Cost of Swiss Half Fare Card: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: “How much does the Swiss Half Fare Card cost?” Knowing the price helps you plan your budget, calculate savings, and understand whether this card is the right choice for your travel style.
Travel tip: Even one scenic train trip from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch can almost pay back the card’s cost!
What Is the Swiss Half Fare Card?
The Swiss Half Fare Card is a discount travel card that lets visitors explore Switzerland for half the price on trains, buses, boats, trams, and most cable cars. It’s perfect for tourists who want flexibility and savings while enjoying scenic routes, including popular options like the Jungfrau Travel Pass.
Swiss Half Fare Card Price & Cost Breakdown
The standard cost of the Swiss Half Fare Card is 120 CHF for one month.
Price Breakdown Table Example:
| Card Type | Price | Validity | Extra Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss Half Fare Card (adult) | 120 CHF | 1 month | Covers trains, buses, boats, most cable cars |
| Children under 16 | Free or half price | 1 month | Use Swiss Family Card for free travel |
| Optional SBB Day Pass | Varies | 1 day | Can be purchased at discount with Half Fare Card |
Practical tip: If you’re traveling for a short period, check if individual day passes with the card might be cheaper than buying multiple tickets separately.
Who Can Buy It? Eligibility & Age Limits
- Available for visitors from all countries.
- Must not have permanent residence in Switzerland.
- Adults 16 years and older pay the full price.
- Children under 16 travel free or at half price with the Swiss Family Card.
Pro tip: Even solo travelers benefit from the card if planning multiple trips between cities or scenic mountain destinations.
Benefits That Make It Worth the Price
- 50% off all public transport: trains, buses, trams, boats.
- Discounted scenic trains: Glacier Express, Bernina Express.
- Cable car & mountain railway savings: Jungfraujoch, Pilatus, Titlis.
- Flexible & convenient: Buy online, at stations, or via SBB app.
- Family-friendly: Kids under 16 travel free.
Writing tip: Include mini “value examples” like: “A round trip to Jungfraujoch costs ~100 CHF. With the Swiss Half Fare Card, it’s only 50 CHF!”
How to Buy: Online, App, or Railway Station
- Online: Fastest way, valid immediately.
- SBB App: Digital card, buy tickets, plan routes, and use EasyRide to swipe in/out.
- Swiss Railway Stations: Buy on arrival, valid from purchase date.
Using the Card: Trains, Buses, Boats and Scenic Routes
- “Hop on the Glacier Express or Bernina Express and enjoy half-price tickets.”
- “Take a boat ride on Lake Geneva or a bus tour through Interlaken at 50% off.”
Include a mini itinerary example:
1-Day Savings Example:
| Route | Regular Price | Half Fare Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interlaken → Jungfraujoch (train) | 100 CHF | 50 CHF | 50 CHF |
| Boat on Lake Lucerne | 40 CHF | 20 CHF | 20 CHF |
| Total Savings | – | – | 70 CHF |
Swiss Family Card: Free Travel for Kids
- Automatically included with Half Fare Card.
- Children under 16 travel free when accompanied by a parent.
- Valid on most mountain railways and cable cars.
Cost-Saving Tips: How to Get the Most Value
- Buy at the beginning of your trip.
- Combine with SBB Day Pass for longer excursions.
- Use EasyRide in SBB app to avoid ticket hassles.
- Take multiple scenic routes – Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Jungfraujoch to maximize savings.
Also Read: Switzerland Travel Guide
Comparing with Other Swiss Travel Passes
| Pass | Price | Validity | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss Half Fare Card | 120 CHF | 1 month | Half-price tickets on almost all public transport |
| Swiss Travel Pass | 232 CHF (3 days) | 3 days | Unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, museums included |
| SBB Day Pass | ~75 CHF | 1 day | Unlimited travel for one day, discounted with Half Fare Card |
Final Thoughts:
The cost of the Swiss Half Fare Card is 120 CHF, but the value far outweighs the price if you’re planning multiple trips across Switzerland. With 50% off public transport, scenic train routes, mountain excursions, and free travel for children, it’s a must-have for budget-conscious travelers.
FAQs About Cost of Swiss Half Fare Card
Q: Is the card worth it for 1-2 trips?
Usually yes, one scenic train ride already pays for most of the card.
Q: Can I use it on all Swiss public transport?
Almost all trains, buses, trams, boats, and most cable cars. Seat reservations may cost extra.
Q: Can I buy it digitally?
Yes, via SBB app, valid immediately.
