Discover the Swiss Travel Pass

Exploring Switzerland’s unparalleled natural wonders is a breeze with the Swiss Travel Pass. This transportation option, which offers the option to explore 90+ cities with a single Swiss Rail Pass, is a must-have for international travellers. With a Swiss Pass, tourists can explore the country via unlimited rides on Swiss trains, boats, buses, cable cars and public transport.

With bonus benefits, including entry to over 500 museums, complimentary boat trips on stunning bodies of water like Lake Geneva, and 50% off mountain excursions, a 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.

Learn more about the Swiss Train Passes 2024 offerings, benefits, FAQs and more with this comprehensive guide. Curious about booking your Swiss Travel Pass? Read on to learn more.

 Benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass

What can the SBB Swiss Travel Pass do for you and your Switzerland explorations? Let’s get into it!

Each pass includes the following:

• Unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network: Journey through one of the most beautiful countries in Europe at your convenience with the Swiss Rail Passes for tourists. With unlimited trips on Swiss public transportation, you can explore as many attractions throughout the country as you please.
• Coverage of trains, buses and boats: Using the Swiss Travel Pass means you can travel on trains, buses, boats, cable cars and other forms of public transportation. This pass allows you to explore even more areas and sites via your chosen transport method.
• Access to premium panoramic routes such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Line: View some of the most stunning Swiss natural wonders as you wind around mountains, lakes, waterfalls and more – all with a scenic train route. Choose an adventure that fits your preferences with panoramic routes from Italy to Switzerland and popular Swiss destinations and attractions.
• Inclusion of mountain excursions: This all-in-one ticket also offers adventurous activities in Switzerland, with free or discounted admission to famed mountain peaks like Mt. Rigi, Stanserhorn and Schynige Platte. For an even more exciting trip, you can use the pass for 50% off mountain excursions, such as a ride on the Gornergrat featuring views of the Matterhorn.
• Free/discounted entry to over 500 museums and exhibitions: A Swiss Travel Pass is more than an all-inclusive option for public transportation. Swiss Travel ass holders also gain free entry to 500+ museums on topics ranging from art to history, tech, science and nature. Find a complete list of the included museums here.
• Savings and convenience for tourists: With the many benefits and savings accumulated with the Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll have extra money in your budget for additional activities, accommodations and local cuisine.

Highlights of travel in Switzerland

Travelling with a Swiss Travel Pass allows you to discover top destinations such as:

• Lucerne: A charming lake city connected by an iconic wooden bridge
• Interlaken: One of the best destinations for outdoor adventurers
• Zurich: A historic, attraction-packed city
• Train to Mt. Rigi: The “Queen of the Mountains”, provides breathtaking views
• Boating on Lake Geneva: Exploration of one of the most picturesque lakes by boat

Sustainability and the Swiss Travel Pass

With an impressive network of 11,000+ trains covered by the SBB, the railways pride themselves on offering one of the most sustainable travel options (besides walking or biking). Compared to other methods of transport, travelling using public transport causes 66%-75% fewer carbon emissions. Switzerland’s public transportation options are synonymous with reduced fuel dependency, fewer greenhouse gas emissions and efficiency in transporting groups of (versus individual) travellers to their desired destinations. Take advantage of these eco-friendly benefits with the Swiss Travel Pass.

 Types of Swiss Travel Pass

Explore the many Swiss Travel Pass options, from the Half Fare Pass to the Rail Golden Pass. The details on each pass type below will allow you to select the correct option for your upcoming holidays.

As a note, the Swiss Pass cost will vary depending on which choice is selected. There are currently no options for a 2-day Swiss Pass or 7-day Swiss Pass, etc., though you’ll find plenty of choices that meet your needs listed below.

Swiss Travel Pass

This 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.

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 Saver Day Pass

Should you be in Switzerland for only a short period of time, the Swiss Saver Day Pass may be your best option. This pass allows for unlimited rides on public transport, trains, buses and boats in the GA* area. This pass can be booked for first- or second-class travel.

*The GA area, or the “Generalabonnement” area, represents the entire Swiss Travel System network. A pass that covers this areas allow travellers unlimited access to all public transportation including trains, buses and boats throughout Switzerland.

Swiss Half Fare Pass

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.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Should you require additional flexibility during your travels to Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is a fantastic option. Instead of consecutive 3, 4, 8 or 15-day travel, this Flex Pass allows for non-consecutive day exploration. Purchase a pass for the number of days you wish to explore within a month and enjoy convenient, unlimited rides on the days you choose. This pass includes the same benefits as a typical Swiss Travel Pass, including up to 50% on mountain train routes, free access to 500+ museums on select days and a Free Swiss Family Pass.

Swiss Family Pass

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. This pass must be purchased in Switzerland.

Swiss Travel Pass Youth

Youths and students up to the age of 24 can purchase a Swiss Travel Pass Youth, which provides a 30% discount on the typical Swiss Travel Pass cost. This option is ideal for students visiting abroad or families travelling with older teens or young adults.

Swiss Rail Pass for Seniors

Currently, there is no discount for Swiss Travel Passes for seniors. Instead, seniors fall under the standard adult category.

Swiss Rail GoldenPass

Those interested in a luxurious, scenic exploration of the country will enjoy the Swiss Rail Golden Pass. This option will whisk you from central Switzerland to Lake Geneva. With three routes available, you can opt to visit Lucerne, Interlaken and Montreux separately or with a combined trip. The Swiss Travel Pass includes coverage of the cost of the GoldenPass Line. However, you’ll need to pay an additional fee to book your reservation, which varies depending on whether you want to travel in first or second class aboard the train.

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Half Fare Pass

A few differences arise when comparing the Swiss Half Fare vs. Swiss Travel Pass. The Swiss Half Fare is best for those travelling for a month in Switzerland, while the Swiss Travel Pass caters to those travelling for 15 days or less (unless a Flex Pass is purchased). Transportation costs are fully covered when using a Swiss Travel Pass (besides additional fees for scenic railroads or travel methods not covered by the Swiss Pass). In comparison, the Swiss Half Fare covers up to 50% of the transport cost.

Swiss Travel Pass: First Class vs. Second Class

Both options provide you with fantastic benefits. However, you’ll notice larger seats when booking first-class travel and premium views. You can still expect a pleasant trip via second class, with ample comfortable seats and clean train cars.

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The main difference between a Swiss Travel Pass and a Swiss Travel Pass Flex is how it must be used. The typical travel pass requires you to use the unlimited rides for consecutive days, while the flex pass lets you use the purchased days non-consecutively throughout a month’s time.

Where to buy the Swiss Travel Pass

With simple navigation and the convenience of purchasing tickets online at Rail Europe, you can skip the waiting lines at local train stations. Easily purchase a Swiss Travel Pass through our site. Then, sit back, relax and explore all Switzerland has to offer!

Travel tips for Switzerland

1. Be sure to always schedule excursions and panoramic trips ahead of time, as they book up quickly.
2. Always carry a valid form of ID, as it may be checked while on public transport along with your Swiss Travel Pass/ticket.
3. Be sure to double-check alternative transportation methods covered by the Swiss Pass, as some require additional fees (such as certain mountain railways).

 How to use the Swiss Travel Pass

Booking a Swiss Travel Pass through Rail Europe is straightforward and requires only a few steps.

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

How to validate and use the pass

Once purchased, the Swiss Travel Pass is already pre-validated. Simply print or use the e-ticket to board Swiss public transport according to the booked days. Be sure to sit in the section that matches your ticket (1st or 2nd class).

Tips for planning travel itineraries using the pass

1. Choose the correct Swiss Travel Pass according to the number of days you’ll be in Switzerland and the flexibility you desire.
2. Make seat reservations for scenic trains as far in advance as possible to ensure you can enjoy the destinations you desire. Most trains do not require reservations, but premium trains such as Bernina Express, Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express do.
3. Be aware of ticket validity for the Swiss Travel Pass, as activated passes are only valid from midnight to 5 am the following morning.
4. When planning travel itineraries, account for attractions and excursions included in a Swiss travel system ticket, as this can help you more easily budget for additional travel fees (like hotels and cuisine).
5. When using the Swiss Pass for discounted tickets, the additional tickets must be bought online or at the station beforehand.

 Frequently asked questions

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Schilthorn?

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass includes a 50% discount for Schilthorn.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Jungfraujoch?

The Swiss Pass provides free transport to Grindelwald/Wengen plus an additional 25% discount on the trip up to Jungfraujoch.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Jungfrau?

The Swiss Pass provides free transport to Grindelwald/Wengen plus an additional 25% discount on the trip up Mount Jungfrau.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise can be visited with a Swiss Pass, which provides a 50% discount.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Mt. Pilatus?

Use the Swiss Travel Pass to head to Alpnachstad or Kriens and back with a 50% discount.

Is the Bernina Express covered in Swiss Pass?

Yes, the Bernina Express is covered by the Swiss Pass. However, an additional reservation fee is required.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Glacier Express?

Yes, the Swiss Pass covers the Glacier Express. However, an additional reservation fee is required.

Are there any discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass comes with many benefits, including various discounts. Use the Swiss Travel Pass discount for free or discounted rides on public transportation throughout Switzerland. The discount also applies to activities and attractions, such as complimentary access to museums, reduced pricing on panoramic railways, discounted mountain excursions and free travel for children under the age of 16.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

If you plan to spend multiple days exploring Switzerland (non-consecutively or consecutively), the Swiss Travel Pass is the ultimate travel ally. Compared to Point-to-point tickets in Switzerland, which are valid for a single destination and back, the Swiss Travel Pass provides more flexibility in the destinations available and the travel method.

Eurail Pass Vs. Swiss Pass: which should I get?

The Eurail 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 Eurorail. However, Interrail Passes are only available for European citizens.

 Exploring Switzerland

Suggested itineraries for different durations (e.g., 3-day, 8-day trips).

3-Day Itinerary: With the Swiss Rail Pass, you can plan various itineraries across the country on a three-day trip. For example, you can begin your Switzerland trip in Zurich and then travel to Rhine Falls, Luzerne and Mount Rigi. The second day can include a trip to Mount Titlis and the lakefront at Luzerne. The final day can include options like Interlaken and Brienz for stunning views.

4-Day Itinerary: Perhaps you have a four-day pass. If so, your visit may include an arrival in Geneva. Then, a trip aboard the GoldenPass Line to Luzerne. Additional attractions can include Mount Jungfrau, Mount Titlis and the Rhine Falls.

8-Day Itinerary: An eight-day itinerary allows you to see quite a few more Swiss attractions, especially when using Zurich as your base. Include visits to Interlaken, Lake Brienz, Schilthorn, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Grindelwald, Zermatt, Matterhorn and Montreux via the GoldenPass Express. Plan for a major attraction or destination each day.

15-Day Itinerary: Using the Swiss Travel Pass for a 15-day itinerary includes the most extensive exploration of the country, with visits to many of the top attractions and destinations. Begin with a visit to Lucerne, then head to Mount Pilatus, Brienz, Interlacken, Grindelwald, Shcilthorn and Zermatt. Use the Glacier Express to reach St. Moritz, before travelling to Lugano Ticino and Locarno, then returning to Zurich.

Must-see destinations and attractions

• Basel: The city of culture; great for museum hoppers, architecture lovers and charming attractions
• Davos: Family-friendly holiday destination for winter sports lovers
• Geneva: Where French, German and Italian cultures intersect
• Lausanne: Thriving centre of creativity
• Zermatt: Picturesque, mountain car-free village; perfect for foodies, hikers and mountain bikers
• Mount Titlis Rotating Cable Car: First rotating cable car offering views of the tallest mountain in central Switzerland
• Snow-dusted Jungfrau: Explore views of top attractions en route, like the Black Forest in Germany

Tips for maximizing the travel experience

1. Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Morcote, a charming lakeside town featuring the tranquillity of Switzerland with an Italian flair.
2. Ride one of the following routes during winter for dreamy, snow-filled views: Rigi, Bernina Express or Glacier Express.
3. Bring a camera to capture incredible natural beauty along the GoldenPass Line, including scenic towns, lush valleys, glittering lakes and more.
4. Experience the beloved “Train du Chocolat” (Chocolate Train) between May and September, which includes a visit to a cheese and chocolate factory.

Coverage of the Swiss Travel Pass

Whether tourists simply want to travel from town to town or expand their explorations with regional or international visits, the Swiss Travel Pass is here to accommodate each offering. This pass includes access to an array of museums and discounted (or even complimentary) mountain excursions to top destinations like Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch and Mount Rigi.

Additionally, panoramic railways, such as the Glacier Express, Golden Pass Swiss Scenic Route and the Swiss Pass Bernese Oberland, can be bundled with the Swiss Pass for breathtaking scenery. Discover incredible views of Switzerland’s mountains, countryside and charming towns with ample photography opportunities.