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Day Trip from Vienna to Salzburg by Train – Guided Sightseeing Tour

Austria stretches approximately 660 kilometers from west to east, with Vienna on the country's eastern edge and Salzburg located in the north-central region. The distance between the two cities is about 300 kilometers (190 miles), with travel time of roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes by train or 3.5 hours by car. As Austria's cultural, historical, and business center, Vienna is the most popular destination for visitors and serves as the country’s central transportation hub.

Looking to travel from Vienna to Salzburg? The fastest and most convenient option is by train. Austria has two rail providers: ÖBB (the state-owned railway) and Westbahn (a private company). The ÖBB Railjet departs from Vienna's central station, Wien Hauptbahnhof, with modern red carriages available in first and second class. Passengers can enjoy a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a family carriage featuring cartoons and free board games for children. Traveling at speeds of 200-230 km/h, the train journey to Salzburg typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes.

salzburg toptours from vienna to salzburg OBB Austrian Rail Ways

You can purchase tickets in advance on oebb.at, at train station ticket offices, or via ticket machines. While tickets are also available for purchase on board, they come at a higher price.

ÖBB offers a Sparschiene discount, which can save you up to 50% on your ticket. However, these discounted tickets are non-refundable and valid only for a specific train and departure time. If you buy a regular ticket, you have the flexibility to take any train on the same day. Booking early increases your chances of securing a Sparschiene discount.

Ticket prices for the Vienna–Salzburg route range from €40 to €130, depending on the train type, class, and available discounts. Seat reservations cost an additional €8. Trains depart from Vienna Airport (Schwechat), stopping at Vienna Central Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) before continuing directly to Salzburg.

salzburg toptours from vienna to salzburg on sightseeing tour

The Westbahn (Western Railways) departs from Wien Westbahnhof station. The trains feature a distinctive white, blue, and green color scheme, offering clean, comfortable carriages. Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and USB connectors, ensuring a convenient journey.

Online Tickets: A one-way ticket from Vienna to Salzburg costs €61 when purchased on the official website, westbahn.at (prices as of 2025). Tickets bought directly from the conductor cost €65. Seat Reservations are available for an extra €8. Tickets can be purchased online, from ticket machines, or at the Westbahn ticket office at Vienna Westbahnhof. The journey from Vienna to Salzburg takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

from vienna to salzburg by railway on sightseeing tour

Many tourists visit Salzburg from Vienna for just one day, leaving little time to fully explore the city. To help you make the most of your short stay, I offer exciting sightseeing tours that start directly from Salzburg Central Station. We can meet at the entrance to the SPAR grocery store in the main hall.

Here are some options for a memorable day in Salzburg:

  1. Classic Walking Tour (2–2.5 hours)
    A light and informative tour covering the highlights of Salzburg, perfect for first-time visitors.
  2. Extended City Tour (3.5–4 hours)
    For those seeking a deeper dive, this extended tour includes visits to Mozart's Birthplace and Fortress Hohensalzburg, providing a thorough exploration of Salzburg's rich history.
  3. Car & Walking Tour (3.5–4 hours)
    Start with a scenic drive around Salzburg's historic sites, including Hellbrunn Palace, Leopoldskron Palace, and Hangar-7 (home to the Flying Bulls aircraft exhibition). Then, we’ll explore the old town on foot, with plenty of fascinating facts about the city. Fans of The Sound of Music will enjoy highlights from the movie.
  4. Salzburg & Salzkammergut Lake District Tour (Full Day)
    A full-day tour, including a scenic trip to Hallstatt and other stunning lake locations in the Salzkammergut region. This tour ends at the nearest train station on your way back to Vienna.

Whether you're here for a short visit or a more immersive experience, I’ll ensure you discover the very best of Salzburg!

The cost of each tour varies depending on the program, duration, and number of participants. Please feel free to send me your request, and I will provide you with a detailed description and a personalized price proposal as soon as possible.

 

 Tags: Sightseeing transfers SALZBURG - VIENNA, Munich - Salzburg by train to the sightseeing tour

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TOUR
To Get Your Custom Quote Quickly, Please Provide: 1. Preferred tour date. 2. Tour name. 3. Number of participants. 4. Hotel or meeting location. 5. Available time or alternative dates. 6. Contact phone number (including WhatsApp, if available).

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TOUR
FAQ
How can I book a private tour with you?
Please send your inquiry via email or the contact form, including the tour name, date, number of participants, and your preferred meeting point. I’ll reply promptly with details and pricing.
How much does your service cost?
Estimated prices are as follows: Salzburg walking tours: €200–€350 | Half-day tours (Salzburg and nearby areas by minibus): €350–€500 | Full-day tours: €700–€950 | Final rates vary based on distance, itinerary, and tour customization.
Why do your quotations have price gaps?
I specialize in offering customized and individual tours; therefore, the price depends on itinerary, duration, season, distance, number of participants, and payment method. For example: Salzburg-Hallstatt Tour: 500–850 euros. Duration is from 5 hours to a full day. Either we drive 3 hours and spend 2 hours in Hallstatt, or we add more stops and spend the whole day in the Lake District, including Hallstatt.
What are the payment methods?
I accept payments via bank transfer, PayPal (subject to a processing fee), credit card, and cash. Please note that credit card payments incur an additional surcharge. Let me know your preferred method, and I’ll provide the necessary details.
What is your cancellation policy?
For the peak requested periods, I require a deposit via a payment link. Also, I need a deposit if you want me to pick you up from a location outside Salzburg. For short tours and last-minute bookings, I charge directly after the service. B2B services are managed on a contractual basis.
Can I book a tour by calling you?
I kindly ask that you send me a message first with some basic information about your preferred tour, date and group size. Once we've exchanged the essentials, we can gladly arrange a phone call if needed. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Is hotel pick-up included in the private tour?
Yes, I can pick you up at your hotel, or we can meet at Mirabellplatz in front of the Palace. Whatever works best for you!
What does your service cover?
Qualified guide service in Salzburg (Professional Austria Guide since 2006). Customized tour planning based on your preferences. Travel in a Mercedes-Benz V-Class 300 minivan with room for up to seven passengers. There are no additional charges for tolls or parking.
What is not included in your service?
Entrance fees, accommodations, meals and drinks.
What type of vehicle is used for the private tours and transfers?
All Salzburg private tours and sightseeing transfers to Vienna, Munich, Linz, or Passau are conducted in a premium Mercedes-Benz V-Class 300d (Extra-Long version) with 7 passenger seats and a large luggage compartment.
How many people can fit in your minivan, and can my baby sit on my lap?
My premium Mercedes-Benz minivan comfortably seats up to 7 passengers. Regarding safety, infants and children cannot sit on a lap; every passenger must have their own seat by law. To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, I provide child car seats and boosters free of charge upon request—just let me know your child's age and weight when booking.
Can we hire you as a driver only, without the guiding service?
Yes, you can book me for private chauffeur services or transfers without a guided program. However, please note that my rates remain the same. As a licensed Austria Guide and professional chauffeur, I provide a premium service that goes beyond a standard taxi.
Can we hire you as a guide only if we drive our own car?
While I can join you in your vehicle as a licensed Salzburg guide, I highly recommend booking the tour in my Mercedes-Benz V-Class. Driving your own car often limits the experience: as your driver-guide, I handle the navigation, parking, and specific "slow-down" spots for photos, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. My luxury van is also elevated for better visibility and offers much more space than a standard sedan. Since the price difference is minimal, most guests find the added comfort and convenience of my professional transport well worth it.
Do you offer tours in a smaller car for a lower price?
No, I can only provide tours in my Mercedes-Benz minivan.
We have a group larger than 7 people. Can you arrange a large bus for us?
My personal service is specialized for small groups (up to 7 passengers) to ensure a flexible and intimate tour experience. For larger groups requiring a coach, I recommend contacting a dedicated bus charter company directly, as they require specific details and deposits to secure large vehicles. However, for groups of 8 to 14, I can help organize a second premium minivan with an additional professional guide. This allows your group to stay together while maintaining the high mobility and "off-the-beaten-path" access that large buses cannot provide.
Can we hire you for a few days?
I also offer multi-day itineraries tailored to your needs.
Do you offer walking tours of only the town of Hallstatt?
I do not provide stand-alone walking tours within the village of Hallstatt. Instead, I specialize in full-day private tours from Salzburg that include Hallstatt as a highlight. You can choose a comprehensive Lake District & Hallstatt tour or a deep-dive itinerary focused entirely on the Hallstatt region. These full-day experiences include door-to-door transport in my luxury Mercedes-Benz, scenic stops at hidden gems along the way, and my full guidance throughout the day.
Is a half-day tour from Salzburg to Hallstatt possible?
While a half-day tour can be arranged, I generally recommend a full-day excursion to get the most out of your visit. A typical half-day tour lasts 4 hours, and since the round-trip drive from Salzburg to Hallstatt takes about 3 hours, you would only have one hour to explore. Hallstatt is a highlight of the Salzkammergut Lake District, but there is so much more to see! By choosing a full-day tour, we can visit several alpine lakes and charming villages, allowing you to experience the authentic beauty of the Austrian Alps at a relaxed pace rather than rushing through the main tourist spots.
Can I join a shared group tour or book a single seat?
I specialize exclusively in private, customized tours. As an independent guide, I do not offer shared group tours or "per-seat" bookings. This allows me to provide a completely personalized experience tailored to your pace and interests. When you book with Salzburg Top Tours, you have the entire Mercedes-Benz V-Class and my undivided attention as your private guide, ensuring a flexible and premium sightseeing experience without the crowds.
Can you take photos of us during our tour?
I really enjoy photography! I’d be happy to snap some photos of you using your own device at no extra cost. However, if you're looking for high-quality, professionally edited images, I can use my Nikon camera and provide expert post-processing. This premium photography service is available for an additional €100.
Why book directly with you instead of using tour platforms?
When you book directly with me, you avoid third-party commission fees charged by tour platforms. This means better value, personal communication with your guide, and a fully tailored experience — without intermediaries.

Book your Salzburg tours directly with me for the best local rate. Skip middleman markups!

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Note: As a private guide, I offer personal pick-up. My meeting point is Mirabellplatz (in front of the Mirabell Palace), not a ticket counter.

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