Switzerland is often described as a train lover’s paradise, and for good reason. With snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages, few countries offer such scenic railway journeys. If you’re planning to explore this wonderland, the Interrail Switzerland Pass (and its twin, the Eurail Pass) is one of the smartest ways to travel.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Interrail Switzerland: the best scenic train routes, cost-saving tips, how it compares to the Swiss Travel Pass, and insider advice to make your journey unforgettable. Plus, we highlight how train travel connects perfectly with the best trekking in Switzerland, making it easy to combine panoramic rides with world-class hikes.
Why Choose Interrail Switzerland?
The Interrail Switzerland Pass is designed for flexibility and freedom. Instead of buying separate tickets, you get unlimited travel days across the entire Swiss rail network.
Key Benefits
- Unlimited train travel within Switzerland for a fixed number of days.
- Valid on most Swiss trains, including premium scenic routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express (seat reservation sometimes required).
- Discounts for youth, families, and seniors.
- Cross-border travel into Italy, France, and Germany.
- Access to UNESCO World Heritage rail routes.
Best Scenic Train Journeys with Interrail Switzerland
Switzerland’s railways are not just a way to get from point A to B – they are a destination themselves. Here are the top scenic trains included or partially covered by the Interrail Pass.
| Scenic Train | Route | Highlights | Reservation Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Express | Zermatt – St. Moritz/Davos | “The slowest express train in the world,” stunning alpine scenery, Rhine Gorge | Yes |
| Bernina Express | Chur – Tirano (Italy) | UNESCO World Heritage route, glaciers to palm trees | Yes |
| GoldenPass Line | Lucerne – Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux | Swiss lakes, chalet villages, vineyards | No (optional for panoramic) |
| Gotthard Panorama Express | Lucerne – Lugano | Boat + panoramic train combo, Ticino culture | Yes |
| Voralpen Express | Lucerne – St. Gallen | Rolling hills, rural landscapes, fewer tourists | No |
| Mont Blanc Express | Martigny – Chamonix (France) | Cross-border ride with mountain views | No |
Interrail Switzerland vs Swiss Travel Pass
One of the most common questions is: Should I buy the Interrail Switzerland Pass or the Swiss Travel Pass?
| Feature | Interrail Switzerland Pass | Swiss Travel Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Who can buy | Europeans (Eurail for non-Europeans) | Anyone |
| Coverage | Swiss trains + option for multi-country Interrail | Entire Swiss Travel System (boats, buses, museums) |
| Flexibility | Choose travel days within 1 month | Continuous travel days |
| Scenic Trains | Included, reservations extra | Included, reservations extra |
| Best for | Backpackers, flexible explorers, youth | Tourists who want all-inclusive coverage |
How to Use Your Interrail Switzerland Pass
- Choose your travel days – passes are flexible.
- Reserve seats for premium scenic trains like the Glacier Express (highly recommended).
- Hop on regular trains without reservations.
- Don’t forget cross-border perks – travel into Italy (Milan, Tirano, Domodossola), France (Chamonix, Geneva connections), or Germany (Munich, Stuttgart).
Cost & Discounts
The cost of Interrail Switzerland varies depending on duration, class, and age.
Price Factors
- Class: 1st class (panoramic comfort) vs 2nd class (budget-friendly).
- Days of travel: Options from 3 days to 8 days within a month.
- Age discounts:
- Youth (12–27 years): 25% off
- Children under 12: Free with a paying adult
- Seniors (60+): Special reductions
Travel Tips to Maximize Your Interrail Switzerland
- Plan scenic trains early – Glacier & Bernina Express sell out fast.
- Download the Rail Planner app – check timetables offline.
- Mix premium and local trains – sometimes local routes have fewer crowds and equally stunning views.
- Pack snacks – trains have restaurants, but prices are high.
- Travel in shoulder seasons (May–June or September–October) for fewer tourists and better prices.
Conclusion:
The Interrail Switzerland Pass unlocks a world of breathtaking train journeys across one of the most beautiful countries on earth. From the Glacier Express to the GoldenPass Line, you’ll witness landscapes that feel straight out of a postcard and save money while doing it.
Whether you’re a backpacker chasing adventure, a family on holiday, or a senior enjoying a comfortable ride, Interrail Switzerland offers flexibility, savings, and memories that last a lifetime. With access to the Swiss train timetable, planning your scenic journeys becomes effortless, ensuring you never miss a connection on the world’s most punctual railway network.
If Switzerland is just one stop on your European trip, Interrail is the perfect companion. If you want all-inclusive access inside Switzerland only, the Swiss Travel Pass is worth comparing.
FAQs About Interrail Switzerland
Q1: Is the Interrail Switzerland Pass worth it?
Yes, if you plan to take multiple long-distance or scenic trains, it saves money compared to buying single tickets.
Q2: Do I need to reserve seats?
Only on panoramic trains like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express.
Q3: Can I use the pass for buses or boats?
No, that’s included in the Swiss Travel Pass, not Interrail.
Q4: What about cross-border travel?
Yes! Interrail covers routes to Italy, France, Germany, and Austria.
Q5: Which is better Interrail Switzerland or Swiss Travel Pass?
It depends on your travel style: choose Interrail for flexibility, Swiss Travel Pass for all-inclusive perks.
