Trains tickets in Switzerland

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The reliable Swiss train network

With a large number of punctual, reliable and prompt trains in Switzerland, discovering the country's beauty is a breeze. From convenient public transport offering visitors easy access to towns, cities and attractions to more luxurious panoramic train travel, the options for exploration are endless.

Experience the best Switzerland attractions, scenery and sites with Swiss train tickets for tourists. Whether you select a Swiss Travel Pass or a Half Fare Pass, you’ll be able to experience the best train rides in Switzerland. Regardless of the train rides you take, know you’ll be travelling on the most prompt and reliable service in Europe.

Main train operator: Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)

With the many trains in Switzerland that facilitate travel throughout the country, there’s no need to find alternative transportation options. From scenic trains in Switzerland to international high-speed trains, the vast number of transportation offerings provide thorough exploration and enjoyment of the country (and surrounding countries).

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) includes a network of trains, buses and boats, which offer transportation between regions, major cities and top attractions within the country. With 11,000+ trains running daily, travellers can expect punctual transport that arrives and departs approximately every 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the mode and route). This European rail network offers views of top attractions like the Landwasser Viaduct (the famous train bridge in Switzerland) and Stoos (home to the steepest funicular train in Switzerland), making a ride aboard trains in Switzerland an unmatched experience.

With our convenient online bookings, holiday itineraries are only a click away. Find more information on each type of train available through the SBB network below.

SBB passenger trains

InterCity (IC) offers quick, regular connections to larger cities without intermediate stops.
InterRegio (R) has shorter intercity routes with more frequent stops.
RegioExpress trains (RE) connect medium-sized cities in Switzerland, often stopping at all stations.

As a note, regional trains service all intermediate stations and smaller branches of the SBB network trains in Switzerland. Typically, cities in Switzerland with larger populations have their own S-Bahn networks connecting their urban and suburban areas. Because of this, the regional trains aim to span the bridge between smaller areas without their own S-Bahn networks.

Panoramic trains

With panoramic trains in Switzerland, you can enjoy up-close views of Switzerland’s natural wonders.

Golden Pass Express: Enjoy a comfortable voyage on the Golden Pass Train in Switzerland with routes from Interlaken to Montreux.
Bernina Express: Aka the famous red train in Switzerland; travels from Chur to Tirano.

In upcoming sections we will continue to discuss the scenic trains in Switzerland.

International connections

SBB

Travel via the SBB network does not stop at Switzerland's regions, towns and cities. With 80 international train connections every day, travellers can also visit destinations such as Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Italy and France.

TGV Lyria

Lyria offers convenient high-speed travel aboard double-decker trains and links popular French destinations like Paris and Dijon to major cities in Switzerland (like Zurich).

The TGV Lyria interweaves the railways between France and Switzerland, offering easy access to both countries. With routes from Paris to Zurich and Geneva, London to Zurich and Paris to Bern, it is easier than ever to visit some of the most beloved destinations in Europe.

Once on board, passengers will delight in the various amenities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning and ample luggage space for each traveller. Booking for TGV Lyria tickets is available up to 120 days in advance. For the best price, select tickets for TGV Lyria trains outside of the peak hours and days (such as holidays).

EuroCity Trains

Experience the magic of travelling on trains in Switzerland with EuroCity (EC) offerings. These trains provide international cross-border transport between Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Austria. Expect to ride aboard a retro/old train in Switzerland with this option, providing a more relaxed trip in stylish carriages.

Key international routes to Switzerland

Discover these exciting international routes for trains in Switzerland, leaving you with unforgettable memories as you explore nearby countries.

Paris to Zurich on TGV Lyria

With TVG Lyria, you can zip from Paris to Zurich (or vice versa) in about four hours. While on this route, passengers will travel through Mulhouse and Basel before arriving in scenic Zurich. The journey includes Wi-Fi, cosy seating and the knowledge of selecting an environmentally-friendly method of transportation. Be sure to bring your ticket, passport and up-to-date travel documents for a smooth trip.

Milan to Zurich on EuroCity

Travel with ease from Milan to Zurich via EuroCity trains in Switzerland. Expect approximately a four-hour trip, which winds passengers through the majestic Swiss Alps. On board this glacier train ride in Switzerland, travellers can expect cosy seating, restrooms, luggage areas and extra legroom (for certain train ticket classes).

Munich to Zurich on EuroCity

In about 4.5 hours, you can travel from Munich to Zurich via EuroCity trains. This exciting route includes views of many of the picturesque locations in Germany and Switzerland, including Augsburg, Lindau and Schaffhausen. Aboard the train, you can take advantage of the complimentary Wi-Fi, power sockets and restaurant carriage. When exploring these routes, be sure to pack lightly, as there can be limited luggage space on the trains. If you are bringing additional or oversized luggage, consider purchasing an upgraded ticket for more space.

Other providers reaching Switzerland

When scheduling international train routes to/from Switzerland, keep these additional train companies in mind.

Deutsche Bahn: High-speed international train from Switzerland to Germany.
ÖBB: High-speed international routes from Switzerland to Austria.
Trenitalia: International railway routes from Switzerland to Italy.
SNCF: France’s state-owned rail network (connected with TGV routes).

Main train stations

Below are the main train stations in Switzerland, offering a convenient transport option for travellers and locals alike.

Zurich Hauptbahnhof

The primary train station in Zurich, this location provides access to nearly all trains which travel through the city. This is the largest station in the country, situated in the heart of Zurich near the northern part of Altstadt. This station is used for domestic and international trains to destinations like Amsterdam, Basel, Geneva, Munich, Paris and Vienna. The following trains utilise this station: City Night Line, ICE and TGV Lyria. When searching for tickets on our site, this station appears as Zurich HB.

Travellers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi in the train station, along with various shops and restaurants, ensuring plenty of entertainment while you wait for your train ride. Services include an infopoint, check-in times for luggage dispatch and currency exchange. Trains, trams and buses can help you travel from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to the Zurich Airport.

Geneva Cornavin

Situated in the centre of Geneva city, the Geneva Cornavin railway station offers travellers routes to cities such as Zurich, Milan, Bern and Paris. Lyria and SBB offer services through this station, ensuring comfortable transport to destinations. Multiple restaurants and shops are available, alongside services such as station assistance, tickets, subscriptions and rail travel consults. Direct trains from the Geneva Cornavin to the Geneva Airport are typically available daily and take 6-7 minutes to bring you to your destination.

Basel SBB

Set at the meeting point of France, Germany and Switzerland, in Basel’s city centre lies the Basel Train Station (Basel SBB), which is known as the first international train station. With its prime location, it offers easy access to various countries. This station makes it easy to travel to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Interlaken, Luzern, Paris and a few other major cities via ICE, City Night Line and TGV Lyria lines. Amenities such as a pharmacy, eye center, tickets, subscriptions, hygiene center and currency exchange are available at this station, along with restaurants and shops. The EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is only a bus or commuter train ride away.

Bern Bahnhof

Tucked inside the capital of Switzerland is the Bern Bahnof station, which facilitate travels to destinations such as Zurich, Basel, Hamburg, Lausanne and Thun. IR, IC and ICE trains utilise this train station. Quite a few shops and restaurants are present at the station, along with services such as a hygiene centre, info point and luggage lockers. The Berne Airport (BRN) can be reached via a train and bus ride, which takes approximately 42 minutes.

Booking tickets

Step-by-step process for booking tickets on Rail Europe

Booking tickets through Rail Europe is straightforward and requires only a few steps.

  1. Select whether you wish to travel via point-to-point Swiss train tickets or with a rail pass, such as the Swiss Travel Pass.
  2. Choose the number of travellers in each category (Child, Youth, Adult or Senior), the country of origin and destination, and a departure date.
  3. Choose between a Swiss Travel Pass, Regional Pass Berner Oberland, Swiss Half Fare Card, Swiss Travel Pass Flex or a standard train pass, and the length of your travels.
  4. Determine whether you want access to 1st or 2nd class seats during your travels.
  5. Confirm your selection, enter payment for your Swiss train fares and you’re ready to go!
  6. Be sure to print out the pass or keep the emailed e-ticket on your phone for boarding transport.

These Swiss train tickets for tourists allow access to public transportation/many open train in Switzerland rides without additional reservations. However, there are a few exceptions. Certain trains in Switzerland, such as scenic routes (Glacier Express, Golden Pass etc.), international routes and excursions (Mount Titlis, Matterhorn etc.), require reservations and additional fees.

Train passes for tourists in Switzerland

The Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is one of the most popular options for international travellers who want to explore the entirety of the country. With the ability to travel for a consecutive trip of 3, 4, 8 or 15 days, you can see as much of Switzerland as you please. This pass is ideal for those who want to explore the country via trains, buses, boats, cable cars and other Swiss public transportation.

The cost of a Swiss Travel Pass differs depending on a few factors, including the length of your trip and the age of the travelers (discounts are available for children/younger travellers). There is also a cost difference between first class Swiss trains and second class.

Swiss Travel Pass perks

Benefits of travelling with a Swiss Travel Pass include entry to over 500 museums, complimentary boat trips on stunning bodies of water like Lake Geneva and 50% off mountain excursions. Swiss Train Pass is the ultimate accompaniment for travellers. Residents outside of Switzerland can take advantage of this pass, which allows access to Switzerland’s efficient, punctual public transport.

Swiss Half Fare Card

A Swiss Half Fare Pass may be the best option if you're planning a longer Switzerland visit. Travellers can purchase a Swiss Half Fare, which provides a 50% discount on public transportation for an entire month throughout the country. This pass offers tourists a 50% reduction on trips via buses, trains, boats and public transport with unlimited rides. This pass also includes other benefits, like 50% discounts on various mountain excursions and 50% off regional passes when combined with the Half Fare Pass. This pass can be combined with point-to-point train tickets in Switzerland, for a discount of up to 50%.

Swiss Family Card

If you're travelling with children under sixteen, you won't need to worry about additional travel costs with the Swiss Family Card. This pass allows children and younger teens to travel free with a parent who is a holder of the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Pass. This card must be acquired before travelling, or children ages 6-15 will have an additional fee of 50% of the full adult price.

Regional Pass Berner Oberland

The Regional Pass Berner Oberland is the perfect solution if your travels will be concentrated in the Bernese Oberland area. With the option to travel consecutively for 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 days, this pass offers visitors convenient access to various destinations. It provides free train travel and access to various bus lines in locations like Grindelwald, Lenk, Berne, Lucerne, Brig, the Central Swiss Alps and more. Additional benefits include boat trips on Lake Thun and aerial cableway options. This pass allows you to explore 25 mountain excursions and benefit from reduced rates with 40 leisure partners.

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Eurail Pass vs. Interrail Pass

The Eurail Global Pass offers train (and some boat) exploration of 33 countries in Europe, while the Swiss Pass encompasses travel throughout Switzerland by boat, train, tramway, cable car, bus etc. Interrail Passes are also available, providing a service similar to Eurail. However, Interrail Passes are only available for European citizens.

If you plan to travel extensively around Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass is likely the best option for you. If you would like to venture out to other countries as well, consider a Eurail or Interrail Pass. And always remember to check the perks of each pass, because they often go far beyond just trains!

Travel highlights and tips

Must-see attractions in major Swiss cities

Crafting an itinerary for Switzerland can be challenging with the many attractions available. Consider incorporating one of the below options, as they are some of the best train journeys in Switzerland.

  • Zurich: When exploring Zurich, head to Bahnhofstrasse for shopping, Old Town for historic sites and Lake Zurich for picturesque landscapes.
  • Geneva: Head to Jet d'Eau to see one of the biggest fountains worldwide, check out the United Nations to learn about Switzerland’s history and visit Old Town for top attractions
  • Lucerne: Visit Europe’s oldest covered bridge - Chapel Bridge, before heading to the legendary Mount Pilatus. Finish a trip to Lucerne with a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne.
  • Bern: Uncover Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before exploring the medieval Zytglogge tower. Then, view the incredible architecture of the Federal Palace.
  • Interlaken: Explore the Jungfrau Region to see the highest mountain in Switzerland by train, ride the highest train ride in Switzerland and try heart-pumping adventure sports.
  • Zermatt View the stunning Matterhorn mountain via a breathtaking ride on the Gornergrat Railway. Then, explore additional stunning views from a trip aboard Glacier Paradise. If you have extra time, you can take the longest train ride in Switzerland, which runs from St. Moritz to Zermatt

Visiting the Swiss Alps

Multiple transportation methods provide the opportunity to explore the famed Swiss Alps, including buses, trams, funiculars and trains in Switzerland. As one of the top mountain destinations in Europe, the Alps offer an array of activities, from winter sports to summer hiking and adventure sports. With scenic lakes and snow-covered mountain peaks, this mountain range is vital to any Switzerland excursion.

Travel tips

Be sure to check the timetable for activities, as certain attractions, like cable cars, close early in the day. Pre-purchase your train tickets and seat reservations for a smoother journey in the Alps. Wear comfortable walking shoes to allow for additional exploration.

Good day train trips from major Swiss cities

When planning your itinerary for a Switzerland holiday, consider including day trips to major Swiss cities for a more compelling experience. Below are a few options for day trips from various cities.

  • Zurich: Consider exploring Jungfraujoch, Interlaken, Grindelwald or Mount Titlis from Zurich.
  • Gevena: Popular day trips from Geneva include Chamonix, Lausanne, Annecy and Lyon.
  • Lucerne: Experience nearby destinations such as Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi, Brunen or Engelberg.

  • Bern: Experience the beauty of nearby locations like Thun, Lauterbrunnen, Vevey or Montreux.

Best ways to get around Swiss cities

With the Swiss Travel Pass, exploring Swiss cities is a breeze. The pass covers unlimited rides on boats, buses, high-speed trains in Switzerland, panoramic luxury train rides in Switzerland and other public transportation options including trams, buses and ferries in 90+ Swiss towns and cities.

When utilising the Swiss Travel Pass, some trains (especially panorama luxury trains along Switzerland routes) require additional fees/passes. Be sure to check which transport requires additional passes before booking excursions.

Train travel beyond Switzerland

Below is a list of top destinations reachable via trains in Switzerland, providing easy access for day or weekend trips during a holiday.

  • Paris: City of Light, a top attraction for gastronomes
  • Milan: Hub of art, architecture, history, shopping, and mor
  • Munich: The charming capital of Bavaria
  • Vienna: Birthplace of famed composers
  • Venice: The Floating City; provides romantic canals and architectural views
  • Berlin: Vibrant creative scene and cultural centre

Other scenic train routes in Europe

If you find yourself in Switzerland for an extended period, you may want to explore scenic train routes outside the country. Below are a few scenic journeys which offer exquisite views and adventures.

  • Austrian Alps: Fresh mountain air; offers the ideal location for relaxation and adventuring
  • French Riviera: Relaxed, picturesque location along the Mediterranean Sea
  • Italian Countryside: Lush vineyards, rustic villages, and breathtaking landscapes

Travelling Overnight by Train in Europe

Multiple options are available for overnight travel, allowing for a convenient and budget-friendly trip. Instead of staying in a hotel, overnight trains provide the opportunity to wake up in a new, exciting destination. With amenities such as sleeper cars, couchettes and comfortable seats (as with most Swiss trains), overnight trains are the optimal way to travel through Europe more efficiently. With drinks, snacks, washing facilities and restrooms on board, you’ll find travelling through the night a comfortable experience on these European trains.

Many overnight trains, such as NightJet, travel from Amsterdam, Utrecht and Arnhem to Vienna, Innsbruck and Basel.

Making the most out of your time in Switzerland

Best food and restaurants in Switzerland

A combination of German, Italian and French culinary influences on Swiss cuisine has established this destination as a top spot for foodies. In particular, Winterthur, St. Gallen, Chur, Locarno and Zurich are known for offering some of the best cuisine in the country. While in Switzerland, be sure to include local delicacies such as Swiss cheese fondue, raclette, zopf and Swiss chocolate.

While there is some debate on the top dining spots in the country, a few which remain at the top of the must-try list include Vieux Chalet (known for its raclette), Le Chalet de Gruyères (famous for fondue) and Frutal (best for those with a sweet tooth).

Accommodation in Swiss cities

When on the hunt for accommodation in popular Swiss cities, consider the following options.

  • Zurich: Charming Old Town, activity-abundant District 1 or family-friendly District 2
  • Geneva: Attraction-heavy Old Town or quiet, local-approved Carrouge
  • Lucerne: Activity-filled Alstadt or peaceful Littau

  • Bern: Architecturally-rich Old Town or riverside Stadtbach

Best time of year to visit Switzerland

The best time to visit Switzerland is generally late spring to early fall, especially for travellers who wish to spend the majority of their time outdoors. The weather is the most pleasant during these months, and there are many available activities. You can enjoy lush, flowering meadows and trees in the spring and summer. Autumn brings with it wine and deliciously sweet fruit. Winter is a pleasant time to visit for those keen on winter sports and snowy landscapes.

Safety and general advice for visiting Switzerland for tourists

  • Always be aware of your surroundings. While Switzerland is known as a very safe country, it’s always in travellers' best interest to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
  • With so much to see in the country, it's necessary to plan your activities and destinations well before arriving.
  • Pack for various types of weather, as Switzerland is known for its shifting temperatures throughout the day.
  • If you plan to visit the mountains, be sure you have appropriate gear and apparel, such as boots and multiple layers.

Frequently asked questions

Do trains in Switzerland have Wi-Fi?

Yes, trains in Switzerland do have Wi-Fi. However, it is not free to use. There are a few exceptions. If you have a phone plan which is interconnected with the country’s national telecom operators, you can use the Wi-Fi for free. Otherwise, you’ll find complimentary Wi-Fi on trains that travel internationally. Wi-Fi service will be intentionally upgraded in the coming years, so this may shift.

Does Eurail Pass cover local trains in Switzerland?

A Eurail Pass encompasses many local train options in Switzerland. However, there are some exceptions. Certain branches, tourist lines, low-cost railways, intercity trains and mountain railways are not covered by Eurail Pass.

What’s the difference between Eurail Pass versus Swiss Travel Pass?

The Eurorail Pass offers train (and some boat) exploration of 33 European countries, while the Swiss Pass encompasses travel throughout Switzerland by boat, train, tramway, cable car, bus etc.

Should I drive or take the train in Switzerland?

If you're wondering if you should drive or take the train in Switzerland, the answer is simple. There is virtually no need to drive when visiting Switzerland with the many available public transportation options, including trains. Expect punctual, clean and reliable public transport throughout Switzerland, making transportation between attractions, cities and accommodation easier.

Blog posts featuring Switzerland

No car needed: Immerse yourself in Europe’s protected landscapes by rail

From national parks to protected alpine valleys, some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes begin right at the train platform.

Winter rail journeys from Italy to Switzerland that stick the landing

Winter travel across the Alps can be simple. From Milan to Switzerland, trains provide a calm, reliable way to reach alpine towns and winter bases.

Love optional: five Valentine’s train escapes that skip the clichés

Valentine’s Day travel does not have to look one way. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a couple, trains make it easy to plan a getaway that feels personal, flexible and entirely your own.

Child and youth passengers

The definition of "Child" and "Youth" varies by country and operator. This is why we ask for the age of young passengers.

Sometimes children below a certain age can travel without a seat for free. If you want to guarantee a seat for child passengers, enter '6' as the age of the child.

Read more about child and youth passenger ages. See also youth discounts and railcards.