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All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
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No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
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Looking for a cheap price?
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Travel from Vienna to Munich by train
Thinking about travelling from Vienna to Munich – what better way to take in the stunning scenery, rolling hills and ever-changing backdrop between these two cities than by train? What's more, both these cities feature on our Danube River train trip.
In just four hours, high-speed Railjet or ICE services will whisk you straight from the center of Austria’s capital to the center of Bavaria’s capital, with just one quick change along the way. There’s even a direct Nightjet sleeper train if you fancy making the journey whilst your sound asleep.
Whilst the flight time between Vienna and Munich might be quicker, taking the train isn’t far off when you take into account airport transfers and waiting around in the terminal before take off. Plus, travelling by train means you can enjoy wider more comfortable seating with plenty of legroom, extra baggage allowance and you’ll be doing your bit for the environment as it’s much more eco-friendly.
Every year, tourists from all over the world flock to Munich and Germany to eat, drink and be merry at Oktoberfest. If you’d like to find out more information, take a look at our comprehensive guide to Oktoberfest.
Stepping out of Munich’s main station, you’ll find yourself centrally located with historic sights, bars and restaurants all within easy reach. Ready to book? You’ll find train times, ticket prices and FAQs about the journey from Vienna to Munich further down the page.
Vienna to Munich by train
It takes an average of 4h 33m to travel from Vienna to Munich by train, over a distance of around 222 miles (357 km). There are normally 28 trains per day traveling from Vienna to Munich and tickets for this journey start from $24.40 when you book in advance.
| First train | 12:15 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 8:35 pm | |
| Departure station | Vienna | |
| Arrival station | Munich | |
| Journey time | From 3h 56m | |
| Distance | 222 miles (357 km) | |
| Frequency | 28 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $24.40 | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Vienna to Munich
Want to know more about your journey from Vienna to Munich? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Are there direct trains from Vienna to Munich?
What's the distance between Vienna and Munich by train?
Who runs the trains from Vienna to Munich?
Can you travel from Vienna to Munich without taking a flight?
What is the best way to get to Munich from Vienna?
What time is the first train from Vienna to Munich?
What time is the last train from Vienna to Munich?
How often do trains go from Vienna to Munich?
Do you need to prebook train tickets from Vienna to Munich?
Is there a return trip from Vienna to Munich?
ÖBB, Deutsche Bahn and IC (Intercity) trains from Vienna to Munich
ÖBB
Deutsche Bahn
IC (Intercity)
ÖBB is the major railway company for Austria, subdivided into several subsidiaries, responsible for certain areas of transport, such as long distance and local transport, the operation of postal buses and the transport of goods. Railjet is ÖBB's high-speed train, which travels at speeds of up to 143 mph (230 km/h) and connects the main Austrian cities with Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Italy.
The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.
More information
An express train running on German domestic routes, the Intercity is a little slower than the ICE and is also used for long distance trips. The integrated circuit covers long distances with a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). In recent years, trains of the new generation "Intercity 2" run on some lines at 100 mph (160 km/h) only – these trains, however, offer extra legroom and extra space for toddlers. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage and wheelchair parking spaces.
More information
Intercity (IC), ÖBB Intercity and WESTbahn classes from Vienna to Munich
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC), ÖBB Intercity and WESTbahn when traveling from Vienna to Munich.
Intercity (IC)
ÖBB Intercity
WESTbahn
Second Class
Enjoy comfortable seats with power outlets, fold-down tables and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double decker trains (IC2) too.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- Air conditioning
- Baggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to First Class and you'll get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power outlets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Dining car
- Air conditioning
- Baggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track access
- Quiet area
Economy
When traveling on ÖBB’s InterCity trains, Economy class is perfect if you’re looking for spacious seats and generous baggage storage at an affordable price.
- Baggage storage
- Power outlets
- Air conditioning
- Onboard app service
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
First Class
If you prefer to travel in style, upgrade to First Class on your ÖBB’s InterCity service and you’ll take advantage of adjustable seats and additional legroom.
- Baggage storage
- Power outlets
- Air conditioning
- Onboard app service
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
Standard
Westbahn's Standard Class offers comfort at a great price. Enjoy free WiFi and a dining car with plenty of snacks and drinks.
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Fold-down table
- Baggage storage
- Food and drink cart
- Extra baggage
- Leather seats
- More legroom
Comfort
Enjoy comfortable leather seats and plenty of baggage storage in Comfort Class. Hungry? Take advantage of the catering trolley with a large offering of snacks and drinks.
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Fold-down table
- Baggage storage
- Food and drink cart
- Extra baggage
- Leather seats
- More legroom
First Class
Why not upgrade to Westbahn's First Class? Take advantage of more legroom and delicious food served at your seat.
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Dining car
- Fold-down table
- Baggage storage
- Food and drink cart
- Extra baggage
- Leather seats
- More legroom
Onboard services on Intercity (IC), ÖBB Intercity and WESTbahn
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Vienna to Munich.
Intercity (IC)
ÖBB Intercity
WESTbahn
You can take as much baggage as you like for free without making a reservation.
Baggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.
Baggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead baggage rack. The standard dimensions of baggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm (27.5 x 19.6 x 11.8 inches). Larger items of baggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large baggage racks by the doors.
You will find an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.
If you upgrade to First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.
Although the menu changes every three months, you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.
On IC trains, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t need a ticket. Kids up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.
On board, you will find family and children areas which are bookable.
You need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle on a IC train. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.
Bike storage spaces are usually located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.
With IC, you can travel with your pet. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an extra ticket and they can travel for free in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not traveling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.
Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.
Deutsche Bahn offer the Mobility Service, where staff will help you board, disembark or change trains. Staff will also answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.
You can take your baggage free of charge onboard all ÖBB Intercity trains, provided that it is stowed in the luggage racks above or below your seat or in the areas provided for hand luggage.
The pieces of luggage must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 90 x 60 x 40cm (35.4 x 23.6 x 15.7''). These dimensions can only be exceeded if you’re traveling with skis and snowboards, ski and hiking poles, wind, string or plucked instruments, wheelchairs, or strollers.
Unfortunately, a restaurant car is not available on ÖBB Intercity trains. However, you can take your own food on board so pick up some snacks at the station before you set off!
Unfortunately, ÖBB Intercity trains do not offer an entertainment portal on board. Also, WiFi is not always available.
If you’re traveling with your child, you’ll get a discounted ticket. Children aged 0-5 travel for free on ÖBB Intercity trains, while those aged 6-14 get a half-price ticket. Kids aged 15 or over need a full-price ticket.
Many ÖBB Intercity trains offer special compartments for children in Economy Class – they come with 6 seats and can be booked for any route. Breastfeeding compartments are available too – they have curtains that block the view for more privacy. These seats can’t be booked.
You can travel with your bike for free on ÖBB Intercity trains if it can be folded and is not larger than 90 x 60 x 40cm (35.4 x 23.6 x 15.7''). You won’t need to book a space for your bike.
If you can’t fold your bike, you’ll need to buy a bike ticket to reserve your space. You can book your ticket up to 6 months in advance from ÖBB Ticketshop online. If possible, we recommend you print out your bike reservation and attach it to your bike so it's clearly visible to the ticket inspector.
Small pets can travel for free on ÖBB Intercity trains if they’re placed in a carrier or cage. If you can’t carry them in a carrier or cage, you’ll need to buy a ticket for them. They must also be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.
Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost and don’t need to wear a muzzle.
ÖBB Intercity trains come with accessible toilets. Depending on the type of car, several wheelchair bays, including one seat for an accompanying person, can be booked free of charge.
On many trains, the wheelchair bays are in First Class. However, passengers with wheelchairs and the person accompanying them can travel in First Class with their Second Class tickets and can also make use of the in-seat meal service on offer there.
In general, there is no limit to your baggage on WESTbahn trains. However, a member of staff is authorized to charge a €5 supplement for bulky baggage or starting from a third piece of luggage.
On WESTbahn trains, you'll find a luggage rack in the lower deck of each car, so that you can secure your suitcase or bag with a metal band. You can unlock the corresponding lock by using a €1 coin which will be returned to you at the end of your journey.
All WESTbahn trains have a bar car (WESTcafé) where you can buy hot and cold drinks, snacks, salads, and sandwiches. You can then eat or drink in the bar car or take your drink or snack back to your seat. Alternatively, you can buy snacks or drinks from the self-service vending machines available on board.
If you’re traveling in WESTbahn’s First Class, an in-seat meal service is available, meaning that your meal of choice will be served straight to your seat.
WESTbahn do not offer an entertainment portal on board. However, they do have free WiFi - simply log into WESTlan and use the internet throughout your journey.
Kids under the age of 6 travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children between the age of 6 and 15 pay €2 if they're with a full-paying adult or get a half-price ticket if they're traveling alone.
If your bike can’t be folded, you’ll need to pay a supplement of €4.90, €6.90 or €9.90 to take your bike on your WESTbahn train, depending on your chosen route. If you don’t book your bike space online prior to departure, you’ll need to pay an additional fee of €5.10.
Please note that trains with high passenger demand don’t always allow space for bikes and bike reservations are excluded from specific train services. Folding bikes and e-scooters can be stored free of charge.
Small pets can travel on all WESTBahn trains free of charge, provided they’re in a carrier or cage. You’ll need to pay €2 for pets that are kept on a leash or are equipped with a muzzle.
WESTbahn staff can refuse entry to any dangerous pets without a leash and muzzle. Pets and pet carriers must not occupy seats, otherwise a full-priced ticket will be charged. Registered guide and assistance dogs are excluded from this regulation.
WESTbahn trains have step-free access. If you travel with a wheelchair or a stroller, we recommend using car 400 in the middle of the train. This car is designed for the needs of people with reduced mobility – it offers a wider aisle than the other cars, two bookable wheelchair spaces, and access to a PRM toilet with baby-changing facilities.
Please note that WESTbahn’s wheelchair spaces cannot be reserved for strollers.
Cheap train tickets from Vienna to Munich
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Vienna to Munich by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.