Trains from Vienna to Munich
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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?
In just four hours, high-speed Railjet or ICE services will whisk you straight from the centre of Austria’s capital to the centre 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.
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 44m to travel from Vienna to Munich by train, over a distance of around 222 miles (357 km). There are normally 29 trains per day traveling from Vienna to Munich and tickets for this journey start from $2.25 when you book in advance.
| First train | 00:35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:35 | |
| Departure station | Vienna | |
| Arrival station | Munich | |
| Journey time | 3h 47m | |
| Distance | 357 miles (222 km) | |
| Frequency | 29 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $2.25 | |
| Train and bus operators | Union Ivkoni (Bus), ÖBB, Flixbus, Westbahn, Deutsche Bahn |
ÖBB, WESTbahn, Deutsche Bahn and ICE (Intercity Express) trains from Vienna to Munich
ÖBB
WESTbahn
Deutsche Bahn
ICE (Intercity Express)
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.
WESTbahn is Austria's first private long-distance rail company with trains running from Vienna to Salzburg via St. Pölten, Amstetten, Linz, Wels and Attnang-Puchheim. This route is one of the most important in Austria, covering a distance of around 155 miles (250 km) and a duration of about 2h 30m. The company offers many discounted fares, allows travel with pets and bicycles and has no baggage restrictions.
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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.
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The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.
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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.
FAQs for Vienna to Munich
How long does the train from Vienna to Munich take?
The average journey time by train between Vienna and Munich is 4 hours and 44 minutes, with around 29 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Vienna and Munich by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Vienna to Munich is 3 hours and 47 minutes.
How much does the train from Vienna to Munich cost?
Train tickets from Vienna to Munich can start from as little as $2.25 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Vienna to Munich?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Vienna to Munich without having to change trains. There are 7 direct trains from Vienna to Munich each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Vienna to Munich leave?
The first train from Vienna to Munich leaves at 00:35. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Vienna to Munich leave?
The last train from Vienna to Munich leaves at 23:35. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Vienna and Munich by train?
Trains travelling from Vienna to Munich cover a distance of around 222 miles (357 km) during the journey.