swiss travel pass 3 jours

Swiss Travel Pass FAQs: Helpful Answers for 2024

The Swiss Travel Pass is designed for backpackers, city hoppers, families, and railway lovers. It offers a cost-effective way to travel across Switzerland by public transportation.

You’re probably wondering: How much does it cost? And are there any discounts? We often get these and many other questions about the Swiss Travel Pass.

Deciding whether the Swiss Travel Pass is right for you can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive overview of benefits could be a good starter. But first-timers will end up with many unanswered questions, still.

So, we decided to answer them once and for all. We've got you covered, from where to purchase the Swiss Travel Pass to its activation and available discounts to the refund policy. Whether you're a curious first-time visitor to Switzerland or want to plan a Swiss itinerary for your friends from abroad, keep reading for answers to the most common Swiss Travel Pass FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Swiss Travel Pass

Purchase and refunds.

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for consecutive periods of 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days and must be activated within six months of the purchase date.

The Swiss Travel Pass can be purchased on the official SBB website, at SBB ticket offices and authorized resellers, or worldwide through online travel agencies such as RailEurope .

The Swiss Travel Pass is available for anyone with a permanent residence outside of Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. This includes any foreign nationals and Swiss people with a permanent address abroad. It’s important that Swiss who live abroad can produce the following forms of identification while traveling on a Swiss Travel Pass: a Swiss passport, plus a residence permit, driving license, or residence certificate from abroad.

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass offers discounts for children and teenagers up to 16 years. Youth from 16 up until their 25th birthday enjoy a 30% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass Youth. However, there are no discounted rates for senior citizens. Children up to 6 years travel for free on all Swiss public transport. From the age of 6 to 16, they travel for free with a parent who is a holder of a Swiss Travel Pass and a Swiss Family Card. The latter is a free add-on that can be requested at a train station or during the online purchase of a Swiss Travel Pass. On the SBB website, simply add the child as a passenger under “‘Add passengers” in order to receive the Swiss Family Card automatically.

The Swiss Travel Pass price does not vary between online outlets and ticket booths in Switzerland. But time is money, and purchasing it in advance may save you precious time during your trip. Simply skip the lines at the ticket office and hop onboard public transportation! You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass a maximum of 60 days before the day you want it for, right up to the day before travel.

You can secure your Swiss Travel Pass up to 11 months ahead , ensuring availability during peak seasons and potentially benefiting from early booking discounts. Early purchase also lets you focus on other trip planning aspects.

Yes, you can get a refund if the Swiss Travel Pass is returned to the vendor before you start using it. If you have already started your journey, you may get a partial refund if you provide proof of illness or injury, if you had to stop your trip unexpectedly, or if you have a confirmation from a railway office.

If you lose your Swiss Travel Pass, contact the Swiss Federal Railways as soon as possible by submitting a loss report . They can cancel the pass to prevent unauthorized use and issue a new one at a fee. However, If you lose your pass or it gets stolen, you cannot get a refund.

Unfortunately, travel passes can only be refunded if they are returned to the issuing office prior to the first day of validity. Generally speaking, you cannot change dates of an active pass.

The Swiss Travel Pass is available as a PDF attachment that can be downloaded to a mobile device. We recommended keeping a printed copy as a backup, just in case you run out of battery on your smartphone. Both paper and digital versions are accepted, but it is important to carry a photo ID each time you travel.

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass at GetYourGuide

Purchase the Swiss Travel Pass online at the most reputable vendor starting at CHF 244. You will receive an immediate email confirmation with a PDF ticket.

What the physical Swiss Travel Pass contains:

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2024?

As of January 1, 2024, the prices for the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex will increase an average of 5.9 percent compared to 2023. The prices for both passes will continue to be offered for 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 days.

Swiss Travel Pass Price 2024: Fares, Discounts, Price Changes

What's the difference between the consecutive swiss travel pass and the swiss travel pass flex.

There are two types of Swiss Travel Passes: the consecutive Swiss Travel Pass. and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Both passes offer unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, but there are some key differences between the two.

The consecutive Swiss Travel Pass is valid for a specified number of consecutive days , such as 3, 4, 8, or 15 days. You can use the pass for continuous travel within the specified days.

On the other hand, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex allows you to choose a certain number of non-consecutive days within one month.

For example, if you have a 15-day Flex pass, you can travel for 15 days within one month, but these days do not have to be consecutive. The Flex Pass is ideal for travelers who wish to have more flexibility in their itinerary and have the freedom to choose when and where to travel.

When choosing between the two passes, consider your travel itinerary, stay duration, and budget. If you plan to travel extensively around Switzerland and visit many museums, then the Swiss Travel Pass is a good option. However, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is a better choice if you want more flexibility in your itinerary and have the freedom to choose when and where to travel.

Activation and logistics

The Swiss Travel Pass for consecutive days does not need to be activated. When you purchase your pass from an online travel agent, they send an email directly to your account. You will receive a PDF file containing a QR code the train staff can check and scan. You may also receive a link in the email that will allow you to add the code to any wallet app on your smartphone. Alternatively, you may print out the PDF on a sheet of paper. The pass is ready to be used if it contains information such as your start date, passenger name, and birth date. If you have purchased a consecutive ticket, you must fill in your start date during the check-out. Your pass will automatically be activated on that particular date and run for the preset number of days. Once in Switzerland, present the pass and your passport or ID to the conductor on board.

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex must be activated in Switzerland before each day of travel. There is a dedicated website where you have to enter your ticket reference number and name to validate the travel days.

A travel day on the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is based on the calendar day, allowing for travel within the validity period of the pass. However, remember that travel days are not calculated on a 24-hour basis, and the final day of validity ends at 5 AM on the following day.

The Swiss Travel Pass is unavailable for purchase by Swiss residents, as it is primarily marketed toward tourists visiting Switzerland. It is only available to those with a permanent residency outside of Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Swiss residents have other options, such as the Half Fare Card, the GA, or other regional passes that may suit their travel needs.

Benefits and perks

No, the Swiss Travel Pass does not guarantee a seat on a train. With a valid pass, you can board any train that has seats available, including trains such as the Glacier Express that explicitly require a seat reservation. Contact the conductor to make a seat reservation on the spot.

The Swiss Travel Pass covers most of the public transportation services in Switzerland. Some private transportation services may require an extra fee or reservation. Have a look at the area of validity map to see exactly which lines are included.

The Swiss Travel Pass offers free entry to over 500 museums and other attractions. Some special exhibitions and events may require an additional fee, even with the pass. Download a list of participating museums or read our suggestions for free Swiss Travel Pass museums to visit.

You bet. The Swiss Travel Pass is available in both the first and second classes. Make your choice during the check-out when you purchase the pass, but remember that you can pay the differential to first class if you ever decide to upgrade on the spot.

The Swiss Travel Pass allows unlimited travel on all trains, buses, and boats operated by the Swiss Federal Railways and other participating companies, including the famous Glacier Express and GoldenPass Express lines.

Yes, city transportation is a key benefit of the Swiss Travel Pass. It is valid for transportation to and from the airports in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, as well as other airports in Switzerland.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass the same as the Swiss Pass?

Good question! No, the two passes are not the same. Consider the Swiss Travel Pass a golden ticket for tourists, granting them access to various transportation options. Swiss Pass is the former name.

Today, the SwissPass is a chip card and digital account intended for Swiss residents. It lets them load annual public transport passes and other products onto an electronic card.

As a tourist, it's important to remember that the Swiss Travel Pass and SwissPass are two distinct products, each catering to different needs. Adding your Swiss Travel Pass to a SwissPass online account would be like trying to use a library card to buy groceries - it simply doesn't make sense.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it will depend on your individual needs and preferences. The Swiss Travel Pass offers many benefits that can greatly enhance your travel experiences in Switzerland.

Key benefits include saving money on transportation, free access to museums, and the convenience of not purchasing individual tickets.

Read our dedicated post to find out: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

Get our ultimate free guide! Swiss Travel Pass: How to make it work in 2024

The free guide includes a round-trip itinerary starting in Zurich for budget travelers. It “hacks” a three-day Swiss Travel Pass to make it last for a five-day stay…

Got any more questions?

We hope to have answered your pressing Swiss Travel Pass FAQs. If you have any additional inquiries, please leave a comment or send an email. We will research the answer and reply as soon as possible.

Definitive Swiss Travel Pass Solo Traveler’s Guide (2024)

Benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass in 2024

Swiss Travel Pass Overview and Insights for 2024

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

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We are traveling to Switzerland in July and our must do is the Glacier Express from Brig to Chur. If I purchase the Swiss travel pass that will get us on the train but then we need to purchase and actual seat, is that correct?

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Swiss Travel Pass FLEX

Switzerland by swiss travel pass.

Switzerland, the hub of tourism in Europe has earned its name as it provides to its visitors a vast range of exotic natural beauty with lush green alpine meadows, high alpine peaks, mountain passes, pristine lakes, gushing rivers with glacial waters, beautiful & cozy Swiss Chalets, excellent gourmet services, world class hotels and the unparalleled Swiss Travel System which is considered as the 8th wonder of the world.

Undoubtedly,  the Swiss Travel System being a wonder as it provides quick connections with highly optimized time tables that make every city, town, village and even mountain tops accessible with quite impressive frequency.   Travelling by Swiss Travel System is the most impressive way of exploring the country.  The wide range of products of Swiss Travel System ensures that there is an appropriate ticket to match your specific needs and travel plans. With this system one can choose from a plethora of destinations on its network of over 20’000kms by Train, Tram, Boat and Buses.

Swiss Travel Pass for adult and youth

A highly recommended powerful travel tool for every tourist traveling to Switzerland allowing unlimited access to the entire Swiss rail, bus, tram and boat network for consecutive days. There are passes for 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 days Anyone who is neither a permanent resident of Switzerland nor the Principality of Liechtenstein is eligible to buy these passes. Children under the age of 16 years travel free of cost with their parents. Youth below the age of 25 years get a special discount of 15%.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Advantages:.

• Unlimited travel on entire Swiss public transport system including Train, Bus, Tram and Boat.
• Free travel on all of the panoramic routes like Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line, Gotthard Panorama Express, Chocolate Train, Pre-Alpine Express etc.
• Free travel on public transport in 75 towns and cities
• Free admission to more than 500 museums
• 25-50% discount on most of the mountain railways and cableways
• Free travel to Chamonix in France, Konstanz (Lake Constance) in Germany, Domodossola in Italy.
• Children under age 16 travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Family Card

Information:

• Panorama routes may be subject to a seat reservation charge
• Only persons domiciled outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein are entitled to purchase this  ticket.

Any questions related to Swiss Travel Pass FLEX?

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Swiss Travel Pass 2024: What’s Included & What’s Not (& Is It Worth It)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

When planning a trip to Switzerland, you’ll likely see the Swiss Travel Pass mentioned everywhere.

But what exactly is the Swiss Travel Pass, what does it include, where can you buy it (hint – here ;)), and is it worth it?

We get so many questions from our readers about the Swiss Pass (and Swiss Pass Flex), which discounts it offers, and whether it covers some of the most popular destinations in the Swiss Alps. Many first-time visitors find it a bit confusing and I keep answering the same questions all over again…

So to save all of us some time, here is our complete guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. It should answer all your questions, give you a good overview of what exactly is included (and what is not), and help you decide whether it’s worth getting it for your trip.

READ ALSO: Switzerland Itinerary for First Trip

What is the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a ticket for international visitors that includes unlimited travel on public transportation in Switzerland for a selected number of days. You can buy this pass for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days of travel.

All the information is available on the official website of the Swiss Railways (SBB), but apparently, it’s still too confusing for many people (thus, this article).

TIP: You can also find the most important information in a nutshell and purchase the pass on GetYourGuide . We recommend this website for all tickets/tours/passes and we personally use it for all our trips, not just in Europe. It’s very simple to use.

Good to know: Traveling by train is the most convenient way to cover bigger distances in Switzerland and explore many of the nicest places in the country (not just cities, but also mountains). Furthermore, public transportation in Switzerland is very efficient and we sometimes joke that you can set your watch by how punctual the trains are. So for the majority of international visitors, it doesn’t even make sense to consider renting a car, and that’s what makes the Swiss Travel Pass so popular.

Below, you can find our explanation of what is and is not included with the Swiss Travel Pass, and how it differs from the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Read on!

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

To make things a bit more confusing, there are two types of Swiss Pass: the regular one and the Flex Pass , which is 15% more expensive.

What’s the difference? Both these passes include exactly the same tickets and offer the same discounts (that differ depending on your age). The main difference is that the flex pass allows you to freely choose on which days you use it within its month-long validity, whereas the regular pass is valid on consecutive days (depending on which validity you choose, 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days).

So, for example, you are visiting Switzerland for 5 days and you plan on traveling by public transport daily during your entire stay. In that case, you can simply get a regular pass for 5 days.

On the other hand, if you are in Switzerland for a longer time, but will be visiting different regions and spending a few days in each before traveling further, then it’s better to get a flexible pass. That way, you can use it only on those days when you will be taking public transportation a lot. Further below, you can find a bit more information about how to use both these passes.

Important to know! This is where it starts to get confusing to foreigners visiting Switzerland for the first time because they think that they will be using public transport every day, also in the mountains. But there is a big difference between let’s say an inter-city train between Zurich and Geneva or a train that brings you to Gornergrat in Zermatt or Jungfraujoch in Berner Oberland.

!!! The majority of gondolas, funiculars, and mountain trains are not part of the Swiss public transport network (and thus not included with the Swiss Travel Pass). However, to make things yet a bit more confusing, there are a couple of exceptions here too. You can find more info below, but first – how much does it cost.

How to use Swiss Travel Pass & Travel Pass Flex

For all passes , you can either print it on a white A4 paper or show an electronic version of the pass on your smartphone or tablet. You can also add it to your Apple Wallet, for example. Since the pass is issued in your name, you might be asked to show your ID as well.

Using the regular Swiss Travel Pass is pretty straightforward since it’s valid for a set number of consecutive days. You’ll simply have to show a printed or electronic version of the pass.

Using the Flex Pass is a bit more complex since you can choose the specific dates on which you will be using it. To avoid misunderstandings, you will have to activate the dates on which you want to use your pass online on this website . It’s important to activate the dates before your first journey, so e.g. you cannot do it when you are already on a train.

You will get all the information and clear instructions when you get the pass, so don’t worry about it too much in advance. Also, you can still adjust your chosen dates as long as you do it before midnight at the start of the day on which you want to use it.

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2024?

The price of the Swiss Travel Pass depends on several factors: your age, the number of days, and whether you opt for a regular pass or flex. In addition, you can choose to travel in the 2nd Class or upgrade to 1st Class.

Additional discounts: Children under 6 are free of charge. Children from 6 to 16 travel free when accompanied by a paying parent (you need to order a ticket for them, but it’s free, and you will get the necessary instructions). Youth from 16 to 25 get almost 30% discount.

Here are the prices of the regular pass in Second Class in 2024 for adults:

3 DAYS: 244 CHF. 4 DAYS: 295 CHF. 6 DAYS: 379 CHF. 8 DAYS: 419 CHF. 15 DAYS: 459 CHF.

Good to know: Flex Pass costs 15% more and you’ll have to pay over 55% extra if you opt for First Class tickets.

As you can see, the longer the duration, the cheaper the price that you pay per day. If you just get it for 3 days, it costs you about 81 CHF per day, whereas if you get it for two weeks, it costs you just around 30 CHF per day – a huge difference!

Further below, you can find our observations on whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. But first, let’s take a look at what exactly is included.

What is included with the Swiss Travel Pass

This is what IS INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass:

• Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats that belong to the public transport network. So all the inter-city trains as well as trams and buses in more than 90 towns and cities are included. Passenger ferries (not cruises) on Lake Lucerne or the lakes near Interlaken are included as well.
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (however, there might be extra fees for advance seat reservations). These include the famous Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Golden Pass Line, and a few other panoramic train routes.
• Free entry to over 500 museums in Switzerland . You can find a complete list of all the museums here .
• Free travel on the following mountain excursions : Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos. All of these are located close to Lucerne and are among our top recommendations for the best day trips from Lucerne .
• Up to 50% discount on mountain excursions all over Switzerland. So you get a big discount on the majority of the cable cars, mountain trains, funiculars, etc. There are also discounts on certain lake cruises and similar.

Below, you can find a bit more info about what is not included with the Swiss Pass (but where you get a discount).

What is not included (but gives you a discount)

Because I get this question almost daily, here is once again an explanation of what IS NOT INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Mountain excursions are not included with the Swiss Travel Pass (with the exception of Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos as mentioned above), but you do get a discount on most of them. Under ‘mountain excursions’ they mean cable cars, gondolas, funiculars, cogwheel trains, trains to the mountain peaks, etc.

Here are a few examples of the most popular mountain excursions that our readers ask about and where the Swiss Pass does not include free travel, but gives you a discount:

• Grindelwald-First cable car – 50% discount.
• Mt Pilatus cable car and/or cogwheel train – 50% discount.
• Mt Titlis gondolas – 50% discount.
• Schynige Platte railway – 50% discount.
• Oeschinensee cable car – 50% discount.
• Gornergrat railway and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondolas – 50% discount.
• Jungfraujoch – about 25% discount. Or about 40% if you only go to Kleine Scheidegg.

There are many other destinations in the Swiss Alps where you get similar discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Also, most lake sightseeing cruises are not included, whereas regular, scheduled passenger ferries are included with the Swiss Travel Pass. So if you are taking a ferry that stops in various places, your pass will be valid, but if you want to take a scenic cruise on e.g. Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne, you’ll have to pay for it.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions by our readers is whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. My answer is always the same – it depends. Here are a few examples:

If you are traveling around Switzerland for a longer time (6-10 days or more) and plan on visiting many different areas all over the country using public transportation, then the Swiss Travel Pass is definitely worth it. The pass gives even better value if you are traveling with children.

If, however, you are only coming for a few days, renting a car, and/or planning on staying in one region in the mountains (where this pass only gives you a discount and not free travel), then it’s usually not worth it. In that case, look for a regional card of the area that you are visiting.

Most likely, your trip includes a mix of destinations that you only visit for a day as well as others where you stay for several days. In that case, you can look up the prices of all the mountain excursions that you are planning to do, see how big the discount is with the Swiss Travel Pass, add the price of the pass itself, and then compare that versus the prices of individual tickets of all the transportation and places you plan to visit. (Good luck with the math! It’s doable, but you’ll need a lot of time and patience).

In most cases, the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it, especially if you are traveling for at least 6-8 days and are visiting multiple destinations in Switzerland. Plus, it saves you lots of time, research, and math. Another advantage is that you can just take the next suitable train, boat, etc. without having to waste time looking for tickets.

Furthermore, you can always opt for a Swiss Pass Flex that you only use on travel-intensive days. And then get a regional card to use on the other days, when you are staying in one area. The longer you stay in one place (typically, 3-4 days or longer), the better value you get with the regional cards.

Where can you buy the Swiss Travel Pass?

You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass online, at every major railway station in Switzerland (including Zurich or Geneva airports), and also at some tourist offices in the main cities.

We recommend getting it online in advance as it will save you time and stress (you’ll have enough to think about upon arrival as it is).

You can get the Swiss Pass on the official SBB website , but also via various online retailers, such as our GetYourGuide as mentioned before (our personal favorite one-stop shop for all tickets). The price is normally exactly the same everywhere and you get the same discounts for kids, etc.

At the moment of writing, GetYourGuide allows you to cancel for free up to 3 days in advance (and it’s really easy to cancel or amend your tickets). You can buy a regular Swiss Travel Pass here and a Swiss Travel Pass Flex – here .

In any case, it’s best to buy your tickets at least a few days before your trip. When you purchase a pass, you will receive detailed instructions on how to use it (or how to activate the individual travel dates if you opt for the Flexi Pass).

So, this is our guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. I hope that it answers all your questions and helps you decide whether it’s worth it for your trip.

TIP: If you are planning your itinerary in Switzerland, check out our Switzerland travel page . It contains an overview of all our travel guides for a wide variety of destinations all over the country. We live in Belgium and Switzerland is just a half-day drive from home. So we visit Switzerland at least a few times a year – in summer as well as in winter. On our blog, you’ll find many detailed guides for all of our favorite places.

READ ALSO: Traveling to Europe: How to Plan a Trip & Useful Tips

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Saturday 30th of March 2024

Hi Jurga My wife and I will be traveling to Swizerland and planning to go thru several places from Zurich to Lucerne - Interlaken -Lauterbrunnen-Murren-Wengen-Gimmewald-Gridelwald and train to Milan.

Is the Swiss Pass a good option getting around for 10 days?

Thursday 4th of April 2024

@Jurga, Jurga, thank you very much for your response.

One more question: I read that the Bernese Oberalnd Pass better to use in my situation. What do you recommend between the two? Thank you.

Hi Robert, yes, if you are staying for 10 days and plan on using public transportation daily, a Swiss Pass definitely a good idea.

Sunday 24th of March 2024

Thanks. Good information. One question: If I buy a flex pass for, say, 6 days, but will be in Switzerland for 9 days and 8 nights, is the pass good for local busses, say in Bern or Zurich, on days I am not traveling between regions, without it counting as a full day of use?

Monday 25th of March 2024

@Jurga, thanks for the helpful answer. We'll buy two 8 day passes. Only 20 Francs more than the 6 day flex pass. Cheers!

Hi Bruce, I'm afraid that any use will count for that day (also museums, buses, etc.). With the flex pass, you will have to activate the dates on which you are using it online (you'll get the instructions when you get the pass) and if someone checks it on the day you didn't activate it for, you may get a fine. It might be simpler/cheaper to buy a local ticket if you need it for just one or two short rides on those days and keep your Swiss Pass for the days when you embark on the much more expensive journeys.

Sunday 3rd of March 2024

Thank you Jurga, for your Travel Pass explained, you saved my sanity! The official sites are good but not usually for a first-time visitor. Like how you explained one should board the N1 trolley and not the bus from Lucerne railway station to get to Kriens. Additionally, your guides to Lucerne and the various day trips from the picturesque city are very insightful. I am now confident with my decision to take the acclaim Swiss public transportation from Geneva to Lucerne in the spring for a girls' trip. Fingers crossed ;)

Monday 4th of March 2024

Glad to help, Jacqi. Have a great time in Switzerland!

John Altshuler

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Most helpful discussion of the various Swiss passes I've seen so far.

Wednesday 28th of February 2024

Glad to help, John. Have a great time in Switzerland!

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Getting around Switzerland — How to Maximise Your Swiss Travel Pass

Here’s how we summited 6 mountains across 11 destinations over 10 days in Switzerland under S$2.3k with the Swiss Travel Pass

First published: 18 Nov 2018

Train travel in Switzerland can be pricey, and trust me, we had our share of budget shock when we tallied up the costs for our 10-day Swiss adventure .

Hold onto your seat, because the transportation portion alone added up to a jaw-dropping S$1,913.97 . But with the legendary Swiss Travel Pass we managed to slash our transport expenses to only S$843.87 . Yep, that’s more than 40% off !

Here’s what we wished we knew for planning our Switzerland trip. This guide is quite extensive, so simply click on the section you want more info on:

1) Getting around Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass (What is it, perks, etc.) 2) First Class vs. Second Class 3) Consecutive vs. Flexible 4) Prices and Discounts 5) Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Half Fare Card 6) How to use the Swiss Travel Pass 7) Getting up the most beautiful Swiss Mountains with Swiss Travel Pass 8) Premium Panoramic Train Rides 9) FAQs about the Swiss Travel Pass

Getting around Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass

1) Local and intercity trains are free — some express trains like the ones mentioned below require a top-up reservation fee (see ‘Premium Panoramic Train Rides’)

2) Buses are free — including the hourly bus from Leuk to Leukerbad (for Leukerbad Thermal Pools), which is a 30-minute ride up the scenic mountain off Leukerbad town.

3) Cogwheels & Mountain Cableways are partially covered — Rigi & Schilthorn are free, while others are available at a 25 – 50% discount. More on that later!

4) Boat rides are free — other than getting from point to point, some boat rides are extra scenic and worth the ride even if it’s long and doesn’t really go anywhere. Scenic rides worth checking out: Lake Lucerne, Lake Brienz and Lake Geneva.

5) Entry to  over 500 museums for free — including the FIFA World Football Museum in Zürich,  Château de Chillon in Montreux and  Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt.

Swiss Travel Pass: First Class vs. Second Class

When buying a Swiss Travel Pass , you’ll have to choose between First Class (premium), and Second Class tickets. Here’s what to expect when buying First Class:

1) Comfort — More legroom, bigger windows, and spacious seats

2) Better Views — Seats with scenic views in panoramic trains and boats (where available)

3) Conducive for Work — Fewer people/noise and more power points

There’s a whopping price difference between First Class and Second Class seats (~S$210 for 3-day consecutive tickets), but if you’re on a budget, the seats in Second Class are more than comfy enough for a long train ride.

Swiss Travel Pass: Consecutive vs. Flexible

The Swiss Travel Pass comes in options of 3 to 15 days. You can also choose between ‘Flexible’ or ‘Consecutive’ — the latter being the cheaper option.

For the ‘Flexible’ pass, it’s valid for travel days within a one-month period from the starting date. So you can easily change your travel plans as and when!

But if you’re planning to jump from one city to the next in a fixed itinerary, you can consider getting the ‘Consecutive’ pass instead.

Since we had 10 days in Switzerland, we got the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass, rented a car for the first two days, and activated the Swiss Travel Pass on day three.

Swiss Travel Pass: Prices and Discounts

We got our Swiss Travel Pass via Klook . Confirmation for the e-ticket was almost instant and all you need to do is save the QR code on your phone. The train conductors will ask for it on board.

Here’s the price breakdown for the Swiss Travel Pass , as of Jan 2024:

Good news for those travelling with children 15 years old and below: they get to travel for free as long as they’re accompanied by an adult with a Swiss Travel Pass. Just request a Swiss Family Card at any railway station!

*Pro-tip: Purchase the pass on Klook rather than the official site for further discounts!

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Half Fare Card

A budget-friendly alternative is the Swiss Half Fare Card , selling for a flat price of ~S$170 — almost half the price of the cheapest Swiss Travel Pass.

The Swiss Half Card gives you 50% off major transportation within a month. Notably, some perks from the Travel Pass are absent, like free museum admissions, and partial discounts for mountain cableways.

How to use the Swiss Travel Pass

Once you’ve purchased your Swiss Travel Pass online , you’ll receive a QR code which will be your e-ticket. Save it on your mobile phone so you can show it to the train conductor on board.

For  Flexible Passes ,  register your travel dates so your pass will be valid on the days you’re travelling.

For  Consecutive Passes , your Swiss Travel Pass will be automatically activated on the date selected during booking.

Some trains like the Glacier Express will need reservations beforehand — read more about Premium Panoramic Trains below !

*Pro-tip: Download the SBB mobile app to look up train, boats, and bus timings on the go.

Travelling with the Swiss Travel Pass

So how do you maximise your Swiss Travel Pass? We went to Switzerland a while back, and this detailed breakdown lists how we saved over ~S$1k .

Areas we covered: Lucerne, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfrau, Grindelwald, Montreux, Vevey, Zermatt and St. Moritz, Felisur, Zürich

Mountains:  Pilatus, Rigi, Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald First and Gornegrat

Scenic Trains:  Golden Pass Route (Lucerne – Montreux) and The Glacier Express (Zermatt – St.Moritz)

Getting up the most beautiful Swiss Mountains with the Swiss Travel Pass

Let the sights (not the hike) take your breath away 😉

While most Swiss mountains can be hiked up for free, the train rides are experiences of their own. From the iconic ‘Toblerone’ mountain  (Matterhorn) to the highest train station in Europe  (Jungfraujoch) , here are the six mountains we managed to fit into our Switzerland itinerary .

Click Read More for the full guide.

*The Swiss Travel Pass covers all transportation to the starting points listed below.

1) Matterhorn (Zermatt)

Better known as the Toblerone mountain, climbing to the peak of Matterhorn is a bucket list item for many. But personally, seeing the sunrise light up Matterhorn turned out to be core memory.

The best viewing spot would be from Rifflesee , up on Gornegrat . Even better if you arrive at dawn before the sun even peaks through the horizon. If the winds are minimal, the lake serves as a perfect mirror of the mountain top.

If you don’t want to hike in the dark (or catch more sleep), the fastest way up is via the Gornegratbahn . The station is just outside the Zermatt Bahnoff.

Get off Rotenboden station, and take a 5-minute walk to Rifflesee. This view was one of the best payoffs given its accessibility. After you’re done at Rifflesee, hop back on the funicular up to Gornegrat station for a panoramic view of the surrounding Swiss Alps.

The hike down is incredibly scenic and straightforward. It takes about 3.5 – 4 hours but you can decide to take the train from any of the four stations along the way (Rotenboden – Riffleberg – Rifflealp – Findelbach). Each station is about an hour’s hike to the next.

When you’re tired, just purchase a one-way ticket down from any of the stations. The lower the station, the cheaper the ticket so it depends on how much you want to hike.

Cost: CHF55 (~S$83) (one-way up to Gornegrat Station) Starting point:  Gorgnegratbahn base station just outside Zermatt train station Swiss Travel Pass:  50% off the Gornegratbahn (CHF27.50, ~S$42 one-way)

2) 5-Seenweg (Zermatt)

If you have more time in Zermatt, the well-marked 5 Lakes Trail (Seenweg) is also worth the hike. The trail passes through five lakes (Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grunsee, Moosjisee and Leisee) with Matterhorn consistently in the background.

You can begin the hike from Zermatt or, save 3 hours by taking the funicular to Sunnegga, followed by the gondola lift to Blauherd where the hike begins. The hike from Blauherd to Sunnegga (which passes through the five lakes) is mainly downhill and should take around 2.5 hours. From Sunnegga, you can take the funicular back to Zermatt.

Cost: CHF39 (~S$56) Starting point:  Zermatt Swiss Travel Pass:  50% off the funicular from Zermatt to Blauherd and cable car from Blauherd to Sunnegga

3) Pilatus (Lucerne)

Overlooking the city of Lucerne, Mount Pilatus is famous for its Golden Round Trip, which covers five different forms of transport to ascend and descend the mountain.

This route is possible both ways, starting clockwise from Lucerne: take a boat/train to Alpnachstad and take a cogwheel * train up to Pilatus Kulm. This cogwheel is famous for being the steepest in the world!

*Note: The cogwheel railway only runs from mid-May to mid-November. Check the exact dates on the site to be sure!

On the descent, take the cable car down to Fräkmüntegg where you’ll find the longest Toboggan sled in the world (CHF8/ride, ~S$11.40). Don’t worry about walking back up as you’ll be dragged on your Toboggan with an attached wire.

From Fräkmüntegg, continue down to Kriens station to catch bus no. 1 back to Lucerne station.

*Pro-tip: Check the weather before taking the boat ride — if the weather isn’t great, save time and take the train instead. The lake tends to fog up on most mornings.

At the top, there are various hikes ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours. We highly recommend the 40-minute hike on Tomslihorn, accessed from the right side of the Pilatus Kulm Restaurant.

Cost: CHF108 (~S$155) (Round trip from Lucerne) Starting point:  You can start from either Alpnachstad or Kriens.   To Alpnachstad, either take a boat (1hr 18mins) or train (17mins) from Luzern. To Kriens, it’s a 5min ride on bus no. 1 and a short walk to the cableway station Swiss Travel Pass:  50% off the cogwheel from Alpnachstad – Pilatus Kulm – Kriens (CHF36, ~S$52)

Alpnachstad Station

*Pro-tip:  If you’re on the Swiss Travel Flex Pass , save a day on the pass and sign up for a   Half-Day Pilatus Tour   instead — tickets are fully covered from Lucerne station to Pilatus and back.

4) Rigi (Lucerne)

Slightly lower than Pilatus, the peak of  Rigi is at the perfect height for a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding Swiss Alps as well as Lake Lucerne and the city below. But the best part?  Swiss Travel Pass holders get to travel up entirely free!

Cost: CHF72 (~S$103) Starting point:  Arth-Goldau or Vitznau Swiss Travel Pass: Free — cogwheel trains from Arth-Goldau and Vitznau are fully covered

5) Jungfrau (Interlaken/Fiesch)

At 3,454m above sea level, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe and is covered in snow all year round. At the peak, there’s the Spinx Observatory where you’ll get a close-up panoramic view of Mt Eiger and Mönch. On top, there’s also an Ice Palace to explore, and one of the most iconic mailboxes — yes you can actually mail out postcards from it!

But perhaps our favourite part of the experience wasn’t so much arriving at the top of the station, but the entire hour-long journey on the train. The views were simply breathtaking, and in hindsight, given more time, it would have been enjoyable as a hike too!

It’s best to visit Jungfrau while based in Interlaken since it’s nearest, but if you’re short on time, check out  Jungfrau on a day trip from Lucerne or even Zurich.

Cost: CHF201.60 (~S$305) (roundtrip from Lauterbrunen) Starting point:  From Lauterbrunnen, take the train to Kleine Scheidegg Swiss Travel Pass:  25% off the train from Wengen Station to Jungfraujoch (CHF132, ~S$189 round trip from Wengen). The first two stops from Lauterbrunnen (bef Wengen) are covered.

6) Schilthorn (Lauterbrunnen) *free with the Swiss Travel Pass

Schilthorn  is one of the few mountains fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass! From the top, you have a panoramic view of the Bernese Alps and the three big mountains of Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. On a clear day, you can even spot Mont Blanc.

Try the 200m Thrill Walk on glass floors and wire ropes across the vertical face of the cliff.

You might say this looks right out of a movie scene, because it is! At the top of Schilthorn is a revolving restaurant, the Piz Gloria which was featured in the 1969 James Bond movie . Restaurant meals in Switzerland are expensive so if you could only pick one place to splurge, the menu at Piz Gloria is worth the experience. It’s also not a lot more expensive than regular restaurants in the city.

Cost: CHF131.40 (~S$188) (Round trip from Interlaken) Starting point:  Stechelberg or Mürren Swiss Travel Pass: Free — cable cars from both Stechelberg and Mürren are fully covered

7) Grindelwald First

If you’ve done the first five in this list, you must be wondering by now if this is “just another mountain”. But there are a few reasons why Grindelwald First is worth the trip.

For adventure seekers, the famous route is to first take the gondola up to First Station, then take a glider, mountain bike, and Trottibike scooter down to each station till you reach the base. This is a dream for kids, and kid-at-heart 😛

If you’re keen to take on all the rides, there’s an adventure package (CHF120, ~S$172) that includes all the activities and unlimited use of the gondola.

But before you start your descent, check out Bachalpsee . It’s an easy 40-minute hike from First Station (one-way) and a great place to set up a picnic.

At the top, there’s also the  First Cliff Walk by Tissot  which I can imagine to be quite pretty, if not for the thick fog that we were engulfed in that day.

Cost: CHF120 (~S$172) for Adventure Package, CHF60 (~S$86) for gondola roundtrip Starting point: From Grindelwald train station, walk 10 mins to Grindelwald Firstbahn, or take 2 stops on bus no. 121, 122, or 123 Swiss Travel Pass: 50% off the Gondola from Grindelwald – First Station (CHF30, ~S$43)

Premium Panoramic Train Rides

Travelling by train in Switzerland isn’t just about getting from one point to the next but an experience of its own. I don’t sit still well for long but I was constantly glued to the views beyond the large panoramic windows.

There are five Premium Panoramic Trains in total but here are three we managed to include in our 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary .

1) Luzern–Interlaken Express (Luzern – Brienz – Interlaken) *free with the Swiss Travel Pass

This route passes through some of the most dazzling lakes, waterfalls, and rivers. The good news is that it doesn’t require reservations, and runs once every hour from 6AM. (check the SBB mobile app to confirm the exact timing)

Interlaken is a great base for many outdoor adventures including paragliding in Lauterbrunnen, hiking in Grindelwald, or even experiencing the world’s steepest funicular!

Frequency:  Every hour from 6:06AM Duration: 1hr 50mins Swiss Travel Pass:  Fully covered, no reservations required

2) Golden Pass Route (Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux) *free with the Swiss Travel Pass

The MOB Panoramic train only runs from Zweisimmen to Montreux, but combined with the route above (Lucerne – Interlaken), this makes up the Golden Pass Route and is known to be one of the most accessible yet scenic train rides around. This train doesn’t require reservations, and is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. The train runs 6 times a day, every 2 hours from 8:25AM.

Duration: 1hr 50mins Swiss Travel Pass:  Fully covered. Reservations  not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons in July and August.

Photo credit: goldenpass.ch

From Montreux, the MOB Panoramic train also has special day excursions on the Chocolate Train  to Gruyères, known as the land of chocolate. Swiss Travel Pass holders get a discounted rate of CHF59 which includes the train journey to Montbovon, onboard coffee, and chocolate croissant, as well as entry to the cheese and chocolate factories.

Schedule: 9:50AM – 5:15PM (May – Sep) Swiss Travel Pass:  CHF59

3) Glacier Express (Zermatt – Chur – St Mortiz)

The highlight of the Glacier Express is the journey between Chur and St Moritz as it passes through the Landwasserviaduct — a 65m high, single-tracked railway viaduct with six impressive arches.

It’s also the “world’s slowest express train” at ~39km/h; but no one’s complaining because it’ll give you ample time to take in the varied landscapes while dining on board. From valleys and canyons to rivers and towns, the train passes through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges!

Frequency: 1 – 3 times/day depending on season Duration: 7hr 50mins Swiss Travel Pass:   Reservations are compulsory and not included with the pass — CHF33 (~S$47) for the entire route, CHF22 (~S$32) for shorter sections of the route. Optional meals are sold separately.

*Pro-tip: For the best views of the Landwasserviaduct, reserve a seat on the right side of train between Chur – St-Moritz. Seats for this train sell fast so book as soon as the window opens (up to three months in advance).

Other Premium Panoramic Express Trains

The two other scenic trains covered by the Swiss Travel Pass are the Gotthard Panorama Express (from Luzern) and Bernina Express (from Chur). Both trains end up in Lugano and require reservations. Note that some of these trains don’t run during the winter season (Mid-October to end March).

Click on the image to view the full breakdown

We hope this Swiss Travel Pass guide was useful! For a list of all the trains we took with the Swiss Travel Pass, click on the image above !

FAQs about the Swiss Travel Pass

1) Where can I find the train timings and routes?

If you’re planning on a computer, check out the SBB website . When you’re on the go, download the SBB app on your phone — available on both the App Store and Google Play — so you can check the train timings while travelling.

2) How do you enter the train stations with a Swiss Travel Pass?

In Switzerland, there are no gantries at train stations so it runs quite heavily on trust. However, scenic trains — especially those that ride up the mountains — almost always have rail staff walking through the cabins to check for tickets/rail passes. Just have your rail pass or phone ready when you’re on the train.

3) Are train reservations required?

Only selected premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express require it. You can hop on and off any of the local trains and buses without reservation or extra tickets.

Reservation fees are not included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

4) Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid on local buses?

Yes! The great thing is you don’t have to fumble for your pass/ticket when boarding. Just board from any of the doors. In our entire trip, there was only one occasion we were asked to show our Swiss Travel Pass on the bus.

5) Is there luggage storage on the trains?

The premium panoramic trains usually have luggage racks with ample space near the doors, but the intercity ones have limited storage. Only cabin/compact-sized luggage can comfortably fit between the seats and overhead compartments on intercity trains.

Surprisingly, it’s actually a lot more convenient to travel around Switzerland with a backpack, especially if you’re staying in Airbnb apartments and hostels because they often don’t have elevators.

6) Misc: Eating on trains? Pets? Toilets?

One of the best things about long train rides is having your lunch with an ever-changing panoramic view at the side. Food is allowed but you might want to avoid bringing food with strong smells. No one will tell you off because the Swiss are nice that way, but it’s good social etiquette nonetheless!

For pets, dogs are allowed on all transportation and 99% of them are really obedient!

Apart from the city trains in Zürich, all other trains we took had toilets.

I dare say if you didn’t hop on a train in Switzerland, you’ve not been to Switzerland. It truly is the quintessential way to experience the country.

This post was brought to you by Klook .

For more travel inspiration, follow our adventures on Facebook , Instagram and YouTube !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

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12 comments.

Hi TravelIntern,

How do I get 25% off jungfraujoch tour from Lucerne with the Swiss Railway Pass?

the 25% discount only applies for the ride from Wengen Station to Jungfraujoch. Just make sure you have your Swiss Travel Pass with you during the train rides. You can buy your tickets from Wengen station or from the train staff with your credit card. As long as you have your STP with you, you’ll be charged 25% off the full ticket price.

Hi Cherie, what camera did u use to capture all these beautiful pics?

Thank you! Our team mainly uses the the Sony Alpha series. This trip we had the a73 and a6500.

Hello! How do i reserve the premium panoramic trains?

Hey Lynn, which premium panoramic train were you looking to book? You need to make reservations from the train’s official website for example the Glacier Express can be booked on https://www.glacierexpress.ch/en/ and the MOB train can be reserved here: https://mob.ch/en/reservation-procedure

Hi travel intern, Just wanna ask did you guys did bookings for the Panorama Gondolas at Mt Pilatus?

Hey Xavier, the gondolas run constantly during opening hours so no bookings are needed!

Wonderful recommendations! Which month of the year did you travel to Swiss?

Around August!

Hello! Can I ask if you need to activate the Swiss travel pass just to buy discounted mountain/train tickets? Was wondering how the flexible Swiss pass works as we will be going for 11 days but some days we are looking at just going 1 place so doesn’t make sense to activate the Swiss pass on that particular day? Thanks!

Hey CK, we believe that unfortunately the discounted tics are only available once you activate the pass so it’s quite important to plan the itin and decide what to focus on (and sacrifice). Do let us know if you found any other tips 🙂

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Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Voyager à travers toute la Suisse en train, car et bateau, tout en gardant une flexibilité optimale. Le Swiss Travel Pass Flex est le titre de transport idéal pour tous ceux qui aiment se décider au dernier moment. Valable 3, 4, 6, 8 ou 15 jours à choisir librement sur une période d’un mois, il offre les mêmes avantages que le Swiss Travel Pass, la flexibilité en plus !

Prestations

• Trajets illimités en train, car et bateau.  Afficher le rayon de validité
• Trajets illimités à bord des trains panoramiques premium (avec réservation et/ou supplément éventuels en sus)
• Accès illimité aux transports publics de plus de 90 villes en Suisse
• Entrée libre dans plus de  500 musées
• Trains de montagne compris :  Rigi ,  Stanserhorn  et  Stoos
• Jusqu’à 50 % de remise sur les autres trains de montagne
• Jusqu’à 30 % de remise sur les offres CFF RailAway. Disponible à tous les guichets de gare en Suisse
• Les enfants à partir de la date anniversaire de leurs 6 ans et jusqu'à la veille de leur 16e anniversaire accompagnés d’au moins un parent voyagent gratuitement avec la  Swiss Family Card  (gratuite)
• Les moins de 6 ans voyagent gratuitement quelle que soit la personne qui les accompagne (munie d’un titre de transport valide)
• Le Swiss Travel Pass Flex est disponible en version « e-ticket »

À savoir

• Réservation obligatoire et/ou supplément en sus sur les trains panoramiques premium ou trains spéciaux tels que Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express et Palm Express
• Billet réservé aux personnes non domiciliées en Suisse ou dans la principauté de Liechtenstein
• Les prix pratiqués en Suisse sont ceux mentionnés en CHF (change au cours du jour en cas de paiement en EUR, USD ou GBP). Conditions générales et dispositions légales

Précisions légales

Prix – adulte.

Jours d'utilisation peuvent être choisis individuellement.

Validité : 01.01.2024 – 31.12.2024

Prix – Youth

Jours d'utilisation peuvent être choisis individuellement. Valables pour les jeunes de moins de 25 ans (remise de 30 %).

Validité : 01.01.2024 – 31.12.2024

Swiss Family Card

Les enfants à partir de la date anniversaire de leurs 6 ans et jusqu’à la veille de leur 16e anniversaire voyagent gratuitement avec la  Swiss Family Card .

Pour en profiter, il vous suffit d’ajouter la Swiss Family Card à votre réservation. Grâce à elle, les enfants à partir de la date anniversaire de leurs 6 ans et jusqu’à la veille de leur 16e anniversaire accompagnés d’un de leurs parents muni d’un billet valide du Swiss Travel System voyagent gratuitement.

Passes régionaux

Les points de vente.

Swiss Travel Pass – All You Need To Know (2024 Guide)

Are you planning a trip to Switzerland? The Swiss Travel Pass is a fantastic way to get around the country and save money on transportation, museums, and mountain excursions.

It may not be 100% clear how the Swiss Travel Pass works at first and, with all the inclusions, you may be confused about what it offers.

In this guide, I’ll fill you in on all the details of how to use your Swiss Travel Pass, what’s included, and much more so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your journey.

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: SWISS TRAVEL PASS

Before I dive into the main topic of the Travel Pass, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHAT IS THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS?

The Swiss Travel Pass is a convenient and affordable way to discover Switzerland.

It provides unlimited access to Switzerland’s public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats.

Also, it provides free admission and discounts to more than 500 museums and attractions.

Plus, with the Swiss Rail Pass, you can get up to 50% off mountain excursions to explore Switzerland’s scenic routes.

From bracing mountain hikes to peaceful rail journeys – you will enjoy picturesque landscapes hassle-free aboard most mountain railways, like the Glacier Express.

Lastly, it offers great flexibility since you can pick up passes for different durations – 3, 4, 8, or 15 days – consecutively or not.

Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Simply show your Swiss Travel Pass e-ticket on your smartphone to instantly start your rail adventure.

IS THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS WORTH IT?

Yes! Without a doubt, the Swiss Pass is definitely worth it.

Not only will it get you unlimited travel free with all types of public transport, but you can also enjoy discounts and free entry to museums, scenic spots, and more.

It’s a very convenient way to save money while exploring the diverse cultures and magnificent landscapes that the country has to offer.

So if you’re looking for an efficient and cost-effective way to make the most out of your trip to Switzerland, then the Swiss Travel Pass is a great start!

SWISS TRAVEL PASS PRICE

The price depends on the type of pass you’re getting and if you choose the consecutive days or the flexible option.

It starts at 232 CHF ($253 USD) but can get higher than that, and the prices for flexible tickets are slightly more expensive.

Before the prices, let me add that children aged 15 and less do not pay, they get the Switzerland Travel Pass for free.

Here’s an overview of the Swiss Pass cost:

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS?

See below for all the benefits and inclusions of the Swiss Pass:

• Free entrance to over 500 museums
• Unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat in over 90 cities
• Travel on panorama trains (seat reservation fees and supplements are excluded)
• Included mountain excursions: Rigi, Stanserhorn, Brunni, and Stoos
• Up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions.

Despite Switzerland being one of the most expensive countries in the world , when getting the Swiss Travel Pass, everything gets much cheaper as a traveler.

RELATED GUIDE: Best Things To Do In Lucerne

SWISS RAIL PASSES

We always refer to it as the “Swiss Travel Pass” – however, there are 4 different types of Switzerland pass you can get, all for different prices and benefits:

SWISS TRAVEL PASS

The first pass is the regular Swiss Travel Pass, which is a Switzerland travel card and gives you unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats that cover all corners of the landlocked country.

You’ll even get travel discounts on museums, cable cars, and free mountain excursions. In short, it’s an easy way to get more bang for your buck when traveling Switzerland .

With the regular pass, you can get all the above for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS FLEX

The Flex Pass , compared to the continuous Swiss Pass mentioned above, gives you a chance to use it on different days.

This is particularly great if you plan on walking around Zurich for a couple of days or going to Lauterbrunnen and don’t plan on using it.

For instance, if you get the 3-day flex pass and travel from January 10th to January 15th, you can choose to activate your pass on the 11th, 12th, and 14th only, which gives you a lot more convenience.

Just like the regular pass, you get unlimited train rides, buses, and boats, as well as discounts on cable cars and mountain excursions throughout the country.

While it’s a little more expensive, I recommend getting the Flex Pass if you don’t plan to use transportation or visit museums every single day.

SWISS HALF-FARE CARD

If you want to travel around Switzerland in an affordable and convenient way, a Swiss Half-Fare Card is exactly what you need.

For a much cheaper price, you’ll get unlimited 50% discounts on the entire Swiss rail, bus, and boat network.

In addition, you still get 50% off on popular mountain excursions.

All in all, it’s a great pass that allows you to save money on the Swiss travel system and is especially great if you don’t plan on taking the train or bus every single day.

Note that children travel free in Switzerland, so the discounts only apply to adults and young adults aged 16 years old and more.

SWISS COUPON PASS

The last type of pass you can get is the “Coupon Pass,” also called the Swiss Family Card.

It provides 2-for-1 offers and up to 50% off at restaurants, city tours, museums and attractions, as well as trains and boats.

All in all, it adds up to over 4,500 CHF worth of savings if you use it extensively.

That being said, while it is advantageous, it’s nowhere near as beneficial as the other Swiss Rail Passes listed above.

WHICH SWISS TRAVEL PASS SHOULD YOU BUY

All in all, the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex are the best options for anyone looking to explore Switzerland.

Both allow you unlimited access to public transportation including trains, buses, trams, and some boats, as well as discounts on various attractions and museums.

The Swiss Rail Pass is valid for consecutive days, while the Flex version allows more freedom with flexible travel days within the selected period.

So if you’re looking to get around Switzerland without breaking the bank, these are the ticket options for you!

RELATED ARTICLE: 8 DAY SWITZERLAND ITINERARY BY TRAIN

HOW TO USE THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS

Using the pass is as easy as it gets in every possible way.

First of all, purchase the travel pass, select your travel dates and the options – consecutive or flexible pass – and then fill in the short form with a valid travel document.

After purchasing it, you’ll receive a PDF document by email with a QR code. Once in Switzerland, you can then show the QR code to the train, bus, or boat staff.

I recommend taking a screenshot of the QR code and saving it on your phone. Alternatively, you can add it to your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet for more convenience.

HOW THE DAYS ON THE SWISS RAIL PASS WORK

Your Swiss Rail Pass becomes active on the day you selected upon purchase.

So if you purchased a 3-day pass for February 15th, you’ll be able to use it from 12.00 AM that day (midnight).

Then you’ll be able to use public transportation on the 15th, 16th, and 17th.

Note that the pass works until 5.00 am the day after the expiry date to allow you to travel during the night if needed.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS – FAQ

Does the swiss train pass cover all of switzerland.

Yes, the travel pass covers all of Switzerland and you can use public transport everywhere in the country – trains, buses, trams, boats, and even some mountain railways.

No matter where you plan to go in Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass has got you covered to travel cheaply.

IS IT CHEAPER TO BUY THE SWISS PASS IN ADVANCE?

The price always remains the same regardless of how early or late you purchase it. For this reason, you can take your time buying it.

That being said, it’s important to note that these passes are non-refundable and non-exchangeable, so make sure it is the right decision before buying.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS?

With the Swiss Pass, you basically get the keys to the country.

Public transportation is free and unlimited (trains, premium panoramic trains, boats, buses), and the entrance to over 500 museums and attractions are included too.

On top of that, most mountain excursions and cable car networks are discounted by 50%, giving you endless benefits.

With all these benefits, there is no reason why your next trip to Switzerland shouldn’t be an unforgettable one!

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE SWISS TRAVEL PASS?

While you get endless benefits and inclusions with the Switzerland Travel Pass, not everything is included.

The following isn’t included and has to be paid separately:

• Hotel rooms
• Private taxis
• Seat reservations
• Food and drinks at restaurants
• Special cruises like dinner cruises

That said, you still get access to many other benefits like free ticket discounts and transportation options, which definitely make the trip more affordable.

IS THERE A DISCOUNT FOR SENIORS?

No, unfortunately, there are no discounts for seniors.

However, the Swiss train pass is cheaper for those from 16 to 24 years old, and children younger than 16 years old travel for free.

WHICH MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS ARE INCLUDED?

The included mountain excursions are Rigi, Stanserhorn, Brunni, and Stoos.

And while the others aren’t included, you get a 50% discount on most of the other mountain excursions, which is a bargain!

SWISS HALF-FARE CARD VS SWISS TRAVEL PASS

Both passes offer travelers amazing savings and access to various public transport options throughout Switzerland, but there are key differences.

The Swiss Half Fare Pass allows you to get half-price fares on all Swiss travel system services, with discounts on some private rail lines and mountain railways as well.

The Swiss Travel Pass offers free travel on all public transport for up to 15 days of consecutive use. It also provides discounts on select mountain railway lines and museums.

The more adventurous traveler who plans on seeing most of the sights is likely better off with a Swiss Travel Pass.

On the other hand, those who want to take it easy and explore only the main cities are probably better off going with the half-fare card.

Whichever one you decide is best for you, both are sure to help make your next visit to Switzerland much more enjoyable and affordable.

More Switzerland Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Switzerland!

WHAT TO PACK FOR SWITZERLAND

When visiting Switzerland, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

FINAL THOUGHTS

I hope you found this article useful and if you have any questions about the Swiss Travel Pass, the Swiss Flex Pass, or any other Switzerland train passes, please drop me a comment below this post and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

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How to Buy, Activate and Use the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is an all-in-one transport pass that makes it easier and more affordable to travel around Switzerland, where the public transport system is renowned for its efficiency. 

Also sometimes referred to as the Swisspass, Swiss Train Pass or Swiss Pass, the pass is valid for various durations.

It even gives holders access to discounted travel on many mountain railways and cable cars as well as trains, buses and boats. 

Now you have decided to purchase the Swiss Travel Pass, where do you buy it? When and how can you activate it? And how do you actually use the Swiss Travel Pass? 

In this guide we cover everything you need to know before setting off on your travels around the incredible country of Switzerland. 

From how to buy the Swiss Travel Pass and whether or not your type of pass needs activating to how to use your pass on the go, this article covers it all. 

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

Where to buy the Swiss Travel Pass

Let’s get started by taking a look at where you should buy your pass. 

First, you need to decide whether to purchase a regular Swiss Travel Pass (for travel on consecutive days) or a Swiss Travel Pass Flex. The differences are explained in > this article.

Then it’s super simple to purchase a Swiss Travel Pass. I recommend you buy the pass via GetYour Guide , an authorised reseller of Swiss Travel System.

What’s great about using GetYourGuide is that they offer full refunds on many products, including the Swiss Travel Pass, if you cancel up to 24 hours before use. 

Consecutive Day Swiss Travel Pass Prices

Swiss Travel Pass Flex Prices

How to buy your Swiss Travel Pass step-by-step

The GetYourGuide site is also really user-friendly. After clicking the link to purchase your pass ( this link for the consecutive day pass and this link for the Flex pass ), the first step is to choose how many adults, youths (aged 16 to 25) and children (aged 6 to 15) are travelling. 

This can be done directly beneath ‘About this activity’. Kids aged 5 or under don’t need a ticket or a pass, as they travel for free.

Next, select the start date you want: you can skip through months here by clicking the arrow on the top right.

Then, when you have selected the date you will first use your pass, click on ‘Check availability’. 

Now you can choose the pass you’d like to buy.

Add the pass you want to your cart. 

📍 I recommend double checking at this point that you have selected the right class of travel and duration. 

Then click ‘Checkout’. 

Next it’s just a case of adding your billing details as with any online purchase. 

You’ll also be asked to complete the full names and dates of birth for each traveller. Make sure these match your passports exactly to prevent any problems later on. 

How you’ll get your Swiss Travel Pass

Once you have made your purchase, when and how is your pass delivered? 

The Swiss Travel Pass (for travel on consecutive days) will be emailed to the address you provided in the booking process, and will come in the form of a PDF attachment which can be downloaded to your mobile device.

I highly recommend printing a paper copy of this as a back-up, though you can simply present the mobile version when using transport in Switzerland. 

While both paper and digital versions of the pass are accepted, your phone could suddenly run out of battery and then you’d have no way of proving you have a pass! 

You should also carry your passport or another form of photo ID each time you travel. 

> Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

How you’ll get your Swiss Travel Pass Flex

If you purchase a Swiss Travel Pass Flex, you will receive a purchase receipt and a voucher by email.

The voucher is NOT valid for travel.

Each day you wish you travel you should activate your pass (see the instructions below). By doing this, you will receive a valid ticket for travel on that date.

> Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

When and how to activate the Swiss Travel Pass

There is often confusion about whether or not a Swiss Travel Pass has to be activated. The answer varies according to the type of pass you’ve bought so follow the instructions below to learn how to activate your Swiss Travel Pass.

Activating your Swiss Travel Pass (consecutive days)

The regular, consecutive days Swiss Travel Pass does not need to be activated. All you need to do is show it to the ticket inspector when requested.

Activating your Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex, however, must be activated in advance and before each day that you use the pass. You can do this via Activate Your Pass here .

Your pass should be activated before your first trip, and you’ll need to enter your reference number as well as your full name and date of birth. 

For every travel date you activate, a valid ticket will be generated. This e-ticket can then be seen at activateyourpass.com . You can show this e-ticket to the ticket inspector on your phone or tablet, or use a printed copy. 

What if your plans change along the way? 

If you have already activated a travel date that you want to change, the Swiss Travel Pass allows you to change these as much as you want to until the start of each validity period.

The validity period commences at 23:59. Once the clock hits midnight, you can no longer change or deactivate this particular ticket. 

For example, if you have activated your Swiss Travel Pass Flex to be used on 17 July and you no longer wish to use your pass that day, you can change the date of travel until 23:59 on 16 July.

How to use the Swiss Travel Pass

So now let’s cover how to use the Swiss Travel Pass Flex or consecutive-days pass. 

When travelling with a Swiss Travel Pass – either consecutive days or Flex, you simply board the train and sit wherever you wish in the correct carriage for your class of travel. 

The only exception to this is when travelling on the Bernina Express or Glacier Express, which we cover below.

When requested by the ticket inspector, simply present your Swiss Travel Pass.  You may also be asked to present some photo ID, such as your passport to verify that you are the pass holder.

Using the Swiss Travel Pass on panoramic trains

The Bernina Express and Glacier Express , two of Switzerland’s most famous premium panoramic trains, are the only Swiss trains on which reserving a seat is compulsory.

The actual ticket price of the journey on these trains is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass but seat reservation fees are compulsory and should be purchased online well in advance of your travel date.

Seat reservations for the Bernina Express can be purchased here and Glacier Express seat reservations can be purchased here .

On all other panoramic trains* – Luzern – Interlaken Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express – seat reservations are not required. Simply board the train and sit anywhere in the correct carriage for your class of your travel.

*Note that the Gotthard Panorama Express only offers 1st class train travel. If you hold a 2nd class Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Travel Pass Flex you must pay a class upgrade for this journey.

Additionally there is a compulsory supplement of CHF 16 for each passenger that travels on the Gotthard Panorama Express. > Purchase class upgrades and the compulsory supplement here .

Using the Swiss Travel Pass on buses, boats and mountain transport

Don’t forget that Swiss Travel Pass holders can also use boats, buses and some mountain transport services. Even when this isn’t the case, you may qualify for a generous discount as a pass holder. 

When boarding boats and buses, simply show your Swiss Travel Pass when you enter.  For free (where applicable) or discounted travel on cable cars, funiculars and mountain railways, present your pass at the ticket counter.

Selected museums also allow pass holders to enter for free. Just show your Pass at the ticket counter.

Travelling beyond the Swiss border with a Swiss Travel Pass

When travelling to an area beyond that covered by the pass – such as into another country – you’ll need to buy a ticket for that sector. This will apply, for example, to journeys into France, Italy, Germany or Austria. 

International tickets are generally not available for purchase on the Swiss Railways website or app so we recommend buying them from the railway of the country concerned.

The Swiss Travel Pass covers travel as far as the major rail border points of Basel and Le Chatelard-Frontiere on the French border, Chiasso on the Italian border, Konstanz on the border with Germany and St. Margrethen on the Austrian border.

Some postal bus services within Liechtenstein and Austria are also covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.

You can view a map of the Area of Validity of the Swiss Travel Pass > here .

The SwissPass app 

Is there a Swiss Travel Pass app? No, there isn’t.  

Many travellers notice a reference to the SwissPass on the SBB Mobile app however this refers to a digital travel account for residents only. 

A SwissPass account is for Swiss citizens only, not tourists, and is a separate product that uses a chip and pin card.

The Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t have to be added to an app. All you need is to be able to show the ticket inspector a paper or digital copy, and photo ID if requested.

The excellent SBB Mobile app ( which we explain here ) can be used for checking timetables but it is not necessary (or possible) to connect your Swiss Travel Pass to the app.

Another app that is useful is the Swiss Travel Guide app which has an integrated map and timetable and points out more than 500 Swiss highlights.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

Buying, activating and using the Swiss Travel Pass summary

The Swiss Travel Pass allows you to use the clean, fast and efficient public transport system in Switzerland. It can be used on trams, buses and boats as well as trains, and can save you a lot of time and money. Exclusive free entry to museums and generous discounts can also apply. 

Buying your pass is easy, and purchasing it through our preferred supplier means you won’t even lose money if your plans change, as long as you cancel 24 hours before the start date. 

Only the Swiss Travel Pass Flex requires activation, which is easy to do via this link . 

Once you have your chosen pass, I recommend taking a paper copy as well as the digital version as back-up. Also carry your passport or other photo ID in case it’s requested. 

Unless you want to travel on the popular scenic Swiss train routes, seat reservations are not normally required. 

Wherever your Swiss Travel Pass takes you, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with beautiful Switzerland and will want to return time and time again!

How to Buy, Activate and Use the Swiss Travel Pass – Summary

Now that you have read this guide, you can confidently buy, activate (if necessary) and use your Swiss Travel Pass.

This all-in-one transport pass is the perfect hop on hop off ticket for travelling in Switzerland.

🇨🇭 Ready to buy yours? > Click here to buy the Swiss Travel Pass and > Click here to buy the Swiss Travel Pass Flex .

If you’re still unsure whether the pass is the best value for your trip, we answer the question Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? here .

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

Mountain Excursions in Switzerland Discounted with the Swiss Travel Pass

How to Get from Zurich to Grindelwald

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Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss travel pass flex, half fare card.

Your Passport to Swiss Travel Pass Experience

Swiss Travel Pass 2024

Transform your Swiss journey with the Swiss Travel Pass 2024 ! Effortless travel awaits as you navigate Switzerland’s extensive train, bus, and boat networks. Embrace the ease of unlimited travel, enjoy exclusive museum access, and embark on scenic routes like the Glacier Express. Tailor-made for every traveler, the Swiss Travel Pass is your key to an unforgettable Swiss adventure. Discover more and grab your pass on our website now – your Swiss exploration starts here!

• Enjoy limitless travel across the Swiss Travel System network.
• Available in 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15-day options.
• Gain complimentary entry to over 480 museums and exhibits.

• Choose your travel days flexibly within a month.
• Access the Swiss Travel System network for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 non-sequential days.

• Explore Switzerland at 50% off standard fares.
• Valid for trains, buses, boats, and select mountain railways.

10 Benefits of Swiss Travel Pass

• Unlimited Travel: Enjoy unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with this all-in-one pass.
• Premium Panoramic Trains: Experience Switzerland’s stunning landscapes on premium panoramic trains , fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass .
• Flexible Options: Choose from various pass durations—3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days—to suit your travel plans.
• Museum Access: Gain free entry to over 500 museums and exhibitions throughout Switzerland.
• Mountain Excursions: Receive up to 50% discounts on mountain adventures, including cogwheel trains, cable cars, and funiculars.
• Family-Friendly: Children under 16 can explore Switzerland for free when accompanied by a parent with one of our available pass options.
• Convenience: Skip the ticket lines and hop on and off public transport with ease.
• City Travel: Many city trams and buses are also included, making urban exploration a breeze.
• Boat Cruises: Enjoy scenic boat rides on Swiss lakes as part of your pass benefits.
• Savings: The all-in-one pass often results in significant savings compared to buying individual tickets.

Swiss Travel Pass: Your Worldwide Passport to Switzerland

The Swiss Travel Pass from MySwissTravelPass.com offers an unparalleled opportunity for travelers from the USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, and beyond to immerse themselves in the splendor of Switzerland. This pass is more than just a travel document; it’s your all-access pass to the heart of Swiss culture, nature, and history. With its hassle-free approach to traversing the nation’s varied landscapes and cities, the Swiss Travel Pass ensures that every moment of your Swiss journey is spent in awe, not in line.

Whether you’re setting off from the bustling streets of Singapore or the serene landscapes of Australia, the Swiss Travel Pass adapts to your travel needs, providing a smooth, comprehensive experience. Recognized for its excellence and convenience, MySwissTravelPass.com brings this essential travel tool to your fingertips. For explorers seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Switzerland with ease and sophistication, the Swiss Travel Pass is the perfect companion, promising a journey that’s as seamless as it is spectacular.

MySwissTravelPass.com is your trusted source for Swiss travel pass. We aim to make your Swiss journey as seamless and memorable as possible Swiss Travel Pass | Swiss Travel Pass Flex | Half Fare Card

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• Is 3-day Flex Swi...

Is 3-day Flex Swiss Travel pass worth it?

I found from this site: https://www.sbb.ch about 3-day Flex Swiss Travel pass for 259 CHF. Does this pass allow me to travel for FREE on all transportation within Switzerland for 3 non-consecutive day in a month?

Here is my schedule: July 5th - Arriving in Zurich at 8:30 a.m. After immigration, I probably won't get out until 11:30 a.m. I am planning on going to Colmar, France and visit the Alsace region. Not sure what type of transportation yet. Will this Swiss past help save the cost of traveling from Zurich to Colmar, or at least the portion of the train that contains in Switzerland?

July 6th - Visiting Alsace region still. Night of July 6th, I will be coming back from Colmar to stay the night in Bern, or near Lauterbrunnen area, because I want to get ready to spend the day up the Schilthorn, visiting Lauterbrunnen valley, Gimmmelwald, and Murren.

July 7- up the Schilthorn and visiting Lauterbrunnen, Gimmelwald, and Murren in morning and afternoon. I would like to go on a boat tour, if possible around Lake Brienz. Is it possible with this past?

July 8 - travel from Switzerland to Milan (by train). Will this pass help and how?

Thank you so much! Sorry this is my first time to Europe, so i am as inexperienced as it can be.

Have a great day!

For about the same price, the Swiss Travel Pass for 4 consecutive days would be a better fit to cover the trips you've listed. It covers you to/from the French border station at Basel, the Italian border station at Domodossola or Chiasso, and everything you've listed around Lauterbrunnen. It gives 25% off the rides above Wengen and Grindelwald (toward Jungfraujoch), but you probably don't have time for those. You can buy the extra French and Italian portions of train tickets in any Swiss train station.

Of course, I think your visit is too rushed and would also definitely sleep around Lauterbrunnen, not Bern.

Thank you Laura! Do I have to buy separate ticket to go up to Schilthorn from Lauterbrunne (like do I have to buy tickets to go up to Murren/ Stechelberg, and then the rail up Schilthorn?)

I don’t think I have time to go up Wengen and Grindelwald.

Can I buy the extra French and Italian portions head of time? How do you know how much? And how to do know the connecting location in France and Italy?

Thank you so much!

Laura has already answered part of this. The French portion (Basel to Colmar) you can buy at Zürich airport station, or when you change trains in Basel. There is no discount for advance purchase. Colmar to Basel you buy at Colmar station. Note at Basel, due to building work, to get between the part of the station serving Swiss trains (Platforms 1 to 17), and the part serving French trains (30 to 35), you have to walk along the street. For the Italian portion, it is cheaper to buy in advance. Do this on the Italian Railways website: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en The border station will be Domodossola or Chiasso, depending on which route you take. Once you decide which train you are taking, look up where it stops and buy a ticket from the appropriate place to Milan.

This map shows where a Swiss Pass is and is not valid: https://www.sbb.ch/content/dam/infrastruktur/trafimage/karten/karte-sts-pass-gueltigkeit.pdf

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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10 Ultimate Benefits of Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass offers several benefits for travelers in Switzerland, including:

Unlimited Travel: Offers unlimited travel on consecutive or flexible days across the Swiss Travel System network in 90 urban areas.

Flexibility: Available in flexible or consecutive durations, such as 3, 4, 8, or 15 days within a month.

Comprehensive Access: Covers trains, buses, and boats on an extensive network of routes.

Scenic Routes: Includes some of the most scenic train routes in Switzerland, like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.

Museum Entries: Free admission to over 500 museums throughout Switzerland.

Discounts: Provides up to 50% discounts or free travel on many mountain railways and cable cars, along with other activities and attractions.

Family Friendly: Children under 16 travel free with a parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass.

Convenience: Eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets, simplifying travel planning.

One of the best benefits of Swiss Travel Pass is that it helps you save a lot of money when compared to the cost of buying excursions and public transport tickets individually.

Here we have listed down the top 10 benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass.

Get your all-in-one ticket

Tour the country at a bargain like never before – with your swiss travel pass..

1.Unlimited travel by rail, road, and bus

Yes! It's true. Unlimited travel, no restrictions at all on the Swiss Travel System. This includes rail, boat, tram and bus. You just have to show your Swiss Travel Pass. That's it.

This is a big advantage especially for tourists who are looking to explore Switzerland in depth during the limited number of days they have. Without the benefits of Swiss Pass, travellers would have to pay for every train, bus or tram ride from point to point. This not only becomes a time-waster while you're on a tight schedule but also turns out much more expensive.

2. Children travel free

Children under the age of 16 years can travel absolutely free with a parent. All you have to do is select for a Swiss Family Card while booking your Swiss Travel Pass .

If you're travelling with kids under 16, Swiss Travel Pass is worth it. Children under 16 years are not only free on the Swiss Travel Pass but also travel completely free on most mountains that offer discounts to passholders.

In essence, you only pay for your children's accommodation in Switzerland. If you were ever at a crossroads as to whether to buy buy Swiss Travel Pass at all, this should be enough to show you which direction to go in.

3. Free entry to over 500 museums

Museum-lovers will love this benefit. You can enjoy free entry to over 500+ museums in Switzerland. It includes some of the most visited museums such as Olympic Museum, Chateau de Chillon, and the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum.

"Verkehrshaus" - The museum of transportation in Lucerne offers holders of a Swiss Travel pass discount of flat 50% on the regular entrance fee to the museum and discounts even on the day pass to the museum.

The day pass provides admission to the Museum, a visit to the Swiss Chocolate Adventure and the Media World and the daily screenings in the Filmtheatre and Planetarium.

4. Up to 50% off on excursions

Mountain excursions can be a bit expensive, but not when you are a Swiss Travel Pass holder. You can enjoy a discount on Swiss Travel Pass up to 50% of on major must-see mountain excursions in Switzerland.

With over100 million pictures per year, Matterhorn is the most photographed mountain in the world and no first-time traveller would miss the opportunity to visit this peak. Also famous for being on the Toberlone chocolate cover, a visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise would usually cost around CHF 44 to CHF 58 per Adult if you are holding a Swiss Travel Pass. For non-pass holders, the price would range from CHF 87 to CHF 115 per Adult.

Another one of the other most popular attractions in Switzerland is Europe's highest train station: the Jungfraujoch, at 3454 m above sea level. The observatory is located at 3571 m. Being the most popular peak amongst people visiting Switzerland, it is also the most expensive.

Holding a Swiss Travel Pass considerably reduces the cost of Jungfraujoch tickets . The prices range from CHF 118 to CHF 155 per Adult if you are holding a Swiss Travel Pass. For non-pass holders, the price would range from CHF 185 to CHF 235 per Adult.

Children under 16, usually pay half the adult price on all mountains. However if holding a Swiss Travel Pass/family card, these mountains become free.

Also Mountains like Stanserhorn and Rigi in Lucerne are completely free if you are holding a Swiss Travel Pass.

Stanserhorn is a unique mountain as you travel up in the World's first CabriO®, which is an open double decker cable car. Imagine having this experience free of cost. Non-pass holders have to pay full price.

Mount Rigi, the other free peak in Lucerne if you are holding a Swiss Travel Pass, is fondly called "Queen of the Mountains". Rigi Kulm is the highest point (1798 m) and offers great views of Lake Lucerne, the Alps in the south and the plains in the north, all the way to Germany.

5. Up to 50% on Scenic trains

Switzerland is known for its beauty scenic trains. In fact, there is a Grand Train Tour that takes you across Switzerland on a train. And you if you are holding a Swiss Travel Pass, you again enjoy discounted prices\

The Glacier Express & Bernina Express are Switzerland's two most scenic train journeys and these Panoramic journeys are free with your Swiss Travel Pass. However you need to pay a compulsory seat reservation fee regardless of whether you are holding a travel pass or point to point ticket. This means, the pass covers the cost of your full price point-to-point ticket, which is a massive saving.

The Golden Pass line is another extraordinary journey in 3 different trains, with a panoramic view of breath-taking scenery. Unlike the Bernina Express and Glacier Express, the Golden Pass is not a direct train. You pass three mountain passes, the famous 4000-metre Alpine peaks, 8 lakes and unforgettable views.

In this train, you can travel for free with a Swiss Travel pass. You do not even need seat reservations in 2nd class, although reservations are recommended for some legs of the train. In any case, it comes down to the same principle as the other two panoramic trains; you pay only for the seat reservation and not the full price of the point-to-point ticket.

6. Also available as E-Swiss Pass

E-Swiss Pass allows you to carry your Swiss Travel Pass ticket on your mobile or you can take a print of it. It is unlike the physical ticket, which if lost, will result in 100% loss of your ticket price.

Therefore, no need to worry about carrying paper tickets. Just show your Swiss Travel Pass on your cell phone.

7. Convenience of an all in one Ticket

If you have travelled before, you would know that more than anything else, time is very val-uable. In such a situation, the last thing one would want to do is stand in line for point-to-point tickets. With the pass, it is easy to just get onto your preferred mode of transport and get on with your day.

8. Available as Continuous as well as Flexi

The Swiss Travel Pass doesn't tie you down to consecutive days travel.

Let's suppose you intend to travel outside your base in Switzerland only for 4 out of the 8 days, you can benefit from the Flexi Pass option.

This option is valid on 3, 4, 8 or 15 freely selectable days within one month rather than 3,4,8 or 15 consecutive days offered in a continuous pass. The Flexi Swiss Travel Pass holders can enjoy the same benefits as that of the consecutive passholders but only on the chosen days of travel.

Travellers who want the comfort of a car but also want the best deals on the mountains and other benefits of the pass should opt for the Flexi option. That way, they can use the pass on certain days and get the best deals on those days.

9. Youth get additional discounts

Children below 16 travel free as we already mentioned.

However, it's okay if your child missed the 16-year cut off for a free family pass. The Swiss Travel Pass offers a youth aged 16 to 25 years a 15% discount on the Adult Swiss Travel Pass. The other benefits of Swiss Rail Pass though, are the same as an adult Swiss Travel Pass.

10. Saves tons of money compared to multiple single-ticket journeys

Since you will be exploring Switzerland, you will certainly have to travel a lot. Using multiple sin-gle-tickets for train, bus, or boat will be very expensive compared to a one-time payment of Swiss Travel Pass.

Also, you get numerous money-saving benefits of Swiss Rail Pass like free entry to museums, 50% off on mountain excursions, and many more. To every traveller, the choice is obvious; it is al-ways a Swiss Travel Pass.

Let's take for example, a simple trip to Mt. Titlis if you had your base in Lucerne.

If you were holding a Swiss Travel Pass: Journey from Lucerne to Engelberg (Base of Mt. Titlis): No additional Cost, included in Pass Return Cable car ticket from Base station to the top of Mt. Titlis: CHF 60 per Adult Journey from Engelberg (Base of Mt. Titlis) to Lucerne: No additional Cost, included in Pass.

If you were NOT holding a Swiss Travel Pass: Journey from Lucerne to Engelberg (Base of Mt. Titlis): CHF 18.40 per Adult Return Cable car ticket from Base station to the top of Mt. Titlis: CHF 96 per Adult Journey from Engelberg (Base of Mt. Titlis) to Lucerne: CHF 18.40 per Adult

So taking the pass is definitely a no brainer.

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Switzerland Itinerary for 3 Days - 2024 Travel

Spending 3 Days in Switzerland may not be enough, but if that’s all one has, it would be wise to make the best of it. So follow this power-packed 3 days Switzerland itinerary and see your vacation stretch farther than you could imagine.

Luckily Switzerland’s small size allows you to cover a lot of it even with a minimal time frame. And the amazing Switzerland Train Pass that has a 3-day version ties in perfectly with this.

This itinerary is done with staying in Lucerne and moving around from there so that there is no time wasted in check in-check outs whilst transiting from place to place.

• Day 01: Lucerne - Mount Titlis, City Tour, and Lake Lucerne
• Day 02: Interlaken - Jungfrau, Top of Europe
• Day 03: Zurich City Tour and the Rhine Falls

Now let’s see in detail what to do with our 3 days in Switzerland.

Day 1: Lucerne - Mt Titlis, City Tour, Lake Lucerne

Arrive early morning into Zurich or Basel and head straight for Lucerne. Your transfer will barely take you 60 to 90 minutes. Check in to your Lucerne apartment or hotel, freshen up and head back out.

Today, you visit one of the many mountains that surround Lucerne. You can choose from Mount Pilatus, Mt. Titlis, Mount Rigi or the Stanserhorn. I prefer Mount Titlis here since it is the most popular and also my favourite.

To get to Mount Titlis, you need to travel to Engelberg (45 minutes by train from Lucerne) so make sure you have your Swiss Travel Pass handy.

Next, you need to have purchased the excursion ticket (which comes at a discounted price with the Swiss Travel Pass). Again, it’s a good idea to have bought your Mount Titlis ticket in advance.

On arrival at Engelberg, take a leisurely 10-minute walk to the Titlis valley station (some buses depart from just outside the station). Once you have your tickets exchanged, you will take the first gondola, the Titlis Xpress, from the base station to Trubsee and on to Stand.

Then change over to the next gondola Titlis Rotair - The rotating cable car - which will give you a 360-degree view of the Alps as you make your way to the peak.

Mount Titlis is a fun mountain and has snow throughout the year. Once on top, enjoy the Cliff walk (you get to walk on the highest suspension bridge in Europe!), Ice Flyer chair lift and Glacier Park.

For adventure lovers, there are also various activities, including a zipline at Trubsee.

If the activities have had you build up an appetite, head for one of the many restaurants. There is a choice of restaurants with different cuisines (even an Indian menu that includes tea).

Once you have had your fill of the mountain, head down and make your way back to Lucerne.

Some of the main sights of Lucerne are located close to the station. You can start your walking exploration of Lucerne from here.

The Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) - A symbol of Lucerne city and the oldest wooden pedestrian bridge is visible from the station itself.

The bridge has several paintings under the roof. A part of it also has the Water Tower (Wasserturm) standing 34 meters in height.

The Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal), another symbol of Lucerne, is a dying lion carved out of sandstone rock in memory and honour of the Swiss soldiers.

A small glacier garden is located nearby. Then, time permitting, make your way to the Clock tower (Zytturm), the city’s oldest colourful clock or walk towards the pier to take a cruise on Lake Lucerne.

You can either take one of the public boats (one of the free Swiss Rail Pass benefits ) or take a Dinner Cruise on Lake Lucerne and enjoy the scenery as you have a sumptuous meal.

After you enjoy the views on this cruise, it’s time to head back to your accommodation, marking the end of the first day of your 3 days Switzerland itinerary .

• 1. The city tour will take about one and a half hour.
• 2. The dinner cruises depart at 7 pm, so plan accordingly.
• 3. Both Zurich and Lucerne stations have several stores, eating outlets and grocery stores, so you can always have a meal or pick up some groceries from there.

Day 2: Interlaken - Jungfrau

Head to Interlaken this morning. A significant part of the day will be spent visiting the Jungfrau, popularly known as "The Top Of Europe".

Interlaken lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is the perfect combination of lakes and mountains. Other than the mountain excursions, Interlaken is also a hub of adventure sports. If you are interested in paragliding, sky diving, white water rafting or kayaking, it would be best to make your bookings in advance, though.

The journey from Lucerne to Interlaken OST station is approximately 2 hours by train so ensure you have an early start.

The journey to Europe’s highest railway station at an altitude of 3454 metres used to be entirely by train. However, effective the end of 2020, Jungfrau has also introduced the Eiger Express. This brand new cable car route takes you part of the way and effectively cuts down travel time to the top.

Train buffs can still continue to travel the old train route if they wish. If you have purchased your Jungfrau tickets in advance, all you have to do is exchange your voucher at Interlaken OST station (Jungfrau counter) and proceed towards the first leg of the journey from Interlaken OST

If you have opted for the train route (2 hours), you will make the journey to the top via 2 changes - Lauterbrunnen and Kleine Scheidegg. The way gives some spectacular views of the glaciers and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

The train also makes a few stops for you to get off and enjoy the sights and acclimatize yourself to the rarer air as you ascend higher.

If you choose the new Eiger Express cable car route, you can take the train from Interlaken to Grindelwald, then the cable car from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier Station and lastly the train to the peak.

This route has cut down the journey time by a significant 47 minutes (I don’t think the Swiss would like anyone rounding up the times and saying close to 50 minutes)!

Once you arrive on top, walk to the iconic Sphinx, which contains restaurants, souvenir stores, the ice palace, and Lindt chocolate heaven.

You will also have access to the viewing platforms from where you can see the Aletsch Glacier- the longest glacier in the Alps. Try a few snow activities and then proceed to one of the restaurants for lunch (there is self-service, fine dining and even an Indian restaurant).

Making your descent after lunch will give you some time to explore the town of Interlaken. Take a walk along the famous Hoheweg promenade, a street filled with cafes, hotels, stores and the Interlaken Casino. For Bollywood fans, this Casino’s garden has a bronze statue of Yash Chopra too. Make your way back to Lucerne.

• 1. You can either stop at Grindelwald and explore the town or else stop in Lauterbrunnen and visit the famous Trummelbach Falls on the descent from Jungfrau.
• 2. The train journey between Interlaken - Lucerne or vice versa is on the Lucerne Interlaken Express panoramic train, a part of the Golden Pass Line. Reservation is not compulsory on this route. The Swiss Pass takes care of it.
• 3. Leave Lucerne no later than 8 am to make the best of this day.
• 4. If you have the Swiss Pass, you can avail yourself of the Jungfrau ticket price. On its own, Jungfrau is one of the more expensive mountains.

Day 3: Zurich and the Rhine Falls

Make your way to Zurich (1 hour) for a day in the city. You can cover the city with your Swiss Travel Pass.

Start with Bahnhofstrasse – a very popular street in Zurich flanked by boutiques, coffee shops, stores that sell jewellery, watches, chocolates, and many big brands.

This is “The shopper’s paradise”. From there, walk towards the Old Town. On your way, you will see Zurich’s landmarks – The Fraumunster Church, Zurich Lake (Limmat) and the Grossmunster. You can also cover one of the points that offer views of the city from an elevation.

Lindenhof hill offers breathtaking views of the Old Town, the lake, the churches, and the city hall. And serves as a public park and picnic spot (They have GIANT chess sets here).

Alternatively, go to Üetliberg, a small mountain that offers Zurich's panoramic views, the lake, and the alps from the top. It’s a short train ride from the central station and a steep walk to the top.

Next, head for the Rhine falls, which is easily accessible by train.

You can take the train to Neuhausen or Schloss Laufen and then follow the signboard and walk to the Rhine Falls.

If you are visiting in summer, try a boat ride to the centre of the waterfalls (at a nominal cost).

Since Zurich is a big city, you can also opt for a guided city tour to make the most of the limited time. Some tours range from 2-hour city tour to almost 8 hours (combining city tours with the Rhine Falls or the medieval village of Stein Am Rhein).

These day tours are top-rated and best purchased in advance. Some of these tours even drop you at the airport on completion.

You may think this seems like a lot to do in 3 days Switzerland package . Still, the public transport system of Switzerland is just so easy to use. Of course, it works with Swiss precision, so if you have a well-planned itinerary, you will cover everything suggested here with ease and comfort.

So get ready for a power-packed 3 days in this beautiful country and return with memories of a lifetime!

• 1. Always check the last train back to the city you’re staying at. This way, you won’t miss your connection and will also make it a point to rule out things you’re not interested in.
• 2. If you’ve decided to stay at an apartment, remember to stock up some groceries or eatables for the rest of your trip from the nearest supermarket on Day 1. That way you will not waste time doing some shopping each day.
• 3. If you think heights will make you light-headed or dizzy, chew on some sour sweets on the way up to the mountains.
• 4. If you have missed out on your shopping, make sure to reach the airport early. Zurich airport shopping centre and its duty-free shops offer a fantastic choice of retail outlets for clothes, accessories, apparels, chocolates, cheeses and of course, watches.
• 5. Carry a water bottle with you. There is no need to purchase water in Switzerland. Every town has water fountains from where you can fill up on super clean alpine water.

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The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway between Disentis and Andermatt.

The 'loetschberg' steamship is the flagship of the fleet on lake brienz in the bernese oberland., glacier express on the landwasser viaduct near filisur, swiss travel pass.

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass for your Rail Travel in Switzerland. This popular Rail Pass of Switzerland affords you unlimited travel on the network of Swiss Travel System. The Swiss Travel Pass can only be sold to non-residents of Switzerland or Liechtenstein. With a Swiss Travel Pass in your pocket, you have the ideal Rail Pass to travel in Switzerland. Read more details about the Swiss Travel Pass and its validity below.

Buy now a Swiss Travel Pass and start to explore the Swiss Travel System.

Your benefits at this store:

• Low prices guaranteed
• Secure booking guaranteed
• Immediate confirmation

Exclusive to this online shop:

• Several articles are available as „e-ticket“ and can be printed at home. E-tickets will be sent separately.

Benefit even more now:

• Don't forget to add the new Swiss Coupon Pass to your order.

This is an official website for the sale of the Swiss Travel Pass as well as other Swiss Rail Passes within the Swiss Travel System.

Which Museums are included in the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass offers free entry to more than 500 Museums , including the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Château de Chillon and the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum.

How long is a Swiss Travel Pass valid for?

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 consecutive days in 1st or 2nd class.

Where is the Swiss Travel Pass valid?

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid on the whole boat, rail and Postbus network in Switzerland, as shown here .

Which mountain excursions are included?

Trips up to Stoos, Brunni, Klewenalp, Stanserhorn and Rigi are included in the Pass. A 50% reduction is offered on most other mountain and cableways (Gornergrat, Titlis, etc).

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid on Swiss Panoramic Railways?

Your ticket price is included in the Swiss Travel Pass but seat reservations are compulsory and a supplement must be paid non most routes. It is possible to pay for a class upgrade if you have a 2nd class Pass but would like to travel in 1st class non one of these services.

Are there any further inclusions?

The Swiss Travel Pass also offers free entry to more than 500 museums throughout Switzerland.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass Flex?

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex is valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days of your choosing in 1st or 2nd class within one month. On listed travel days, pass holders are entitled to all of the same additional benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass. Please note however, that on the days between specified travel days, additional benefits, such as 50% discounts and museum entries, are not valid.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

• ABOUT LOST IN SWITZERLAND
• GETTING AROUND
• SWISS ACTIVITIES
• ITINERARIES

How to activate and use your Swiss Travel Pass

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If you've decided that the Swiss Travel Pass is for you and you've bought it (congratulations, by the way!), this post is for you. Because it answers two questions that you probably have at this stage.

• How do you activate your Swiss Travel Pass?
• And how do you use it?

Without any further ado, let's dive right in...

Do you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass?

I often get asked the question if you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass once you have it or if you're good to go right away. The answer is simple.

It depends...

Don't we love when people say that? Sounds like another way to complicate things. But don't worry. It's super easy.

If you have a "normal" Swiss Travel Pass, meaning one that is valid for a certain amount of consecutive days, you can start using it right away without having to activate it first . It's valid from the date you picked when you decided to buy your Swiss Travel Pass .

However, if you opted for the Swiss Travel Pass Flex , there are a few steps you need to take. This is because your pass is valid for a flexible amount of days within one month that you haven't selected yet.

Here's what you need to do to make sure your trip runs smoothly and your pass is ready to use.

• After buying your pass, you'll receive a booking confirmation e-mail including a PDF. In that file, you'll find all the information you need about how to proceed.
• Open the  activateyourpass page.
• Enter your reference number, first name, last name and date of birth.
• The next page will let you pick the days on which you plan to travel. There's no need to select them all at once, by the way. You can always come back later if you're not sure at this point. (Please note that your Swiss Travel Pass Flex is only valid on the days that you activate in this process. You get no discounts on the other days.)
• For each travel day you activate, the system will generate a separate ticket. You can either view it online, download it as a PDF or add it to your wallet by clicking on one of the red buttons.
• In case your travel plans change and you want to swap travel dates, there's no need to panic. You can change your mind up until 23:59 of the day before the activated travel day. Please note that same-day deactivations aren't possible.

And that's it. You're good to go.

How do you use your Swiss Travel Pass?

Now that you have your all-inclusive, worry-free, knock-yourself-out ticket all set up, there's nothing holding you back.

You can use your Swiss Travel Pass throughout the whole public transport system of Switzerland. This includes all the lines in the so-called " GA Travelcard area of validity ". To sum up again what exactly you get with your Swiss Travel Pass, here's a quick recap:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, tram and boat in Switzerland
• Unlimited travel on scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Golden Pass Line (excluding reservations fees)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums
• Free rides on these mountain railways: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos (and up to 50% discount on most other mountain trips like Jungfraujoch or Pilatus)
• Up to 30% discount on  SBB RailAway offers

All you need to do is have your Swiss Travel Pass handy for inspection and always show it in combination with your document of identification (passport or ID).

And that's it. Simple as that.

Enjoy your trip and don't forget to let me know in the comments below how your experience with your Swiss Travel Pass was.

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The Ideal 7-Day Itinerary for Switzerland (With Alternatives)

One week in Switzerland – so many things to see, so little time. If it’s your first trip to Switzerland you’ll want to start with the best and most famous places – Zurich, Lucerne, Top of Europe, Zermatt, etc. This detailed itinerary will help you plan every little detail of that journey, from buying plane tickets to looking for souvenirs. 

What to do and see, where to stay, and how much you should plan to spend in each of the locations are all included in this itinerary. I’ve also covered the overall cost of the journey, the best travel passes for Switzerland, and more.

Keep in mind this is just a rough guide. Switzerland is a bigger country than you might think and you can explore it any way you like. But if you’re not sure where to begin, this 7-day Switzerland itinerary is a great start!

Table of Contents

Arrival in Zurich

The best place airport to fly to is Zurich Airport. It is the largest and busiest airport in Switzerland so is ideal for international visitors like you. You’ll find the most flight connections to Zurich, and tickets will probably be more affordable than to Switzerland’s smaller airports. 

Getting from the airport in Zurich to the city center is as simple as boarding a local train. Here are the details:

• run every 5-10 minute
• journey time is 10-15 minutes
• full-price tickets are around 7 CHF

It’s also possible to take a taxi from the airport to town. The ride can cost anywhere from 30-45 CHF, and it can sometimes take longer than the train because of traffic.

Day 1: Zurich

• Zurich Airport to Zurich HB Train: 10-15 minutes 
• Accommodation: 50-100 CHF (budget), 150-300 CHF (mid-range), 400-1000+ CHF (luxury)
• Average Restaurant Meal: 25 CHF
• Zurich 24-Hour City Card: 24 CHF

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the best place to start your trip. It has a lot to offer new visitors, so I recommend booking a guided walking tour if you’re unsure where to begin with your exploration of Zurich . 

Most walking tours of Zurich cover the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including

• Bahnhofstrasse
• Fraumunster
• Grossmunster
• St. Peter’s Church
• The Opera House

I would – highly recommend finding a condensed tour of the city’s most famous sights so you have plenty of time to discover some other hidden gems. 

One such lesser-known gem in Zurich is the Chinese Garden. I recently recommended it to a friend who was staying in Zurich for the first time, and she was stunned. While you’re there, you can also see the Pavillon Le Corbusier, which is just a 5-minute stroll away. 

If you’d like to visit a museum in Zurich, you should pick just one if you’re in the city for only a day. My top picks are

• The Swiss National Museum
• Kunsthaus Zürich
• The Zoological Museum of Zurich

On the other hand, if you want to see something entirely different, consider one of the following museums: 

• WOW Museum – museum of illusions with lots of opportunities for weird photographs
• FIFA Museum – a must for any football lovers in Zurich 
• Uhrenmuseum Beyer Zürich – a fascinating exhibit on the history of clocks and watches
• focusTerra – a science museum with an earthquake simulator and exhibits on geology

I could go on and on about Zurich museums, but these are the best for first-time visitors. 

Zurich is the most expensive city in Switzerland, so hotels aren’t cheap. Even hostels with shared bathrooms are 70-80 CHF, and you’ll spend at least 150-300 CHF for a night at a mid-range hotel. It’s best to stay near the train station because the inner city area will be a short walk away, plus you won’t have to travel far with your luggage when you arrive in Zurich. 

Luxury hotels are abundant in Zurich and the best one, in my humble opinion, is the Dolder Grand Hotel, with fabulous views of the city’s rooftops.  

Lucerne is cheaper, so if you want to save money, head to Lucerne once you’re done discovering the sights of Zurich. 

Day 2: Lucerne

• Zurich to Lucerne: 40-50 minutes
• Accommodation: 40-100 CHF (budget), 150-250 CHF (mid-range), 300+ CHF (luxury)
• Average Restuarant Meal: 25-30 CHF

For me, Lucerne is the most picturesque city in Switzerland. It’s known for its medieval architecture that dominates this small city and impressive natural surroundings. That’s why I’ve allocated two days for Lucerne –

• One for exploring the top sights in the city
• The second one is for a day trip to one of the majestic nearby mountains 

If you stay at a hotel near the train station in Lucerne (which there are loads of) you can leave the luggage at the hotel and be ready to explore the city in 10-20 minutes. Also, you won’t have to waste time traveling to the main station for day trips or heading to the next destination in Switzerland. 

Kick off your stay in Lucerne with a walking tour of the city. Book a guided tour if you want, or do a self-guided tour if you’re trying to save money. Lucerne is significantly smaller than Zurich and it will be easier to see all the top sights on your own. 

Walk to the Old Town – it’s only about 10 minutes from the train station, and you can cross the iconic Chapel Bridge . It’s the city’s most famous landmark, known for its unique artwork inside its roof. The old town of Lucerne is full of medieval buildings, and the best way to explore it is just to roam around and get lost in it. 

Then head all the way north to the Panorama Terrace, where you can experience a fabulous view of Lucerne’s rooftops. The Musegg wall with its nine towers is also close to this area, so be sure to spend some time there. You can climb the stairs to the top of the city walls to enjoy an even more impressive view of Lucerne. 

Next, make sure to visit the Lion Monument. It’s an iconic Lucerne landmark and a special place for many locals. This part of the city is also home to the Glacier Garden of Lucerne (a museum with exhibits on ice age glaciers) and Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne. The latter is a museum with a cylindrical painting of the Franco-Prussian War and an attraction you should try to incorporate into your Lucerne itinerary, as it only takes about 30 minutes to tour the entire museum. 

Other popular landmarks in the city are

• the Jesuit Church (on the southern bank of the Reuss River)
• the 19th-century Needle Dam
• the Franciscan Church known for its Gothic style, paintings, and large pipe organ.

You can see all of them during a walk through the city. 

Museums In Lucerne

As for the best museums in Lucerne, you’ve got quite a few options. My favorite is the Sammlung Rosengart because its collection heavily focuses on the works by Picasso and has some fascinating pieces. Gameorama Spielmuseum is another unique museum in the city and it’s quite nostalgic. It’s a museum about games where you can play old arcades and even play board games at the museum cafe. 

Other popular museums in Lucerne are: 

• Natur-Museum Luzern — natural history museum known for its collection of gold wasps
• Kunstmuseum Luzern — a vast art museum
• Diorama of the Alps — a museum with models and landscape paintings of the Alps
• Historisches Museum Luzern — a museum with an exhibit on the local history of Lucerne
• Swiss Museum of Transport — a fascinating technology museum with trains, cars, airplanes, and more

Hotels In Lucerne

Hostels and budget hotels in Lucerne start at 40 CHF for a single bed in a dormitory but are around 100 CHF for a night in a double room. Some 200 CHF can get you a night at a mid-range hotel, but you’ll need at least 300 CHF for a night in one of the city’s upscale hotels. 

Day 3: A Day Trip From Lucerne

Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus are excellent destinations for a day trip from Lucerne. Each has its own unique attractions, so let’s start with a quick comparison of the two to help you decide where to go on your day trip from Lucerne: 

Option 1: Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is excellent for a round trip because you can ride on all the different types of public transport. Regional trains, boats, cogwheel railways, and cable cars are all part of the journey from Lucerne to Pilatus and back, but only if you travel between June and October.

Note; Boats don’t run between Lucerne and Alpnachstad the rest of the year, so you can only travel by train. The upside is that the journey will be shorter – 40-50 minutes total. 

The mountain is a great destination for adventure seekers thanks to a variety of fun and exciting things to do. You can ride the longest summer toboggan in Switzerland (Fräkigaudi toboggan), visit the stunning observation decks at the summit, explore the numerous hiking trails, have fun at the adventure park, and even see where a dragon used to live (according to local legends.) 

Enjoying a fondue during a gondola ride to the summit is possible! So, let’s see if Mount Rigi can beat the pot of melted cheese with a side of spectacular views. 

Option 2: Mount Rigi

Mount Rigi is situated on the northern shore of Lake Lucerne, overlooking the water, nearby towns, and other summits in the Bernese Alps. It’s accessible by boat and cogwheel train from Lucerne, and the entire journey is wonderfully scenic. The summit features hiking trails, a cheese dairy, observation decks, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children. There’s also a luxurious spa center at Rigi Kaltbad, perfect for anyone who wants to spend some time relaxing in thermal baths, with a view of the Alps. 

Rigi is a better destination if you’re primarily interested in hiking or skiing in the winter. But if you want a wider variety of things to do on the mountain, Pilatus is the better choice. 

Also, Pilatus is steeper and more rocky (so more like a “mountain”) if that makes any difference to you!

Lucerne City Guest Card

You should get the Lucerne City guest card for free if you stay at any accommodation in the city registered with the Lucerne Tourist Board. The card entitles you to 10-20% discounts on museum tickets, boat cruises, and train tickets to the nearby mountains. You can also get discounts at certain restaurants and free access to the public transport network in the city of Lucerne. 

Day 4: Interlaken 

• Lucerne to Interlaken: 1 hour 50 mintues
• Accommodation: 80-150 CHF
• Average Restuarant Meal: 20-30 CHF

The train ride from Lucerne to Interlaken is impressively scenic, offering views of surreal blue lakes and countless summits in the Alps that tower over them. It’s just under two hours, but it will feel much shorter because of the jaw-dropping landscapes that make the time fly. 

Interlaken is named after its geographical location. The name of the town means “between lakes” which refers to its position between lakes Thun and Brienz. It’s one of the best destinations in Switzerland for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts because there’s a huge range of things in the nearby Jungfrau region!

Grindelwald, Wengen, and Lauterbrunnen are close to Interlaken and can be visited on day trips. The same goes for Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Schynigge Platte, and Grindelwald First, – all impressive summits with many activities to keep you occupied. 

But before you can go on day trips from Interlaken, you should at least explore the town a bit. Walking tours of Interlaken ’s top sights usually take 1-3 hours, with the longer ones including a trip to Unterseen, which is the cute old town portion of Interlaken. Some will even include a ride to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the town. 

Harder Kulm is also a great destination for hiking. It’s famous for its ridge hike, one of Switzerland’s most deadly ridge trails. But more importantly, it gets you high enough to see epic views of the Bernese Oberland mountains – Eiger, Jungfrau and Monch.

Adventure Sports

On top of that, Interlaken is known for countless adventure sports. I can’t think of any other place in Switzerland with so many different companies operating such a wide range of adventure sports, including:

• paragliding
• parasailing
• helicopter skydiving

And many more of course! 

Go on a scenic flight over the lakes, and then jump out of a helicopter from a height of more than 4,000 meters – how does that sound? Or, maybe do what most visitors do in Interlaken, and paraglide back into town from the nearby hills. Then run off on your next adventure!

If it sounds like something you would enjoy, Interlaken is doubtless a top Swiss destination for you. 

Then there are also all the towns on the shores of lakes Thun and Brienz. Thun, Iseltwald , Brienz, and Spiez all have their own attractions and landmarks and are great alternatives to a standard Interlaken itinerary.  I just did a walk from Thun to the nearby suspension bridge via a stunning panorama walk just a few months ago!

Accommodation

In terms of places to stay, Interlaken has some of the most affordable accommodations in Switzerland. Hostel beds start at 40 CHF per person, and mid-range hotels are around 120-180 CHF for two people. There are plenty of luxury hotels in town as well, with prices of 300-600+ CHF per night. 

Day 5: Jungfraujoch

• Interlaken to Jungfraujoch: Approximately 90 minutes 
• Seasonal Availability: Open year-round
• Tickets: 187.8 CHF without discounts, 10 CHF seat reservation (not obligatory)

Jungfraujoch is a mountain saddle in the Bernese Alps and a truly special place you should absolutely visit if you have the time. It’s home to the highest train station and post office in Europe, both situated within a visitor’s complex known as Top of Europe. 

Traveling to the Top of Europe from Interlaken is straightforward and you can read all about it in our detailed guide to Jungfraujoch . You will need most of the day for this excursion and it’s best to head to the train station early in the morning because the last train from Jungfraujoch is at around 4:45 PM in the winter or 5:45 PM in the summer. My pro tip is to bring postcards, so you can mail them from Europe’s highest post office. 

Plan to spend 4-5 hours at Top of Europe (aka Jungfraujoch) to see everything at the top.

• Walk through the Alpine Corridor,
• Visit the Ice Palace
• Head up to the Sphinx Observation Deck
• Hike to Monschjochhutte if the weather allows it.

You can even ride a zipline or ski at the summit, although these experiences will cost you extra (20-25 CHF per experience). 

There are 3-4 different restaurants at Jungfraujoch, but you’ll want to bring your own snacks if your budget for Switzerland is tight. There’s also a Lindt Chocolate Shop where you can buy sweets and even see a master chocolatier creating desserts, and it’s the highest Lindt shop in the world! 

If you take the last train home from Jungfruajoch, you should arrive in Interlaken before 7:30 PM (or 6:30 PM in the winter). You’ll likely be back in town even earlier, especially if you catch one of the early-morning trains to Top of Europe, so you’ll have plenty of time to continue exploring Interlaken. 

Use the time to do some of the things that you didn’t manage to do on day 4 – maybe it’s a quick trip to Harder Kulm or a tour of the Interlaken Castle. You can even go to Weissenau Nature Reserve to see the ancient ruins and chill long the river or near the lake. 

Day 6: Zermatt

• Interlaken to Zermatt: 2 hours 12 minutes
• Accommodation Cost: 60-150 CHF (budget), 250-300 CHF (mid-range),  800-1200 CHF (luxury)
• Average Meal At Restuarant: 30 CHF

Head to the train station in Interlaken and board a one-way train to Zermatt. The journey to the car-free village is amazing, and you get to see some stunning Swiss landscapes while on the train. You’ll pass through the long Lötschberg Tunnel, then climb up the Mattertal Valley for sprawling views of villages, all the while being surrounded by summits higher than 4000 meters. 

Zermatt is a car-free resort so there are loads of pedestrian walking paths throughout the town. 

Regarding things to do in Zermatt , I’m honestly unsure where to begin. The Matterhorn Museum is a good place for a crash course on local history, including tales of many Alpinists who have completed the ascent on the pyramid-shaped peak. On the other hand, the museum is situated right next to the Mountaineer’s Cemetery, where many of those who failed at the attempt and faced fatal consequences are buried. 

Then there are all the hiking trails most easily accessible in the summer. Some trails start at the downtown area of the resort, and you can begin hiking as soon as you get off the train. But leave your luggage at the hotel first since most trails from Zermatt include a lot of uphill walking. 

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most famous hikes near Zermatt. It takes about two and a half hours and is moderately challenging but stunning in views and landscapes. The trailhead is at the Blauherd funicular station, and the trail is almost a loop to Sunegga, the bottom station of the same funicular. The trail’s highlights are the five lakes you pass during the hike, which are

In that order. 

The Gorner Gorge is another beautiful natural landmark just outside the town. It is around 20-30 minutes walk from the edge of the village. The stunning ravine is accessible from May to October and visitors can explore it by following a wooden walkway for an entrance fee of just 5 CHF. You can complete this entire excursion in about an hour, an hour and a half, so don’t miss out! If you’re not in the mood for the walk to the gorge, just grab an electric taxi from the village. 

Believe me, I’ve only scratched the surface of fun things in Zermatt. You could also cross the Furi suspension bridge (accessible by the Furi gondola), visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (near the border with Italy), hike to the tiny chapel at Schwarzsee, and more. 

Moving on to the accommodation options in Zermatt – hostels and campsites are the cheapest, at least 60 CHF per person. Mid-range hotels are around 200-300 CHF, although on the lower end are 2-star hotels with the bare necessities. Zermatt has a huge selection of luxury hotels, the best of which are at least 500 CHF per night. 

I recommend something a little wild – don’t book a hotel in Zermatt. Instead, catch the last train to Gornergrat or Rotenboden and set up camp on the shore of Riffelsee Lake for an epic conclusion of your week in Switzerland. 

Day 7: More time in Zermatt, Return to Zurich

• Zermatt To Zurich: 3 hours 30 minutes

Make the most of your last day in Switzerland by exploring the attractions you didn’t get to see previously, either in Zermatt or Zurich. I’m operating under the assumption that you’re flying out of Zurich Airport; you can either spend most of your day in Zermatt and then take the train to Zurich, or head to the bigger city early in the morning and spend the rest of your day roaming around the city streets. 

The train ride from Zermatt to Zurich takes about three and a half hours, and an extra 10-15 minutes to get from the city center to the airport. I advise booking late-night plane tickets so you can make the most of your day while still managing the almost four-hour train ride. 

But let’s go back a few paragraphs – I advised you to spend your last in Switzerland sleeping in a tent near Riffelsee. Why? Because it’s the only reasonable way of witnessing the sunrise over the Matterhorn and getting an epic shot of the mountain’s golden peak reflected in the lake. Yes, I’ve included the shot at the start of this section. 

The trains don’t start running before 7 AM, well past sunrise, so camping is the only way. Then you’re just half an hour away from the train station in Zermatt, and you can be on your way to Zurich in no time! Just keep in mind that nights in the mountains are very cold even in the summer, so if you’re going to do this, you will need warm sleeping bags, waterproof tents, and all the best gear. 

Back To Zurich

Back in Zurich you can pay a visit to the Old Botanical Garden in the Old Town, or head to the ETH University Complex for panoramic city views. Visit one final museum, play chess with locals at Lindenhof, or head to Teddy’s Souvenir Shop at Limmatquai to pick up a few final souvenirs for friends and family back home. Just enjoy your last few hours in Switzerland fully until it’s time to board the train to the airport. 

Tweaking Your Itinerary

Everything I’ve listed above is a rough guide for a week in Switzerland. Feel free to extend time in any location or skip some locations entirely. 

Panoramic Train Rides

If you’re not into adventure sports or hiking, maybe skip Interlaken and do a panoramic train ride instead. The Bernina Express, the Gotthard Panorama Express, and the Glacier Express are all fabulous panoramic trains in Switzerland, which will wow you with stunning landscape views. 

You could also stay in Zurich or Lucerne for an extra day and explore more museums, or do another day trip. Another option is to begin this journey in a completely different country – why not land in Paris, stay in the city for a day, and then head to Zurich? It’s only four hours by train.  Or ride the train to Basel, stay there for a day, and then travel to Zurich. You can even end your journey in Milan, just four hours from Zurich.  

An alternative itinerary for a week in Switzerland would be to start in Zurich or Geneva and then explore the towns and cities in the country’s southwest, such as

• Montreux & Vevey

Maybe include a day trip to Gruyeres, or Le Locle and Neuchatel Lake. It’s an entirely different vibe, but there’s plenty to discover and love about this region of Switzerland as well. Let me know how that sounds, and maybe I’ll do an alternative itinerary for that route too!

Useful Information

It’s worth it to buy a travel pass for Switzerland. I did the math so you don’t have to, and the verdict is that the one-month Half-Fare Card is the best value for money for this itinerary. With it, the cost of (train) tickets for everything in the itinerary is approximately 451.1 CHF.

The full price of the train and mountain tickets is 662.2 CHF, and with a 6-day travel pass, the entire trip will cost you around 527.2 CHF. Remember that those prices include both Rigi and Pilatus, so the trip is cheaper if you’re only making a single-day trip from Lucerne. 

It is a complicated calculation that really depends on your specific itinerary as more mountain trips cost more, and museum entrance is only included in the Swiss Travel Pass, most of the time anyway.

Download the SBB app on your phone to buy tickets and see timetables. The app is easy to use and it will help you get around Switzerland. 

The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). If you have Euros you might be able to use them in major shops and in some areas of big cities. But in general, they are not accepted in Switzerland.

Cards are widely accepted in bigger cities and popular resorts, but it’s still smart to carry cash for emergencies. 

All major train stations in Switzerland offer luggage storage services . If you arrive in a city before check-in, you can leave your luggage at the train station and go out and explore. 

Don’t waste money on bottled water. Tap water in Switzerland is perfectly safe for drinking, so there is absolutely no need to buy tap water at supermarkets. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at your accommodation so you can always have water while you’re out. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is seven days enough in switzerland.

Yes, seven days is enough in Switzerland. You will be able to discover the city’s most famous cities and landmarks, but a lot will be left undiscovered so you can always come back. 

What is the required budget for a 7-day trip to Switzerland?

The minimum required budget for a 7-day trip in Switzerland is 1100-1500 CHF. That’s if you’re staying at the cheapest hotels that are no more than 120 CHF per night and not eating your every meal at restaurants. A budget of 2,000-3,000 CHF will allow you to travel much more comfortably through Switzerland. 

Which season is the most ideal for a 7-day trip to Switzerland?

Summer is the ideal season for a 7-day trip in Switzerland. More specifically, the period between May and October is perfect for this itinerary.

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