The Murtalbahn is a 66-kilometer narrow-gauge railway (760 mm) in Austria that connects Unzmarkt in Styria with Tamsweg in Salzburg, passing through Murau and Predlitz-Turrach. It is an important part of public transport for the Upper Mur Valley and a popular tourist attraction.
🚂 Quick Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Styria and Salzburg, Austria |
| Track Gauge | 760 mm (Bosnian gauge) |
| Route Length | 66 km |
| Main Towns | Unzmarkt, Murau, Predlitz-Turrach, Tamsweg |
| Operated By | Steiermarkbahn |
| Current Journey Time | Unzmarkt to Murau: 36 minutes |
📜 Modernization Plans
The Murtalbahn is undergoing a major transformation. In 2026, both the Styrian provincial government and the Austrian federal government committed to funding the electrification of the line.
- The federal government will cover approximately 30% of the costs for new electric trains.
- The project is planned to begin around 2032.
- Once completed, the journey time between Unzmarkt and Murau will be reduced from 36 to just 24 minutes.
- New electric narrow-gauge trains will be procured in a joint tender with the Zillertalbahn and Pinzgauer Lokalbahn, totaling 17 new vehicles.
Despite modernization, the beloved steam train will remain in operation during the summer months as a tourist attraction.
✨ Steam Train Experience
The Murtalbahn’s heritage steam train service offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque Upper Mur Valley, along the green Mur River, past forests and meadows.
The steam train typically runs from Murau to Tamsweg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays during the summer months. There are also special trips to Stadl an der Mur.
Highlights include:
- Historic steam locomotives and restored carriages
- Musical entertainment and a bar carriage on board
- A stop at Stadl an der Mur to watch the water tender being filled
- Amateur locomotive driving: A unique experience where you can operate the regulator, valves, and whistle yourself
- Themed journeys: Including a Kids’ Train, Emperor’s Train, Christmas Train, and Epiphany Train
📅 Planning Your Visit
Steam Train Dates 2026:
- To Stadl an der Mur: May 30, October 17
- To Tamsweg: July 7, 28, 30; August 2, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20; September 1, 3, 6, 8, 22
Fares (2026):
- Murau to Tamsweg: €31 single / €49 return (full fare)
- 50% discounts available for certain passengers
- Group rates for 10 or more people
- Murau GuestCard holders receive a 30% discount
Tickets:
- Online ticket shop:Â https://dampfzug.steiermarkbahn.at/
- Travel agency at Murau train station (cash only)
- Advance booking is strongly recommended due to limited seating
Contact:
Reisebüro Murau, Bahnhofviertel 4a, 8850 Murau
Tel: +43 (0) 676 840 011 116
I hope this gives you a good overview of the Murtalbahn! If you’d like more details on specific timetables or themed excursions, feel free to ask.