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Train transfer in Villach, Austria

I am planning to travel by train and bus from Vienna to Venice in June. The shorter trip option (around 8 hours) allows for a 10 minute transfer in Villach. The other options allow for a longer transfer time, but add significantly (at least 2 hours) to the total travel time. Is 10 minutes of transfer time too risky at the Villach station?

Posted by
4684 posts

I've been through Villach station, it didn't look too complicated and I saw a Venice bus parked right outside. Ten minutes should be OK if the trains are on time, but I suspect there may be some single-line bits between Vienna and Villach, which always risks delays.

Posted by
32173 posts

Kelly, As I recall, I've transferred in Villach (the memories are a bit foggy on that), and ten minutes should be quite adequate. I'm sure they wouldn't have shown that connection if it was going to be problematic. The German and Austrian rail systems tend to be quite logical and precise most of the time, so I'm sure it will be fine. You'll probably find that lots of others will be transferring there also, so just follow the herd. If you're not sure of which train to board in Villach, ask one of the Conductors. Happy travels!

Posted by
315 posts

Last summer, we made the transfer (on the bus from Venice) in about two minutes when the bus was delayed. They held the trains to major destinations (although not ours to Ljubljana) so the bus riders could catch them. Because the transfer is timed and the bus pulls up right outside the station, ten minutes should be fine. And since the bus and train are part of the same system, they seem to hold trains and buses when necessary. I think it is worth the risk.

Posted by
4 posts

Thank you all for your advice! Your input was very helpful!

Posted by
8094 posts

With the Alps making 100% rail travel from Vienna to Venice impossible, it sure would be nice if one of the budget air carriers flew the route. Munich to Venice is the same way, with no budget air carriers flying the route.
What a shame that it takes so long to go not that far.