...traveling during Oktoberfest...there are about 12 of us. We will go for the day and return to Salzburg to sleep, how far ahead of time do we need to buy these tickets? Thanks for the help!

Up to the last minute from the DB ticket machines. When you enter Salzburg main station, there are 2 DB ticket vending machines to your left or you can use the counter. Don't use the ÖBB machines. After 9am, 3 Bayern-Tickets will do.

>how far ahead of time do we need to buy these tickets?

Just at any other time of the year -a few minutes before departure.

I'm curious, how long is the train trip between these 2 cities? (I've always traveled by car)

Thanks.

2:05 to 2:15 on regional trains. 1:20 to 1:40 on IC/EC trains.

Thanks for the answers! I thought would be v busy and possibly sold out during Oktoberfest, the distance is similar to Chicago-Milwaukee, yes? So it will be like going to Milw for Summerfest and then returning to Chicago to sleep? (different scenery of course!)

The 3 Bayern tickets cover up to 4 people I'm assuming?

1 Ticket costs 27€ and covers up to 5 people. It's just a short daytrip, just like you suggested. However, depending on the time, on those days you may end up standing. (esp. on your return trip) The train will be at the station about 20min before departure.

It will not sell out (there aren't any limits to the number of tickets sold), but it may get cramped ;-)

...Gotcha...the El at rush hour...

Read about the Bayern-Ticket here: http://tinyurl.com/29mh69. Note that it is only good on regional trains, not fast trains. However, it will also cover your local transportation in Munich.