Founded in 2011 as a subsidiary of Rail Holding AG, WESTbahn connects Vienna to Salzburg and combines low prices with high-quality service.
Where do WESTbahn trains go?
WESTbahn operates one service between Vienna and Salzburg in competition with the government-owned ÖBB. 15 WESTbahn trains run every hour and call at Vienna Westbahnhof, Vienna Hütteldorf, St. Pölten Hbf, Amstetten, Linz Hbf, Wels Hbf, Attnang-Puchheim and Salzburg Hbf.
The journey from Vienna to Salzburg takes just under 2.5 hours.
WESTbahn train tickets
There are different types of WESTbahn tickets you can choose from. Keep reading for more details.
WESTstandardpreis
This is the standard fare for all WESTbahn trains. Tickets can be purchased online on our website or via our app at no additional cost.
WESTbahn PLUS
This is WESTbahn’s First Class offer which, in addition to the Standard Class services, includes larger seats, free WiFi, daily newspapers, and snacks and drinks served at your seat.
Child train tickets
Children under the age of 6 travel for free, while those aged from 6 under 15 can enjoy a 50% discount on the Standard ticket price.
Student train tickets
Students who are enrolled at a university in Austria can get their ticket online with a 10% discount. These tickets are valid on the booked date or the following day for a one-way journey.
WESTaktiv tickets
With the WESTaktiv ticket, travellers aged 60+ can get cheap train tickets when travelling from Monday to Thursday on any train. The fares vary depending on the route.
Group tickets
A group ticket (Gruppenticket in German) must be booked for at least 6 people and includes free seat reservation for everyone. In addition, a youth group ticket (6-76 people, all travellers must not be older than 26) or a school group ticket can be purchased. The latter is perfect for school trips, for example, if at least half of the group (6 people or more) is under 20 years old, the price is just half of WESTbahn’s standard ticket price.
WESTbahn popular routes
Want to learn more about the routes served by WESTbahn? Simply tap the route you’re interested in to view train times, top tips on how to get cheap train tickets and FAQs.
WESTbahn onboard services
Keep reading for more information on all the amenities offered on board by WESTbahn.
WiFi
Free WiFi is available on most WESTbahn trains. Simply connect to WESTlan and log in with your smartphone, tablet or laptop and you’re all set!
Toilets
All WESTbahn services are equipped with toilets. An accessible toilet is available in coach 400 and comes with baby changing facilities too.
Accessibility
WESTbahn’s low floor construction provides extensive barrier-free and step-free access. When the doors open, automatic footboards close the gaps between the platform and the train.
If you travel with a wheelchair or a stroller, we recommend you use coach 400 in the middle of the train. This coach offers a wider aisle than the other ones, two bookable wheelchair spaces, and an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities.
Please note that wheelchair spaces cannot be reserved for strollers.
Pets
Small pets are allowed on board all WESTbahn trains free of charge provided they’re placed in a pet carrier or cage. You can travel with bigger dogs if they’re kept on a leash and have a muzzle – you’ll need to pay €2. Guide dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
We've answered some of your most frequently asked questions about WESTbahn below.
How long are WESTbahn tickets valid for?
Single WESTbahn tickets are valid on the chosen date of travel (or in some cases the following day).
Where can I buy my WESTbahn ticket?
You can buy your WESTbahn ticket with our website or app. Simply enter your departure and arrival station, date and time of travel and we’ll highlight the cheapest WESTbahn tickets for you.
Are there food and drinks on WESTbahn trains?
Yes. All WESTbahn trains come with a restaurant carriage called WESTcafé where you can find comfortable armchairs, a vending machine for hot and cold drinks, and a snack bar/vending machine with fresh snacks. If you upgrade to WESTbahn PLUS, free snacks and drinks will be served to your seat.
How many pieces of luggage am I allowed to take on WESTbahn trains?
In general, there is no limit to your luggage when travelling with WESTbahn. However, the staff is authorized to charge a €5 fee for bulky luggage or from the third piece of luggage.
Can I take my bike on WESTbahn trains?
Yes, you can take your bike on WESTbahn trains. You can reserve a bike space online at the cost of €5 up to two hours before your departure. If you book your bike space on board, you’ll need to pay €10. Please note that trains with high passenger demand don’t always allow space for bikes.
Can I reserve a seat in advance?
Yes. Depending on availability, this can be done online up to two hours before departure. The reservation costs €5 regardless of the route. You can also cancel or rebook your seat up to two hours before departure. If you don’t take your seat within 15 minutes, it will be released.
Learn more about Austrian train travel
We’ve told you everything you need to know about WESTbahn trains but if you want to learn more about train travel in Austria, check out our travel guides.