Between Austria’s second-largest city and the capital of Slovenia, there are cross-border trains (MV), Intercity trains, and Eurocity trains. At the time this article was being written, replacement bus services were operating on parts of the route instead of some trains. However, in the future, once all renovation work on the Maribor–Graz railway line is completed, passenger train traffic should run without disruption. The train from Graz to Ljubljana travels along the scenic Zidani Most–Ljubljana railway line. The journey time between the two cities is around 3 hours.
Train from Graz to Ljubljana – Ticket Prices (2025)
Slovenian Railways offers a number of ticket options that make it affordable to travel between Slovenian cities and Graz.
Base fare prices, without discounts or promotions (Slovenian Railways):
Ljubljana – Graz: €35.30
Maribor – Graz: €16.10
The cheapest promotional First Minute tickets cost:
€4.90 (Maribor – Graz)
€9.90 (Celje – Graz)
€14.90 (Ljubljana – Graz)
The number of the cheapest tickets is limited. Once these sell out, a more expensive tier is available, costing €5 more. Tickets must be purchased well in advance.
Slovenian Railways also offers REGIO AS fare tickets for cross-border (MV) trains:
Ljubljana – Graz: €19
Maribor – Graz: €8
There’s also the REGIO AS GRAZ 101 fare, which allows holders of such tickets to use public transport within zone 101 in Graz—this includes city buses, trams, S-Bahn trains, and the funicular railway to the Schlossberg (Castle Hill).
Ljubljana – Graz in REGIO AS GRAZ 101 fare: €25.80
Maribor – Graz: €14.80
A return ticket is cheaper than two one-way tickets.
Austrian Railways also offers Sparschiene promotional tickets.
Train from Graz to Ljubljana – Stadler Flirt (SŽ 510)
Since December 2024, thanks to new trains introduced by Slovenian Railways, the service between Graz, Maribor, and Ljubljana has significantly improved. The cross-border trains are operated by Stadler Flirt electric multiple units (SŽ 510). These trains are air-conditioned, equipped with eco-friendly toilets, have two designated spaces for wheelchair users, and dedicated bike spaces.
Key features:
– 235 seats (12 in first class)
– 182 standing places
– 1st and 2nd class
– Wi-Fi
– USB sockets in first class
– 220V outlets in both classes
– Low-floor vehicle
– Max speed: 160 km/h
-Two toilets
Bicycles can be transported on board—one bicycle per passenger.
Virtual tour of the Stadler Flirt train (SŽ 510)(train360.eu)
Train from Graz to Ljubljana – Intercity and Eurocity Trains
Intercity and Eurocity trains also run between Graz and Ljubljana. These trains consist of various types of carriages—Hungarian (for example, the Budapest–Ljubljana train via Graz and Maribor), Austrian, Slovenian, and during the season, the night train from Warsaw to Rijeka will include Polish carriages. Both compartment and open-plan coaches are available. Most of the trains include a dining car.
Train Graz – Ljubljana – Most important stations
Graz – The second-largest city in Austria and capital of Styria. A city worth visiting, and easy to explore—the main train station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the city center. The most important attraction is the Schlossberg (Castle Hill), accessible on foot via stairs or by funicular railway. On the hill, you can see the Clock Tower (Uhrturm), a remnant of the former fortress, but the beautiful city panorama is even more impressive. The vibrant Old Town is full of historic buildings with richly decorated staircases. The modern, controversial Kunsthaus Graz building is hard to miss. An ideal destination for a day trip.
Maribor – The second-largest city in Slovenia. In my opinion, it’s an average city, and it’s better to transfer here to a train heading to the picturesque Slovenian town of Ptuj. Much of Maribor’s historic architecture was destroyed during World War II. The Main Square looks nice, the world’s oldest grapevine grows in the city center, and St. John the Baptist Cathedral as well as the university building opposite are worth seeing. A quick tour of the city takes about 1.5 hours.
Celje – A medium-sized Slovenian town. The quaint center is located right next to the train station. The main attraction is the castle located on a hill a few kilometers from the center. Due to the steep climb, it takes some time to reach it.
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.
Related articles:
Train travel in Slovenia – a comprehensive guide
Train travel in Austria – a comprehensive guide
