Austria is an intriguing mountainous country bordered by Switzerland, Germany, and Italy, as well as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia. The challenging mountainous terrain not only poses technical challenges to railroad designers but also provides breathtaking views from train windows, making train travel a unique experience.

The three scenic rail routes discussed here were originally constructed in the mid-1800s, representing significant achievements in civil engineering. These routes include the Semmering and the narrow gauge Mariazellerbahn in eastern Austria near Vienna, and the Arlberg located in western Austria near Innsbruck. Each route offers exceptional opportunities for summer hiking and winter skiing, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to explore the stunning landscapes.

How to Buy Tickets

In Austria, most trains are operated by the state-owned Österreichische Bundesbahnen (Austrian Federal Railroad or ÖBB). Additionally, there are nineteen privately operated railroads primarily managing narrow-gauge lines.

Travelers can purchase point-to-point rail tickets and check schedules through Rail Europe, where seasonal specials on rail travel can also be found. For those interested in more extended scenic train journeys, various rail passes are available. One notable option is the combined Eurail Austria-Switzerland Pass, which includes routes through Switzerland’s scenic railways, such as the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express.

Austria is also part of the European East Pass, which covers the Czech Republic and Hungary, along with the Eurail Germany/Austria Pass.

The Semmering Railroad

The Semmering Railroad, connecting Gloggnitz to Semmering, showcases breathtaking mountain scenery and is a remarkable engineering achievement recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1998. Constructed between 1848 and 1854, this railway includes part of the Südbahn railway that connects Vienna to Graz and beyond.

What You’ll See Along the Semmering Scenic Route

• 16 viaducts characterized by numerous arches
• 15 tunnels
• The main tunnel, stretching 1,430 meters long, renowned as a significant engineering feat of its time

Long revered as a health resort destination celebrated for its clean air, the town of Semmering remains popular for winter sports and summer hiking, attracting those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

For a captivating visual experience, Rail World Photography features a Photo Tour of the Semmering Scenic Route.

Arlberg Scenic Train Ride

The Arlberg route was initiated after the completion of the Semmering line in conjunction with ambitions for a railway connecting England to Egypt. Construction started in 1880 and was completed in 1884, enabling travelers the luxurious experience of the Arlberg Orient Express from London to Bucharest.

The scenic train journey depicted above takes you from Innsbruck to the Lake Constance area in Switzerland. Winter sports reign supreme in Arlberg, celebrated as the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing, complementing the enjoyment of the picturesque train ride.

What to Do Along the Arlberg Scenic Train Route

• Snowboarding
• Skiing at St. Anton (St. Anton features Austria’s largest ski school, ideal for intermediate skiers)
• Hiking and Trekking

The Mariazell Railway: Narrow Gauge Scenic Route in Eastern Austria

The Mariazell Railway, an exciting narrow gauge route, runs between St. Poelten and Mariazell. This railway provides scenic views that are best appreciated through experiences such as a spectacular virtual tour for those curious about the route’s details.