ICE 2nd class v 1st class

You can see photos and read about the differences on seat61.com
This website is super helpful for all info on trains in Europe.

We book VERY early and find the earlier we book, the cheaper the prices. Often 1st Class isn't much more than 2nd class.

We do like the extra room in 1st if the price is good.

Almost all the direct trains from Vienna to Munich are Railjet Express trains operated by OEBB. No ICE trains, just a couple of trains early and late IC or EN trains operated by DB or MAV.

The older I get and the more it seems like there are more travelers in Europe than ever so I don't mind spending a little more for first class. There's always a little more room and it's been peaceful. But you can over do it e.g., on my last trip I bought one and was the only one in the car for the whole ride and noticed 2nd class was pretty empty

There's always a little more room and it's been peaceful.

Especially true if the train is crowded. I've been in second class cars with people sitting on the floor or crowding 3 into seats for 2.

you can always buy seat reservations for about 5 EUR on OEBB trains in 2nd class if you are worried about having to sit on the floor.

Thank you everyone and yes, I misspoke, it is not the ICE. I will be heading to Munich just before Easter and did splurge on the first class for the extra room- it was not that much more on that particular train. Prices vary quite a bit - if I had traveled the next day (Maundy Thursday), second class was more than my first class ticket the day prior.

Trains in Europe are very much priced like flights here -planning in advance and flexibility are important!

ÖBB and DB websites offers pictures of trains and also comprehensive material about 1st and 2nd class.

If the train has them, you can also use the "quiet" cars and usually find a bit less of a crowd. But you have to be quiet, no phone calls, no music, etc.