The Journey Between Austria and Switzerland: Train Travel Durations and Routes

The train ride between Austria and Switzerland can vary significantly depending on the specific cities you are traveling between and the type of train service chosen. This article explores the typical travel times, as well as some interesting anecdotes about train journeys appearing to take extremely short or unusually long durations.

Typical Travel Times

Traveling by train is often the most convenient and scenic way to explore the stunning landscapes shared by these two beautiful countries. Here are some typical travel durations for various routes:

Vienna to Zurich: Approximately 8 to 9 hours. Innsbruck to Zurich: Around 3 to 4 hours. Salzburg to Zurich: About 5 to 6 hours.

These times can vary based on factors such as train schedules, transfer times, and the type of service you choose. It's always a good idea to check the current schedule for the most accurate information.

Interesting Anecdotes

While most train journeys between Austria and Switzerland take several hours, there are some remarkable exceptions that challenge the typical perception of travel times. For instance, in 2019, I boarded a train in the Swiss town of Buchs and was at the station of Feldkirch in Austria just 15 minutes later. During those 15 minutes, the train also passed through Liechtenstein, a small country with no stops.

During a journey by train, I witnessed something truly astonishing: a train ride that seemed to be incredibly short. Here’s a snapshot of my experience at the time:

Other train routes between Switzerland and Austria often take longer, such as the Austrian Federal Railways RailJet that departs from Zurich approximately every two hours and arrives in Vienna, the capital of Austria, 7 hours and 50 minutes later.

Capital to Capital

Traveling from capital to capital, the distance between cities can affect the travel duration. For instance, the journey from Vienna, the easternmost city in Austria, to Zurich, the northernmost city in Switzerland, can take up to 11 hours according to Google Maps. However, there are even more remarkable journeys that take far less time than one might expect.

For example, the journey from Dornbirn to Diepoldsau, which are both train stations, is only 20 minutes. In contrast, the journey from the capital to the north can be quite extensive, as the distance between Vienna and Graz is more than 500 kilometers, and the train journey can take about 8 hours. Night trains remain a popular choice for extended journeys, especially for foreigners like the Russians, who appreciate the convenience of sleeping on the train.

Conclusion

The train journey between Austria and Switzerland can range from a quick 15 minutes to as long as 11 hours, depending on the route and the chosen service. These diverse durations reflect the rich cultural connections and geographic diversity of the region. For those planning their next adventure, it’s crucial to consider all possible factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.