swiss travel pass erfahrungen

Finding Alexx

| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Switzerland , Europe , Train travel · February 14, 2024

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? An honest review

Planning your trip to Switzerland but wondering is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it? After trying out a couple of different travel passes in Switzerland, here’s a super detailed breakdown of the Swiss Travel Pass, when they’re worth it, when they’re not worth it, and some real-life calculations showing how much you could save on your itinerary.

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If you’re weighing up the pros and cons of getting a Swiss Travel Pass for your upcoming Switzerland adventure, you’re in the right place.

It’s one of the ultimate countries to explore via public transport, with a world-class network of trains, buses and boats getting you from A to B with epic views on the way, but we all know Switzerland can be pricey, and that goes for transport too.

We all want to get the best bang for our buck and make sure our travel planning time is being put to good use, no one wants to waste time on confusing spreadsheets or overspend on train tickets.

As an avid travel nerd, and a bit of a Switzerland fangirl, I’ve visited the country four times in recent years for epic train journeys so I’m pretty clued up on Swiss Travel Passes and the other travel pass options. I’ve put together this ultra-detailed blog post to help you navigate the Swiss Travel Pass maze.

The Swiss Travel Pass ain’t cheap, but is it worth the money to make your Switzerland trip seamless and cost-effective? The short answer is that sometimes it is, but to really help you figure out if the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it we’ve got to look at how it works, specific example itineraries and alternatives that might be better.

Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family looking to make unforgettable memories, or a group of friends wanting to experience Switzerland’s lush landscapes, this guide is going to tell you all you need to know about the Swiss Travel Pass and how to figure out if it’s worth it for your trip.

Summary: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

If you’re just looking for a quick answer to the question ‘is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it?’, the annoying answer is: it really depends .

Based on my personal experience and the calculations at the end of this blog post, the Swiss Travel Pass (I’ll refer to it as STP in this blog post) is pretty much always better than buying point-to-point, full fare tickets, but the Swiss Half Fare Card can often end up being even better value .

To know for sure whether a STP is worth it, you need to write down all the transport you’re going to use during your Switzerland trip and calculate the point-to-point tickets vs. what it would cost with a Swiss Travel Pass vs. the Swiss Half Fare Card.

I can’t tell you whether the STP will be worth it for you just based on the cities/towns you’re visiting or the number of days you’re in Switzerland. It will totally depend on what mountain excursions you want to do, if you’re taking any panoramic trains, and if you know your itinerary well in advance or if you’ll be booking things last minute.

However, there are some scenarios in which a Swiss Travel Pass is *generally* either worth it or not worth it.

The Swiss Travel Pass is probably worth it when…

• Your itinerary includes the Glacier Express and another one or two panoramic trains
• You’re planning on using the public transport system to get between cities every couple of days at least
• You hate the idea of planning and just want to be able to stay flexible and jump on trains when you feel like it
• You’re visiting multiple cities but don’t plan on using any or many of the mountain railways or cable cars
• You’re happy to keep your mountain excursions to Rigi and Stanserhorn (the two that are free with the STP)
• You’re wanting to book most of your trip pretty last minute, within a few days of travel
• You’re doing the Grand Train Tour (all five panoramic trains)

The Swiss Travel Pass probably isn’t worth it when…

• You know your itinerary two or three months in advance and can pre-book tickets without needing them to be refundable
• You’re in Switzerland for three days or less
• You’re just visiting one or two cities or sticking to a specific region
• You plan on taking 3-4 or more mountain railways and cable cars (the Half Fare Card will probably be better)
• You want to go to Jungfraujoch ( Jungfrau’s regional travel pass offers the best Jungfrau deal)

All you need to know about the Swiss Travel Pass

What is the swiss travel pass.

The Swiss Travel Pass is your all-in-one ticket to travel freedom across Switzerland’s extensive public transportation network.

It’s designed for tourists and allows you to hop on and off trains, buses, and boats at your leisure, for a set number of days (either consecutive or flexible).

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The Swiss Travel Pass lets you choose from 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days of travel. You choose a start date for your pass and you’ll have unlimited access to public transport for the length of time your pass is valid for. Ideal for those who will be utilising the transport network each day of their trip.

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex offers all the same benefits but with the flexibility to choose the days you want to travel within one month. Choose a 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 day Flex Pass and ‘switch on’ a travel day when you know that day is going to be worth it. This is ideal for longer trips and if you’ll have days that you won’t be using transport enough to make it worth using a ‘travel day’.

What does the Swiss Travel Pass include?

• Unlimited travel on buses, boats and trains across the Swiss Travel System network
• Free travel on panoramic trains like the Gotthard Panorama Express, Glacier Express and Bernina Express
• A couple of free mountain excursions ( Stanserhorn and Rigi )
• 50% off most other mountain railways and cable cars
• Free public transport in 90 cities
• Free entry to more than 500 museums

What does the Swiss Travel Pass not include?

• Seat reservations on panoramic trains (most trains in Switzerland don’t require reservations but the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and a couple of others have either mandatory or recommended reservations)
• The mountain excursion to Jungfraujoch (but you do get a 25% discount)
• Mountain railways and cable cars like Gornergratbahn, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Titlis and Pilatus (but you do get a 50% discount on most of them)
• Private lake cruises

Swiss Travel Pass prices

Here are the prices for adult passes in 2nd class. 1st class passes are about 60% more expensive than the prices you see below.

Prices valid as of 1 February 2024, they typically put prices up annually at the most so these should be valid for the remainder of 2024.

Can you get a discount on a Swiss Travel Pass?

If you’re between 16 and 25 you’re eligible for the Swiss Travel Pass Youth, this gives you a 30% discount on the pass prices above.

Kids aged between 6 and 16 (until their 16th birthday) accompanies by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket) travel free of charge across the network with a complimentary Swiss Family Card.

Kids under 6 travel free of charge across the network, no Swiss Family Card needed.

There are no senior discounts for the STP unfortunately.

How to use a Swiss Travel Pass

Where to buy a swiss travel pass.

You can easily buy a Swiss Travel Pass online from the comfort of your home or while you’re already on your way to Switzerland.

Just keep in mind that you must have a valid STP if you’re taking advantage of the benefits, i.e. if you jump on a train with the plan to buy your STP once you’re on it, and you get asked for your ticket before you have a chance to buy it, you’ll get fined.

Is there a Swiss Travel Pass app?

There’s no Swiss Travel Pass app, but you can manage your pass online.

Once you purchase your STP you’ll be emailed a receipt with details on how to activate your pass.

If you’ve got a Swiss Travel Pass (with consecutive days), you simply need to show the QR code (on your phone or printed if you prefer) to the people checking train tickets.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass Flex, you need to activate a travel day for each day you want to use the pass. You can do that at https://activateyourpass.com. Bookmark that URL on your phone or laptop for easy access.

Do you need to make seat reservations with the Swiss Travel Pass?

Most trains, boats and buses in Switzerland are reservation-free, meaning you can hop on and off with your pass without paying any additional supplements.

But there are some instances where seat reservations are mandatory, like:

• The Glacier Express
• The Bernina Express
• GoldenPass Express Prestige Class
• Gotthard Panorama Express

How to book mountain railways with the Swiss Travel Pass

If you want to take advantage of one of the mountain railway or cable car discounts with the STP, you can book these online and select ‘Swiss Travel Pass’ in the ‘discount’ dropdown. Just remember to activate a travel day for that day.

You can also purchase tickets at the relevant mountain railway/cable car station and show your pass to get a ticket at the discounted price.

How to calculate if the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for your trip

I get loads of messages from people sharing their rough itinerary and asking me if a rail pass is worth it, but unfortunately it’s a bit trickier than just looking at the cities you’re going to over six days and then knowing whether it’ll be good value or not.

Here are some deeper dives into how to truly figure out if the STP is worth it for your trip.

If you know your itinerary

If you know your itinerary, including what activities you want to do, you can easily figure out if a Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for you.

• Write each trip into a spreadsheet, e.g. Zurich to Lucerne or Jungfrau day trip from Grindelwald
• Create three columns in the spreadsheet, for the full fare price, the Swiss Half Fare Card price and the STP price
• Go to SBB.ch and search each train/bus/boat route you’re taking on the public network. If your trip is within six months then put in the actual date if you can, if it’s outside of six months just pop in a date 5-6 months from now.
• Note down the price for each trip for the Half Fare Card and for the full fare. The SBB system automatically shows you the half fare price first as the ‘from’ price, you’ll need to select ‘full price’ under travel options to see the actual price without a Half Fare Card.
• For ‘normal’ trips on the public transport network (i.e. not panorama trains or mountain railways/cable cars), put ‘0’ in the STP column as all of these are covered
• If you’re taking any panoramic scenic trains, check the prices on their website because you’ll need to add in mandatory seat reservations and ensure you’re noting down the correct seasonal prices. They should specify full fare prices, half fare prices and mandatory seat reservations for STP holders.
• For mountain railways like Rigi Kulm or Jungfrau, or for cable cars like Titlis or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, check their websites to take note of the full fare and half fare prices. These websites should also show you a STP price but sometimes you’ll need to do a ticket search and select ‘Swiss Travel Pass’ as the discount to see the price.
• Add in a final row with the pass price, 120CHF for the Half Fare Card and the relevant price for the STP you need based on your trip length
• Total up the columns!

Your spreadsheet should look something like this:

From here, you should be able to clearly see whether the Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card or full fare tickets would offer the best value.

Important: Switzerland’s public transport system uses dynamic pricing based on demand, which means that the train from Zurich to Lucerne will get more expensive as more people book it. If you see that your trip is cheaper with full fare tickets or a Half Fare Card, lock these in in advance to make sure you get the best price before demand gets higher and the ticket price rises.

If you have no idea about your itinerary

If you don’t know your itinerary yet, and want to just go with the flow while you’re in Switzerland, it’s a little trickier to determine whether the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it.

The best way to do this is to consider the value of the pass per day, and make sure that you’re likely to save at least that cost if you used the pass. In the most basic of calculations, if the Swiss Travel Pass is going to save you more than the below prices on average per day across your trip, then it’s worth it.

Here’s the cost per day of the prices (as of 1 Feb 2024):

If you’re planning a ten day Switzerland trip but don’t know where you’re going yet, consider whether you’re likely to save at least 55CHF per day on average by using buses/trains/boats and utilising discounts on mountain railways and cable cars. If so, then an 8 day Swiss Travel Pass Flex could be worth it for you (assuming you will have two days of your trip where you’re not using the pass).

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Half Fare Card if you don’t know your itinerary

This is the biggest question people what to know when they’re considering if the Swiss Travel Pass or the Half Fare Card are better, but if you don’t have your itinerary you need to either need to come back to this stage later in your trip planning, or take a good, hard look at your priorities and pull a rough itinerary together.

At the minimum, you need to:

• Figure out the cities you’re likely going to get between
• Choose the mountain excursions you definitely want to do (keeping in mind Rigi and Stanserhorn are free with the STP)
• Determine whether a Glacier Express trip is a must-do for you (probably Switzerland’s best trains)
• Determine whether Jungfrau is a must-do for you (iconic Top of Europe)
• Figure out how long in advance you think you’ll know your plans

From here you’ll have a rough idea like this:

• 2 x intercity trips
• 2 x Glacier Express trip
• 2 x mountain excursions (the free ones on the STP)
• Not keen for Jungfrau
• Wants to confirm plans a before travel, to keep the trip very flexible

With this in mind you can out together the spreadsheet just using rough searches and dates for your routes. It’s not going to give you exact pricing relevant to your route, but it will at least give you a good idea on if the STP or the Half Fare Card will likely come out on top.

Pros of a Swiss Travel Pass

• No need to buy tickets for trips on the trains/buses/boats on the public network, just jump on and show your pass to the driver, ticket staff or train controllers
• Free entry to 500 museums
• Free public transport in most cities/towns
• Free access to Rigi and Stanserhorn mountains
• Discounted access to many other mountains (usually 50% but 25% for Jungfrau)
• Covers the whole ticket cost of the expensive panorama trains, which saves you a whopping 159CHF on a Glacier Express 2nd class ticket or 272CHF on 1st class. You still need to pay the 44-49CHF seat reservation, but a Half Fare Card would still require you to pay 79.50CHF for the 2nd class ticket on top of the reservation.

Cons of a Swiss Travel Pass

• Expensive up-front price
• Only for a set number of days which is annoying if you need a pass for the number of days in between, e.g. 5, 7, 10 or 12
• A maximum of 15 days on the pass, compared to the Half Fare Card which is valid for one month
• Only 25% discount at Jungfrau (compared to 50% on the Half Fare Card)
• You might pay for days you don’t end up using to their full potential (e.g. if you don’t travel on one of the days of the pass, or if you end up doing a short trip which would have been cheap without the pass anyway)

Is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it? Four example itineraries

I want to share four example itineraries to show you the value of the Swiss Travel Pass vs. point-to-point tickets, and I’ve included the Half Fare Card in there too.

Each of these example itineraries is using prices for tickets booked one month in advance. Keep in mind that if you book any later than one month in advance, chances are the prices will be higher.

Five days in Switzerland: Swiss Travel Pass budget breakdown

For this one I’m using my five day Switzerland itinerary , which includes:

• Zurich to Interlaken
• Interlaken to Schiltorn day trip
• Interlaken to Jungfrau day trip
• Interlaken to Zermatt
• Zermatt to St Moritz (Glacier Express)

Here’s a spreadsheet showing the breakdown:

The Half Fare Card ends up being 30% cheaper than buying full fare tickets, and 17.4% cheaper than doing the same trip with a Swiss Travel Pass.

Ten days in Switzerland: Swiss Travel Pass budget breakdown

My ten day Switzerland itinerary is longer and includes five mountain excursions + two epic panorama train trips. I’ve calculated the below based on an eight-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex, leaving two days for shorter trips or local travel that doesn’t require a pass day.

Here’s the breakdown:

As you can see, the Swiss Half Fare Card comes out on top again! It’s 35.5% cheaper than buying point-to-point tickets, and 10.9% cheaper than using a Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

Free mountain railways only

Let’s throw a spanner in the works and say you’re taking my ten day Switzerland itinerary but removing the mountain excursions that aren’t free with the Swiss Travel Pass, just focusing on city trips, free excursions and hikes that don’t require cogwheel trains or cable cars.

Much closer this time, the Swiss Half Fare card saves 6CHF compared to getting the 6-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Both options are still loads cheaper than the full fare.

Short trip with free mountain railways only

I’m determined to find a way where the Swiss Travel Pass comes out on top, and I think I’ve found one.

Let’s cut down the itinerary length but include longer train trips, a panorama train journey, free mountain excursions and book everything last minute, only a few days before travel. Here’s the breakdown:

We got there in the end! This trip utilises a four day Swiss Travel Pass Flex and there’s only one additional supplement to pay on top of the travel pass, the Glacier Express seat reservation. In this instance the Swiss Travel Pass ends up being 42% cheaper than the point-to-point full fare tickets, and 14.6% cheaper than the Swiss Half Fare Card.

Swiss Travel Pass alternatives

I’ve talked about the Swiss Half Fare Card a little bit already but here’s some more info on that, plus a bunch of other alternatives you could consider instead of the Swiss Travel Pass.

Swiss Half Fare Card

The Swiss Half Fare Card is exactly what it says on the tin, it gives you half-price fares across the Swiss Travel System network.

There are a couple of key benefits to the Swiss Half Fare Card which make it a great option in lots of scenarios:

• It gives you 50% off most mountain railways and cable cars at half price, sometimes this is the same as the Swiss Travel Pass but in some cases, like Jungfrau, it’s even more of a discount
• It’s only 120CHF and lasts a whole month

And the disadvantages:

• It only gives you 50% discount on the tickets for the panorama trains like the Glacier Express, you still need to pay the full seat reservation
• You have to pay 50% for Rigi and Stanserhorn mountains, which are free with the Swiss Travel Pass
• You need to purchase tickets for each train, bus and boat, unlike the Swiss Travel Pass where you just show your pass to be allowed on. You can easily book them on the SBB app or website, just make sure you’re clicking the half-fare discount.

Book your Swiss Half Fare Card >>

Point-to-point full fare tickets

A point-to-point, full fare or individual ticket is all the same thing, and it refers to just going to the SBB website or a train station to book a trip at the full fare price.

This is pretty much never the cheapest option if you’re travelling in Switzerland and plan on taking at least a few trains during your time there.

If you’re travelling last minute, the point-to-point tickets can be significantly higher (like twice as high) as what you might have seen if you checked prices two months ago.

Regional passes

To make things really confusing, different regions in Switzerland sometimes have their own travel passes that cover public transport and offer various discounts on mountains.

If you’re happy to spend a bit more time on your calculations, you might want to add up what a regional pass would cost in conjunction with a Swiss Half Fare Card that you could use for the rest of your trip.

Tell Pass in Lucerne region

• Unrestricted travel on rains, buses and boats and aerial cableways throughout the Lake Lucerne region
• 100% discount on mountain excursions like Rigi, Stanserhorn (both free with an STP) and also 100% discount on Pilatus and Titlis (STP only gets 50% off most cable cars and mountain railways)
• 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 consecutive days
• Passes start from 120CHF in winter and 190CHF in summer
• Cheaper price per day than the Swiss Travel Pass, could be used in this region and then a STP or Half Fare Card for the rest of the trip

Find out more about the Tell Pass Summer >>

Find out more about the Tell Pass Winter >>

Berner Oberland Pass in Bernese Oberland

• Unrestricted travel on public transport in the Bernese Oberland region, from Lucerne to Berne to Saanan to Domodossola
• Includes free travel on more than 25 mountain cable cars, including Grindelwald-First, Harder Kulm and Schynige
• Boat trips on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are included
• 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 days
• Starts from for the 240CHF full fare but you can bring that down to 168CHF if you own a Swiss Half Fare Card
• 50% discount from Mürren to Schiltorn and from Engelberg to Titlis
• Discounts from local suppliers like cheaper activities, restaurant offers etc.
• Free travel to Kleine Scheidegg and then 50% off the final stretch to Jungfraujoch for 99CHF (instead of 138CHF)

Find out more about the Bernese Oberland Pass >>

Jungfrau Travel Pass for Jungfrau region

• Unlimited travel on boat. buses, trains, cable cars and most mountain railways in the Jungfrau region
• Includes Interlaken and boats across the lakes, Harder Kulm, Lauterbunnen, Mürren, Wengen, Grindelwald and the train from Kleine Schedegg to Eigergletscher
• You can get the return train from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch for a special price of 63CHF (low season) or 75CHF (high season)
• Prices start from 210CHF for a full fare Jungfrau Travel Pass but you can bring that down to 165 if you own a Swiss Half Fare Card
• The Jungfrau Travel Pass runs in summer but there’s a separate Jungfrau Travel Pass Winter which is slightly different as there are no boats running on the lakes and you know have access to the Jungfrau region’s ski fields

Find out more about the Jungfrau Travel Pass >>

Zermatt Peak Pass

• Unlimited travel (not valid for skiing) on the following lifts and trains: Zermatt-Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt-Gornergrat, Furi-Riffelberg and Zermatt-Rothorn
• Admission to Glacier Palace, use of Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn between Randa, Tasch and Zermatt
• Local buses also included
• You get a 25% discount with a Half Fare Card or Swiss Travel Pass
• One day pass is 172CHF full fare and 129CHF with a Half Fare Card
• If your only mountain plans in Zermatt are to do the Gornergratbahn and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, it’s cheaper to just get the Half Fare Card. With the Half Fare Card it would only be 111.55CHF for return tickets for both, compared to the 129CHF for a half-fare discounted one day Peak Pass.
• If you’re planning on hiking or mountain biking a lot in Zermatt then a Peak Pass might be worth it

Find out more about the Zermatt Peak Pass >>

Eurail/Interrail Passes

If your time in Switzerland is part of a bigger trip, like spending a couple of months in Europe or combining Switzerland and Northern Italy , you could look into getting a Eurail (for non-European residents) or Interrail (for European residents) Global Pass to cover your trains inside and outside of Switzerland.

• Covers most trains across Europe but reservations might be required (particularly expensive in France and Italy)
• Free travel on most of Switzerland’s public inter-city trains
• Seat reservations required for panoramic trains
• Doesn’t include mountain railways or cable cars but you might get a discount (usually 25%, some give 50%)
• Doesn’t cover public transport within a city
• Doesn’t cover buses or boats, but you might get a discount on some lake cruises
• The Eurail or Interrail Pass generally isn’t as good value in Switzerland as the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card because of the low mountain railway discounts, so I’d recommend looking into splitting your trip. You could use a Eurail Pass for your journeys between cities like Zurich to Lucerne or Zermatt to St Moritz on the Glacier Express, then get a Half Fare Card or regional pass like the Tell Pass to cover your mountain railways.

Find out more about the Eurail Global Pass >>

Find out more about the Interrail Global Pass >>

Saver Day Pass

A Saver Day Pass is almost like a one day Swiss Travel Pass, giving you unlimited travel across the Swiss Travel System network for one day (from midnight until 5am the next morning).

• The cost of the Saver Day Pass varies, it’s cheaper if you book it in advance and it’s non-refundable, so you need to know what day to buy for
• Could be good if you’re planning on visiting Switzerland for only a few days and just want one or two big adventure days with long trains
• Also great if you’re in Switzerland for work or family reasons and will only have one day to be able to explore, book your Saver Day Pass in advance and you’ll be able to go wherever you want
• No discount on most mountain railways
• Combinable with the Half Fare Card

Book a Saver Day Pass on sbb.ch >>

Swiss Travel Pass FAQs

Is the 1st class swiss travel pass worth it.

The value of a 1st class Swiss Travel Pass totally depends on your travel preferences and budget.

Most Swiss trains on the Swiss Travel System network have 1st class carriages with have more spacious seating and comfier seats, and they’re usually less busy than the 2nd class carriages, which means less noise. 1st class carriages usually have two seats on one side and a single row of seats on the other, so for solo travellers they’re great as you won’t need to sit next to someone.

If you have a 1st class pass that also gives you access to book 1st class tickets for the Glacier Express which is an incredible experience and definitely worth the money if you can afford it.

I personally go for the 1st class pass because I like to work on long trains and I find this easier in a cabin where there’s a single row of seats so I’m not typing away next to a stranger.

But if you’re just travelling for normal sightseeing, in a couple or a family/friends group, and aren’t fussed on the 1st class Glacier Express experience, then just go for 2nd class and save that money for your adventures.

Is Jungfraujoch free with Swiss Travel Pass?

The Jungfraujoch journey is not entirely free with the Swiss Travel Pass , but the pass entitles you to a discount.

Getting to Grindelwald or Wengen is fully covered by the pass. From there, you receive a 25% discount on the train or cableways to reach Jungfraujoch.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover the Grand Train Tour?

If you’re up for a major adventure, the 1280km Grand Train Tour is a bucket list train journey worth considering.

The tour consists of eight different trips that combine to create a figure-eight-ish round trip, mostly train but some bus and boats thrown in for fun, and includes the five premium panoramic trains.

The Grand Train Tour is completely covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll just have to pay for seat reservations on the Bernina Express, Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express.

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover all mountain railways and cable cars?

The Swiss Travel Pass covers a couple of mountain railways and cable cars, like Rigi and Stanserhorn.

Other mountain railways and cable cars are discounted:

• Pilatus (free to reach Kriens or Alpnachstad by bus, train or boat, then 50% off for the train and cable car to Pilatus)
• Titlis (free to Engelberg, 50% off to the top)
• Schiltorn (free to Mürren or Stechelberg, then 50% off the cable car to the top)
• Jungfraujoch (free to Grindelwald or Wengen and then 25% off)
• Grindelwald-First (50% off)
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (50% off)
• Glacier 3000 (50% off)
• Gornergratbahn (50% off)
• Schynige Platte (free to Wilderswil, then 50% discount)

What is the Swiss Rail Pass?

The terms “Swiss Rail Pass” and “Swiss Travel Pass” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same product: the Swiss Travel Pass.

The final verdict: Is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

Well this was a long one! The final verdict is this:

The Swiss Travel Pass is almost always cheaper than buying point-to-point tickets, BUT the Swiss Half Fare Card is often even better value.

If you want to stay flexible and would prefer the freedom to jump on an off trains as you choose, the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass is probably worth the extra you might pay vs. a Swiss Half Fare Card.

Alternatively, if you don’t mind purchasing tickets for each trip, and you want to do mountain excursions that aren’t free with the STP, then the Half Fare Card will probably end up being a better deal for you.

Buy your Swiss Travel Pass >>

Buy your Swiss Half Fare Card >>

I hope this super detailed breakdown of the Swiss Travel Pass has helped you answer the question “is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?”.

MORE SWITZERLAND TRAVEL INSPIRATION:

• How to spend 10 days in Switzerland
• How to spend 5 days in Switzerland
• 33 Instagrammable places in Switzerland
• Rigi vs Pilatus vs Titlis vs Stanserhorn: Which one to visit?
• The cheapest place to ski in Switzerland: Liddes Ski Hostel
• 10 reasons to try co-living in Switzerland
• The ultimate Switzerland and Northern Italy itinerary

MORE SWITZERLAND TRAIN GUIDES:

• Swiss Travel Pass vs Half Fare Card: Which one is best?
• The ultimate Swiss Half Fare Card guide
• Is the Glacier Express worth it?
• Is the Bernina Express worth it?
• Bernina Express vs Glacier Express: Which one should you choose?
• Is the Jungfrau Travel Pass worth it?
• Is the Tell Pass worth it?

MORE EUROPE TRAVEL INSPIRATION:

• The perfect two month Europe itinerary
• A Europe Christmas market itinerary by train
• The most beautiful train rides in Europe
• 27 Europe holiday ideas to inspire you
• How to use a Eurail Pass
• Is a Eurail Pass worth it?
• The ultimate Italy bucket list

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Swiss Travel Pass 2024 review: Is it good value or not?

When it comes to city passes and travel cards, it’s usually fairly easy to figure out whether they would be worth it for you or not. For things like the  Paris Pass  or  London Pass , they have a list of the most popular attractions and how much they cost, right there for you to see. The Swiss Travel Pass, however, is shrouded in mystery, or at least it was until I spent several days tracking down all of the prices and benefits.

A great many of the visitors and commenters on my popular page about  where to go in Switzerland  on a short visit are wondering whether the Swiss Travel Pass is a good deal. Embarrassingly, I’ve always had to answer that I found the pass too confusing to confidently advise people on. Now that has all changed, after literally days of research.

Note: This article was last updated in February, 2024.

Disclosure : This is a reader-supported website and some of the links are affiliate links where a small commission is paid to help keep this site going, but the cost to visitors is the same. The Swiss Travel Pass seems quite expensive at first, so it felt like it might be hard to get your money’s worth out of it. As it turns out, it’s pretty easy to get good value, and it’ll be a good deal for many visitors.

New in 2024

Prices increased an average of 5.9% from 2023 on the Swiss Travel Passes, but the Half Fare Card remains at CHF120, which is where it’s been for many years. Train fares in the country increased by similar percentages so the value is basically unchanged. There were no other notable changes to service or the included attractions and train routes.

>>> Buy the Swiss Travel Pass online

Where to stay in Interlaken and the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Since most people reading this will be visiting the Interlaken area and I get so many questions about it, I decided to write a detailed guide on which area to stay in while visiting this area.

>>> Where to stay in Interlaken or the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland

I included many huge photos in that post so readers will be able to get a better idea of what each place looks like and they are worth a look by itself.

>>> Lucerne or Interlaken: Which to visit and how long to stay?

The article just above will help you decide on how long to spend in each of Switzerland’s two best tourist areas.

Are you 100% sure where you want to go in Switzerland? This should help

Zurich and Geneva are pleasant but dull. The good news is that Switzerland is packed with amazing sights and none of them are the big cities. If you aren’t 100% locked in yet, please read the article below and I think you’ll enjoy it.

>>> Where to go in Switzerland in 2 to 10 days

Is the Swiss Travel Pass a good deal? Here's the short version

The bottom line is that the scenery, train journeys, and cable car rides in Switzerland are stunning and not found anywhere else in the world. They are also quite expensive if you pay for them one at a time. So no matter how you visit Switzerland, you are going to be paying quite a bit, or skipping the absolute best things that you’ve come there to see.

With good planning it’s quite easy to get great value out of a Swiss Travel Pass, but it might be a poor choice for those who don’t like to plan ahead. You can easily do a scenic train ride and a cable car in the same day, and still have time to do a scenic hike in the process.

First class or second class? Good news for most people

That said, Swiss Trains are literally the nicest in Europe and even the Second Class seats and carriages are nicer and roomier than trains in neighboring countries. The First Class seats are larger and nicer with only 3 across the cabin instead of 4, but honestly Second Class is perfectly comfortable for almost everyone.

Again, First Class on European trains like this is generally popular with business travelers where the company is paying and they need to get work done during the ride, and also senior citizens who don’t want to worry about a carriage full of backpackers. For most of the rest of us, Second Class is more than comfortable enough and the seat width and legroom compare to business-class airline seats. I’m a big and tall guy and I almost always travel in Second because it’s plenty comfortable enough and all the seats arrive at the same time anyway.

The longer you'll be in Switzerland, the better deal a Swiss Travel Pass will be

In other words, if you are staying 5 days or fewer, you have to do the math to determine your best option. But if you are spending even 6 or 7 days in Switzerland then the 6-day or 8-day Pass is almost guaranteed to be a great deal and your best choice. Once you have a Swiss Travel Pass you’ll absolutely love the ability to just hop on any train (excellent trains, always on time) and most boats and cable cars without having to worry about the cost. The per-day cost of an 8-day Pass even if you only use 6 of those days is about CHF65, and Switzerland is filled with amazing train rides and boats and cable cars that can get you that much value before noon each day.

Schilthorn (50% discount) and Jungfraujoch (25% discount) are cheaper with a Swiss Travel Pass

Both of those peak experiences are extraordinary and different from each other. Even so, compared to Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn is also faster and more comfortable on the way up and down. You can enjoy an excellent visit to Schilthorn in 4 hours or so (or a bit longer if you eat at the spinning Piz Gloria restaurant at the top), while a visit to Jungfraujoch requires closer to 6 hours.

NOTE: Schilthorn closes for maintenance for a week or two in late November most years.

Consider the Swiss Half-Fare Card instead

If you AREN’T going to be doing two or more of the long (and expensive) scenic train trips, you will get much better value out of the Swiss Half-Fare Card, which is explained a bit below.

Mt Rigi, near Lucerne, is 100% covered by the Swiss Travel Pass

Is a Swiss Travel Pass right for you?

Most people only visit Switzerland for 5 or 6 days at most, so the 3-day and 4-day passes are the ones to focus on. But if you are staying for 8 days or more, those longer passes are almost certainly a great deal for you.

Long story short, if you plan on doing 2 of the more expensive scenic trains and the Jungfraujoch railway or the Schilthorn cable car, then the pass will save you money. Switzerland is expensive, but it’s worth it, and the travel pass can help make it a bit more affordable.

What the Swiss Travel Pass includes

• Free rail travel on normal trains and most scenic trains
• Discounted travel (about 50%) on popular tourist mountain trains
• Discounted travel (about 50%) on popular tourist cable cars
• Free travel on public transport in 75 towns and cities
• Free entry to around 500 museums in Switzerland

The Swiss Travel Pass covers the fare on the most popular scenic and panoramic trains. You can choose a normal seat in a regular carriage for no additional cost, but there is a supplement of CHF8 to CHF49 for a reserved seat in one of the special panorama carriages on these routes.

Prices of the 2024 Swiss Travel Pass

• Adult 3-day Pass: CHF389
• Youth (4 to 25) 3-day Pass: 274
• Adult 4-day Pass: 469
• Youth (4 to 25) 4-day Pass: 330
• Adult 6-day Pass: 602
• Youth (4 to 25) 6-day Pass: 424
• Adult 8-day Pass: 655
• Youth (4 to 25) 8-day Pass: 469
• Adult 15-day Pass: 723
• Youth (4 to 25) 15-day Pass: 512
• Adult 3-day Pass: CHF244
• Youth (4 to 25) 3-day Pass: 172
• Adult 4-day Pass: 295
• Youth (16 to 25) 4-day Pass: 209
• Adult 6-day Pass: 379
• Youth (16 to 25) 6-day Pass: 268
• Adult 8-day Pass: 419
• Youth (16 to 25) 8-day Pass: 297
• Adult 15-day Pass: 459
• Youth (16 to 25) 15-day Pass: 328

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

This version costs a bit more, but you don’t have to use the travel days consecutively. It’s a great option for anyone who won’t be taking longer train rides each day.

• Adult 3 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): CHF445
• Adult 3 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): 279
• Adult 4 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): 539
• Adult 4 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): 339
• Adult 6 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): 644
• Adult 6 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): 405
• Adult 8 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): 697
• Adult 8 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): 439
• Adult 15 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): 755
• Adult 15 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): 472

Where to buy the Swiss Travel Pass

The swiss half-fare card – a better option for many visitors.

Far less confusing than the Swiss Travel Pass, you can instead get a Swiss Half-Fare Card, and it will be a better deal for many travelers. The price is lower and it’s much easier to do the math, and the discounts are greater on some things as well.

• Swiss Half-Fare Card for 30 days: Adults – CHF120 or US$129

What you get:

Those who buy the Swiss Half-Fare Card will get 50% discount on all trains, buses, and boats in Switzerland for up to 30 days, as well as 50% off all public transportation in 75 cities and towns.

>>> Buy the Swiss Half-Fare Card

Why the Half-Fare Card is a better deal for many

While the Swiss Travel Pass is a great deal for those doing many of the expensive scenic journeys and mountain sights within a few days, it’s not good value for those who are doing fewer of the expensive trips and/or those who are staying longer. Also, the Swiss Travel Pass only provides a 25% discount on the amazing Jungfraujoch Railway, which costs between CHF120 and CHF224 return depending on your starting point, while the Half-Fare Card provides a 50% discount.

The math is simple as well. You can just add up the cost of the trains, boats, and buses you’ll be taking while in Switzerland, and if the total is more than CHF240 or so, the Half-Fare Card will save you money.

Example itinerary:

• Zurich to Interlaken train (2nd Class): CHF50
• Schilthorn Cable Car: CHF112
• Jungfraujoch railway from Interlaken: CHF205
• Interlaken to Lucerne train (2nd Class): CHF33
• Mt Rigi roundtrip from Lucerne: CHF84
• Engelberg (near Lucerne) to Mt. Titlis Cable Car: CHF92
• Lucerne to Zurich train (2nd Class): CHF25

Total per person: CHF601 Total with Half-Fare Card (including price of card): CHF420.50

It would be tough to do all of those things in 4 days, although it is possible. If you bought a 4-day Swiss Travel Pass here is how it adds up:

4-Day Swiss Travel Pass: CHF259 Supplements for Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, and Mt. Titlis: CHF203.25 Total cost: CHF462.25

Bottom line on the Swiss Half-Fare Card

Since the Half-Fare Card lasts 30 days and provides a larger discount on Jungfraujoch, it is better value for visitors who want to include that scenic top-of-Europe rail journey on their trip. The discounts also add up more quickly on Schilthorn and Mt. Titlis trips, just to name two examples, and you don’t have to take many longer rail journeys to get value out of the Half-Fare Card.

Swiss Saver Day Pass (A one-day unlimited travel pass)

If you buy the Saver Day Pass at least 21 days in advance (and up to 60 days in advance) the 2023 cost is:

• 2nd Class (with Half Fare Card): CHF29
• 1st Class (with Half Fare Card): CHF82
• 2nd Class (with no Half Fare Card): CHF52
• 1st Class (with no Half Fare Card): CHF97

Once you research the normal cost of Swiss train fares you’ll see that the above prices are a very good deal for anyone riding more than 150 kilometers or so in a day. If you are just going, for example, from Zurich to Lucerne or Interlaken on a day, it’ll be cheaper to just buy that ticket individually. But if you are going from Geneva or Montreux to Interlaken or Lucerne then the Saver Day Pass will be much cheaper. Better still, you can use a Saver Day Pass to go from Interlaken to Geneva and back on the same day on the Goldenpass line and returning on the faster train through Bern, and it will still all be included for free.

If you don’t buy a Saver Day Pass at least 14 days in advance it’s more expensive, and if you only buy 1 to 3 days in advance it’s VERY expensive, so the key is to buy early. This is all confusing, but the Saver Day Pass should be a great option for many people only in Switzerland for one to three days.

Popular Swiss panorama scenic trains

• Glacier Express
• Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
• Train type: Panorama
• Journey time: 8 hours 3 minutes
• Distance: 291km
• 1st Class fare: CHF272
• 2nd Class fare: CHF159
• Compulsory seat reservation fee: CHF44 or 49
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 13 to 33 for panorama carriage
• Bernina Express
• Route: Chur to Tirano and Lugano
• Train type: Panorama and bus
• Journey time: 4 hours 13 minutes and 3 hours 10 minutes
• Distance: 148km and 90km
• 1st Class fare: CHF113
• 2nd Class fare: CHF66
• Compulsory seat reservation fee: CHF32
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 10 to 14 for panorama carriage
• GoldenPass Line
• Route: Lucerne to Montreaux
• Journey time: 5 hours 8 minutes
• Distance: 191 km
• Prestige Class fare: CHF131
• 1st Class fare: CHF96
• 2nd Class fare: CHF56
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 8 to 15 for panorama carriage
• Gotthard Panorama Express (formerly Wilhelm Tell Express)
• Route: Lugano or Locarno to Lucerne
• Train type: Panorama and boat
• Journey time: 5 hours 21 minutes
• Distance: 182 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF164
• 2nd Class fare: CHF135
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 39 to 49 for panorama carriage
• Swiss Chocolate Train
• Route: Montreux to Broc round trip
• Train type: Panorama or First Class
• Journey time: X hours X minutes
• Distance: 82 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF99
• 2nd Class fare: 89
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 39

Popular Swiss scenic and theme trains

The scenic trains below are also extremely popular as sightseeing journeys rather than just as transportation, but can be used as both.

• Jungfraujoch round trip
• Route: Interlaken to Jungfraujoch
• Train type: special mountain train
• Journey time: 4 hours 41 minutes, round trip, plus time on top
• Distance: 73 km
• 1st Class fare: N/A
• 2nd Class fare: CHF224
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 147 (so, a saving of CHF77)
• Gornergrat Railway
• Route: Gornergrat Railway
• Train type: Cog railway
• Journey time: 44 minutes return
• Distance: 10 km
• 2nd Class fare: CHF90
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 45
• Rigi round trip
• Route: Lucerne to Rigi
• Journey time: 3 hours 25 minutes, plus time at the top
• Distance: 58 km
• 2nd Class fare: CHF78
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: None (this one is free with the pass)
• Mt Rigi Excursion (one-way and walk down)
• Route: Lucerne to Mt Rigi
• Train type: cogwheel train and/or cable car
• Journey time: 45 minutes up
• 2nd Class fare: 49
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 0
• Lotschberg Mountain Route and Centrovalli
• Route: Bern to Locarno
• Train type: Narrow gauge
• Journey time: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Distance: 212 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF158
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 5
• Jura round trip (Watchmaking Tour)
• Route: Neuchatel through Jura
• Train type: Regular
• Journey time: 3 hours 0 minutes
• Distance: 143 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF168
• 2nd Class fare: CHF108
• Pre-Alpine Express
• Route: St. Gallen to Lucerne
• Journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Distance: 146 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF83
• 2nd Class fare: CHF47
• Jura Foot Line
• Route: Basel to Geneva
• Journey time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Distance: 248 km
• 1st Class fare: CHF132
• 2nd Class fare: CHF75

Popular Switzerland cable car rides

• Route: Stechelberg (Lauterbrunnen) to Schilthorn
• Train type: cable car
• Journey time: 1 hour
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 54
• Engelberg to Mt. Titlis cable car
• Route: Engelberg to Mt. Titlis
• 2nd Class fare: CHF96
• Supplement for Swiss Pass holders: 46

The Swiss Travel Pass also includes free museum admission, but…

The problem is that the museums are only free on valid travel days, and almost no one would visit more than one or two museums with a Swiss Travel Pass. The trains and cable cars are so expensive that the pass gives very good value to cover those, so you don’t want to waste precious sightseeing time walking through a museum that only costs CHF10 anyway.

In other words, calculate the value of a Swiss Travel Pass on the travel savings only, and if you visit a museum here or there, then great. Most people are better off trying to squeeze in an additional train ride each day, and ignoring the museums. Switzerland is all about the outdoor scenery. As nice as the museums may be, they are not why you are there.

The pass includes free public transport in most Swiss cities

Similar to the free museum part of the offer, it’s best to ignore or minimize the value of free public transportation. It could be helpful in Zurich, but in most other Swiss tourist towns you won’t need much public transport. In fact, in Interlaken, each hotel or hostel guest automatically gets a card for free public transportation within the town (including between the two train stations).

So you might use a ride or two each day on public transport, but that won’t add up to much in terms of value of your Swiss Travel Pass.

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Swiss Travel Pass 2024 review: Is it good value or not? " --> All Comments

Thank you for such minute details and tips. But somehow we havent found a comprehensive comparison of swiss pass vs renting a car on the web.So could you suggest what would be better if we are a group of four traveling for a total of 5 days 4 nights with starting point being zurich, same day go to lucerne (2 night here – cover the city and Mt. titls ) then go to interlaken region( grindelwald + jungfrouh) for again 2 nights and back to zurich on the fiifth day. – is swiss pass better or a car in this case for 4 ppl?

Generally I discourage renting cars to get around Europe, but Switzerland can be an exception because parking in towns like Interlaken and Lucerne isn’t as challenging as it is in larger cities, and most of the main sights including cable cars have at least a small parking lot. So it really depends on what you’d be paying for the car and then what you’d be paying for parking. I haven’t checked lately, but I do think you’d have to pay to park at most attractions.

One thing I can say is that the Swiss train system is amazing and it connects everything that you’d want to see very quickly and efficiently, with views that are usually better than even those out of car windows. So the driver would not enjoy things as much having to concentrate on the road all the time, but the other three in the car should have nice views almost all the time.

Long story short, if someone else was paying and organizing this trip and they asked me if I’d rather be a passenger in a rented car or take the trains I’d take the trains in a heartbeat. However, if it turns out you can rent a car and park in the places you want to visit cheaply enough, it’s worth considering. I’m not sure if that helps. -Roger

Excellent details line by line. I am visiting france for busines trip and would like to go Visit Swiss for just 2 days. I know it is not enough to explore such a beautiful country. I will taking train from Basel SBB to Lucerne and based there for both the days. Upon reaching lucerne, i would like to visit Mt. Titlis with Flyer and few more attractions on day 1 and roam around on day 2 (may be Mt. Rigis) and then leave by train to Lucerne to Zurich. (Not sure whether this trip covered by Swiss Pass). I have checked that the 3 days pass is costs CHF 244. not sure to compare the other fares with this swiss pass (as per me it comes lower than CHF244). Could you please guide me what is the best option? To buy swiss pass or half discount card or just pay as i go?

I’m glad you found this helpful. That is a tricky one. A Swiss Travel Pass is valid on all normal trains within the country (including Lucerne to Zurich). I suppose the only way to know would be to add up all of the fares of the things you are planning on doing. It might be cheaper to buy them one at a time as sometimes they do have discount or supersaver fares. My guess is that all of those individual tickets might be close to the CHF244, but they could be more or less. Sorry I’m not any more help on this. -Roger

Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It In 2024? My First-Hand Experience & Tips

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 69 mins read
• Post last modified: May 12, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Swiss trains aren’t the cheapest. Yet, there is a way to save up.

When I first came to Switzerland , I bought the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex , valid for a month, to explore the entire country. I explored all the highlights of Switzerland within a month, and it saved me so much money . It also gave me further discounts , mainly for the mountain excursions I was excited about.

So in this article, I’ll give you all the information about the Swiss Travel Pass from my experience and tell you whether it’s worth it or not (it is).

Ready to get  unlimited travel options in Switzerland ? Let’s explore them together.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

If you want to spend 3 or more days in Switzerland travel to at least 4 different places , Swiss Travel Pass is worth it .

Generally, it  depends on the number of days  you want to  spend in Switzerland .  The more days you travel  in Switzerland,  the more value  the Swiss Travel Pass brings you.

It also depends on whether you want to see just one specific region or travel to various regions and places in Switzerland.

Travel More Than 3 Days In Switzerland: YES

If you want to  spend 3 or more days in Switzerland  and travel to at least 4 different places in Switzerland,  YES, the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it  in this case.

Let’s say you’ll travel from  Zürich to Interlaken , then spend some time in the  Jungfrau Region . After, you want to take a  Swiss panoramic train  to  Montreux , visit  Geneva , and  explore Zermatt . In this case,  you’ll travel a lot in Switzerland , and the Swiss Travel Pass  is worth it .

The more you want to travel in Switzerland and the more things you want to do (cruises on Swiss Lakes, mountain excursions, museums, and cable cars), the more worth the pass will be for you .

Travel Less Than 3 Days In Switzerland: NO

If you want to  spend less than 3 days in Switzerland :  NO, the Swiss Travel Pass is not worth it  in this case. You better  look for other passes  and discounts (scroll down for more details).

Swiss Travel Pass is also  not worth buying  if you  only want to visit 1 specific region in Switzerland . If that’s the case,  look for regional travel passes  such as the Jungfrau Travel Pass, Bernese Oberland Pass, Zermatt Peak Pass, and Lake Geneva-Alps Pass.

For instance, don’t buy a Swiss Travel Pass if you only want to explore the  Jungfrau Region  and won’t travel to any other places in Switzerland. Instead, look for the  Jungfrau Travel Pass , a  discounted pass  for everything you’ll explore within the region.

What Is Swiss Travel Pass?

Swiss Travel Pass is a rail pass for  unlimited travel in Switzerland . Depending on how many days you choose to buy it, you can travel on these days by  regular trains ,  Swiss panoramic trains , buses , and even all  boats .

Moreover, some  mountain excursions  are included in the pass (like Rigi and Stanserhorn mountains). With other cable cars and  mountains in Switzerland , you’ll get  a 50% discount .

Swiss Travel Pass gives you options to explore the entire Switzerland for much less than buying single tickets. I explored Switzerland with it and admit it was so worth it.

Swiss Travel Pass Benefits: Quick Guide

• Swiss Travel Pass available to buy for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days – traveling on consecutive days
• Swiss Travel Pass Flex available to buy for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 – day traveling on chosen days within a month
• You’ll get unlimited travel by train, bus, and boats in Switzerland
• Stanserhorn , Rigi , Stoos , Bruni & Klewenalp mountain excursions are 100% included
• Get 50% discount for other mountain excursions
• On Swiss panoramic trains , you only pay extra for a seat reservation, the ride itself is included
• Free access to 500+ museums and public buses in the cities

What Is Included In Swiss Travel Pass?

Swiss Travel Pass includes the following:

✅ Regular trains & Panoramic trains in Switzerland ✅ Buses & Boats on Swiss Lakes ✅ Public transportation in Swiss cities ✅ 5 mountain excursions ✅ Museums in Switzerland

✅ Regular Train & Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel unlimitedly with  all regular trains . Just check the timetable of your chosen route, hope on the train, and travel. There is no limit to how many trains you can take in one day.

There are only 4 trains , for which you’ll have to  pay an extra fee for a seat reservation  (it’s not a high fee). These are the panoramic trains in Switzerland . You don’t have to pay for the ticket for panoramic trains. It’s included in your Swiss Travel Pass. You only pay for the seat reservation .

I’ll break down the prices of seat reservations for panoramic trains for you later in this article, so keep reading.

✅ Buses & Boats on Swiss Lakes

You can also use your Swiss Travel Pass for all Swiss buses . Switzerland has an excellent and well-developed railway system, but there are some routes where you need to take a bus . It’s usually in  small villages , as trains only reach the bigger cities and towns.

What I love about the Swiss Travel Pass is the  unlimited boat travel . Swiss boats are incredible. You are floating on Swiss lakes and feel you are on vacation somewhere in Greece. They add extra  excitement to your  Swiss itinerary .

All boat rides are included in the Swiss Travel Pass, too. You don’t have to make boat reservations. Hop on the boat and go wherever you want.

✅ Public Transportation In Swiss Cities

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can also use public transportation in and around all Swiss cities.

For example, you can use your Swiss Travel Pass if you arrive at Zurich airport and want to take a train to the city center or a bus to your hotel .

Or you want to make a boat excursion from Zurich on the lake; it’s included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

Your Swiss Travel Pass fully covers all public transportation . There is no need to buy tickets or make reservations. When a controller stops you, just show him your pass and travel.

✅ 5 Mountain Excursions

Additionally, the Swiss Travel Pass fully covers 5 mountain excursions . The following mountains are 100% included in your Swiss Travel Pass:

• Stanserhorn

✅ Museums In Switzerland

Swiss Travel Pass also gives you free entry to the 500+ museums in Switzerland.

The best museums that you can visit free with Swiss Travel Pass are:

• Matterhorn Museum – Zermatt
• Swiss National Museum – Zurich
• FIFA Museum – Zurich
• Fine Arts Museum – Basel
• Olympic Museum – Lausanne
• Museum of Montreux
• Gruyeres Medieval Castle

Where Do You Get Discounts With Swiss Travel Pass?

You’ll get a discount ( around 50% ) for the following mountain excursions with the Swiss Travel Pass:

1. Gornergrat

➡ Full price: 126 CHF (adult – return ticket) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 55 CHF

2. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

➡ Full price: 109 CHF (adult – return ticket) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 54.40 CHF

2. Jungfraujoh – Top Of Europe

➡ Full price: about 220 CHF (adult – return ticket) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 145.60 CHF

👉 READ ALSO: Is Jungfraujoch Worth It? Revealed!

3. Pilatus Mountain

➡ Full price: 111.60 CHF (adult – Golden Roundtrip) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 39 CHF

4. Titlis Mountain

➡ Full price: 96 CHF (adult – return ticket) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 48 CHF

5. Glacier 3000°

➡ Full price: 90 CHF (adult) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 46 CHF

6. San Salvatore Mountain

➡ Full price: 32 CHF (adult) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 16 CHF

7. Schilthorn Mountain

➡ Full price: 108 CHF (adult) ➡ Price with Swiss Travel Pass: 42.80 CHF

👉 READ ALSO: 8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit

What Is Not Included In Swiss Travel Pass

As you can see, you have almost everything included in your Swiss Travel Pass. However, there are a few things for which you have to pay a little extra.

The only thing NOT included in the Swiss Travel Pass is seat reservations on the following panoramic trains in Switzerland :

🚇 Glacier Express 🚇 Bernina Express 🚇 GoldenPass Express 🚇 Gotthard Panorama Express

The good thing is that you don’t necessarily have to ride on these panoramic trains. You can always take regular trains instead if you don’t want to pay extra .

NOTE: The rides on these panoramic trains are included in the Swiss Travel Pass. You only have to pay extra for the seat reservation , which is compulsory for everyone.

How To Buy Seat Reservations For Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

Panoramic trains in Switzerland are  the most expensive  in the country as they have special window-to-ceiling  panoramic windows ,  commentary on board , and  extra services  such as breakfast and lunch on board. It’s a unique experience.

Making  seat reservations  for these panoramic trains is compulsory, which adds an extra cost.

Riding on panoramic trains is  included in the Swiss Travel Pass . You only have to  purchase a seat reservation .

Go to the  website of each panoramic train  (listed below) and buy your seat without a ticket. Your ticket is the Swiss Travel Pass.

🚇 Glacier Express With Swiss Travel Pass

• Glacier Express ticket : 152 CHF (adult) – included in your Swiss Travel Pass
• Seat reservation : 49 CHF – compulsory to buy extra
• Buy Seat Reservations: Glacier Express website

🚇 Bernina Express with Swiss Travel Pass

• Bernina Express ticket : 63 CHF (adult) – included in your Swiss Travel Pass
• Seat reservation : 20 CHF – 26 CHF (depending on the season) – compulsory to buy extra
• Buy seat reservation: Bernina Express website

🚇 GoldenPass Express With Swiss Travel Pass

GoldenPass Line consists of 2 sections .

The first section is the Zentralbahn from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost. You don’t have to pay for a seat reservation for this section. Just hop on the train and travel. The ride is included in your Swiss Travel Pass .

The second section is with the GoldenPass Express panoramic train from Interlaken to Montreux. For this section, you’ll have to make a seat reservation .

• GoldenPass Express Ticket: 53 CHF (adult) – included in your Swiss Travel Pass
• Seat Reservation: 20 CHF – compulsory to buy extra
• Buy Seat Reservations: GoldenPass Express website

🚇 Gotthard Panorama Express With Swiss Travel Pass

Gotthard Panorama Express also consists of 2 sections . The first one is a boat ride , and after, you’ll hop on the Gotthard panoramic train .

Your Swiss Travel Pass includes the boat ride from Flüelen to Lucerne. Therefore, you only have to pay extra for the seat reservation on the Gotthard Panorama Express train, which is 16 CHF.

• Gotthard Panorama Express ticket: 160 CHF (adult) – included in your Swiss Travel Pass
• Seat Reservation: 16 CHF – compulsory to buy extra
• Buy Seat Reservations: Gotthard Panorama Express website

How Does Swiss Travel Pass Work

You can book the  Swiss Travel Pass for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days . Then, travel within one day through Switzerland using trains, buses, and Swiss boats.

You  must mark the day you are traveling  into your Swiss Travel Pass in the morning before getting on your first train.  Write the date  of the day when you use the Swiss Travel Pass.

The  train assistant will stamp  it on the first train ride of that day. You can then use it for the rest of the day. You’ll only show the Swiss Travel Pass to a train assistant once you are on a different train.

Do I Have To Make Seat Reservation For Trains In Switzerland?

No , you don’t have to make a seat reservation on trains in Switzerland.

The only trains you must book in advance and reserve a seat for are the panoramic trains in Switzerland .

All other trains don’t require a seat reservation. With the Swiss Travel Pass , you can travel unlimitedly on all Swiss trains without booking or reserving in advance.

Types Of Swiss Travel Pass: Which One To Choose

There are 2 types of Swiss Passes you can choose from:

• Swiss Travel Pass
• Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Swiss Travel Pass  works  on fixed consecutive days . That means you must travel for several days in a row. You can choose the number of days, which are 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex  gives you  more flexibility . The advantage is that you can  travel on a chosen number of days  (3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days)  within a month . It doesn’t have to be consecutive. This gives you extra time to enjoy mountain excursions, Swiss towns, and hiking trails.

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The  Swiss Travel Pass Flex  is slightly more expensive than the regular Swiss Travel Pass, but it’s much worth it in the end.

I bought the Swiss Travel Pass Flex  and spent the entire day hiking in the Swiss mountains or checking out waterfalls, and I didn’t travel that day. That means I didn’t use my pass that day, and I saved 1 day.

Remember,  once you make a train ride , it’ll automatically  count as 1 day , even if you only did 1 train ride on the day.

So,  plan wisely , travel  longer routes , and do several daily rides.  On other days, don’t use the pass to save the days  and  stay at one destination . Swiss Travel Pass Flex will enable you to do so.

With the  Swiss Travel Pass , you  can’t stay for a day in one destination  without using it. You have to travel and  use it consecutively  on the chosen number of days.

How Much Does Swiss Travel Pass Cost

The price of your Swiss Travel Pass depends on various factors.

First, you must  choose the number of days  you want to travel with a Swiss Travel Pass. It can be 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 days.

After,  decide  whether you want to buy a  Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Travel Pass Flex .

Then  choose  if you want to travel in  1st class  on the trains in Switzerland  or the 2nd class.

There are  3 different price categories  for the Swiss Travel Pass:

• Adults from 25 years old
• Youth until 25 years old
• Children up to 15 years travel free of charge with parents

Below, I’m giving you prices for adults. So follow the 3 steps mentioned above and see the price of your chosen Swiss Pass:

Swiss Travel Pass Prices

Swiss travel pass flex prices, for whom is the swiss travel pass.

Anyone can purchase the Swiss Travel Pass. I traveled as a solo female with an 8-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex, which was a great value .

Young people until 27 years old even get a discount for the pass, which brings even more value.

Families also get great value from the pass, as children under 15 can travel for free with their parents (if the parents are Swiss Pass holders).

Which Class To Choose For Your Swiss Travel Pass

Switzerland is all about high standards. Trains and transportation, in general, are not an exception. I wouldn’t say there is a considerable difference between the first and second classes.

The second class  is clean, has space, and is pretty quiet. The only disadvantage is that it can get very crowded on the bigger trains between main cities.

The first class’s  advantage is that it’ll be quieter and less crowded.

Where To Buy Swiss Travel Pass

The best place to buy a Swiss Travel Pass is online via Get Your Guide . By buying it online, you can print it at home , save it on your phone , and use it when you arrive in Switzerland .

Buying the Swiss Travel Pass at train stations in Swiss cities is also possible. However, there are often big crowds (especially in the summer), and you’d have to wait longer to get it.

Get your Swiss Travel Pass here . You’ll receive it via email. Then save it on your phone and travel.

How To Use & Activate Swiss Travel Pass

Once you purchase the pass, you’ll get a confirmation via email . Download it to your phone .

When buying the Swiss Travel Pass , you’ll already select the dates you want to travel . So once you’re in Switzerland, there is no need to validate the pass . It’ll be valid on those days.

You can travel on all transportation means where the pass is valid. Only when a controller comes to check the tickets do you show him your Swiss Pass. He’ll scan it, and that’s it . You can travel freely everywhere you go without showing the pass to anyone unless the controller asks you to do so.

With the Swiss Travel Pass Flex , you must validate it each day you travel . Since you can choose the days you want to use it within a month, don’t forget to validate it on the day you’ll travel with the pass in the app.

My Experience With Swiss Travel Pass

I bought my Swiss Travel Pass to travel 8 days in Switzerland. It was the best trip of my life by now, and I always reflect on it.

Not having a travel pass  in Switzerland,  I’d spend far more money  than I did. Swiss Travel Pass  saved me over 50%  of my travel costs in Switzerland.

My favorite part  of the Swiss Travel Pass was the  flexibility . I didn’t have to care about tickets at all. I traveled through half of the country on 4 different trains without paying anything extra and worrying about train tickets.

What I also loved were the  boat rides on Swiss Lakes . If I got bored with traveling on trains, I simply switched to a boat and enjoyed the scenery.

My Tip For Using Swiss Travel Pass

My biggest suggestion  to get the most out of the Swiss Travel Pass is to  plan your journey . If you don’t plan, you might waste your days on the Swiss Travel Pass, which would eventually be a waste of money. So,  plan the entire Swiss itinerary .

First, decide which places you want to visit. Then, squeeze into one day as many train rides and mountain excursions as possible to  get the most out of your Swiss Travel Pass .

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Advantages & drawbacks of swiss travel pass.

With that said, here is my conclusion about the advantages and disadvantages of the Swiss Travel Pass.

Advantages Of Swiss Travel Pass

• flexibility
• affordable – saved me 50% of my travel costs
• unlimited travel in Switzerland
• easy to use
• all-in-one pass
• includes expensive panoramic trains
• includes boats, buses. public transport in cities, museum entries
• discounts forcable cars & mountain excursions

Disadvantages Of Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The only disadvantage of the Swiss Travel Pass is that it doesn’t entirely include mountain excursions . Still, you’ll get 50% discount for all of them.

How To Use Swiss Travel Pass Effectively

The most effective way to use your Swiss Travel Pass is to have an itinerary .

Plan your journey . Know which places you’ll visit, how many train rides you can make daily, and which mountain excursions you want to do.

Planning your itinerary is the most effective way to use your Swiss Travel Pass. This way, you will save your valid days on your pass and get the most out of its value .

Also, choose various types of transportation for a day. For example, travel by train and then switch to a boat for the second part of your journey. Once you arrive at your final destination and still have time, take a bus to explore more.

See as much as possible because everything is included in your Swiss Travel Pass. So take advantage of it.

PRO TIP: Follow the  Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland  to see all the Swiss highlights with your Swiss Travel Pass.

Other Popular Swiss Transportation Passes

Other popular passes/travel cards that you can use in Switzerland and save up on travel significantly are:

Half-Fare Card

Saver day pass, regional passes, swiss travel pass vs. individual train tickets.

Half-Fare Card  costs 120 CHF  and is  valid for a month in Switzerland . Once you have the Half-Fare Card, you’ll  get 50% off  for all trains, buses, boats, and mountain excursions whenever you want to travel.

It’s worth getting if you only want to make a few journeys in Switzerland.

➡ You can buy a Half-Fare Card here.

Saver Day Pass is a great travel card if you only want to travel in Switzerland for 1 or 2 days . You can buy it online on the SBB website . The more in advance you buy, the more affordable it’ll be. You’ll choose it for a specific day .

Once you buy it, you can use it for the entire Swiss transportation system on that day (excluding mountain excursions).

Many  regions in Switzerland  have their own passes. They give you  unlimited travel within that specific region .

The most  popular regional passes  are the Jungfrau Travel Pass , Berner Oberland Pass , Zermatt Peak Pass, Davos & Klosters Premium Card, and Lake Geneva-Alps Pass.

These are worth getting when you only want to explore one Swiss region .

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Half-Fare Card

Many clients ask me whether getting the Swiss Travel Pass or the Half-Fare Card is better. And the answer is, well, it all  depends on the places  you want to see, the  time  you want to spend in Switzerland, and the  things you want to do .

Traveling with a Half-Fare Card  in Switzerland  is often cheaper  than a Swiss Travel Pass. If you have a specific itinerary, want to visit only a few places , and don’t want to travel a lot on the panoramic trains, buy a Half-Fare Card instead of a Swiss Travel Pass.

Generally,  the longer you travel in Switzerland , the  more panoramic trains  you want to ride, and the  more mountain excursions  you want, the  Swiss Travel Pass is more worth it .

A  Half-Fare Card  can be cheaper with a  shorter travel itinerary  (e.g., 4 days).

PRO TIP: So, I encourage you to sit down, write down your destinations , and calculate how much the itinerary would cost you with both cards. Compare and then choose the pass that fits you the most.

My Experience: Half-Fare Card vs. Swiss Travel Pass

For me , the  Swiss Travel Pass has always been a great value  because it  gives me flexibility and I wanted to see a lot from Switzerland.

I  don’t have to pay for every  train, bus, and boat ticket. Everything is included for me, which is much easier to travel with. Even though it can be slightly more expensive in some cases, depending on the things I want to do in Switzerland.

If you need  help choosing the right pass , email me at  info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I can answer additional questions or  design a travel itinerary in Switzerland  tailored to you.

Individual train tickets in Switzerland are very expensive . Just think about it: a train ticket from Zurich to Zermatt can easily cost at least $70 per person (one-way) . And it’s only for a specific journey.

When you have the Swiss Travel Pass , you pay $250 for 3 days , and you can travel everywhere. So within a day , you can travel from Zurich to Zermatt and on a boat near Lucerne , visit Interlaken , taste some cheese in Grueyres , and visit Montreux and Lake Geneva before arriving in Zermatt.

So the Swiss Travel Pass is truly a great value as you can do so much within one day without stressing about buying single tickets and planning.

PRO TIP:  If you want to buy individual tickets in Switzerland , I recommend Trainline . They have discounted train tickets and are much cheaper than buying on SBB or on the spot in Switzerland.

Suggested Itinerary With Swiss Travel Pass

As I mentioned above, I got to travel 8 days in Switzerland using my Swiss Travel Pass Flex . I literally traveled through the entire Switzerland because I was so excited to see it all.

Thanks to my experience, I’ve designed a full 8-day Switzerland itinerary you can use and travel with a Swiss Travel Pass . You can get the Swiss Travel Pass or the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. It’s up to you.

• Lugano & San Salvatore Mountain
• Gotthard Panorama Express (including a boat ride to Lucerne)
• Train from Lucerne to Interlaken (optional boat ride on Lake Brienz)
• Jungfrau region mountain excursions
• GoldenPass Express (from Interlaken to Montreux)
• Train from Montreux to Zermatt
• Glacier Express (Zermatt to St. Moritz)
• Train from St. Moritz to Engadin Valley & Zurich

PRO TIP: Get at least some pass , don’t pay for single train tickets in Switzerland; you’ll overpay. For instance, a one-way ticket from  Zürich to Interlaken Ost already costs 70 CHF.  That’s the price of the Saver Day Pass for the entire day. So think wisely and choose the pass that suits you the most.

To help you decide whether Swiss Travel Pass is worth it, I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So check them out below.

Does Swiss Pass Cover All Trains In Switzerland?

Yes , the Swiss Travel Pass covers all trains in Switzerland, including the panoramic trains. You only have to pay an extra fee for a seat reservation on the scenic trains , which is compulsory for everyone.

Why Is Swiss Pass So Expensive?

Swiss Travel Pass is expensive because travel in Switzerland is expensive . But if you were to pay for a single ticket for every train, bus, and boat ride, you would pay much more than the cost of a Swiss Travel Pass. Therefore, the Swiss Pass saves you half the costs when traveling in Switzerland.

Does Swiss Travel Pass Include Jungfraujoch?

Partially. You only get 25% off the regular price to Jungfraujoch if you’re a Swiss Travel Pass holder. So it’s better to get the Jungfrau Travel Pass or a single ticket online to Jungfraujoch

Is Interlaken Included In Swiss Travel Pass?

Yes , Interlaken is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. You can reach Interlaken on many trains from different directions, and all of the trains are included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

Is Grindelwald Included In Swiss Pass?

Yes , Grindelwald is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. The ride from Interlaken to Grindelwald and also to Lauterbrunnen are included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

Does Swiss Pass Include Gondolas?

No , the Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t fully cover gondolas. You’ll only get a discount for all gondola rides in Switzerland. Check this article to learn about the discounts for mountain excursions with a Swiss Travel Pass.

When Should I Buy Swiss Pass?

It’s up to you when you buy the Swiss Travel Pass. The best time is to buy it online before your journey. That way, you can already use the pass when you enter Switzerland.

Should You Buy Swiss Travel Pass In Advance?

Yes, buying a Swiss Travel Pass in advance online is better . This way, you’ll get to use it already when entering Switzerland . You’ll also avoid crowds at the train stations in Switzerland trying to get the pass on the spot.

Is It Necessary To Buy Swiss Travel Pass?

It’s not necessary to buy a Swiss Travel Pass. It depends on you, the number of days you’ll travel to Switzerland, the places you want to see, and the things you want to do.

Generally, the longer you stay in Switzerland, and the more things you want to do, the more the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it .

What Is The Difference With Swiss Pass & Swiss Travel Pass?

There is no difference between SwissPass and Swiss Travel Pass. It’s the same thing , just written differently.

Wrap-Up: Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

There are two main factors to decide whether Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for you.

Factor 1: How many days you want to travel in Switzerland?

Factor 2: Do you want to explore only 1 Swiss region or travel to various places in the whole Switzerland?

If your answer to the first question is that you want to travel in Switzerland for more than 3 days and the second answer is that you want to see various places in the whole of Switzerland: YES Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for you.

If your answer to the first question is that you want to travel for less than 3 days in Switzerland or only explore one specific region : NO, the Swiss Travel Pass is not worth it for you in this case.

So first, plan your journey, calculate, and get the pass that best suits your itinerary .

Happy Swiss Travels!

More Tips For Switzerland Travel

Looking to visit more places in Switzerland? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

Best Time To Visit Switzerland

Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass

22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken

23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region

11 Cheapest Ways To Travel In Switzerland

5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland: Ultimate Guide

How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed!

Is Switzerland Expensive? All You Need To Know

Does Switzerland Use The Euro? Revealed!

Grindelwald In Winter: Complete Guide For Your Visit

How Swiss Cheese Is Made

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SWITZERLAND : Interested in more articles for Switzerland? Check out my Switzerland Travel Page .

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Swiss Travel Pass.

Discover Switzerland with just a single ticket: the Swiss Travel Pass lets you travel by public transport to Switzerland’s most scenic regions.

The Swiss Travel Pass gives you unlimited travel by train, bus and boat, as well as many other advantages.

The advantages for you.

• Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums Link opens in new window.
• Mountain excursions included: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
• Discount of up to 50% on other mountain excursions
• Discount of up to 50% on leisure travel offers

Please note.

• The Swiss Travel Pass has been developed for guests from abroad. It is available to persons permanently resident outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
• For online purchasing, purchase as a “guest”. You do not need a login.
• To receive the Swiss Family Card directly, add the child as a passenger under ‘Add passengers’ when you buy your Swiss Travel Pass.
• The Swiss Travel Pass / Swiss Half Fare Card / and the Family Card cannot be loaded onto a SwissPass card. You will not receive a customer number or an additional card.

Offers for adults aged 25 or over.

Choose 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days of travel.

Prices effective until 31.12.2024. Prices and product specifications subject to change.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

Valid on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 freely selectable days within one month.

Offers for young persons under 25.

The Swiss Travel Pass Youth gives young persons under 25 a 30% discount on the Swiss Travel Pass. It offers the same validity.

Swiss Travel Pass Youth.

Swiss travel pass flex youth., children aged between 6 and 16..

Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday accompanied by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket) travel free of charge on train, bus, boat and mountain railway with the complimentary Swiss Family Card.

Children under 6.

Children under 6 years of age travel free of charge.

Further content

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[Answered] Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth it?

Blog section, related articles.

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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Sunday 28th of April 2024

Hi, what's the difference between second class and first class and which do you recommend?

Monday 29th of April 2024

Hi Lan, there are a few benefits in the 1st class vs. 2nd. You have more space and more comfortable, adjustable seats on the train. First-class passengers can also sit on a higher deck on most boat trips. Some trains also have 'quiet zones' in the 1st class, but that's more interesting for business travelers who want to work during their journey. Hope this helps.

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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Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? - A Detailed Guide (2024)

Is swiss travel pass worth it all info about the swiss travel pass, where to purchase it, if it is useful for your switzerland trip, and how to make the most of it. this article will help you decide if you actually need it.

Planning a Swiss getaway can feel overwhelming – because no matter how hard you try, there’s just too many places you need to visit in Switzerland!

But in the heart of all that planning there’s one question you need to ask – should I get the Swiss travel pass and is Swiss travel pass worth it?

As someone who has experienced and tried it personally here’s a Swiss travel pass review, explaining what this pass is all about, is Swiss pass worth it and answering some frequently asked questions about why is Swiss travel pass worth it.

Top recos for your Swiss holiday by using the Swiss travel pass!

Recommended places to stay in Switzerland

• Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern
• Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
• Fairmont Le Montreux Palace

Recommended tours for Switzerland itinerary

• Matterhorn glacier paradise cable car ride
• A day trip to Interlaken and Grindelwald

Why is Swiss travel pass worth it – how does Swiss travel pass work

Is swiss travel pass worth it.

Yes! Here are some reasons why is Swiss travel pass worth it and why I think it is a valuable addition to your Swiss adventure:

Ease of Use

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you eliminate the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each leg of your journey.

There’s no need to navigate ticket machines or worry about fare zones – you simply board the train, bus, or boat and show your pass – a major reason why is the Swiss pass worth it.

Extensive Network and Scenic Routes

The Swiss Travel Pass is best train pass for Switzerland as it covers a broad transportation network that includes not just trains, but also buses and boats, offering expansive coverage across the country.

Some of Switzerland’s most breath-taking train routes, such as the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, are included in the pass, allowing you to experience these world-renowned journeys without extra tickets, a major reason why is the Swiss rail pass worth it.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that most of your transportation is paid for in advance can reduce travel anxiety and budgeting woes. This allows you to relax and enjoy your travels, a major reason why is Swiss rail pass worth it.

Environmental Footprint

Train travel is one of the more eco-friendly ways to get around. By using the Swiss Travel Pass, you’re also making a greener choice – a big reason why is Swiss pass worth it

What is the Swiss Travel Pass – is the Swiss Pass worth it?

Think of the Swiss Travel Pass as your all-you-can-travel buffet across the Swiss transport network. You get this one pass, and voilà, you can hop onto any train, bus, or boat across the country without buying separate tickets.

It is the best rail pass for Switzerland especially if you’re planning to move around a lot and soak in as much of Switzerland as possible.

Types of Swiss Travel Pass

You’ve got two main choices here:

• Consecutive Days Pass: This one’s for the go-getters who have a packed schedule. You pick a set number of days (like a 3 day Swiss rail pass, or for 4, 8, or 15 days) and during this time, you can travel as much as you want.
• Flex Pass: If you’re more of a take-it-easy traveller, the Flex Pass lets you choose travel days that you can use over a month. This means you could travel every other day, or just whenever the mood strikes, as long as it’s within that month. You can find more info here .

What is included in the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass covers a comprehensive network of routes across the Swiss Travel System, a big reason why is the Swiss Pass worth it. These include:

• Trains: Unlimited travel on the S wiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) network , including most panoramic routes like the G lacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line, and Gotthard Panorama Express.
• Buses: Extensive travel on the PostAuto (PostBus) network , which serves many alpine routes and rural areas not accessed by trains. In over 90 urban areas, including major cities like Zurich , Geneva, and Basel, you can use local buses at no additional cost.
• Boats:  The pass is valid on most boats that operate on Swiss lakes, such as Lake Lucerne , Lake Zurich, Lake Geneva, and others. These services allow you to enjoy leisurely cruises with panoramic views. It also includes the river buses in cities like Zurich, which operate on the Limmat River.
• Public Transportation: In cities that have a tram or bus network, the Swiss Travel Pass allows you to use these services freely. Urban S-Bahn services are also included, making it easy to get around metropolitan areas.
• Mountain Excursions: Some mountain routes like Mt. Rigi, and Stanserhorn Cable Car are entirely free with the Swiss Travel Pass. For higher-altitude destinations like Jungfraujoch , the pass typically offers a discount on the cogwheel train starting from Eigergletscher. Other mountains like Pilatus, Titlis, and Gornergrat also offer discounted rates for pass holders.

Is Swiss travel pass worth it – Yes, for unlimited travel

The freedom to travel on a whim without financial penalty encourages spontaneity. Fancy a day trip to a quaint village or a lakeside town? Go for it.

The pass makes it easy to change plans on the fly without incurring extra costs, which is a big reason why is the Swiss pass worth it.

For whom is Swiss pass worth it?

Answering for whom is Swiss pass worth it, depends on their travel plans. The Swiss Travel Pass is ideal for you if you want to cover a lot of ground.

It’s perfect if you plan to hop between Swiss cities, enjoy multiple scenic train rides, or visit various museums since it covers all this and more.

With the pass, you can jump on trains, buses, and boats without buying separate tickets, making travel hassle-free.

It’s also great for families – kids under 16 ride free with a parent. But, if you’re staying put in one place or won’t use public transport much, the pass may not be cost-effective.

When is the Swiss pass worth it?

If you are thinking about which season is Swiss pass worth it – Let me tell you that the Swiss Travel Pass shines during summer and winter.

In summer (June-August), you can maximize the long days with unlimited travel across scenic routes, perfect for those alpine hikes and lake cruises.

Winter (December-February) transforms it into a gateway to snowy peaks and ski resorts, all without the worry of driving on icy roads.

Shoulder seasons in Switzerland might see some mountain routes closed, but city travels and museum visits are still a go.

If your trip aligns with these active times and you plan to traverse the country, the pass can be a golden ticket to Swiss exploration, otherwise, its benefits may be underutilised.

How to use Swiss travel pass?

Using the Swiss Travel Pass is a breeze, and it makes travelling around Switzerland incredibly straightforward. Here’s the step-by-step on how to use Swiss pass:

• Buy Your Pass: You can purchase the Swiss Travel Pass online before you travel or at most train stations across Switzerland. Just choose whether you want consecutive days or the Flex pass based on your travel plans.
• Activate It: If you buy it online, you’ll get a print-at-home ticket that you should print out and bring with you. If you purchase it in Switzerland, you’ll need to have it activated at the train station by showing your passport.
• Boarding Transport: Whenever you board a train, bus, or boat, just show your pass to the conductor or ticket checker if they come around. For some regional and city transport systems, you might need to show it at a control gate or to a ticket agent.

No Need for Reservations: In most cases, with the Swiss Travel Pass, you don’t need to make seat reservations — you can just hop on, making buying a Swiss pass worth it.

But keep in mind, for some special scenic trains like the Glacier Express, reservations are recommended or required, and there might be an extra fee.

Why is Swiss travel pass worth it – Potential savings

If you’re travelling through Switzerland extensively, the cost of point-to-point tickets can add up quickly.

The pass is the best rail pass for Switzerland as it can be a money-saver, especially if you’re using it for long-distance and intercity travel.

How much is a Swiss travel pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass has two types – First and Second Class.

The differences between these two are – that the first-class Swiss Travel pass, although priced more, has trains that have bigger seats, more comfortable, and are less crowded.

It is the same case with boats, first-class travel pass holders get space on the upper deck which is less crowded and more comfortable.

Here is the price list for the Consecutive day Swiss Travel Pass

This list is valid till 31st December, 2023. Please check this website for the updated prices

For children under 16 travelling with a parent or guardian, the Swiss Family Card may be provided free of charge, allowing the children to travel for free.

People under 25 can get a Swiss Travel Pass Youth at a 30% discount.

Additional benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass

Free museum entry.

The Swiss Travel Pass throws open the doors to over 500 museums across Switzerland, which is a massive win if you’re into culture and history.

Think about it: no buying tickets every time you want to check out a museum.

You just show your pass at the entrance, and you’re in. From the big hitters like the Swiss National Museum to hidden gems off the beaten path, they’re all on the house with this pass.

If you’re someone who can happily spend hours wandering through exhibits, this feature is a serious money-saver.

Museum entries can cost quite a bit, often around CHF 10-20 each. It adds up quickly, especially if you’re traveling with family.

With the pass, you can pop into museums as you please without worrying about the cost—it’s all covered. This isn’t just convenient; it encourages you to discover more, learn more, and get the most out of your Swiss adventure.

Discounts on Mountain Excursions

If you are still wondering whether is it worth buying Swiss travel pass, the discounts you’ll get on the Swiss travel pass mountain excursions will totally convince you.

Some mountain trips such as Rigi and Stanserhorn are fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, which means you don’t have to pay anything extra to enjoy them.

You can simply show your pass at the ticket counter or the boarding area, and you’re all set to ascend into the alpine scenery.

For many of the higher mountain excursions, the Swiss Travel Pass offers a Swiss travel pass discount, usually around 25% to 50% off the regular ticket price.

It’s important to check the current discounts for the specific mountain excursions you plan to do, as these can change.

Here’s a few frequent question – Does Swiss travel pass include Bernina Express?

Certainly! The Swiss Travel Pass does cover the iconic Bernina Express, but here’s the deal: while your pass gets you on the train without having to buy a separate ticket for the journey, you still need to book a seat reservation.

That’s an extra cost and it’s non-negotiable since the Bernina Express is all about the experience — those panoramic windows aren’t going to enjoy themselves!

The reservation fee is not too steep, especially when you consider the price of the full ticket, but don’t forget to factor this into your budget.

Make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time, as this scenic adventure through the Alps is super popular. So with your Swiss Travel Pass in hand (and your seat secured), you’re ready to soak up some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes Switzerland has to offer.

Does Swiss pass cover Glacier Express?

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass covers the Glacier Express, which is often dubbed as the slowest express train in the world for its panoramic journey through the Swiss Alps.

If you’re holding a Swiss Travel Pass, you won’t have to pay for the basic train ticket itself.

However, it’s crucial to remember that while the Glacier Express Swiss travel pass covers the train ride, a reservation is mandatory for all passengers on the Glacier Express, and this reservation comes with an additional fee.

This reservation cost is not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass and must be paid separately to secure your seat.

It’s always recommended to make your seat reservation well in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons, as the Glacier Express is quite a popular experience among travellers seeking the unparalleled vistas of the Swiss countryside.

Swiss Travel Pass – Jungfraujoch

The Swiss Travel Pass offers you a fantastic advantage when you’re heading up to Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe,” one of Switzerland’s most famous high-altitude destinations.

Your Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t fully cover the journey to Jungfraujoch. It does, however, provide you with a discount for the trip.

This discount extends from Interlaken Ost or another starting point part-way up the mountain, generally up to Eigergletscher.

For the last section from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch, your Swiss Travel Pass entitles you to a reduced fare, which typically is around 25% off the regular ticket price.

Prices and discounts can change, so it’s always best to check the current conditions before you make your plans.

While reservations are not always mandatory, they are highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get a seat on the train for your desired travel time.

An example Swiss travel pass 4 days itinerary

Still confused whether – is Swiss travel pass worth it? Here’s a 4-day itinerary for Switzerland, where you can use your Swiss Pass to the fullest.

For more train itineraries, here’s a 2 days in Switzerland article with about 10 different ones!

Day 1: Zurich to Lucerne

• In Zurich, simply show your Swiss Travel Pass at the train station and catch a train to Lucerne . No need for tickets or reservations.
• Explore the Old Town,  book this guided walking tour and visit the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Lucerne (included in the pass). You can find the top things to do in Lucerne here .
• Relax by the lakefront and stay overnight at Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern .

Day 2: Lucerne to Interlaken Region

• Train to Interlaken. Explore the town and experience Tandem Paragliding .
• Travel to Lauterbrunnen, then use your pass for a discounted trip to Jungfraujoch.
• Return to Interlaken for dinner and overnight stay at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa .

Day 3: GoldenPass Line to Montreux

• Take the GoldenPass panoramic train to Montreux (included in the pass).
• Explore the Chillon Castle (free entry with the pass) and stroll along the Montreux Riviera.
• Enjoy the lakeside and stay overnight in Montreux at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace .

Day 4: Montreux to Zermatt

• Train to Zermatt (covered by the pass).
• Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Gornergrat (discount with the pass).
• Explore Zermatt and stay at The Omnia .

In conclusion to this Swiss Pass review, the answer to the question – for who is Swiss Pass worth it,  boils down to your travel plans in Switzerland.

If your itinerary is packed with journeys across the country, a desire to soak in the scenic railways, and a penchant for hopping between cities and mountains, the pass is a great companion.

It offers not just ease and convenience but can also be a cost-effective way to see the best of Switzerland without the worry of navigating fares and tickets.

However, for those with a more leisurely pace or focused area of travel, the benefits may not outweigh the cost. In my experience, the Swiss Travel Pass shins for the adventurous and the curious, for the go-getters who don’t want to miss a thing.

It’s the ultimate freedom ticket for your Swiss escapades, bundling transport, culture, and stunning excursions into one neat package. If that sounds like your kind of trip, then yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is absolutely worth it.

FAQs- is Swiss travel pass worth it

Is there a swiss rail pass for seniors.

There is no specific Swiss Rail Pass exclusively for seniors. The standard Swiss Travel Pass offers the same benefits and prices to adults of all ages.

Is first class Swiss travel pass worth it ?

Whether a First Class Swiss Travel Pass is worth it depends on your preferences for comfort and space. First Class offers larger seats, quieter carriages, and often better views.

If you plan to travel extensively and value a more luxurious experience, it can be worth the extra cost. However, for budget-conscious travellers or those who don’t mind the standard comfort levels of Second Class, the additional expense may not be necessary.

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Class: Second Class

Pass Type: Consecutive

Validity: 8 days (Best if got 10 days)

Collection Options: e-Ticket

Did my research. Wonder if the below websites are legit. If yes, which will you recommend? Feel free to share or recommend legit website.

1) SwissASAP = CHF 389

Link > https://www.facebook.com/100083973806892/posts/pfbid031oJ96Si3fMW9DTjCrWBsp6eZwcNiTFHPEMhJKjYpw7VJJxeEDaZwu35zYX1tFuDwl/?mibextid=cr9u03

2) Switzerland Travel Centre (STC) = CHF 389

Link > https://shop.switzerlandtravelcentre.com/?affiliateId=381#/en/product/swissPass

3) Klook = CHF 232

Link > https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/11366-swiss-travel-rail-pass/?spm=SearchResult.SearchResult_LIST&clickId=3527a7f663

Thanking you in advance for your assistance! (:

13 replies to this topic

No idea why Klook sells it cheaper, these guys sometimes make a (doubtful) special offer, or perhaps, due to currency exchange rates. Carefully read the fineprint!

I hope it’s okay to post a question within this string but it seems relevant based on the original question

Hi Roland - I noticed that the Travel Pass for an August 2023 trip can be purchased now on the STC site. However if I try to purchase it on the SBB site it states that it is too early. Just curious why this would be the case?

Because SBB ticket sale start is limited to 60 days out regardless the ticket type.

So no reason why we shouldn’t buy our tickets now via STC? Will we still be able to use our tickets/pass electronically via the SBB app?

Appreciate your help!

Exactly, there is no reason to buy the passes that far in advance; you never know what is going to happen until the departure day.

Swiss Travel Passes never sell out; the price is always the same (apart from prmotions); therefore, you can buy the passes even the day prior to departure, for example.

When you are buying with SBB, the passes will appear in the SBB Mobile app not so with STC although you can still display the STC pass as PDF or from the wallet.

Thank you CliffDiver62. Enjoy your travels! We can’t wait for our train rides.

Glacier Express is bookable 94 days out.

Seats on IC trains in Switzerland are bookable at least 60 days out but I think perhaps 90. Roland will know. You cannot book seats on IR or RE trains here at all. And there is no real reason to book seats on the IC ones either...there is always plenty of space.

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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 Travel Switzerland.

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 .

Switzerland Travel Essentials

Rail passes.

Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Half Fare Card

Eurail Global Pass

Regional Rail Passes

Berner Oberland Pass

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Rail Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Itinerary Planning

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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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Does anyone know if Zürich is still behind, not offering tourists a free public transport pass or whether they copy many other Swiss cities and offer free passes?

5 replies to this topic

Plus you need a frontal labotomy to willingly choose to drive through the city centre. : ) No incentive required.

@Krist: in facts, they are clearly below average with the old trams without A/C for an outrageously high price.

@Angela: Not only in Zürich...

Just seen this -

'We give you the tram, boat and train day ticket (zone 10) for free. '

https://www.hotelfelix.ch/offers-events/

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How to Get Around Switzerland: A Guide to Swiss Transportation

Wondering how to get around Switzerland? This guide will help you learn how to use the public transportation system and how to get around by car.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:

Wanderlust switzerland guide.

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland

• Zurich : Baur Au Lac
• Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
• Zermatt: The Omnia
• Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
• Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
• Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
• Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Getting Around Switzerland

• Unlimited Train Rides : Swiss Pass
• Renting a Car : Cheap Rental Cars or Expedia Cars

Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland

• Paragliding
• Lindt Chocolate Tour
• Lake Lucerne Cruise

How do I get around Switzerland?

There are many ways to get around Switzerland , the two main ways are using public transportation and renting a car. I’ll highlight the best way to get to each destination below. This Switzerland itinerary can easily be used with either a car or by train.

If you choose to get a rental car in Switzerland, I always recommend using this site to compare rates and cars.

If you choose to use public transportation in Switzerland, I recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass to maximize your time and save you money. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train rides on most lines, free or discounted gondola rides, and discounts to many attractions though Switzerland.

I find that it’s especially worth buying the Swiss Travel Pass if you are planning to visit Zermatt because the expensive Gornergratt train is quite expensive, and it’s half off with the pass. If you’re comfortable riding trains and buses, I think it’s the best way to travel in Switzerland.

Where do I purchase my Swiss Travel Pass?

You can purchase your Swiss Travel Pass here . Just select the correct number of days for your Switzerland itinerary and check out. The pass begins on your selected date and runs continuously. The Swiss Travel Pass comes in. 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 day increments.

Swiss Half Fare Card

If you’re unsure of your dates or the amount of time your Switzerland itinerary will be, it might be a good idea to purchase a Swiss Half Fare Card instead. This pass is good for one month and will offer 50% off most trains. There seems to be less of a discount on shorter journeys. I prefer to purchase the more expensive Swiss Travel Pass just for ease of use while I am in the country. But the Swiss Half Fare Card may be a better option if you are only planning on taking several long and expensive rail journeys. You can purchase the Swiss Half Fare Card here .

Renting a Car in Switzerland

If you want a little more freedom during your trip, you may want to consider renting a car in Switzerland . You’ll have the ability to reach some more off-the-beaten-path places that trains can’t reach. Driving in Switzerland is easy, especially if you’re from the US because they drive on the right side of the road. 

Download the SBB App for Switzerland Transportation

SBB App – Public transportation in Switzerland is shockingly punctual, clean, fast, and efficient. The SBB app will tell you when and where to get your trains and buses to take you where you want to go. This is the most important app you’ll need in Switzerland if you’re only traveling by public transportation.

I hope this guide to Switzerland transportation will help you get around the country with ease. Be sure to check out the most beautiful places in Switzerland and our Switzerland Itinerary.

There are lots of pros and cons to renting a car in Switzerland and using public transportation. Here’s a good list

Here is a list of pros and cons for traveling Switzerland by train vs. by rental car:

Traveling by Train in Switzerland

• More scenic views out the window
• Can relax and enjoy the ride
• No need to focus on driving/navigation
• Environmentally friendly
• Arrive directly in city centers
• Less flexibility with schedule/stops
• Can be more expensive
• Limited luggage space
• More flexibility with schedule and route
• Can stop wherever you want
• Usually cheaper than train
• More privacy
• Can carry more luggage
• Less scenic views
• Have to focus on driving
• More planning required for navigation
• Have to find and pay for parking
• More environmental impact

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Switzerland!

The post How to Get Around Switzerland: A Guide to Swiss Transportation appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

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Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Without limits: Travelling through Switzerland by train, bus and boat – and maximum flexibility to boot. The Swiss Travel Pass Flex is the perfect ticket for quick deciders. It is valid on 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 freely selectable days within one month, thus combining scope and services of the Swiss Travel Pass with the advantage of increased flexibility.

On validated travel days:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat.  View area of validity
• Unlimited travel on premium panoramic trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply).
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns and cities.
• Free admission to more than  500 museums .
• Mountain excursions included:  Rigi ,  Stanserhorn  and  Stoos
• Up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions.
• Up to 30% discount on SBB RailAway offers. Available at all ticket counters within Switzerland.
• Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday accompanied by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket) travel free of charge with the complimentary  Swiss Family Card .
• Children under 6 years of age who are accompanied by a holder of a valid Swiss Travel System ticket travel free of charge.
• The Swiss Travel Pass is available as e-ticket.

Information

• A seat reservation and/or supplement is required to travel on some trains/buses/boats such as Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express and Palm Express.
• Swiss Travel System tickets are available to persons with residence outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein
• In Switzerland, fares apply in Swiss Francs as detailed in the chart. (In case of cash payment in EUR, USD or GBP: current exchange rates apply.)

General provisions and legal information

Price – Adult

Non-consecutive days can be selected individually.

Validity: 01 Jan 2024 – 31 Dec 2024

Price – Youth

Non-consecutive days can be selected individually. Valid for young travellers up to their 25th birthday (30% discount).

Swiss Family Card

With the Swiss Family Card , children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge.

On request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday to travel free if accompanied by at least one paying parent.

Bonus Benefits with the Swiss Travel Pass

Regional passes, sales outlet swiss travel system.