How to Book Train Travel From Zurich to Vienna

If stunning, scenic train travel is your style, then the trip from Zurich to Vienna will leave you breathless. On this trip, you'll truly be traveling through the heart of Old Europe. Grab a window seat and enjoy the trip. Follow these steps to start planning it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Your passport
• A credit card

Plan Your Trip

1. Look at maps, rail guides and other pertinent information a few weeks or even a few months in advance. Be sure to investigate local festivals. Switzerland hosts some truly amazing music festivals you may want to hit via train.
2. Consider purchasing a multi-day rail pass. With a regional train pass, the trip from Zurich to Vienna can include a stop in Germany to see the striking Bavarian countryside. The Eurail Pass is a great option for those wishing to travel extensively throughout Europe.
3. Decide on the time of day you'd prefer to travel. While day travel allows you to see the sights along the way, an overnight trip can be far more comfortable as you relax in a roomy cabin or cozy couchette.

Book Your Train Ticket from Zurich to Vienna

4. Access the English-language Web site of ÖBB, the Austrian train system (see Resources below). You can change the language from German to English in the second pull-down menu on the top right, just to the left of the "Search" box. Click on the "more" underneath the "Discount Products" section to see if there are any money-saving options that may apply to you.
5. Navigate to the "Route Planner" section and enter "Zurich" and "Vienna" in the appropriate boxes. Choose the date of your departure and time. (Remember, in Europe, dates are written in the day-month-year format. "June 1, 2007" would be written "1.06.2007").
6. Choose the departure that best fits your schedule. If choosing a night train, make sure you book the couchette or cabin accommodation as well.
7. Book your ticket at the Zurich train station if you don't have access to an Internet connection. You can also pick up your pre-booked ticket here if you aren't having it shipped to you first.
8. Call 011 (+43) (0)5 1717 to book train tickets on the ÖBB by phone.

Tips & Warnings

• Study the map of the area to give yourself an idea of what lies ahead. The journey from Zurich to Vienna is quite a long one.
• The earlier you book your ticket, the better chance you have of selecting your first choice in seating.
• All phone numbers include the U.S. international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00."
• All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
• You'll be traveling across international borders, which may take more time that you expect. Have your documents handy.
• This is a long trip. It will take at least 8 hours.
• Sleeping accommodations often sell out early.

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