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Salzburg to Zurich by train: best side to sit for scenery?

Short summary – read this first

A couple is planning a trip from Salzburg, Austria to Grindelwald, Switzerland, on July 27. They want advice on which side of the train to sit for the best views during their scenic journey. The community suggests sitting on the left side towards Zürich for the initial views, then switching to the right side after a train direction change at Buchs to catch views of the lakes.

Key takeaways:
  • Sit on the left side of the train from Salzburg to Zürich for the best scenic views.
  • After the train changes direction at Buchs, switch to the right side for great views of Lake Walen and Lake Zürich.
  • Consider booking Business Class seats for more comfort and better viewing opportunities.
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InfoAI-generated summary
  • kamil_krk
    Participant
    137 posts
    Reply 1 of 5 • 13 April 2024 at 23:46:25 #1405073

    Edsusan – the best choice will be – ABSOLUTELY! – left side of the train (in direction of ride).

    Kamil

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    User
    Inactive
    83504 posts
    Reply 2 of 5 • 14 April 2024 at 5:33:05 #1405078

    Hi Ed and Susan,

    I agree with Kamil. The best views are through the Arlberg, from Innsbruck to Bludenz, and they are on the left in the direction of travel towards Zürich.

    The train will change direction at Buchs, at which time you will have the distinct feeling that you are heading straight back to Salzburg! You will now find yourself on the right-hand side of the train, which – conveniently – is the best side for views along the Walensee (Lake Walen) and Zürichsee (Lake Zürich) in Switzerland.

    Enjoy the views!

    Alpenrose

    User
    Inactive
    83504 posts
    Reply 3 of 5 • 14 April 2024 at 21:04:52 #1405444

    Hi Edsusan,

    Helpful advice from Kamil & Alpenrose.

    In case you needed any information in regard to travel to/from Austria to Switzerland, feel free to read our handy guide below:

    Kind regards,

    Yolanda

    Waycoll
    Participant
    20 posts
    Reply 4 of 5 • 15 April 2024 at 1:16:28 #1405451

    Hi Ed and Susan

    My wife are doing the same journey 2 weeks ahead of you. For not much extra, we purchased seats in the Business Class section – seats 51 and 55. They are single seats with nobody else alongside you, except your better half. The seats are on opposite sides of the carriage, meaning that no matter what stage of your journey, one of you will have the better view. Photograph opportunities are never missed, and you get better seats and facilities all the way to Zurich.

    Anyway,  thought I’d share that idea. Enjoy your travels.

    Cheers

    Wayne

    Edsusan
    Participant
    18 posts
    Reply 5 of 5 • 15 April 2024 at 1:53:22 #1405455

    Thank you all for your knowledgeable replies.  We will be using Eurail pass so there is no way to upgrade just this leg.

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