I am planning to travel by train from Venice to Rothenburg ODT. En route, I thought it might be nice to stop briefly maybe overnight in Austria. I only have 2 days to spare in my itinerary. I am tore between Innsbruck and Salzburg. I love the mountain scenes of Innsbruck, but I also love the quaintness of the pictures I see of Salzburg. I realize Innsbruck is nestled in the Alps and that is good but if I decide to go to Salzburg will I at least see comparable mountain scenes on the train ride there? Someone help me decide please!
Posted by
West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
213 posts
I do not know the exact train routes, but I believe that the train to Innsbruck from Venice involves going up to Verona and from there to Innsbruck. From Venice to Salzburg is through Villach, Austria. Both have their scenic sections. Of course you could go to Salzburg via Verona/Innsbruck, but that would be a long ride. The scenery between Innsbruck and Salzburg is truly spectacular. Keep in mind that, as the trains go through the mountains, they go through some very long tunnels; so you may be passing through awesome mountain scenery, but you can't see it because you're inside the mountain. There's one tunnel between Innsbruck and Salzburg that is ten minutes of darkness!
As for which city, much depends on your personal preferences. Innsbruck is a charming ski-resort town with shops and restaurants. Salzburg is very different--a baroque city with lots of history and is like stepping back in time. There would be much more to see and do in the city of Salzburg than in the town of Innsbruck. If it were my choice, I'd opt for Salzburg because of its greater variety. If you're a hiker, you may opt for Innsbruck and hiking in the mountains. Since it sits in a narrow mountain valley, Innsbruck offers the possibility of lifts up to high places. Salzburg, on the other hand, is near the mountains but has no at-hand lifts to higher altitude. Salzburg is a great city for an overnight stay.
Posted by
OP
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
4 posts
Dwayne,
Thanks so much. Your reply has been a huge help. If the train ride isn't too terribly long I think I will opt for Salzburg. Have you any idea how long a train ride I am looking at to Salzburg departing from Venice (Verona), or Innsbruck too, as that will help me to decide. I really want to see some beautiful mountains even if just passing through.