The Semmering Railway

Take advantage of this small group excursion and travel by bus outside of Vienna and soak in the magnificent views when you take a cable car ride into the mountains.

After approximately 90 minutes you will arrive at the Zauberberg valley station where you will ride a cable car up for almost one mile and experience the breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains. Have free time to explore on your own or relax and have lunch on your own in the panorama restaurant. If you wish, climb the stairs to the "Millennium" viewing platform for unrivaled views. Afterwards, you can take the cable car back down into the valley, or if you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can rent a mountain cart and ride down on your own.

Learn about the history of the Semmering Railway and reach the impressive view of "20-Schilling-Blick" after a short walk. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site has fascinating history. Learn about the obstacles that had to be overcome to plan the route, the tragedies that accompanied its construction, and hear how Europe's first mountain railway with a standard gauge track was built in only six years.

Constructed between 1848 and 1854 over more than 25 miles of high mountains, this is one of the greatest feats of civil engineering during the pioneering phase of railway building. Set against a spectacular mountain landscape, the railway line remains in use today thanks to the quality of its tunnels, viaducts, and other works, and has led to the construction of many recreational buildings along its tracks.

The tour finale is at the pilgrimage site of the Maria Schultz church, lower Austria's largest pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Visit the baroque hall church with its mighty two-steeple facade and a healing spring behind the high altar.

At the end of the tour you will be treated to an Austrian delicacy: a Krapfen, an Austrian doughnut-like specialty filled with apricot jam. You will then return by bus to Vienna.

Please Note: This tour begins and ends in central Vienna. Transportation to and from the pier is not included.