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Austria's national rail transport company, the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), operates several different passenger services, including express trains. The country has an extensive railway network, with a length of 6,123 km (3,805 mi), of which 3,523 km (2,189 mi) is electrified. High-speed trains, such as the Railjet and the Intercity-Express, are a convenient option for travelling in Austria and Central Europe. The Railjet, introduced in 2008, is now a major part of national pride, with trains travelling at speeds of up to 230 km/h (143 mph). The Regional Express (REX) is another type of train in Austria, operating at lower speeds and within specific regions such as Upper Austria or Styria.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Austria |
| Train Company | Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) |
| High-Speed Trains | Railjet, Intercity-Express |
| Sleeper Service | Nightjet |
| Suburban Commuter Service | Regional Express (REX) |
| Train Speed | Up to 230 km/h (143 mph) |
| Border Crossings | Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein |
| Ticket Options | Sparschiene, Standard, First Class |
| Ticket Flexibility | Varies based on ticket type and fare |
| Onboard Amenities | Free WiFi, Restaurant, Electrical Outlets |
| Environmental Impact | 100% Renewable Energy, Energy-Efficient Trains |
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What You'll Learn
High-speed trains
The Railjet and Intercity-Express trains provide comfortable and convenient travel options, allowing passengers to maximise their enjoyment of the journey. Both types of trains offer different classes, with the Intercity-Express featuring an onboard restaurant and electrical outlets for every row of seats. The Railjet, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional comfort and energy efficiency, with better energy reduction costs compared to previous generations.
In addition to these high-speed options, Austria also offers the Nightjet sleeper service for overnight journeys to Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Poland, and Croatia. The Nightjet trains cater to different price ranges, with options including seated carriages, couchette berths, and luxurious private sleeper cabins.
Travelling by train is a popular choice for those visiting Austria and Switzerland, with comfortable and direct trains providing easy connections between the two countries. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express routes offer particularly scenic journeys through the Swiss landscape, including the Albula Valley and the banks of Lake Walen and Lake Zurich.
The Austrian railway network encompasses 6,123 km of tracks, with 3,523 km of electrified lines. The country is among the leaders in the European Union regarding the distance travelled by rail per inhabitant and year, ranking fifth in the 2017 European Railway Performance Index.
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Railjet Express
The Railjet Express is part of the Austrian Federal Railways (OBB) and connects Austria to neighbouring countries, including Germany, Italy, Hungary, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. The trains are electric-powered and offer improved energy reduction compared to previous generations, making them environmentally friendly.
The Railjet Express provides various amenities for passengers, including free WiFi, onboard entertainment, and a restaurant. There are three comfort classes available: Economy, First, and Business Class. The trains also feature quiet and family zones, additional storage spaces, and improved passenger information systems.
The Railjet Express is known for its comfort and convenience, offering a pleasant journey for travellers. The modern design, comfortable seats, and magnificent views make it a popular choice for those travelling within Austria and beyond. Reservations are recommended for most Railjet trains, and tickets can be conveniently booked online.
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Intercity-Express
The OBB trains are also environmentally conscious, with 100% of the power used for the railway network coming from renewable resources. The Intercity-Express trains themselves have better energy reduction costs compared to previous generations, making them an environmentally friendly option for high-speed rail travel.
In terms of ticketing, the Intercity-Express offers two classes: First and Standard. Tickets can be purchased online or through the OBB mobile app. Similar to other train services, the cheapest tickets tend to be less flexible, while more expensive tickets offer greater flexibility in terms of catching a different train or obtaining a refund. It is generally not necessary to book months in advance for the Intercity-Express, as ticket prices are less variable than those of long-distance trains.
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Nightjet sleeper service
Nightjet sleeper trains are a comfortable and convenient way to travel across Europe. Launched in 2016, Nightjet is a brand name for Austrian Railways (ÖBB) sleeper trains, which link the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. The trains cover huge distances overnight, allowing passengers to save on hotel costs.
The Nightjet sleeper service offers a range of accommodation options, including standard compartments with a washbasin and deluxe compartments with an en-suite shower and toilet. The sleeping cars are designed to be cosy and comfortable, with proper beds, sheets, pillows, blankets, and even towels and toiletries provided. Each compartment can be locked from the inside, and most can also be locked from the outside. Passengers can also order drinks and snacks directly from the train attendant using the call system in the compartment.
The Nightjet sleeper trains are ideal for families, groups of friends, and individual travellers, with options for 1, 2, or 3-bed compartments. For those on a budget, there are also couchette options available, which are basic padded bunks with blankets, sheets, and pillows. These couchettes can be found in either 6-berth or 4-berth compartments, providing a more affordable way to experience the Nightjet service.
The Nightjet website provides detailed information on routes, fares, tickets, and travel tips. Routes include Brussels to Vienna, Amsterdam to Vienna, Munich to Innsbruck, Vienna to Milan, Florence, Rome, and Zurich to Vienna. Tickets start at €29.90, and breakfast is included in the price. Passengers can also cancel or rebook their tickets by contacting the ÖBB customer service. Additionally, for those travelling with pets, it is possible to bring your dog on the Nightjet by contacting the ÖBB customer service in advance.
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Regional Express
In Austria, the Regional Express is a single-class service, with no first-class seating. Tickets are affordable, and there are no check-in or customs procedures before boarding. Ticket control and passport checks may, however, take place onboard international services. The trains are practical rather than luxurious, and can be single or double-decker. Luggage can be stored in small luggage racks above the seats, or under the seats. Bicycles can often be taken on board for a small fee. Some Regional Express trains, such as those in Germany and Spain, have vending machines for snacks and drinks, but passengers can also bring their own food and drinks on board.
The Austrian railway network, managed by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), covers 6,123 km (3,805 mi), with 3,523 km (2,189 mi) of electrified track. The Regional Express is one of several train services in Austria, including the S-Bahn and U-Bahn urban rail services, and the country ranks highly within the European Union for distance travelled by rail per inhabitant and year.
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Frequently asked questions
The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operates several express trains, including the Railjet, the Intercity-Express, the Nightjet sleeper service, and suburban commuter services.
The Railjet trains are high-speed, electric-powered trains that travel at speeds of up to 230 km/h (143 mph). They are environmentally friendly, with better energy reduction costs compared to previous generations.
Regional trains are generally slower, cheaper, and do not allow seat reservations. They are usually confined to specific regions in Austria, such as Upper Austria or Styria, and operate at lower speeds than intercity services. Intercity-Express trains operate on long-distance routes and have a maximum speed of 230 km/h (143 mph).
You can book tickets for express trains in Austria online through websites like Rail Ninja, Trainline, or directly through the ÖBB website or mobile app. Booking in advance is recommended, as tickets tend to be cheaper and can sell out for popular routes.
