From Bavaria to the Alps: My Journey Across Germany and Austria by Train

Traveling through Central Europe by rail has always been on my bucket list, and I recently took the opportunity to explore parts of Germany and Austria. The transition from modern cityscapes to fairytale alpine valleys in a single ride was unforgettable.

Here is a look back at the route, the standout moments, and what made this cross-border trip so special.

The Route: Modern Skylines to Historic Streets
The journey kicked off in Germany, where modern transit made hopping between regional hubs and historic towns remarkably smooth. Starting amidst the bustling energy of Frankfurt, with its striking skyline, the trip soon transitioned southward into Bavaria.

Stopping in Augsburg offered a completely different pace—cobblestone lanes, rich renaissance history, and quiet courtyards that make wandering on foot a highlight in itself.

Into the Alpine Foothills: Bad Reichenhall
As the route approached the Austrian border, the terrain shifted dramatically. Tucked right into the Bavarian Alps, Bad Reichenhall felt like stepping into an open-air postcard.

Surrounded by steep peaks and crisp mountain air, it provided the perfect pause between city exploring. The sound of mountain streams and panoramic views along the valley made it hard to get back on the train, but the final stop was calling.

Crossing the Border: Salzburg & Mirabell Palace
Crossing into Austria brought me to Salzburg, a city where baroque architecture sits directly beneath towering cliffs and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

One of the most memorable afternoons was spent walking through the manicured pathways of the Mirabell Palace Gardens (Mirabellgarten). Between the classical statues, vibrant flowerbeds, and the clear line of sight up to the fortress, it lived up to every expectation.

Key Takeaways for Anyone Planning a Similar Trip
Embrace Regional Transit: Traveling across the border by train isn't just convenient—it gives you front-row seats to the landscape shifting from open fields to rugged alpine peaks.

Blend Big Hubs with Alpine Towns: Balancing larger transit hubs with smaller towns like Bad Reichenhall gives you a much richer feel for the local rhythm.

Keep Walking Shoes Ready: From historic alleys to extensive palace gardens, the best corners of these towns are discovered entirely on foot.

Have you explored Bavaria or Austria by rail? What was your favorite mountain or garden stop along the way?