Are There Direct Trains From Amsterdam to Vienna? Easy Travel Options Explained
Are there direct trains from Amsterdam to Vienna? Yes — and the route is much easier than many travelers expect. Whether you want to travel during the day or take a sleeper train overnight, there are direct train options that connect Amsterdam and Vienna without transfers. The train from Amsterdam to Vienna is a long one, but if it’s me, I’ll pick a train itinerary over a quick flight every time I have time for it.
This guide explains how the direct trains work, what the journey is like, and what you’ll want to know before booking.
Are There Direct Trains From Amsterdam to Vienna?
Yes, there are direct trains from Amsterdam to Vienna. You can travel on a direct daytime train or choose an overnight night train, depending on your schedule and comfort preferences.
For long-distance European travel, this is one of the more straightforward routes. You board in Amsterdam and step off your train to Vienna without changing or transferring anywhere along the way.
Key facts about direct trains from Amsterdam to Vienna:
- Travel time: approximately 11–14 hours
- Transfers: none
- Frequency: usually one direct daytime service per day
- Route: Amsterdam → Germany → Austria
It’s a long journey, but many travelers prefer it for the simplicity alone.
Is There a Night Train From Amsterdam to Vienna?
Yes, there is a night train from Amsterdam to Vienna. The service is operated by ÖBB Nightjet and runs overnight.
Night train basics:
- Departure: evening from Amsterdam
- Arrival: early morning in Vienna
- Travel time: around 14 hours
- Transfers: none
This route is part of Europe’s renewed push toward overnight rail travel, which expanded significantly after 2021. The Amsterdam–Vienna night train is now one of Nightjet’s most popular long-distance routes.
Is There a Sleeper Train From Amsterdam to Vienna?
Yes, the night train is also a sleeper train. When people ask if there’s a sleeper train from Amsterdam to Vienna, they’re usually referring to Nightjet’s cabin options.
You can choose between:
- Seated carriage: cheapest option, least comfortable
- Couchette: shared bunks, good balance of comfort and price
- Sleeper cabin: real beds, more privacy, higher cost
Couchettes usually sleep 4–6 people per compartment. Sleeper cabins are more spacious and can be booked for one, two, or three passengers. In terms of sleeping car comfort–It’s ok. It’s not a hotel and the beds are pretty firm, but it beats sitting upright for 12 hours.
What to Expect Onboard the Nightjet
If you’ve never taken a night train, a little context helps.
Ladies-only compartments
Nightjet offers ladies-only couchette compartments on many routes, including Amsterdam to Vienna. These are shared couchettes reserved exclusively for women and can be selected during booking if available. They’re popular and tend to sell out early.
Luggage space
Luggage stays with you in your compartment. Larger bags typically go under the lower bunks, with smaller bags fitting on hooks or overhead racks. There’s no separate luggage car.
Power outlets and Wi-Fi
Most Nightjet cars have power outlets near the beds or seats, though placement varies by carriage. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed and can be unreliable, especially overnight and in rural areas.
Bedding, temperature, and noise
Bedding is provided in couchettes and sleeper cabins, including sheets, a pillow, and a blanket. Temperature is generally controlled, but it can feel warm or cool depending on the car. Earplugs are useful if you’re a light sleeper.
Food and breakfast
Breakfast is included for couchette and sleeper passengers. It’s usually simple: a bread roll or croissant, jam, butter, and coffee or tea. Snacks and drinks are sometimes available for purchase onboard, but many travelers bring their own.
Safety and overnight checks
Compartments lock from the inside, and staff check tickets before bedtime. Conductors also pass through during the night. Overall, Nightjet is considered a safe option, including for solo travelers.
Is There a Direct Train From Amsterdam to Vienna During the Day?
Yes, there’s a direct daytime train from Amsterdam to Vienna in addition to the night train.
Pros of the daytime direct train:
- No sleeping onboard
- Scenic stretches through Germany and Austria
- Straightforward, transfer-free journey
Cons:
- Very long travel day
- You lose almost an entire day in transit
- Prices can be similar to the night train
Some travelers enjoy turning this into a relaxed travel day. Others find the length tiring.
Direct Train vs Night Train: Which Is Better?
If you’re deciding between a direct train from Amsterdam to Vienna, it usually comes down to time and comfort.
Direct daytime train:
- Better if you dislike sleeping on trains
- 11–14 hours of daytime travel
- No accommodation savings
Night train:
- Saves one hotel night
- Arrive early in Vienna
- Comfort depends heavily on cabin type
For many travelers, the night train feels more efficient, even though the total travel time is similar.
Booking Tips for Direct Trains From Amsterdam to Vienna
- Book early if you want a sleeper, private cabin, or ladies compartment.
- Prices rise sharply closer to departure.
- ÖBB’s official website shows the clearest breakdown of Nightjet cabin types.
This train gives you a great opportunity to visit the best Christmas markets in Europe, as well!
Final Thoughts on Direct Trains From Amsterdam to Vienna
Are there direct trains from Amsterdam to Vienna? Yes — and both the daytime train and the Nightjet make the journey simple and transfer-free. Whether you want to stay awake or sleep your way across Europe, this route gives you solid, practical options. The Nightjet from Amsterdam to Vienna is a fantastic way to skip across Europe in a cool, eco-friendly way.
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