I will be traveling to Munich, Fussen, Salzburg and Vienna in September. How far in advance do I need to purchase train tickets? I downloaded the DB app and it seems fairly easy to navigate. Looks like if I want an assigned seat I will pay extra for 2nd class. First class has assigned seating automatically. I did not see any option for seat reservation for the Munich to Fussen train. My main concern is my luggage. I read some post that the trains get really packed and people are having to stand and become crowded. This was mainly on the Salzburg to Vienna line. Do the luggage racks get full? Would being in first class make room for luggage easier. BTW, I only have 1 suitcase and a carry on bag. But want to be prepared.
Posted by
Bavaria
2720 posts
Munich–Füssen is regional service without seat reservations. Just get to the platform early and head towards the front of the train (many people just stay at the end of the platform), and you’ll find a seat there.
Munich–Salzburg is either regional service (the cheapest option with the Bayernticket; the same rule applies as above) or long-distance service with ÖBB (expensive without advance booking) or Westbahn (usually cheaper, seat reservations included, but fewer trains). I wouldn’t worry about the Salzburg–Vienna route; if ÖBB is fully booked, just take Westbahn—it’s just as good, just as fast, and includes a seat reservation. The only difference is that the final stop is Vienna West, not Vienna Central Station.
Posted by
Freedonia
19245 posts
Tickets will always be available for the trains but seats may not be.
I've been on DB trains where it was standing room only and that was first class.
I've seen the luggage racks full up but that's first come, first serve.
Sometimes, if the train offers it, the quiet car might be less busy than the rest of the train.
Posted by
Paradise
8279 posts
I will be traveling to Munich, Fussen, Salzburg
You will also be traveling from MUC airport to Munich, correct?
How does one ticket for ALL of these regional train trips sound to you? 63 Euros for the Deutschland Ticket. Buy (subscribe to) it in advance and use it at any hour on any day as often as you like for the entire month if you wish. It's valid not just on the regional trains but also on the subways, buses, and trams within Munich. No booking, no reservations, no hassle. Information:
Posted by
OP
Seattle
16 posts
I fly into Munich and will most likely take taxi to the first hotel. It makes things easier after a long flight. But after a good night’s sleep I can tackle the local transportation. I will need to look into the Deutschland Ticket.
Posted by
Arctophilia (x26), Northamptonshire, England
36994 posts
fly into Munich and will most likely take taxi to the first hotel
Just to say that the tram and S-Bahn train network in central Munich (starts right in the airport) is extremely comprehensive and probably you can get to your hotel without changing, and with a very short walk from the S-Bahn station. There are stations along the line all the way through central Munich and you don't have to go to either of the main stations. You may find that that is faster and probably more convenient than even a taxi
Posted by
Arctophilia (x26), Northamptonshire, England
36994 posts
the D-Ticket is a slam dunk for your proposed journeys, all except the Vienna leg and the few days before the start of the month.
The fact that it covers your (second class) trips with out limit or time restriction and virtually all local transportation makes it a winner. Just cancel before it renews or use one of the providers who automatically cancel for a very small charge.