Mariazellerbahn

The longest narrow-gauge railway in Austria (84 km from St. Poelten to Mariazell), running through alpine valleys and gorges. The Himmelstreppe (Stairway to Heaven) panoramic cars operate on the route. The journey itself is a major draw, not just transport to the basilica. The railway has run since 1907 and passes through otherwise inaccessible landscape.

Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway (84km), running since 1907 from St. Poelten to Mariazell through the Pielach valley, Erlauf gorge, and Ötschergräben limestone landscape. The Himmelstreppe panoramic cars make the journey itself the main attraction, not just transport to the basilica. The route passes through the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, accessible almost exclusively by this railway. Journey takes approximately 2 hours. Check mariazellerbahn.at for current schedules and the panoramic car timetable. Combine with the Mariazeller Hauptplatz and Basilika on arrival.