In December 2024, the train service from Ljubljana to Villach significantly improved. In addition to EuroCity trains, new trains operated by Slovenian Railways (SŽ) using recently acquired Stadler Flirt electric multiple units (SŽ 510) were introduced on the route. Some sections of the railway line between Ljubljana and Villach have been renovated, making the journey very fast—most trains complete the route in about 100 minutes.
Train from Ljubljana to Villach – key facts
At the time of writing, five MV trains operated by Slovenian Railways and two EuroCity trains were running on the route. The number of trains may change in the near future.
Occasionally, engineering works take place on parts of the line (e.g., Ljubljana–Jesenice or Ljubljana–Kranj), and during those times, buses replace trains on the affected segments. These buses are not equipped for carrying bicycles or wheelchair users and usually do not have toilets.
Ljubljana to Villach Train – Ticket Prices (2025)
The base fare for a one-way ticket from Ljubljana to Villach without any promotions or discounts is €19.60.
The cheapest promotional “First Minute” tickets, available in advance for EuroCity and MV trains, cost €9.90, but the number of these tickets is limited.
Slovenian Railways also offers tickets under the “REGIO AS” fare:
From Ljubljana to Villach: €11 (valid on MV trains only)
From Jesenice to Villach: €7
Children and youth up to 14 years old receive a 50% discount
A return ticket costs twice the one-way fare—no return discount is offered.
Ljubljana to Villach Train – Stadler Flirt (SŽ 510)
The cross-border trains are operated with Stadler Flirt electric multiple units (SŽ 510). These trains are air-conditioned, equipped with eco-friendly toilets, and feature two designated spaces for wheelchair users and areas for bicycles.
Key Features:
– 235 seats (12 in first class)
– 182 standing places
– First and second class available
– Wi-Fi
– USB ports in first class
– 220V sockets in both classes
– Low-floor design
– Maximum speed: 160 km/h
– Two toilets
Passengers can bring one bicycle per person on board.
Virtual tour of the Stadler Flirt (SŽ 510)
Most important stations
Ljubljana – The capital of Slovenia and one of my favorite cities. Its well-kept center features many impressive buildings. The heart of Ljubljana is Prešeren Square, with a monument to France Prešeren, one of Slovenia’s greatest poets. Behind it lie the Triple Bridges, linking both sides of the river. A stroll along the river is especially enjoyable in the summer evenings, when the cafes are lively. Notable sights include St. Nicholas Cathedral, adorned with beautiful frescoes and Baroque altars, and the Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most), famous for its dragon statues. You should also visit Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) on a hill above the city center, accessible by funicular or on foot. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and nearby mountains. Train enthusiasts will enjoy the Railway Museum.
Ljubljana has excellent accommodation options and, as a railway hub with connections to major cities in Slovenia and neighboring countries, it’s a great base for train trips.
Kranj – A city with about 37,000 residents, the fourth largest in Slovenia. It’s located near numerous hiking trails and the ski jumping center in Planica. The city center is perched on a high cliff, 5–10 minutes on foot from the railway station. I had a very negative experience here—lots of thugs and drug addicts. Historically, Kranj competed with Ljubljana for regional dominance. The city center is small and can be explored in 1.5 hours. One interesting attraction is the underground WWII tunnels.
Lesce-Bled – The railway station is about 5 km from Lake Bled. Throughout the day, shuttle buses run from the station to the lake every 10 minutes. The trip takes about 15 minutes, and ticket prices are reasonable.
Jesenice – A railway junction where you can transfer to the Jesenice–Nova Gorica train. Jesenice is known for its ice hockey team, but apart from mountain trails in the area, the city doesn’t offer much.
Villach – An important railway hub near the Austrian border with Slovenia and Italy. The scenic railway line to Lienz is worth noting. The cozy city center is close to the train station. In terms of historical sites, Villach is average—the main ones are St. Jacob’s Church and the Old Town Hall. The local thermal pools are quite popular. Nature lovers should check out the Thermalquelle Maibachl in Warmbad Villach, which appears only after heavy rain or during snowmelt. The city is surrounded by mountain ranges—Villacher Alpe to the west and Karawanken to the south. It’s great for a 2-hour visit, and nearby there are four ski resorts. You can also visit Villach and Klagenfurt in one day.
Related articles:
Train travel in Slovenia – a comprehensive guide
Train travel in Austria – a comprehensive guide
