Planning a trip to Switzerland? If you’re wondering how to handle Switzerland train booking, you’ve landed in the right place. The Swiss railway network is one of the most efficient in the world connecting iconic cities like Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Geneva, and Zermatt with breathtaking alpine routes. But for first-timers, the choices between Supersaver tickets, Swiss Travel Passes, Half Fare Cards, and scenic train options can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down everything: where to book tickets, which passes make sense, how to save money, and which routes you shouldn’t miss.
Why Switzerland Train Booking Matters
Switzerland’s trains are not just about transportation they’re part of the travel experience. Whether you’re hopping on a short S Bahn commuter train in Zurich, a long InterCity (IC) connection from Geneva to St. Gallen, or the world famous Glacier Express, planning ahead can save money and time. And if you look at any train map Switzerland, you’ll see how seamlessly cities, alpine villages, and scenic routes are connected, making it easy to plan journeys with precision.
Early train booking in Switzerland unlocks big discounts (up to 70% off with Supersaver tickets) and guarantees seats on popular scenic routes.
Where to Book Swiss Train Tickets
Online Platforms
- SBB.ch (Swiss Federal Railways) – official site, covers nearly all trains in Switzerland.
- SBB Mobile app – real-time updates, e-tickets, and mobile payments.
- Trainline.com / Trainline app – useful for international travelers, accepts PayPal and credit cards.
At the Station
- Ticket machines → English option available, accepts CHF, EUR (change in CHF), cards, and Twint.
- Counters → staffed desks, useful for complex routes like Zermatt or Bernina Express.
Types of Swiss Train Tickets
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular tickets available when booking trains in Switzerland:
| Ticket Type | Best For | Savings Potential | Where to Buy | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supersaver Ticket | Budget travelers | Up to 70% off | Online only | Fixed route & time |
| Saver Day Pass | Unlimited travel for 1 day | Big savings on long journeys | SBB app / site | Prices rise closer to travel date |
| Swiss Travel Pass | Tourists (3–15 days) | Unlimited trains, buses, boats + 400+ museums | Online, counters | Higher upfront cost |
| Swiss Half Fare Card | Long-stay travelers | 50% off all transport for 1 year | Online, stations | CHF 190 upfront |
| Point-to-Point Ticket | One-way journeys | Standard pricing | Machines, app, counter | No discount |
| City Ticket | Local add-on | Saves local transport fares | SBB app/machine | Must be combined with intercity trip |
| Children’s Day Pass | Families | CHF 19 per child for unlimited travel | SBB | Only valid with paying adult |
| Tell-Pass / Regional Passes | Regional explorers | Unlimited rides in Lucerne, Engelberg, etc. | Local stations | Region-restricted |
4. Popular Train Routes in Switzerland
If you’re making a Switzerland train booking, these routes often top traveler itineraries:
- Zurich → Lucerne (1h, CHF 27 / CHF 13.50 with Half Fare Card)
- Interlaken → Lauterbrunnen / Grindelwald (scenic alpine valleys)
- Geneva → Zermatt (gateway to the Matterhorn)
- Lucerne → Basel (business & leisure connection)
- Zurich → St. Gallen (historic old town)
- Lugano → Basel (cross-country ride through the Gotthard Tunnel)
- Interlaken → Bern (capital city day trip)
Scenic Trains to Book in Advance
Not all trains require booking, but scenic routes often do:
- Glacier Express – Zermatt to St. Moritz (panoramic 8-hour ride).
- Bernina Express – Chur to Tirano (UNESCO World Heritage route).
- GoldenPass Line – Montreux to Interlaken (lake & mountain views).
- Gotthard Panorama Express – Lucerne to Lugano by boat + train.
Payment Options for Switzerland Train Booking
When buying tickets:
- Cards: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro
- Digital Wallets: PayPal, Twint
- Cash: CHF & EUR (change in CHF)
- Travel Cards: Wise international debit card for tourists
First Class vs Second Class
- Second Class (2nd): Cheaper, clean, plenty of comfort, free Wi-Fi on most InterCity trains.
- First Class (1st): More space, quieter, fewer passengers, but 50%+ more expensive.
Refunds & Changes
- Supersaver tickets – non-refundable, non-changeable.
- Saver Day Pass – non-refundable, but valid on any train that day.
- Swiss Travel Pass – refundable if unused (terms apply).
- Standard tickets – refundable with a small fee before validity.
Read More: Scenic Trains in Switzerland
Switzerland Train Travel Hacks
- Book Early → Supersaver tickets release 60 days in advance.
- Travel Off-Peak → Midday trains are cheaper and less crowded.
- Mix & Match → Combine Saver Day Pass with Half Fare Card for max savings.
- Use Regional Passes → If staying around Lucerne, Tell-Pass is cheaper than Swiss Travel Pass.
- Children Travel Free → Kids under 6 ride free; kids under 16 ride free with Family Card.
Final Thoughts:
Switzerland train booking doesn’t have to be confusing. Once you know the main ticket types, booking platforms, and hacks, you can travel affordably and flexibly. Whether you’re exploring Interlaken’s valleys, cruising on the Glacier Express, or simply commuting from Zurich to Lucerne, Swiss trains guarantee a smooth, scenic, and unforgettable journey.
FAQs About Switzerland Train Booking
Q1: Do I need to reserve seats on Swiss trains?
No, except for scenic trains like the Glacier Express.
Q2: Can I pay for tickets in euros?
Yes, but change is always in CHF.
Q3: What’s the cheapest way to travel by train in Switzerland?
Supersaver tickets or Saver Day Passes booked in advance.
Q4: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?
Yes, if you’re planning multiple long journeys + museum visits in 3–15 days.
