Switzerland
General train travel information for SWITZERLAND. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
Swiss railroads were built and operated by private railroad companies during the 19th century. The first inland line was the 16-kilometer Zurich-Baden line, opened in 1847 and operated by the Swiss Northern Railway. By 1860, railroads connected western and northeastern Switzerland, but the Alps remained an insurmountable obstacle for railroads that needed slight gradients. The first transalpine railroad, the north-south axis in Switzerland, was finally opened in 1882. This was the Gotthard Railroad, the heart of which was the Gotthard Tunnel, running well below the Gotthard Pass. A second line was opened even lower below Simplon Pass in 1906 (Simplon Railroad), and a third line was opened below Lötschberg in 1913 (Lötschberg Railroad).
In 1901, the main railroads were nationalized to form the Swiss Federal Railways. In the first half of the 20th century they were electrified and gradually modernized. After World War II, the railroads quickly ceded their share of the rail transportation market to road transportation as car ownership increased and more roads were built. Beginning in 1970, the federal government became more aggressive in modernizing railroads, especially in urban areas and on trunk routes as part of the Rail 2000 project. In addition, two major transalpine routes, the Gotthard Railroad and the Lötschberg Approach to Simplon, were reconstructed as part of the NRLA project. As a result, two new flat routes through the Alps opened in the early 21st century: the Lötschberg Base Tunnel in 2007 and the Gotthard Base Tunnel in 2016.
General Information and Statistics
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) is the largest railway company in Switzerland and handles the majority of national and international traffic. Swiss federal railways transports about 1.16 million passengers per day per day.
There are 5,323 kilometres of railway lines in Switzerland There are about 1,838 railroad stations in Switzerland. 99% of tracks are electrified.
What connections to other countries there are.
From Switzerland, you can easily travel by train to countries such as: Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Czechia.
Are trains fast in Switzerland in general? How much time to cross the country?
The French-Swiss co-operation TGV Lyria and German ICE lines extend into Switzerland, the ICE 4 regularly operates at a maximum of 200 km/h (between Olten and Bern), while the TGV never exceeds 160 km/h (99 mph), due to the lack of a high-speed track between Basel and Zurich.
The journey from Genève to Chur takes 4:10 hours and from Basel to Lugano 2:55 hours.
What railway companies are available?
The main and most significant railway company is:
• Swiss Federal Railways (Schweizerische Bundesbahnen, SBB/CFF/FFS): The Swiss Federal Railways is the national railway company of Switzerland, responsible for the majority of passenger and freight services across the country. It operates the vast majority of the railway network, including intercity, regional, and local trains.
Additionally, there are some private and regional railway companies that operate in specific areas or on particular routes. Some of these include:
• Rhaetian Railway (Rhätische Bahn, RhB): Operating in the canton of Graubünden, the Rhaetian Railway is known for its scenic routes through the Swiss Alps, including the famous Bernina Express and Glacier Express.
• Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB): Serving the region around Zermatt and the Matterhorn, the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn operates mountain railways connecting popular tourist destinations.
• BLS AG: This company operates regional and long-distance trains, primarily in the Bernese Oberland region.
Regional and Local Railway Companies: Various regional and local railway companies provide services on smaller, more specific routes in different parts of Switzerland.
What train types are available in Switzerland
Regional trains in Switzerland
SBB offers the following regional and intercity services in Switzerland:
• RegioExpress trains connect small towns to major cities in Switzerland.
• Regio trains only connect small towns and cities
• InterCity trains run between major Swiss cities such as Basel and Geneva.
• InterRegio trains make more stops than InterCity trains and connect Zurich and Geneva to various Swiss cities
• S-Bahn - a network of commuter trains operating within major cities
International high-speed trains
The following high-speed trains operate on routes to and from Switzerland:
• ICE trains connect Switzerland with Germany and the Netherlands at 300 km/h.
• Railjet trains connect Zurich with Vienna (Austria)
• Eurocity trains connect Zurich, Basel and Geneva with Milan/Venice
• TGV Lyria trains connect Zurich, Basel and Geneva with Paris.
Domestic high-speed trains
Intercity high-speed trains (ICN) are Switzerland's domestic high-speed trains, mainly used by passengers traveling from one major city to another.
Night trains in Switzerland
The night trains listed below operate on routes between Switzerland and neighboring countries including Austria, Germany, Hungary and Croatia.
• ÖBB Nightjet trains run between Zurich, Basel, Berlin and Hamburg, as well as Zurich, Linz and Vienna.
• EuroNight trains connect Zurich with Graz (Austria), as well as Zurich with Vienna and Budapest
• The D train runs between Zurich, Villach (Austria), Ljubljana (Slovenia) and Zagreb (Croatia).
Are there high-speed-trains available?
High-speed rail in Switzerland consists of two new lines and three new base tunnels, including the world's longest rail tunnel and deepest transport tunnel: the Gotthard Base Tunnel, which is 57 km long . Each of these tunnels has a technical maximum speed of 250 km/h, which for environmental and economic reasons is reduced, at least in the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the Ceneri Tunnel, to a maximum authorized speed of 230 km/h, while the normal operating speed of passenger trains is limited to 200 km/h.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Switzerland are Zürich, Bern, Basel, Lausanne, Winterthur.
Websites to buy train tickets for Switzerland?
https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html, raileurope.com, omio.com
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Switzerland?
Swiss Federal Railways has a mobile app called SBB.
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Switzerland?
For any Swiss domestic journey you can just turn up, buy a ticket at the station and hop on the next train. However, you can often save money with Supersaver fares or a Saver Day Pass if you book online in advance as explained below.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
You can book TGV Lyria tickets by calling +41 (0) 848 44 66 88 (CHF 0.08/Min) 24 hours a day via Rail Service.
Return the ticket.
If you wish to cancel your Point-to-Point Travelcard within the duration of validity and give it back, you can have it refunded at a public transport point of sale or by phoning the SBB Contact Center on 0848 44 66 88 (CHF 0.08/min.). The refund is calculated as a percentage of the number of days used.
Travel passes are only fully refundable if they are canceled at least 1 day before travel and you have used the Flex Option payment protection. If you have not used the protection, a cancellation fee of CHF 60.00 will be charged and an additional 30% will be charged if you cancel 1 - 3 days before travel.
Unfortunately, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) does not offer partial refunds if you decide not to use your pass in full or if you shorten your trip due to illness or injury.
Unused passes that are canceled on the day of validity or after the trip are also subject to refunds and manual cancellation fees. SBB will require proof of why the travel pass(es) was not used. Please provide all necessary proof when requesting a refund for an unused pass if the cancellation occurred on or after the start date of the pass.
Train ticket prices
Tickets from SBB and most European train operators usually go on sale three months before your trip. Try to book as early as possible to find the cheapest tickets, such as Supersaver and Saver Day Passes, as they sell out quickly. Try to avoid rush hours in major cities in Switzerland and Europe. During rush hours, tickets are usually more expensive and trains are more crowded.
You can buy tickets for most long-distance journeys within Switzerland for as little as EUR 23 - even on major routes such as Genève to Zürich.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
Saver fares to neighbouring countries are available from SBB. For example, from Zurich to Innsbruck costs from 34 euros and from Geneva to Lyon from 20 euros.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://www.sbb.ch/en/timetable.html
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
Buy Swiss train tickets in advance if you have already planned your trip and want to get the cheapest fares when traveling on long-distance trains. Supersaver tickets can be booked up to 2 months in advance.
If you're traveling in Switzerland, you don't need to buy Swiss train tickets in advance - standard tickets don't sell out and are valid for any train. Simply board the train, take any available seat and enjoy the ride.
Types of tickets.
Swiss train tickets
There are six types of train tickets in Switzerland, and prices usually depend on the route rather than the type of train.
• Super Saver Tickets
The best option for frugal travellers
These discount tickets are available on many SBB routes and cost up to 70% less than regular tickets. They can be purchased online up to 30 days before your departure date and the number of tickets per trip is usually limited, so book early to avoid disappointment. These tickets are not exchangeable or refundable.
• City tickets
The best option for exploring different cities
This rail ticket includes a one-day public transportation pass from your departure or arrival city. The ticket is valid for one day and can be purchased either online or at the train station. If you want to use public transportation in both the city of departure and the city of arrival, order a city-to-city ticket - it is only available online.
• Saver day pass
The best option for cheap day trips around the country
If you have limited time and want to see as much of Switzerland as possible, buy a Saver Day Pass - you get unlimited travel anytime, anywhere in Switzerland. This pass is valid for both first and second class travel, but is non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
• Standard tickets
Best for one-off trips or long weekend getaways.
Standard tickets are single or return tickets with a fixed price based on the itinerary rather than the type of train. For example, you can take an Intercity or RegioExpress train for a trip from Zurich to Bern and pay the same price.
• Multi-trip tickets
Best for group travel or for traveling the same route multiple times
This ticket offers a discounted price for six single trips on a specific route (e.g. Geneva to Lausanne), and can also be used for a group of six people traveling together.
• Swiss train tickets for travelers
Best for long-distance travel
If you are planning to travel around Switzerland for a few days, the Swiss Travel Pass is the right one for you. With this pass, you can travel on all regular trains, buses and boats for a certain number of days. With this pass you can also ride the scenic Glacier Express, get free admission to more than 500 museums and discounts of up to 50% on some mountain railroads, cable cars and eBikes.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Switzerland
Interrail/Eurail Passes available in Switzerland. The best option is to buy your Eurail or Interrail Pass on the official website using their app.
Saver price.
Super Saver tickets - these discounted tickets are available on many SBB routes and cost up to 70% less than regular tickets. They can be purchased online up to 30 days before your departure date, and the number of tickets per trip is usually limited, so book early to avoid disappointment. These tickets are not exchangeable or refundable.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible tickets are available. These are more expensive, but you can change your train connection, take any train on the route you booked or get a refund. When you select a train journey in the booking system, you will see the options available and can book the one you prefer.
Rules of boarding.
You must always carry an identification document when traveling. Tickets are issued on a personalized basis only and ID may be required at the time of validation. If the last name does not match, you will travel without a valid ticket.
Discounts for group travel.
In Switzerland, a group can consist of 10 or more people. Preferential fares are available for groups. The availability of certain travel tickets and the age of the travelers are taken into account when calculating the price. Group travel must be booked in advance. You will need a group ticket for your trip. It includes a free seat reservation.
Age groups and discounts.
Children under 6 years of age who do not have their own seat travel free of charge on all Swiss and cross-border flights. Children between 6 and 16 years of age are entitled to a half-price ticket.
Young people aged between 16 and under 25 can benefit from an advantageous price with the Half Fare Travelcard for Youth.
There is a discounted monthly or annual travel card ("GA Travelcard"), but it is reserved for retirees in Switzerland and a few bordering countries.
Age limitations for minors.
Children from 6 to 16 years old can travel unaccompanied on SBB trains and pay half-price or minimum fare.
Handicapped passengers.
SBB Contact Center Handicap.
The SBB Contact Center Handicap provides free boarding and disembarkation assistance to passengers with reduced mobility at auxiliary stations in Switzerland and on international flights.
The SBB Handicap Contact Center arranges boarding and disembarkation assistance at auxiliary stations.
The service is free of charge for all passengers using wheelchairs, as well as for people with reduced mobility, blind or visually impaired passengers and passengers with intellectual disabilities.
Seat reservations in trains in Switzerland.
Seat reservations are not always possible on many Swiss trains, but on some long-distance trains you can reserve a seat for a small fee.
Seat reservations are only necessary if you are traveling on scenic trains such as the Bernina Express, Glacier Express or Golden Pass.
Comfort classes on the trains.
Second class
• Available on all trains in Switzerland
• Second class is the most common class in Switzerland, so it can be more crowded than first class. In second class carriages you can expect the following:
• Free WiFi
• Luggage storage
• Restaurant car with takeaway or table service (on most IC and EC trains)
• Family area on IC and ICN trains
First Class
Depending on the train you are traveling on, first class on Swiss trains may include the following extras in addition to second class amenities:
• Larger and more comfortable seats
• More legroom
• Business area on IC trains
• Quiet zone
Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Switzerland.
Most long-distance trains have at least a bistro car that serves snacks and drinks, and some trains have table service (usually in first class).
Night trains in Switzerland?
The following night trains cover the routes between Switzerland and its neighbouring countries, including Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Croatia.
• ÖBB Nightjet trains run between Zurich, Basel, Berlin and Hamburg, as well as Zurich, Linz and Vienna
• EuroNight trains connect Zurich to Graz (Austria), and Zurich to Vienna and Budapest
• D-train runs between Zurich, Villach (Austria), Ljubljana (Slovenia), and Zagreb (Croatia)
Important train routes in Switzerland.
Basel - Bern / from 1:20 hours / from 24 EUR / 3-4 trains per hour (August 2023)
Basel - Interlaken / from 2:00 hours / from 39 EUR / every 30 minutes (August 2023)
Basel - Lucerne / from 1:04 hours / from 12 EUR / 3-4 trains per hour (August 2023)
Basel - Zurich /from 1:13 hours / from 12 EUR / 5-6 trains per hour (August 2023)
Bern - Geneva /from 1:57 hours / from 24 EUR / 2-3 trains per hour (August 2023)
Bern - Interlaken /from 0:47 hours / from 31 EUR / 3-4 trains per hour (August 2023)
Bern - Zurich / 0:59 hours / from 17 EUR / 3-4 trains per hour (August 2023)
Geneva - Zurich / 2:59 hours / from 48 EUR / 2-3 trains per hour (August 2023)
International train routes.
From Switzerland, you can easily travel by train to countries such as: Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Czechia.
Tourist / scenic routes in Switzerland.
Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery. The following scenic trains in Switzerland offer the most panoramic routes:
Bernina Express: Chur - Lugano via Tirano (Italy)
Chocolate Train: Montreux - Brock-Chocolate
Centovalli Railroad: Locarno (Switzerland) - Domodossola (Italy)
Golden Pass: Lucerne - Interlaken - Montreux
Glacier Express: Davos/St. Moritz - Zermatt
Gotthard Panorama Express: Lucerne - Domodossola (Italy)
Luggage information.
There’s no luggage limit nor any baggage fee on most Swiss trains.
Bicycle on the train.
You can take your bicycle on most SBB trains. You can only transport your bicycle free of charge if it is folded up and stored in a case, otherwise you must buy a ticket for it and reserve a seat before the date of travel.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
(Snow) sports equipment (skis, snowboards, golf bags, etc.) can be taken with you. There are separate luggage compartments in the train.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Switzerland.
Access to the luggage lockers is available during all station opening hours. Some stations, including Geneva, Basel SBB, Zurich HB, have new lockers for card payment: Price for up to 6 hours: Small (35.1 cm x 45.7 cm x 55.5 cm) €5.20 . Medium (35,1 x 62,0 x 55,5) CHF €7,30.
Lost and Found Items.
Passengers can report lost items themselves using a search mask on the SBB website. The lost item report is automatically cross-checked against existing reports of found items. A connection with the Swiss Loss Property Service takes the reports from local lost property office into account.
Pets on the trains.
Your four-legged friend can accompany you on Swiss trains. To do so, you must purchase an additional half-price dog ticket or a 1-day dog pass. Your dog can travel with you in 1st class on a 2nd class ticket.
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