Austria

Alpine peaks and on-time trains in Europe’s crossroads

Rivaled only by Switzerland for its soaring Alpine peaks and scenic grandeur, Austria is one of the world’s greatest destinations for rail travelers. Much of the country’s spectacular scenery can be seen outside your train window. You’ll pass unspoiled mountain villages, ocher-colored baroque buildings, onion-domed churches, and miles and miles of rugged scenery.

Austria’s geography is among the most varied in Europe: Castles and dense forests disappear as ancient glacial lakes come into view, lapping up against old spas that are bordered by acres of vineyards. But nothing can compete with the Alps, with some of the most panoramic and dramatic mountain peaks in the world—most of which you'll be able to see and reach easily through the country's extensive rail system.

The rail traveler will quickly realize that Austria stands at the crossroads of Europe. Germany and the Czech Republic border Austria to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The rail system is among the most intricate, efficient, and sophisticated in the world, and a passenger will find that getting around is easy and fast because of engineering advances, including aerial cableways.

For more information on Austria contact the Austria Tourist Board.

© 2009, Wiley Publishing, Inc.