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Switzerland by train
- Access Switzerland's national rail network and get unlimited travel with a pass valid for 11 months after purchase.
- With varied options like 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8-day access for 1 month from the date of activation, plan your itinerary conveniently.
- Mingle with other travelers with a 2nd class ticket or choose a quiet, 'do not disturb' experience with the 1st class.
- Skip the long winding queues by simply downloading the app and scanning your pass.
Inclusions
- 3/4/5/6/8 days validity within 30 days post-activation
- Unlimited access to Switzerland's national rail network
- 1st/2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Plan your journey and connections ahead of time as Swiss public transportation is known for its punctuality.
- This experience is wheelchair, pram, and stroller accessible.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It cannot be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After Activation: The 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation.
- Note : Unused and unactivated passes can be canceled up to 6 months from the last possible activation date indicated on the mobile pass.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 180 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Get access to unlimited travel on Europe’s national rail networks, valid for 11 months post-purchase across 40,000 destinations in 33 countries.
- Choose between a 4, 5, or 7-day pass that stays valid for a month after activation, or get a 10 or 15-day pass that's valid for 2 months after activation.
- Simplify your connections and travel with 40 rail and ferry companies in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and more.
- Join fellow travelers and families like yours with these affordable 2nd class tickets.
- Just download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- 4/5/7/10/15-day pass in 33 European countries
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Night trains can save you travel time and accommodation costs. Consider taking night trains for longer journeys to maximize your days for exploration.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It cannot be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Get access to unlimited travel on Europe’s national rail networks, valid for 11 months post-purchase across 40,000 destinations in 33 countries.
- Choose between a 4, 5, or 7-day pass that stays valid for a month after activation, or get a 10 or 15-day pass that's valid for 2 months after activation.
- Simplify your connections and travel with 40 rail and ferry companies in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and more.
- Get a peaceful 'do not disturb environment' with these 1st class tickets.
- Just download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- 4/5/7/10/15-day pass in 33 European countries
- 1st class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Night trains can save you travel time and accommodation costs. Consider taking night trains for longer journeys to maximize your days for exploration.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It cannot be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Unlock connectivity across 33 European countries with just one pass for a whopping 11 months.
- Pick your Euro travel dates with 15 or 22-day validity, or crank it up a notch with 1, 2, or 3-month options.
- Cruise through iconic destinations like Italy, Belgium, Croatia, and more.
- Join the party in 2nd-class seats and mingle with fellow wanderers and families. Oh, did we mention free WiFi and luggage space on board?
- Whip out your e-pass, hold up the square barcode, and wave it at the 'scan ticket' signs and there you go, pass activated!
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- Valid for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 consecutive months after activation
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
- Tip: As the pass offers access to 33 countries, make sure to add a few hidden gem or off-beat spots to your itinerary.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It can't be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Bring along the traveller’s guide provided along with your pass.
- Note that there are no extra pass benefits in the following countries:
Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Montenegro and Poland. - The passes are not valid on the Postbus lines in Switzerland.
- Children between 4 and 11 years of age can travel for free with a Child Pass and below 4 years of age don’t require any pass.
- 2 children can travel with one adult. For example, if 2 adults are traveling, they can take 4 children with them. If the number increases, it is recommended to purchase a separate Youth Pass.
- Children traveling accompanied by guests with Senior or Youth Pass are not eligible for free travel, a Child Pass needs to be purchased.
- Reservation is compulsory for high-speed, scenic and night trains.
- Pass holders can travel for free on IC Buses, provided your pass is valid in the country you are traveling to. You need to make a reservation and make a small fee to access the routes. Check out the list here.
- Note that before boarding a train, bus or boat, it is mandatory for guests to record their trip in the Travel Report on the Eurail app. Failing to do so, they risk a fine and payment of a full ticket.
- Before activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After activation: The passes are valid for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or 1, 2, or 3 consecutive months after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- There will be no refund on a partially used, activated pass. The pass will be 100% refundable on an unused pass within 1 year of purchase.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Grab this continuous global pass, giving you access to 33 European countries, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- Select 15 or 22 days or 1, 2, or 3 months of continuous travel. There’s no need to pick a start date, just activate your pass on your first travel day.
- Make connectively effortless as you travel to countries like Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, and more.
- Opt for a quiet, ‘do not disturb’ experience with 1st class tickets.
- Simply download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long entry queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- Valid for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 consecutive months after activation
- 1st class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your travel days and see your desired places while benefiting from Interrail's flexibility.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It can't be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After activation: The passes are valid for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or 1, 2, or 3 consecutive months after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Explore 33 European countries with unlimited travel on national rail networks using this flexible pass, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days post activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes for 60 days, making itinerary planning hassle-free.
- Plan same-day connections between Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and more, making connectivity effortless.
- Eurail 2nd class serves up comfy train journeys with plush or leather seats for a chill, and relaxing European adventure.
- Go paperless and simply download the app, scan your pass, and get direct entry to the platform without worrying about standing in line.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- 4/5/7/10/15-day validity
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Remember to travel light and efficiently as you’ll be carrying luggage on and off trains.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- During Activation: Here is a detailed guide to help you activate your Eurail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Benefit from access to tickets for regular and premium trains, buses, and boats with the cost-effective Swiss Travel Pass.
- Enjoy 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days of access to Switzerland's public transit in more than 90 cities and towns.
- Opt for 2nd tickets or exclusive 1st class tickets on panoramic trains & Swiss boat trips.
- Get unlimited travel on premium panorama trains such as the Glacier Express, Luzern Interlaken Express, and more.
- Your pass includes mountain excursions to Brunni, Stanserhorn, and Stoos along with discounted tickets on mountain railways and cable cars like Jungfraujoch!
Inclusions
- Swiss Travel Pass in Switzerland (route map here)
- 1st or 2nd class seats (optional)
- Unlimited access to train, bus, boat, and mountain railway tickets
- Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains: Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Golden Pass MOB, Gothard Panorama Express, and Luzern Interlaken Express
- Unlimited use of public transit in more than 90 towns & cities within Switzerland
- Free admission to 500+ museums - click here to know more.
- Mountain excursions to Brunni, Klewenalp, Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
- Discounts available for mountain railways and cable cars
- Tip: Always carry your pass with you, as ticket inspectors may request to see it on trains and at attractions.
- Staff is available for guests requiring disability assistance.
- This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
- Cards are pre-validated at the time of purchase and can be purchased 6 months in advance.
- Children under 16 travel free when accompanied by a parent.
- This is a public transportation service, seating will be on a first-come first-serve basis.
- Travel for free on a few designated routes by simply presenting your pass and passport/proof of residence to the conductor on the train. No need to buy a separate ticket beforehand!
- While seat reservation is not necessary for most of the routes, please confirm before you travel as the seat reservation fee is not included in the pass.
- An electronic voucher will be sent to your email instantly after booking confirmation.
- Your pass will be activated on the day selected during booking.
- For example, if you picked the 3-day pass, your pass is valid for 3 consecutive days. It ends at 5am on the day following the last day.
- Note : Unused and unactivated passes are refundable up to 1 day prior to the 1st date of validity. Thereafter, fees are applied on the 1st day of validity or later, if evidence of non-use is supplied. For this, Rail Europe needs to be contacted. The claim for a refund will be refused if no proof of partial non-use is presented.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore 33 European countries with continuous travel on national rail networks using this pass, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- Choose between 15 days, 22 days, 1 month, 2 months, or 3 months of continuous travel days.
- Plan same-day connections between Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and more, making connectivity effortless.
- Get free Wi-Fi, ample luggage space and enjoy air conditioning in 2nd class.
- Go paperless and simply download the app, scan your pass, and get direct entry to the platform without worrying about standing in line.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- 15/22-day or 1/2/3-month validity
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Remember to travel light and efficiently as you’ll be carrying luggage on and off trains.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Eurail Pass.
- After Activation: The passes are valid for 15, 22 days, 1, 2 or 3 months continuously after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Benefit from a 50% discount on unlimited tickets for regular and premium trains, buses, and boats with the super-saver Swiss Half-Fare Card.
- Enjoy 1-month validity and discounted rates on the public transportation system as you explore must-see regions of Switzerland.
- Travel by cable car, and get unlimited 1st and 2nd class travel on trains, as per your convenience.
- Directly purchase locally corresponding discounted tickets to travel on your desired route like the Glacier Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, and more.
Inclusions
- Swiss Half-Fare Card in Switzerland (route map here)
- 50% discount on train, bus, boat, and mountain railway tickets
- 1st and 2nd class train seats
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Carefully outline your travel plans and calculate the expected count of train, bus, boat, or cable car trips throughout your stay in Switzerland as this card is valid for 1 month.
- Staff is available for guests requiring disability assistance.
- This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
- Cards are pre-validated at the time of purchase and can be purchased 6 months in advance.
- Children under 16 travel free when accompanied by a parent.
- This is a public transportation service, seating will be on a first-come first-serve basis.
- Travel for free on a few designated routes by simply presenting your pass and passport/proof of residence to the conductor on the train. No need to buy a separate ticket beforehand!
- While seat reservation is not necessary for most of the routes, please confirm before you travel as the seat reservation fee is not included in the pass.
- An electronic voucher will be sent to your email instantly after booking confirmation.
- Tickets with the Half-Fare Card discount can be purchased online, at manned railway stations during opening hours, from the ticketing machines at rail stations, or through the SBB app.
- Your pass will be activated on the day selected during booking.
- After activation, the card is valid for 1 calendar month.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Craft your Euro dream trip – This 1st class Eurail Flexipass lets you explore 33 countries for days of your choice within 30 days of purchase.
- Budget travel? You got it! Quit buying multiple rail tickets and choose a Flexipass plan from 4 to 15 days to experience the best of Europe.
- Become a country hopper and make your own plan – You can explore Munich's vibrant beer gardens in the morning and see the majestic Austrian Alps by evening.
- Travel in 1st class with comfortable seats and air conditioning, catch up on TV shows with free WiFi, and store all your bags with spacious storage.
- Download the Eurail app instead of printing a pass. Just scan at the platform and walk past the ticketing lines onto the Eurail coaches.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European Countries (see list here)
- 1st class seats: Individually adjustable seats, more legroom, cabin service
- 4/5/7/10/15-day validity within 30 days after activation
- Free WiFi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains must be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
Switzerland, endowed with beautiful landscapes and cultures, is a traveler’s paradise. Traveling across this country via its railway network is always a good idea, given the efficiency and coverage of the system and its cost-effectiveness. You have the option to get individual train tickets but we recommend a Swiss rail pass for an extensive, immersive, and budget-conscious exploration with minimum hassle. Read on to learn why and what your Swiss rail pass choices are.
Types of train passes in Switzerland
Swiss Travel Pass
- Eligibility: Non-residents of Switzerland & Liechtenstein
- Pass coverage: Swiss trains including premium trains, buses, boats, cable cars & more
- Inclusions: Added perks like discounted mountain railways usage, museum access & mountain excursions to Stoos, Brunni
- Recommended tickets: Swiss Continuous Travel Pass with Access to Train, Bus & Boat | Swiss Flexible Travel Pass with Access to Train, Bus & Boat
Eurail Pass
- Eligibility: Non-European residents
- Pass coverage: Trains across 33 European countries including Switzerland
- Pass options: Customize your pass with Global/One-Country, Flexi/Continuous pass options
- Recommended tickets: Eurail Flexible Global Pass: 33 European Countries | Eurail Continuous Global Pass: 33 European Countries
Interrail Pass
- Eligibility: European residents
- Pass coverage: Travel in trains across 33 European nations including Switzerland
- Pass options: Tailor the pass to your itinerary with Global/One-Country, Flexi/Continuous pass variants
- Recommended tickets: Interrail Switzerland Mobile Pass with Access to Swiss Rail Network | Interrail Flexible Global 2nd Class Pass: 33 European Countries
Why buy a train pass in Switzerland?
Pass perks & travel tips
- Great connectivity: The Swiss rail network finds its way even to remote towns, easily accessible with a rail pass.
- Flexibility: With customization options, you can own a pass that truly caters to your travel needs and accommodates both planned & spontaneous trips.
- Convenient: Ditch the hassle of buying tickets for every train ride by opting for the digital Swiss rail passes.
- Cost-Effective: Multiple train rides will cost you less with rail passes over individual tickets.
- Picturesque rides: Switzerland train rides are never dull as the view is amazing & a rail pass is your best bet to access them easily.
- Time-saver: Waste no time in ticket queues; simply turn up at the station with your pass and make adventures happen.
- Inclusions: Passes come with additional inclusions like access to landmarks & more that are not included in individual tickets.
- Reduced pricing policies: Children often travel for free or at discounted rates with rail passes.
- Night trains: Take night trains to save travel time & accommodation costs.
- Planning: Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your travel days & see your desired places while benefiting from the pass's flexibility.
- Seat reservations: Keep in mind that reservation costs are not included in your pass. Check your train reservation requirements before boarding.
- Facilities: Swiss trains are equipped with modern amenities like wheelchair & stroller accessibility, free Wi-Fi, ample luggage space, & air conditioning.
- Travel light: Pack light and smart so that carrying luggage doesn't become a burden.
- Connectivity: Trains are punctual & offer regular connections. Bus & boat timings are coordinated with the train timetable, to make further connectivity seamless.
- Inclusions: Train passes add more value to your trip as they come with inclusions like mountain excursions, access to mountain railways, or museum access. Most Swiss train passes permit unlimited travel.
How to choose your train pass in Switzerland?
While selecting the ideal pass for your Swiss adventure, you need to consider your residency, travel itinerary, and preference.
Step 1: Primary pass choice
Step 2: Choice based on itinerary
Step 3: Choice based on duration
Step 4: Choice based on comfort needs
Your residency and the nature of connectivity will decide if you need a Eurail, Interrail, or Swiss Travel Pass.
Interrail Pass
- Best suited for: European residents traveling via trains
Eurail Pass
- Best suited for: Non-European residents commuting by train
Swiss Travel Pass
- Best suited for: Non-residents of Switzerland & Liechtenstein who need access to the Swiss Travel System which includes trains, buses, boats, etc.
If you have chosen Eurail or Interrail in Step 1, you will then decide if you need a Global or a One-Country Pass.
Global Pass
- Best suited for: Exploring Switzerland & other European destinations
- Travel in trains across multiple European nations
One-Country Pass
- Best suited for: Tourists exploring just Switzerland
- Applicable in trains within a single European country like Switzerland
*Please note that Swiss Travel Passes are inherently one-country passes because they are mostly limited to Switzerland's public transportation system.
You can decide between Flexi/Flexible Pass and Continuous Pass after estimating the actual number of days you will be traveling in trains.
Flexi Pass
- Best suited for: Passengers with plans for paced-out train rides
- Active for a select number of random days within a timeframe
Continuous Pass
- Best suited for: Passengers with plans for more frequent train connections without many breaks
- Once activated, the pass remains valid continuously for the validity period
Your comfort needs should be considered when you decide to choose between 1st or 2nd class rail passes.
First class
- Best suited for: Travelers who prefer a quieter journey with more comfort
- Better amenities like spacious seats with wider legroom, larger work surfaces, better power supply, & sometimes at-seat catering
Second class
- Best suited for: Travelers on a budget
- Enjoy a communal & comfortable ride at affordable prices
Popular train networks in Switzerland
The primary rail operator in Switzerland is the state-run Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). There are a lot of private railway companies as well, which make the travel system even more efficient, and passes sometimes cover these too.
Scenic trains
Premium scenic trains with their large panoramic windows are apt for sightseeing. The Bernina Express (Chur/St Moritz - Tirano), Glacier Express (Zermatt - St Moritz), and the Chocolate Train (Montreux - Broc-Chocolat) are a few such trains.
Scenic Swiss Routes
International high-speed trains
Switzerland has an efficient & high-speed transit network with neighboring countries like EuroCity (EC) to Italy, Austria, Czechia & Germany; Railjet (RJX) to Austria, Slovakia &Hungary; EuroCityExpress (ECE) to Germany & Italy; and TGV to Paris and OBB Nightjet.
Intercity trains
- InterCity trains (IC): These trains link major Swiss cities with few intermediate stops
- InterRegio (IR) trains: Serving more stops than IC trains, IR trains connect big cities and regional locations
- InterCity Neigezug (ICN) trains: ICN trains are high-speed domestic trains that connect one part of Switzerland to another.
Regional trains
- RegioExpress (RE) trains: RE trains connect larger Swiss cities with regional locations
- Regio trains: Linking many local towns, Regio trains stop at all intermediate stations
- S-Bahn trains: These are suburban trains that operate within larger cities at high frequency
Popular attractions in Switzerland
City-wise exploration
Attractions
Best time to visit
Quick facts
Best things to do
Travel Hacks
Travel Essentials
Transport options
Switzerland is populated with big cities that blend natural beauty and urban sophistication.
- Interlaken: Plan outdoor skiing activities or head to Grindelwald or Jungfraujoch for a day in the snow-capped mountains.
- Lucerne: Take out your cameras to capture Lucerne or Luzern with its charming Swiss architecture, and a remarkable wooden footbridge. The pristine Lake Lucerne with Mount Pilatus framing the backdrop is reason enough to visit here.
- Zermatt: The car-free Zermatt is ideal for hiking and winter sports. The Matterhorn, which inspired the Toblerone chocolate, will be a view that heightens your hiking experience here.
- Geneva: Home to the headquarters of the United Nations and the CERN project, the modern city of Geneva, boasts top-notch scenery, wines, and of course chocolate.
There is no dearth of things to see or do in Switzerland. Snow activities like sledding and skiing, tasting the world-famous Swiss chocolate, and cheese, hiking up the mountain ranges, and immersing in the post-card-worthy landscapes, are all on the top of the list of any traveler to Switzerland.
- Jungfraujoch: Vast stretches of white snow meet you at Jungfraujoch, which is Europe’s highest railway. Prepare to be breath taken at the sights at Jungfraujoch, explore the Snow Fun Park, Sphinx Observatory, and Ice Palace, or get that adrenaline pumping with winter sports.
- Lake Geneva cruises: Take a relaxing cruise across Lake Geneva and behold the city and the mountains surrounding it from a unique perspective.
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on the kind of holiday you are looking for. There are four distinct seasons in Switzerland.
- Those seeking a winter wonderland with a lot of snow activities like skiing should visit during the winter season which lasts from December to February. There are also vibrant Christmas markets during this time.
- Spring slowly brings a pop of color back to the meadows and valleys blossoming with wild alpine flowers. This season lasts from March to May and sees fewer tourists, meaning a quieter atmosphere. You can also expect some rain.
- A verdant landscape carpeted with wildflowers awaits you in the summer months of June to August. The pleasant climate and longer daylight hours make this a peak tourist season ideal for outdoor activities.
- As the leaves fall ushering in the Autumn season from September to November, temperatures turn cooler and Switzerland turns picturesque with fall foliage. This time is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities but it is a slower tourist season.
- Capital: Bern
- Official language: 4 official national languages - German, French, Italian & Romansh
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Iconic landmarks: Jungfraujoch, Lake Geneva, Matterhorn
- Climate: Switzerland has a moderate climate. Winters can see temperatures drop to -2 degrees Celsius and summers are pleasant with a maximum temperature of 28 degrees Celsius.
- Population: 8.7 million
- Indulge in Swiss food: Swiss cheese enjoyed as fondue or raclette, Swiss chocolates, and Rösti are some popular dishes you must try.
- Mountain visits: Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, Harder Kulm, Mt. Rigi, the list goes on of the number of mountain tops you can visit via cable cars or rail.
- Outdoor activities: Hiking, boating, skiing, and snowboarding are popular activities that will treat you to excellent views in Switzerland.
- Scenic trains: Grab a seat on the famed Swiss scenic train journeys like Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Chocolate Train, and more.
- Historic cities: Explore historic cities like Zurich, Bern, & Geneva where medieval charm, cultural treasures, & picturesque landscapes await your discovery.
- Picnics: Everywhere you turn is a pretty sight, so enjoy a picnic with local supermarket supplies. This is also a budget-friendly option for dining out.
- Countryside trips: Venture off the city to the countryside, where you can get a real slice of the Swiss way of life and amazing scenery.
- Christmas markets: Twinkling lights, decorations, and festive cheer in the air! What better way to enjoy Christmas than roaming the Christmas markets?
- Shoulder season visit: Spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) offers better accommodation deals and fewer crowds, especially in village hotels.
- Travel passes: Save money with transit passes like the Swiss Travel Pass and attraction passes tailored to your itinerary.
- Dining: Save on dining expenses by shopping at local grocery stores, choosing accommodations with kitchen facilities, and picnicking at scenic spots.
- Scenic trains: Experience Switzerland's renowned scenic train routes like Bernina Express and Glacier Express, or opt for budget-friendly regional trains with train passes.
- What to wear: Prepare for Switzerland's changing climate with umbrellas, layers, and sturdy footwear, especially for mountain hikes.
- Tipping culture: While not obligatory, rounding off bills for service is appreciated in Switzerland.
- Shopping: Plan for early shop closures, and buy souvenirs from supermarkets for better prices compared to tourist shops.
- Time zone: Switzerland follows Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1. In daylight saving time, Switzerland adopts Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2.
- Currency: Swiss Franc - CHF
- Country code: +41
- Socket type: Type C (plug with two round pins) & Type J (plug with three round pins). Type C pin plugs also fit J sockets.
- Emergency numbers: In case of emergencies in Switzerland, dial 112 to contact the police, ambulance, and fire services.
- Trains: Major cities, towns, and even remote areas are connected by Swiss railways, operated primarily by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). If you intend several journeys, get a train pass like Swiss Travel Pass or Eurail/Interrail Pass.
- Buses: Plenty of buses are available to access points not reached by trains. The clean and efficient bus system is primarily operated by PostBus. Traveling within the city is also convenient via buses.
- Boats: Passenger boats and cruises navigate Switzerland's major lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, Lake Zurich, and Lake Thun. The rides are incredibly picturesque, so don't miss the opportunity to hop on one.
- Cable cars: Ascend mountains like the Matterhorn or Jungfrau effortlessly, enjoying breathtaking panoramic vistas via thrilling cable car rides.
- Trams: Cities like Zurich, Bern, Geneva, and Basel have trams for intra-city commutes.
Frequently asked questions
Which train passes are valid in Switzerland?
If you are traveling to Switzerland, you can purchase a Eurail Pass, Interrail Pass, or the Swiss Travel Pass to access the train network there.
Are rail passes a good value for Switzerland?
If you intend to travel extensively by train in Switzerland, a train pass is the most cost-effective way and flexible way to connect easily from city to city.
How much does a rail pass cost in Switzerland?
The price of rail passes varies with the type of pass, validity, and inclusions. However, Switzerland travel pass prices start from CHF 120.
What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class Swiss train coaches?
The first class offers a quieter atmosphere to work, read, or sleep in peace. They are equipped with better amenities like spacious seats with more legroom, wider work surfaces, more power sockets, amplifiers for mobile phone reception, and more. The second class, on the other hand, is a more communal experience. You can meet more people here and enjoy a comfortable journey. Second-class rail passes are also more affordable.
What pass should you choose if you are non-European?
If you are a non-European, you can choose a Eurail Pass or Swiss Travel Pass to commute conveniently in Switzerland. If you plan to travel by trains, buses, or boats, opt for a Swiss Travel Pass as they have more transit systems covered. If you plan to cover Switzerland and other European countries, choose Eurail Global Pass which is applicable not just in Switzerland but other European nations as well.
How do I determine if a rail pass is the right fit for my Swiss trip?
To determine if a rail pass is the right fit for your Swiss trip, make a rough plan of the number of journeys you will make. Compare combined individual ticket prices with a train pass to see if it is a budget fit. Next, think about the nature of your travel and, if you deem flexibility important, a train pass is more than perfect!
Do I need to make seat reservations with a train pass?
Most trains in Switzerland are reservation-free. You can just turn up with your pass, board, and take any available seat. But certain premium scenic trains like Bernina Express, Glacier Express, and others mandate seat reservations. These need to be purchased separately at a small additional cost. Learn more about seat reservations with the Swiss Travel Pass.
Are premium trains covered by Swiss train passes?
Yes, most Swiss train passes cover premium trains like the Gotthard Panorama Express, Glacier Express, and others. However, you might need to make seat reservations at an additional cost for these trains.
Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover the Chocolate train?
The Chocolate Train is a vintage train ride dedicated to Switzerland's famous specialty - chocolate. You travel in luxurious coaches and get admitted to the chocolate factory of Nestlé Cailler in Broc and indulge in chocolate all through the way. The Swiss Travel Passes do cover the Chocolate Train. However, seat reservation surcharges apply.
Can tourists get Swiss train passes?
Yes, Swiss train passes benefit tourists by making movement efficient. A Swiss Travel Pass is for non-residents of Switzerland and Liechtenstein; a Eurail Pass for non-European residents and an Interrail Pass for European residents.