations are optional for most journeys within Austria, but they are recommended during peak season and public holidays. There is usually a small fee for seat reservations, and it's important to note that your seat is not guaranteed if you don't reserve in advance.
Finally, if you're travelling with children, Sparschiene tickets offer a great benefit. Each adult purchasing a Sparschiene ticket can take up to four children aged 14 and under for free. However, these children will still need tickets, so make sure you have the necessary documentation with you when travelling.
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Ticket validity and refunds
When it comes to ticket validity and refunds for train travel in Austria, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, understand the concept of the "day of validity". This is the day from which your ticket is valid for travel. Some ticket types allow travel on the day after the day of validity. For example, if you buy a ticket to travel on the 1st of January, the day of validity is the 1st of January, but you may also be able to travel on the 2nd of January. The refund period varies depending on the ticket type, so check the terms and conditions. Refunds are usually voluntary, meaning that if you choose not to travel, you can request a refund within a certain timeframe. However, if the train is cancelled or delayed, separate refund conditions will apply.
It's important to distinguish between different types of trains and tickets. There are two main train operators in Austria: Westbahn and ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn/Austrian Federal Railways). ÖBB is the more established operator and administers the nation's railways, as well as Liechtenstein's railways. They offer various services, including high-speed Railjet, Intercity-Express, Nightjet sleeper service, and suburban commuter services. Westbahn, on the other hand, operates the main train connection between Vienna and Bregenz, serving cities like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Linz. Their trains are often less crowded and have more conductors. While you can't use an ÖBB ticket on Westbahn or vice versa, Westbahn is generally cheaper, especially for high-speed connections between Vienna and Salzburg.
Additionally, there are long-distance trains (lnterCity-Express, lnterCity, EuroCity, EuroNight, D-Zug, Railjet, Railjet Express, Nightjet, Westbahn) and regional trains (S-Bahn, regional trains, Regional Express). The type of ticket you have may determine which trains you can use. For instance, S-Bahn trains are covered by rail passes, but U-Bahn trains are not. If you have a special ticket, check its validity for specific trains.
Discounted tickets, such as Sparschiene tickets, are usually the cheapest option but offer the least flexibility. These tickets are often sold for pre-selected dates and times, and you must catch the exact train listed on your ticket. They are also subject to refund restrictions and are not sold by US agents. On the other hand, standard tickets come at a slight premium but offer more flexibility, allowing you to travel on any train within a 2-day window.
Finally, consider taking advantage of discount cards and passes. Youths under 26, seniors over 60 or 62, and families with children under 15 can benefit from significant discounts of up to 50% on point-to-point train tickets with a Vorteilscard. This card costs €19-29 and is valid for one year. Similarly, Sparscheine discounts offer great deals when buying tickets in advance, especially when travelling with children. With Sparschiene tickets, each adult can take up to four children aged 14 and under for free, although they still need tickets.
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Sparschiene tickets
If you have a Sparschiene ticket, you must show a printout to the conductor, who may ask for a passport or another document with a picture.
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Rail passes
Austria has a well-established public transportation system, with two train operators: Westbahn and ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn/Austrian Federal Railways). ÖBB is the more established operator, with trains running across the country. Westbahn, on the other hand, operates only the main train connection between Vienna and Bregenz, including the cities of Innsbruck, Salzburg and Linz.
If you're planning to travel extensively by train in Austria, a rail pass might be a good option for you. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Rail Pass Options:
- Eurail Austria Pass: This pass is for non-European residents and allows you to explore Austria and, if you choose, the rest of Europe. Eurail offers a Global Pass that provides access to over 30,000 destinations across the continent. You can decide on the day where and when you want to go, or plan out your trip in advance.
- Interrail Pass: If you're a European resident, you can opt for the Interrail Pass, which offers similar benefits to the Eurail Pass but is designed for European residents. Interrail and Eurail passes are valid on all trains within Austria operated by ÖBB, including trains running nonstop between Salzburg and Kufstein, even when they cross into Germany.
- Regional Passes: Depending on your travel plans, you might also consider regional passes, such as the Vienna City Card or the Salzburg Card, which offer discounts on public transportation within those cities.
- Discounted Passes: Both Eurail and Interrail passes offer discounted passes for youths (aged 12 to 27) and seniors (aged 60 and above). Children under 4 travel for free, and children between 4 and 11 can get a Child Pass for free but must be accompanied by an adult.
- Vorteilscard: If you're staying in Austria for a longer period, you can purchase a full-fare ("Classic") Vorteilscard, which offers discounts of up to 50% on point-to-point train tickets for youths (under 26), seniors (62+), and families with children under 15. The Vorteilscard is valid for one year and requires a photo.
Things to Consider:
- Reservations: Most high-speed and night trains in Austria require reservations at an additional cost. First-class passes are valid in both first and second-class coaches, while second-class passes are only valid in second-class coaches.
- International Travel: If you plan to travel internationally, be aware that some international routes and overnight trains require reservations. Additionally, if you're travelling on a route that crosses into another country, such as the trains from Salzburg to Kufstein, you'll need a rail pass that includes that country.
- Ticket Options: Before purchasing a rail pass, compare prices with point-to-point tickets, especially if you're taking shorter trips or staying in one region. Sparscheine discounts offer deals on pre-selected dates and times when purchased at least three days in advance.
- Activation and Refunds: Remember to activate your rail pass within the specified timeframe. Eurail passes, for example, need to be activated within 11 months of the issue date. Also, understand the refund and exchange policies for your pass, as some promotional passes may be non-refundable.
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Frequently asked questions
You can pay for Austrian train tickets online, on the train, or at a ticket counter.
There are two main train operators in Austria: Westbahn and ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahn/Austrian Federal Railways). There is a difference between long-distance trains (lnterCity-Express, lnterCity, EuroCity, EuroNight, D-Zug, Railjet, Railjet Express, Nightjet, Westbahn) and regional trains (S-Bahn, regional train, Regional Express).
The cheapest fares are the least flexible, and the more expensive fares offer greater flexibility with regard to catching a different train or getting a refund. Standard tickets are the most flexible, allowing passengers to take any train within a two-day window of travel.
Yes, there are several discount cards available for over-65s, families, under-26s, and anyone who uses the train often. There are also Sparschiene tickets, which are discounted fares for pre-selected dates and times. These are great value if you are travelling with children as each adult can take up to four children aged 14 and under for free.
You can find ticket prices by searching for a journey on ÖBB’s Tickets and Services page or on third-party booking websites.
