Semmeringbahn / 塞默灵铁路, 奥地利

Semmering Railway (Semmeringbahn) is a historic mountain railway in eastern Austria that connects Gloggnitz in Lower Austria with Mürzzuschlag in Styria. Opened in 1854, it was the first standard-gauge mountain railway in Europe and is famous for its tunnels, stone viaducts, and tight curves built through alpine terrain. The line is still in daily use and offers one of the most scenic train journeys in Austria.

联合国教科文组织世界遗产地位
The Semmering Railway is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it represents a major achievement in early railway engineering and had a strong influence on railway construction around the world. Its integration into the mountain landscape is considered a key part of its value.

How to ride the Semmering Railway
To travel along the historic section, you should take a train between Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag. These two stations mark the beginning and end of the classic Semmering route. Regional trains (ÖBB Railjet, Regional Express, or local services) run regularly and use the original line, passing through the Semmering Pass and Semmering railway station, which is the highest point on the route. You can board the train in either direction; many visitors start from Vienna, travel to Gloggnitz by train, then continue over the Semmering to Mürzzuschlag.

门票
There is no special entrance ticket for the Semmering Railway. You simply need a standard train ticket for your chosen route (for example, Gloggnitz–Mürzzuschlag). Prices depend on distance, train type, and discounts, but this makes the experience accessible without additional fees.

How to see the viaducts and bridges
The most famous structures, such as the Kalte Rinne Viaduct, can be admired in two main ways. From the train, many viaducts and tunnels are clearly visible as the railway curves along the mountainsides. For closer views, visitors can use the Semmering Railway Hiking Trail (Bahnwanderweg), a well-marked walking path that runs alongside parts of the railway. This trail connects viewpoints and passes near several viaducts and tunnels, allowing you to see the engineering details from below and from the side. The trail is divided into sections, so you can choose short walks rather than the full route.