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Swiss Travel Pass Itinerary

Switzerland’s rail network is legendary for its punctuality, comfort, and jaw-dropping scenery. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can explore the country’s lakes, mountains, and vibrant cities on one ticket—no need to buy separate fares for each leg. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this pass unlocks seamless connections between iconic destinations, panoramic trains, and even local buses and boats. In this guide, you’ll find a detailed 5-day itinerary using the Swiss Travel Pass, plus tips for maximizing your journey across Switzerland’s most spectacular routes.

Top scenic and city-to-city routes in your Swiss Travel pass

Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz

The Glacier Express is famed as the “slowest express train in the world,” winding through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels. Panoramic windows reveal the dramatic Rhine Gorge, snow-capped peaks, and charming alpine villages. A reservation is required, but the entire route is covered by the pass.

Bernina Express: Chur/St. Moritz to Tirano

This UNESCO-listed line climbs to the Bernina Pass at 2,253m, passing glaciers, turquoise lakes, and descending to palm-lined Tirano in Italy. You’ll see the Morteratsch Glacier and the famous Brusio spiral viaduct. Ride the official Bernina Express (reservation needed) or regular regional trains (no reservation).

GoldenPass line: Montreux to Interlaken

Travel from Lake Geneva’s vineyards through alpine forests and rolling meadows to Interlaken. The GoldenPass Line offers classic Belle Époque carriages and modern panoramic coaches, all included with your pass (reservation optional for special seats).

Zurich to Lucerne

A quick and scenic hop connects Switzerland’s largest city to the medieval charm of Lucerne. The route hugs lakeshores and offers views of the Swiss Plateau, making it a favorite for travelers starting or ending their trip.

Interlaken to Jungfrau region (Lauterbrunnen/Grindelwald)

Use your pass to reach the heart of the Bernese Alps. Trains from Interlaken Ost take you to Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, gateways to waterfalls, hiking trails, and mountain excursions. The pass covers the journey up to Wengen/Grindelwald; discounts apply for Jungfraujoch.

Plan your route with Swiss Travel Pass - Single-country itinerary

5 Days in Switzerland

Day 1: Zurich to Lucerne and Mt. Rigi

Start in Zurich and take a direct train to Lucerne (approx. 45 min). Spend the morning exploring Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge and Old Town. In the afternoon, use your pass for a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, then ride the cogwheel train up Mt. Rigi—both fully included. Return to Lucerne for the night.

Day 2: Lucerne to Interlaken via GoldenPass line

Board the Luzern–Interlaken Express, part of the GoldenPass route, for a scenic ride past lakes and mountains (approx. 2 hr). Arrive in Interlaken and take a stroll along the Aare River or opt for a boat cruise on Lake Thun or Brienz, both covered by your pass.

Day 3: Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and Jungfrau region

Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen (20 min). Explore the valley’s waterfalls or continue by train to Wengen or Grindelwald (both included). For the Jungfraujoch excursion, your pass gives you a 25% discount beyond Wengen/Grindelwald. Return to Interlaken for the evening.

Day 4: Interlaken to Zermatt (Glacier Express leg)

Travel from Interlaken to Zermatt via Spiez and Visp (approx. 2.5 hr). In Zermatt, stroll the car-free village and enjoy views of the Matterhorn. If you wish, take the Gornergrat Bahn (discounted with your pass) for panoramic alpine vistas.

Day 5: Zermatt to St. Moritz via Glacier Express

Board the Glacier Express for the full 8-hour journey to St. Moritz (reservation required, pass covers fare). Enjoy lunch onboard and soak in views of the Rhine Gorge and Oberalp Pass. Arrive in St. Moritz for lakeside relaxation or onward travel.

Plan your route with Swiss Travel Pass - Multi-Country Itinerary

Switzerland and Italy (with Eurail Global pass)

Day 1: Geneva to Montreux (Switzerland)

Start in Geneva, take a train along Lake Geneva to Montreux (approx. 1 hr). Explore the lakeside promenade and Chillon Castle.

Day 2: Montreux to Interlaken via GoldenPass line

Travel the GoldenPass route through vineyards and alpine valleys to Interlaken (approx. 3 hr). Enjoy a boat cruise or hike in the Jungfrau region.

Day 3: Interlaken to Milan (Italy)

Take the train from Interlaken to Spiez, then connect to Milan via the scenic Lötschberg and Simplon tunnels (approx. 3.5 hr). Explore Milan’s Duomo and Galleria.

Day 4: Milan to Venice

Board a high-speed Frecciarossa to Venice (approx. 2.5 hr). Wander the canals and visit St. Mark’s Square.

Day 5: Venice to Zurich (Switzerland)

Return to Switzerland with a direct EuroCity train to Zurich (approx. 7 hr), passing through the Alps and Italian lakes.

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Book Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Transfers available
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from
CHF 262
Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% Discount on Train, Bus & Boat Tickets for 1 Month
Flexible duration
Transfers available
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from
CHF 149.84
Interrail Switzerland Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train
Free cancellation
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Extended validity
Flexible duration
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from
CHF 183.69
Swiss Travel Flexi Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
Free cancellation
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Flexible duration
Transfers available
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from
CHF 299
Jungfrau Unlimited Travel Pass: 3 to 8 Days
Free cancellation
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Flexible duration
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CHF 210
Berner Oberland Pass: Unlimited Travel across the entire Bernese Oberland
Free cancellation
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Flexible duration
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from
CHF 240

Tips to make the best of your Swiss Travel Pass

  • Strategize your geographic scope: Before purchasing, consider how many regions you truly wish to explore. Switzerland is dense with beauty, so decide if you’ll focus deeply on the Bernese Oberland or traverse the entire country. Mapping your must-see cities helps ensure the pass covers your full itinerary.
  • Ask the vital travel questions: Ask yourself: How long is the trip? Do you crave the spontaneity of a Flexi Pass or the seamlessness of Continuous travel? Determining your ideal pace, whether it’s a high-energy grand tour or a slow-burning alpine retreat, is key to choosing the right pass.
  • Go digital and buy early: Purchase your pass online in advance to unlock the best deals and ensure a stress-free arrival. Opting for a digital pass on your smartphone allows you to skip the ticket booth and hop straight onto boats, buses, or trains the moment you land.
  • Master the iconic panoramic routes: While the pass offers unlimited travel, remember that legendary trains like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express require mandatory seat reservations. Book these early to secure a window seat, then use your pass for free entry to 500+ museums during your stops.

Frequently asked questions about Swiss Travel pass itinerary

How many days do I need for a classic Swiss itinerary?

A 5-day Swiss Travel Pass is ideal for seeing major cities, scenic routes, and mountain excursions. For a more relaxed pace or extra stops, consider an 8-day pass.

Are seat reservations required on Swiss scenic trains?

Yes, reservations are mandatory for the Glacier Express and Bernina Express panoramic trains. For regular regional trains on the same routes, no reservation is needed.

Can I use the Swiss Travel pass on boats and buses?

Absolutely. The pass covers most boats on Swiss lakes and many regional buses, making it easy to reach towns and attractions off the main rail lines.

Is the Jungfraujoch included in the Swiss Travel pass?

The pass covers travel up to Wengen or Grindelwald. Beyond that, you receive a 25% discount on the Jungfraujoch cogwheel train.

Can I combine the Swiss Travel pass with a Eurail pass?

If you’re traveling only in Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass is best. For multi-country trips, the Eurail Global Pass covers Swiss trains and international routes.

What’s the best direction to ride the Glacier Express?

Both directions (Zermatt–St. Moritz or reverse) offer stunning views. Many travelers start in Zermatt for the classic “alpine to lakes” experience.

Are city trams and metros included?

The Swiss Travel pass covers public transport in 90+ Swiss towns and cities, including trams and buses in places like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne.

How do I maximize my travel days?

Plan longer journeys or multiple scenic routes on a single day to get the most value. For example, combine a boat cruise and a mountain excursion in one day.

Can I use the pass for airport transfers?

Yes, trains from Zurich and Geneva airports to city centers are included with the Swiss Travel pass.

Is luggage storage available at stations?

Major Swiss stations offer lockers or staffed luggage storage, making it easy to explore cities between train rides.