Westbahn | PolishTrains

At a glance

• Westbahn is a private Austrian rail operator founded in 2008, competing with state-owned OBB on the Vienna–Salzburg corridor
• Trains run every 30 minutes on the Vienna–Salzburg route throughout the day, with an average journey time of 2.5 hours
• International services extend from Vienna via Salzburg to Munich, Rosenheim and Bregenz
• The double-decker Stadler KISS fleet is known for its spacious interiors, quiet operation and energy efficiency
• Three classes are available: Standard, Comfort and First Class — First Class includes refreshments in the ticket price
• The WestSeniorenpreis fare offers up to 50% off for passengers over 65; BahnCard holders access the WestVorteilspreisDE fare

Westbahn is a privately owned Austrian rail operator that has been successfully competing with the state-owned ÖBB for more than a decade, offering passengers fast, comfortable and modern connections between the country's major cities. The company was founded in 2008 with the main aim of providing high-quality travel at an affordable price. Since its inception, Westbahn has been committed to innovation - using double-decker, energy-efficient KISS trainsets made by Stadler, known for their quiet operation and spacious interiors.

Westbahn trains run primarily on the Vienna-Salzburg route, one of Austria's most popular and busy sections. Over time, the service has also been extended to include further destinations such as Bregenz, Munich and Stuttgart, allowing passengers to travel throughout the western part of the country without having to change trains. The carrier has gained recognition for its transparent pricing, high standard of service and flexible ticketing terms, making it a viable alternative to travel by car or plane.

The Westbahn's core business remains the Vienna-Salzburg route, considered one of the most popular in Austria. Trains run on this line every 30 minutes throughout the day, making it one of the best scheduled train routes in Europe. Travel time between Vienna and Salzburg averages 2 hours and 30 minutes. Trains on this section pass through stops such as St. Pölten, Amstetten, Linz, Wels, Attnang-Puchheim and Vöcklabruck.

The Austrian carrier has also expanded its route network to include international services. Westbahn operates services from Vienna via Salzburg to Munich, with some trains continuing on to Rosenheim or Bregenz. The operator has thus become one of the first private railway companies to offer regular cross-border services between Austria and Germany.

Westbahn trains are among the most modern trainsets in Austria - the double-decker Stadler KISS units are distinguished by their spacious interiors, plenty of natural light and clever seating arrangements. Free Wi-Fi and sockets at every seat are available on board. Passengers can also carry bicycles, pushchairs and luggage without the restrictions typical of low-cost railways.

Westbahn offers three travel classes to suit different needs and budgets:

💺StandardClass - this is a solid, comfortable option for those who want comfort at a reasonable price. The leather seats are soft and spacious, and each passenger has access to Wi-Fi, an electrical socket and a folding table.

💺ComfortClass - provides more space and a better environment. Passengers in this class can enjoy comfortable leather seats and additional amenities such as spacious tables for work or play.

💺FirstClass - the highest standard of travel on the Westbahn. Includes wide reclining seats with built-in lights, refreshments included in the ticket price and the option of dedicated on-board service.

Ticket prices for Westbahn trains vary depending on the length of the route and the date of purchase. Tickets are available in several categories and the cost is dynamically adjusted according to demand. For example, a journey from Vienna to Salzburg in usually costs between €50 (in Standard Class) and €100 (in First Class). Depending on current demand, even lower rates can be found, in the range of €5-20 .

The Westbahn offers several types of tickets to suit the passenger's needs and budget.

🚆WestSuperpreis - the cheapest fare for those planning their journey in advance. Includes selected trains and free seat reservation.

🚆WestVorteilspreis - special offer for holders of the ÖBB Vorteilskarte or other personalised European railcards.

🚆WestVorteilspreisDE - discount for travellers with a German BahnCard, enabling savings of up to 50% on Westbahn journeys.

🚆DeutschlandPlusTicket - ticket for travellers with a German Deutschland-Ticket, entitling them to travel on Westbahn trains at a preferential price.

🚆WestSeniorenpreis - offer for seniors over 65 years of age, providing discounts on all connections (up to 50% cheaper).

🚆Partner**& Student Discounts** - discount programme for students (German and Austrian universities) and the carrier's partners, including favourable rates on tickets.

🚆WestFlexpreis - a flexible ticket entitling you to travel on any train. It is not named, so it can also be passed on to another person.

Tickets can be purchased up to 89 days before departure. Children under 6 years of age travel for free on the lap of their guardian . When travelling with children under 15 years of age, only a small charge for an additional young passenger (e.g. €3) applies. Student discounts only apply to students studying in Austria and Germany. However, discounts are available for partner card holders, a full list of which can be found on the carrier's website.

When buying Westbahn tickets via PolishTrains, passengers gain access to a convenient system and flexible payment methods. On the website, you can receive notification of an upcoming departure, download an invoice, as well as refund or change your ticket in the My Travel panel. This is a practical solution for those planning a journey in Austria or further afield, with the possibility of easily combining the Westbahn offer with tickets from other European carriers.