free travel pass in switzerland

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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Friday 19th of July 2024

Is it worth buying a travel pass for 4 days? We will be travelling from Geneva to Gruyere to Lausanne, Zurich and Lucerne. Hoping to fit a scenic rail day trip in too. Thanks

@Jurga, thank you so much

Hi Annie, if you are planning on taking trains between different cities every day (and other public transport in towns) then yes, it's definitely worth it. If you just take a train once or twice, then you are better off with single tickets (which can be very expensive if booked last minute or quite affordable if booked in advance). In general, if you are doing lots of traveling around and don't want to stress about the practicalities, then getting the pass is the simplest option. It will save you a lot of time on research as well.

Tuesday 16th of July 2024

With the Family Travel Pass- are the kids allowed entry into the museums for free as well (as long as they are with their parent)?

Wednesday 17th of July 2024

Hi Becky, if you buy the Swiss Travel Pass for adults as well as kids, then the kids will have the exact same benefits as parents when traveling together. When you choose your pass here, you can indicate how many tickets for each age group you need (kids up to and including 15 are free) and all those tickets will give you the exact same discounts.

Sunday 7th of July 2024

Hi do you know if there are any restrictions around buying 2 consecutive Swiss Travel Passes? Myself and my kids are going to be there for 24 days - and it looks like buying a 15-day then an 8 day STP would work better for us than a 15 day Flex - and not cost much more. But is it allowed? Thanks! Claire

Tuesday 9th of July 2024

@Jurga, thank you!

Monday 8th of July 2024

Hi Claire, I don't see why this wouldn't be possible. Nobody cares or keeps track of how many passes you buy or when. Lucky you to be able to spend so much time in the country. Enjoy Switzerland!

Saturday 22nd of June 2024

Thank you for this very useful information. The ability to get a refund if buying through Get Your Guide is welcome news. Q1. I understand seat reservations are now required throughout Europe. How can a seat reservation be made? Q 2. I want to take the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano but that train appears sold out. There is a 'regular' train available with multiple stops. Does that use the same track?

Monday 24th of June 2024

Hi Mike, normally, seat reservations in Europe are only required for special journeys like e.g. Bernina Express or a fast train from Paris to London, but not for regular trains. As for the Bernina Express route, regular trains do the same route, but the trains/seats are simpler, they don't have panoramic windows, there is no info along the way, etc. You may also have to switch trains; I think Bernina Express is the only direct one. What people sometimes do is take the regular train one way and the Bernina Express the other way - you see the same scenery, but save some money on one part of the journey.

Thursday 20th of June 2024

I can't seem to find the list of cities and towns where the pass allows you to use the local transport?

Hi Steff, the Swiss Pass includes the entire public transportation network all over Switzerland, so in all towns. As mentioned in the article, do not confuse public transportation with e.g. mountain gondolas or trains that bring you to mountain peaks - those are not covered.

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Explore Switzerland in four days.

Cities, lakes and mountains – Switzerland has so much to offer. The best route for your short trip to Switzerland.

Highlights.

Spectacular mountain lifts or railways take you up to the Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn and Matterhorn.

Zurich, Lucerne, Locarno – visit three truly magnificent Swiss cities.

Take a cosy boat trip and enjoy the deep-blue Swiss lakes – included in the Swiss Travel Pass!

Swiss Travel Pass (Flex).

Enjoy unlimited travel by rail, bus and boat, plus discounts on mountain lifts or railways and many more benefits.

Proposed route for a four-day trip through Switzerland.

Day 1: Zurich–Lucerne–Interlaken.

On the first day of your trip, travel to Lucerne to see the world-famous Chapel Bridge with its distinctive water tower. Stroll along the River Reuss and stop off at one of the old town’s cosy cafés before taking the panorama train to Interlaken Ost. The journey takes just under two hours. That leaves enough time to visit Harder Kulm in the afternoon. Interlaken’s local mountain can be conveniently reached by cable car. The Swiss Travel Pass gives you a 50% discount on the journey.

From the Zwei-Seen-Steg, a viewing platform with a glass floor section, you can enjoy incredible views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, but also of Interlaken below, nestled between the turquoise Lake Brienz and deep-blue Lake Thun.

Day 2: Interlaken.

Interlaken is the perfect place to embark on a trip into the mountains. As well as the majestic Jungfrau, the glorious Schilthorn – used as a filming location for the classic James Bond movie ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ – is also well worth visiting. You can enjoy a 50% discount on the cable car journey to the Schilthorn with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Schilthorn highlights.

• Piz Gloria revolving restaurant
• Free, interactive Spy World exhibition
• Walk of Fame with actors from ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’

For a more active day, take the train to Lauterbrunnen and then from there, the cable car up to Grütschalp. The cable car journey is free with the Swiss Travel Pass. From Grütschalp, you take the train to Mürren and then hike back to Grütschalp which takes around 90 minutes.

Another option is a boat trip on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun. In Thun, you can visit the castle or art museum for free with the Swiss Travel Pass. The Kunsthaus Interlaken art gallery is also included with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Day 3: Interlaken–Zermatt.

Visit Zermatt on the third day of your trip across Switzerland. Both the Gornergrat and Rothorn provide breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. You can enjoy a 50% discount on the cable car or cog railway for both locations.

Or visit Europe’s highest glacial ski resort. Take in the spectacular views at an altitude of 3,883m and visit the Glacier Palace, 15 metres below the glacier. Here too you benefit from a 50% discount on the mountain railway journey. The Zermatlantis museum tells the story of Zermatt and the famous Matterhorn – you can get free admission with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Day 4: Zermatt–Locarno.

A long train journey awaits you on the final day, but a visit to Switzerland’s most sun-kissed canton is well worth it. The best route is from Zermatt via Brig and Domodossola (Italy) to Locarno. A highly recommended alternative is travelling on the Glacier Express panorama train from Zermatt to Andermatt. Seat reservations are mandatory, with the exception of children under 6 who do not require their own seat. As the Glacier Express is very popular, early reservation is strongly advised. From Andermatt, continue your journey by train via Göschenen to Locarno.

Visit Locarno’s charming Piazza Grande, famous for its exquisite architecture and as a venue for major cultural events. Enjoy an atmosphere of “dolce far niente” in one of the restaurants right on the square.

The Madonna del Sasso, a church of pilgrimage, sits high above Locarno, offering incredible views over the city and the lake. A boat trip to the Brissago Islands is highly recommended. They are home to a botanical garden renowned for its great variety of exotic plants. On the return journey, you can stop off in Ascona, for example, and take a stroll along the lakeside promenade before returning to Locarno by bus.

Further content

Swiss travel pass adults..

• 4-day Swiss Travel Pass CHF 244
• 4-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex CHF 279

Swiss Travel Pass Youth.

More on the topic..

• Swiss Travel Pass
• Swiss Half Fare Card
• Area of validity map

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How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

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Switzerland's rail system is among the most modern and efficient in Europe. It includes commuter trains, long-distance routes connecting Swiss cities and connecting Switzerland to the rest of Europe, and smaller trains that stop at quaint towns and villages. It also includes scenic trains that pass through stunning landscapes and mountain ranges, as well as cogwheel trains and funiculars that connect to high-altitude mountain towns. The broader Swiss public transport system is also comprised of buses, boats, and even some ski gondolas and cable cars.

Visitors to Switzerland who don't wish to rent a car will find that the Swiss travel system can take them just about anywhere in the country they want to go. We'll allow, however, that the system for planning and booking travel is not the most intuitive for first-time users—there's an extensive range of choices for tickets and travel passes, plus more than one site for purchasing. We'll help you make sense of it below.

Read on for a guide to using Swiss trains and other forms of transportation, plus information on whether the Swiss Travel Pass is the right deal for your journey to Switzerland.

Taking the Train in Switzerland

If you are only taking a few train trips in Switzerland, you can most likely get by with point-to-point tickets, as opposed to a travel pass. To buy these, you'll use the Swiss Federal Railways (abbreviated SBB) website. SBB runs regional (R, RE, and IR) trains throughout the country, as well as S-Bahn commuter trains and IC and ICN intercity trains. Regional trains are slower but stop at all or most stations, regardless of size. S-Bahn commuter trains offer frequent service between cities and their suburbs and may connect cities that are in relative proximity. Fast intercity trains stop at major towns but do not serve smaller municipalities.

Purchasing Tickets

The SBB website sells one-way or round-trip tickets between Swiss cities, as well as the City Ticket, which includes travel to a city—Bern, for example—plus a one-day travel pass for public transportation in that city. To use the site for a single trip, follow these steps:

• Select a point-to-point ticket. Insert your point-to-point destinations, and select a date of travel up to two months in advance.
• Select your preferred train time/route and enter passenger information. Options will appear, including the City Ticket and upgrades to First Class. On shorter train rides, you probably don't need to spend the extra money—30 percent or more—for the First Class coach, as Second Class on Swiss trains is comfortable and clean. First Class seats are larger and farther apart from one another, and the coaches are usually less crowded, which may be preferable on a longer trip. Note that when SBB initially calculates a fare, it does so with the assumption that you have the half-fare Travelcard, a discount card that must be purchased. Since you probably won't be traveling with this card (see more below), you have to select "No discount" in the discount cards field—and your ticket price will double as a result.
• Complete your purchase with a credit card. You will be issued a voucher, which you can either print out or keep on your handheld device.
• Persons with disabilities can, when searching for tickets, select "Barrier-free travel" from the pull-down menu labeled "Standard view" to see only trains that have wheelchair accessible carriages.
• Supersaver tickets are available on select routes and times and can offer discounts of up to 70 percent.
• Kids travel free. Children up to 16 years of age travel free with a parent, so long as that parent has a valid ticket. But you must pick up a Swiss Family Card before traveling—it's available at every station or point of sale.

If you've purchased your tickets online, you will not have a seat reservation, which is generally not required on domestic Swiss trains. Simply climb aboard a first- or second-class carriage, depending on your ticket class, and find a seat. Once the train is underway, a conductor will come by and scan your ticket. A digital sign inside each coach shows the next station, so you should have plenty of time to gather luggage and exit the train when it stops.

Each train seat or group of seats is fitted with an electrical outlet and may have a USB charger. Intercity trains may have restaurants with tableside service, or bars offering drinks and light snacks, including hot items. Long-distance intercity trains have a family coach as the first or last car—it's a kid-friendly coach with games and a soft play area.

If you prefer to purchase tickets in-person or on the same day of travel, you can do so at the SBB counter or office in any Swiss train station. For a surcharge, you can also reserve seats when you purchase, which is not possible online. Alternatively, if you can proceed without human assistance, you can buy tickets from SBB machines in all stations.

Other Forms of Transportation

Small towns and mountain locations not served by trains are connected with a series of cogwheel trains, funiculars, and cablecars, as well as buses run by PostBus, a subsidiary of Swiss Post. Across Switzerland's many lakes, tour boats and ferries carry leisure and commuter passengers. There are also a handful of famous scenic train rides in Switzerland which require special tickets and reserved seats.

• Boat service on Swiss lakes is usually administered locally or regionally around the lake. In Zurich, for example, boat travel can be purchased from ZVV, the Zurich Transportation Network , which runs the city's buses, trams, trains, and boat services.
• Cogwheel trains, funiculars, and cablecars are either run by the local/regional authority or by private entities—the latter, especially when they connect to ski resorts.
• The Bernina Express and Glacier Express scenic mountain trains are run by the Rhaetian Railway service, but can also be purchased through the SBB website. Tickets for the Golden Pass train between Montreux and Lucerne can be bought on the Golden Pass website .
• Bus tickets for buses run by PostBus can be purchased through the SBB site, which will automatically suggest bus travel when train travel is not available.

Swiss Travel Pass: What's Included & How Much It Costs

If you are planning to do a lot of traveling within Switzerland and want to try out its many forms of transportation, the Swiss Travel Pass may be worth the investment. The pass is available only to visitors from outside Switzerland and includes free travel on almost the entire network of trains, boats, cogwheels, funiculars, and more. Those not free with the pass are deeply discounted. The pass also includes free public transportation in more than 90 Swiss cities and towns and free admission to more than 500 museums across the country.

Swiss Travel Passes also allow for free travel for children, but as with regular rail passes, families need to pick up the Swiss Family Card before they initiate travel. The pass, while expensive, simplifies the travel process for visitors. If you prefer not to travel over three, four, eight, or 15 consecutive days, the Flex Pass allows for a set number of days of travel within 30 days and is well-suited to those planning a more extended stay in Switzerland.

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Lakes & Mountains 2024

Scenic Rail 2024

Swiss Travel Pass

3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 days of free travel around switzerland.

The Swiss Travel Pass gives you unlimited travel on the public transport network, allowing you to fully explore the length and breadth of this beautiful country. It also has the benefit of allowing you to bypass the queues at the ticket offices.

For 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days, you can enjoy:

• FREE travel on the network of mainline trains throughout Switzerland
• FREE travel on the classic scenic rail routes including the Glacier Express, GoldenPass Express and the Bernina Express (small booking fee may apply) 
• FREE travel aboard the boats of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Lake Lucerne, Lake Geneva, Lake Lugano, the Swiss section of Lake Maggiore, Lake Zurich
• FREE popular mountain excursions - Mount Rigi, Klewenalp, Stoos and the CabriO cable car to the Stanserhorn
• FREE travel on the PostBus network across the country
• FREE local bus and tram travel in 90 Swiss cities
• FREE travel for children up to the age of 16 when travelling with parents 
• FREE entry to more than 500 museums throughout the country, and significant discounts to many other attractions
• 50% discount on most mountain trains, funiculars and cable cars

Please see the Swiss Travel Pass map for further details.   

Please note, there are a few exceptions such as the boats on the Italian section of Lake Maggiore (no discount) and the final part of the journey to Jungfraujoch-Top of Europe (free to Wengen or Grindelwald, 25% discount thereafter).   

Prices for The Swiss Travel Pass are available on request. You have a choice of 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 day passes. 

You may also be interested in the  Swiss Travel Pass Flex , which allows you to freely choose your travelling days within a specified month. On the selected travel days, you will enjoy all the benefits listed above. On the other days, travel will be full fare. Please call us for latest prices.

Holidays with a Swiss Travel Pass included

While Swiss Travel Passes can easily be added to the majority of holidays, we have a few suggested itineraries which already include it. Take a look at these holidays which offer great value for money. 

6 Days | Essential Glacier Express

6 Day | Heart Of Scenic Switzerland Holiday

8 Day | Supreme Glacier Express Holiday

8 Day | Switzerland's Top Lakeside Resorts Holiday

8 Day | Scenic Contrasts Holiday

8 Day | Mini Grand Tour

15 Day | Grand Scenic Train Tour

15 Day | Hidden Treasures Holiday

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Each of our recommended excursion pages will mention if you can use your Swiss Travel Pass. Find out more in these regional summaries:

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FREE Swiss Travel Pass Museums (Ultimate List)

Swiss Travel Pass museums are your golden key to over 500 sanctuaries of history, art, and innovation. What a way to learn more about Switzerland while traveling by train, bus, and boat!

This Swiss Travel Pass isn't just a public transportation ticket. It holds the power of a Swiss Museum Pass key that unlocks the vaults of 500 museums.

Join us on a journey through the corridors of history and the galleries of modern art. As you will see, the free museums with Swiss Travel Pass are as diverse as this little country.

Top Museums Included in the Swiss Travel Pass

Other must-see museums in switzerland, swiss museums for art lovers, most unique museums covered by the swiss travel pass, swiss travel pass museum list, faqs about swiss travel pass museums.

With so many to choose from, why not knock the best museums covered by the Swiss Travel Pass off your bucket list first? Whether you're interested in art, history, science, or even chocolate, there's something for every holder of the Swiss Travel Pass.

The Swiss National Museum in Zurich is a must-visit for history buffs. It showcases Switzerland's rich history and cultural heritage through a vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical exhibitions. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Swiss history, from ancient artifacts to medieval weaponry and traditional costumes.

The Museum of Art in Basel is a true gem if you love art. It houses an extensive collection of artworks from various periods, including pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.

We also recommend the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen , where adult admission costs 25 francs. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you will enter for free to see amazing art inside an architectural masterpiece. Focusing on modern art, the permanent collection includes works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.

For sports enthusiasts, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne is a must-see. This is especially true in 2024, the year of the Summer Olympics. This museum celebrates the history and spirit of the Olympic Games through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and multimedia presentations.

The Swiss Travel Pass doesn't just cover the well-known museums. It also grants you access to some hidden gems that are worth exploring.

Swiss Museums for Chocoholics

We love Maestrani's Chocolarium , a haven for chocoholics and fans of Willy Wonka. Once you enter through the magical doors, you are invited to embark on an interactive journey that brings the chocolate narrative to life. At the end of the tour, you will pass an 80-meter-long glass gallery. From there, you will overlook the live production lines of the Munz and Minor brands. (There will be plenty of free chocolate to taste…)

Maison Cailler in Broc is one of those places any chocoholic should visit, be they Swiss Travel Pass tourists or internationals who live in Switzerland. Since 1898, Cailler chocolate has been a hallmark brand in the Gruyères region. The chocolate factory tour begins with an engaging historical exploration. Then, after gaining insights into the chocolate-making process, you can witness the creation of Cailler's renowned chocolate. The tour concludes with a tasting of the brand's signature treats.

For Swiss Travel Pass holders, these experiences are even sweeter as you can eat unlimited free chocolate! How cool is that?

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass at GetYourGuide

Purchase the Swiss Travel Pass online at the most reputable vendor starting at CHF 244. You will receive an immediate email confirmation with a PDF ticket.

The Best Swiss Travel Pass Castles

The Swiss Travel Pass quite literally is a key to unlocking the gates of some of the most majestic castles. At last count, nearly 45 castles offered free admission. For history enthusiasts, there's no greater adventure than climbing the ruins of medieval fortresses!

I recommend Chillon Castle as the ultimate Swiss castle to visit. Perched on the edge of Lake Geneva, it's a place where history breathes through the stones. Walking through its grand halls and secret passageways, I always feel transported to a medieval era. Save yourself the 12-franc admission and visit the castle with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Nestled in the Fribourg foothills, the Château de Gruyères commands the landscape with its fairy-tale appearance. This castle maintains its medieval structure and houses impressive art and history collections. Don't miss the views of the Saane Valley from the castle's ramparts!

The Habsburg Castle and Schloss Hallwyl are gems hidden in the Swiss countryside. The Habsburg Castle, the ancestral seat of the House of Habsburg, symbolizes the dynasty's early power. Its austere walls and historical exhibitions represent the powerful lineage that once ruled much of Europe. Schloss Hallwyl, surrounded by water, is one of Switzerland's most important moated castles. Its rooms, filled with centuries of history, offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of the nobility.

Schloss Wildegg and Schloss Kyburg are steeped in nobility. Schloss Wildegg, perched on a terraced hillside, overlooks the Aare Valley and presents a beautifully maintained estate with a baroque garden. Schloss Kyburg, towering above the Töss river, has a museum and many medieval artifacts. As a child, I was always scared to death by the iron maiden...

The Castles of Bellinzona , a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a trio of fortifications that stand as sentinels over the town. These castles - Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro - are interconnected by walls that once served as a defense system. Each castle offers a unique vantage point, so visit each if you have time.

Swiss Museums About Roman History

Suppose the Swiss Travel Pass were to be named in Latin; it might be called the Peregrinatio Helvetica Passus . This translated to Swiss Journey Pass !

Switzerland offers a lot of well-preserved Roman history. Numerous Roman museums, most of which are nestled in the French-speaking part of the country, underscore the extent of Roman influence and the sophistication of Roman society in the Alpine region.

Augusta Raurica in Augst is a testament to this bygone era, inviting us to wander through the ruins of a Roman settlement. The amphitheater, temple, and myriad unearthed artifacts offer a tangible connection to ancient times.

In Avenches, Musée Romain sits amidst the remnants of Aventicum , the capital of Roman Helvetia. The museum not only displays significant archaeological finds but also offers a view of the grandeur of a Roman city through its ruins and reconstructions.

Moving on to Vallon, where the Musée Romain brings to life the everyday aspects of Roman civilization. The museum's exhibits, from domestic items to tools, paint a vivid picture of daily life in Helvetia .

The Musée Romain de Lausanne-Vidy reveals the story of Lousonna , a Roman trading post. The museum's location by the lake shore where the settlement once thrived allows us to step directly onto an archaeological site, blending education with the atmosphere of antiquity.

Nyon's Musée Romain showcases the history of the Roman town of Noviodunum with a collection that includes stunning mosaics, everyday utensils, and remnants of the town's structures, providing insights into the urban life of the Romans in Switzerland.

In Orbe, the Musée d'Orbe et Mosaïques Romaines offers a unique experience focusing on mosaics. The beautifully preserved mosaics provide a colorful glimpse into Roman artistic expression and interior decoration.

For a comprehensive guide to the Roman history of Turicum , check out our ultimate guide to Roman history in Zurich .

Switzerland's art scene is a vibrant palette of history and innovation, where each museum is a world unto itself. Here are some highlights, but please consult our dedicated post about Swiss Travel Pass art museums:

Kunsthaus Zürich is the largest art museum in Switzerland, where modern and contemporary masterpieces converse across time. Art aficionados will enjoy the collection of paintings and sculptures ranging from medieval times to the pulsating present.

The Aargauer Kunsthaus in Aarau is a beacon of Swiss artistry, its collection a testament to the nation's creative journey. Meanwhile, Museum Langmatt, in a historic mansion in Baden, has one of Europe's most significant private collections of French Impressionism.

Appenzell's Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte and Bern's Kunstmuseum stand as custodians of heritage and innovation, where the echoes of Carl Liner's legacy meet the bold strokes of Gothic to contemporary artists.

Zentrum Paul Klee in Bern unfurls as an architectural wave, cradling the essence of Klee's genius in its fluid lines.

Basel offers a trio of curious art museums: the satirical Cartoonmuseum , the historic Kunstmuseum , and the kinetic Museum Tinguely . Each space is a lens into different realms of creativity, from the power of a single line to the dance of dynamic sculptures.

The Bourbaki Panorama Luzern transports us through time and emotion, from the fervor of German Expressionism to the immersive 360-degree battlefield of history.

Luzern's Sammlung Rosengart and St. Gallen's Textilmuseum weave a narrative of personal collection and textile mastery, while Lugano's MASI and Lausanne's MUDAC challenge the boundaries between art forms.

Finally, Zürich's Museum Rietberg opens a portal to the world, celebrating mostly Asian (and Japanese) art. We always keep a close eye on their new exhibits...

Best Swiss Art Museums for Aficionados (2024)

The Swiss Travel Pass unlocks some rather unusual museum doors, too. Here are some of the unique museums in Switzerland you won't want to miss:

Tik-Tok: Patek Philippe Museum

The Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva is a paradise for watch enthusiasts. Discover the fascinating history of Swiss watchmaking from the 16th century to today. And admire a stunning collection of timepieces, including rare and intricate watches.

Science Fiction and Fantasy: Maison d'Ailleurs in Yverdon-les-Bains

In charming Yverdon-les-Bains, Maison d'Ailleurs opens a portal to the limitless realms of science fiction and utopia. It’s a tiny museum, yet there is a treasure trove of science fiction and fantasy, from groundbreaking literature to visionary art, charting the genres' influence on culture.

Surrealism: H.R. Giger Museum in Gruyères

Nestled in the medieval town of Gruyères, the H.R. Giger Museum presents a unique collection of the Swiss artist's works. Inside the Château St. Germain, you'll find the largest assembly of Giger's creations, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and iconic movie sets. For fans of Alien , it's like stepping onto the Nostromo …

Explore twenty rooms of Giger’s visionary and modern art, significantly influencing the film, music, and tattoo scenes. And don’t miss the surreal, skeletal architecture of the H.R. Giger Bar next door.

Magic of Music: Museum of Music Automatons in Seewen

Stop by the Museum of Music Automatons if you wind up in Seewen (no pun intended). Through a stunning collection of self-playing musical instruments, you can appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of each piece. Each piece is an homage to the region’s innovation and artistry, from ornate music boxes to grand self-playing pianos.

World of Money: Money Museum in Zurich

At Zurich's Money Museum near the financial hub of Switzerland, you can learn everything from ancient barter techniques to the modern blockchain. Interactive exhibits reveal the evolution of currency, demystifying finance's complexities. You can touch a real gold bar, symbolizing wealth's allure across ages.

You have probably already planned out your Switzerland trip by public transportation. To help you maximize the value of your Swiss Travel Pass, here are the main museums in each canton and category you can visit for free.

Download the Swiss Museum Pass Museum List from the official source for a full list of included museums.

Exploring Swiss Museums by Canton

Basel's vibrant cultural scene is anchored by its world-class museums, celebrating contemporary art, ingenious mechanical sculptures, and the traditional art of papermaking.

• Museum of Contemporary Art: Basel's hub for modern creativity, featuring cutting-edge works from global contemporary artists.
• Museum Tinguely: An interactive homage to Jean Tinguely's kinetic art, blending motion and sound into a dynamic artistic experience.
• Basel Paper Mill Museum: A tribute to the ancient craft of papermaking, nestled within a historic mill, inviting hands-on exploration.

Bern's status as the capital is mirrored in its rich museum offerings, including the extensive collections at the Bern Historical Museum and the artistic focus at the Zentrum Paul Klee.

• Bern Historical Museum: Historical artifacts that narrate Switzerland's storied past. Take a selfie with the Albert Einstein statue in front of the entrance.
• Zentrum Paul Klee: A tribute to Paul Klee's artistic legacy, offering insight into his life and body of work. The building itself is worth a visit!

Grisons (GR)

Grisons offers a cultural journey amidst its alpine landscapes, with the Rhaetian Museum in Chur providing a deep dive into regional history and culture.

• Albula Railway Museum (Bergün): A showcase of the engineering marvels and historical significance of the Rhaetian Railway.
• Kirchner Museum (Davos): Home to the largest collection of Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's expressionist masterpieces, reflecting the artist's profound impact on modern art.
• Rhaetian Museum (Chur): This cultural institution serves up the historical and cultural essence of the Grisons area.

Ticino (TI)

Ticino marries Italianata charm with Swiss precision, with institutions like the MASI Lugano showcasing modern artwork inside the stunning architecture.

• Museo d'arte della Svizzera italiana (Lugano): A collection highlighting the intersection of Swiss and Italian artistic endeavors.

Valais (VS)

Valais boasts museums that reflect its rich historical tapestry and alpine heritage, such as the Valais Art Museum in Sion.

• Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis (Zermatt): An underground exhibition that chronicles the captivating history of Zermatt and the epic tales surrounding the Matterhorn. It’s great to visit on bad weather days.
• Valais Art Museum (Sion): An exhibition space that brings the history and culture of the Valais region to life through art.

Vaud is recognized for its extensive array of museums, with the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts in Lausanne presenting a notable collection of Swiss and international art spanning several centuries.

• Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (Lausanne): A repository of artistic works ranging from medieval masterpieces to contemporary creations.
• Olympic Museum (Lausanne): An exhibition space dedicated to the legacy and ongoing story of the Olympic movement.

Zurich (ZH)

Zurich's museum landscape merges the old with the new, exemplified by the Swiss National Museum's historical journey and the Kunsthaus Zurich's artistic innovations.

• Swiss National Museum (Zurich): Switzerland's largest museum boasts a collection of over 870’000 objects that span Swiss history from prehistoric times to the present day. See Swiss artifacts such as traditional costumes, furniture, tools, and works of art.
• Kunsthaus Zürich: Switzerland's largest art museum has a significant collection of classic and contemporary art, including works by renowned Swiss artists such as Alberto Giacometti.

Interesting Statistics about Swiss Museum Pass museums

• We have analyzed the 500+ museums included in the Swiss Museum Pass, and thus in the Swiss Travel Pass . History museums dominate the landscape, accounting for 45% of all museums.
• Not far behind, art museums hold a significant presence, making up a quarter of all included museums. Swiss Travel Pass art museums include renowned venues like the Kunsthaus Zurich and Fondation Beyeler.
• Other museum categories add to the diversity, with castles representing 8.5%, offering a tangible connection to the medieval era, while food-related museums account for nearly one in 25.
• The remaining museums about natural history, nature, toys, and other topics are each represented in smaller percentages. But they are visit-worthy nonetheless!

Yes, there is no limit to the number of museums you can visit in a day with the Swiss Travel Pass.

The Swiss Travel Pass covers over 500 museums, but always check the specific museum's policy as there may be exceptions. Learn more about the benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass .

It's not typically required, but for popular museums or special exhibitions, we recommend checking if reservations are needed.

This varies by museum. Some include guided tours in the admission, while others may charge extra. Some museums offer special exhibitions that may require an additional fee, even with the Swiss Travel Pass.

The Swiss Travel Pass is a comprehensive travel and museum pass. There are no discounts specifically for museum visits. You could simply buy the Swiss Museum Pass to achieve this.

The Swiss Museum Pass is a feature included with the Swiss Travel Pass, offering access to over 500 museums throughout Switzerland. It's a cultural treasure trove providing entry to many museums, including those dedicated to art, history, and science.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It in 2024?

Swiss travel pass overview and insights for 2024.

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

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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.

Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss travel pass flex, half fare card.

Your Passport to Swiss Travel Pass Experience

Experience the best of switzerland with unlimited travel and exclusive benefits.

Welcome to MySwissTravelPass.com , your gateway to an incredible Swiss adventure. The Swiss Travel Pass is your all-access pass to explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture of Switzerland with ease and convenience. Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, our range of pass options ensures you get the most out of your journey. Travel seamlessly across the country’s extensive public transport network, including trains, buses, and boats, and experience the freedom to explore at your own pace with the Swiss Travel Pass 2024 .

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you gain access to a 29,000-kilometre network covering the most beautiful corners of Switzerland. Enjoy unlimited travel on Switzerland’s comprehensive public transport system, allowing you to visit more than 500 museums and exhibitions for free. Discover the benefits of the Swiss Rail Pass and make the most of your Switzerland summer holidays.

Key Benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass:

Unlimited travel and convenience:, unlimited travel:.

Enjoy unlimited access to Switzerland’s extensive network of trains, buses, and boats with just one pass. Travel seamlessly across the country and experience the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Flexible Options:

Choose the pass that best fits your travel plans. Our options include 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15-day passes, allowing you to customize your Swiss adventure.

Convenience:

Skip the hassle of buying individual tickets and save time. Simply hop on and off public transport with ease, making your travel experience smooth and stress-free.

Cultural and Scenic Exploration:

Premium panoramic trains:.

Take in the breathtaking scenery on Switzerland's iconic premium panoramic trains, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and GoldenPass Express, all fully covered by your pass.

Mountain Excursions:

Enjoy up to 50% discounts on thrilling mountain excursions. Ride cogwheel trains, cable cars, and funiculars to some of Switzerland's most spectacular peaks.

Museum Access:

Gain free entry to over 500 museums and exhibitions across Switzerland. Dive into Swiss art, history, and culture without any extra cost.

Family-Friendly and Cost-Effective:​

Family-friendly:.

Travel with your family without worrying about extra costs. Children under 16 travel for free when accompanied by a parent with a valid pass. Additionally, teens under 25 enjoy a youth rate with a 30% discount.

Experience significant savings compared to individual tickets. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unbeatable value, making it the smartest way to travel in Switzerland.

Special Offers:

Take advantage of seasonal promotions and discounts, providing even more value and making your Swiss adventure affordable and memorable.

Why Buy Swiss Travel Pass with MySwissTravelPass.com?

At MySwissTravelPass.com , we are a proud partner with Rail Europe, the largest distributor of European rail products. We are dedicated to providing the best travel solutions for travelers from around the world. With our user-friendly platform, you can easily purchase your Swiss Travel Pass online and start planning your adventure right away. Our team of experts is here to provide support and guidance every step of the way, ensuring you get the most out of your trip to Switzerland. With our strong support team, you don’t need to worry both before and after your purchase. We are always here to help.

Ready to explore Switzerland? Get your Swiss Travel Pass today and unlock the ultimate Swiss travel experience. Book now and start your adventure!

Key Swiss Travel Pass Options:

• Swiss Travel Pass (Best Seller) : Offers unlimited travel on consecutive days throughout Switzerland, perfect for those who want to explore continuously without interruption. Experience the ultimate convenience with the Swiss Travel Pass. Simply identify your start date and the number of days (3, 4, 6, 8, or 15-day options), and the system will generate an e-ticket that is automatically activated.
• Swiss Travel Pass Flex : Provides the flexibility to travel on non-consecutive days within a month, ideal for travelers who prefer a more flexible itinerary or are planning longer stays. The Swiss Travel Pass Flex adapts to your unique travel schedule. Customers activate their own e-ticket for the day they specify to travel.
• Half Fare Card : Enjoy 50% off most trains, buses, boats, and mountain railways, making it a cost-effective choice. This pass is particularly suitable for customers who travel by rental car but want to use the benefit of mountain excursion discounts.

Swiss Travel Pass (Best Seller)

• Enjoy limitless travel across the Swiss Travel System network.
• Available in 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15-day options.

• Choose your travel days flexibly within a month.
• Access the Swiss Travel System network for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 non-sequential days.

• Explore Switzerland at 50% off standard fares.
• Valid for trains, buses, boats, and select mountain railways.

Explore the beauty of Switzerland with the convenience and freedom of the Swiss Travel Pass . For more information and to purchase your pass, book now. Your adventure awaits!

MySwissTravelPass.com is your trusted source for Swiss travel pass. We aim to make your Swiss journey as seamless and memorable as possible

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10-Day Switzerland Itinerary — 6 Cities Under S$2.3k with the Swiss Travel Pass

Money-saving tips for planning your next Switzerland itinerary at the end — from food to accommodation and using the Swiss Travel P ass !

First published: 9 Nov 2018

Just imagine waking up to this view every day 😍

Majestic mountains, deep forests, and azure blue skies. Switzerland truly lived up to our expectations.

Its beauty aside, it’s no secret that it can be an expensive destination. Even a standard meal at McDonald’s can set you back around S$15. But this itinerary will prove that you don’t have to be crazy rich (or Asian, for that matter) to experience the best of Switzerland under a S$2.3k budget.

In this extensive 10-day Switzerland itinerary, we explore six captivating Swiss cities under a budget of S$2.3k, all made possible with the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass.

From wandering through valleys that inspired scenes in The Lord of The Rings movie, to witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at the iconic Matterhorn mountain, and even indulging in exhilarating adventures like sliding down the Fräkigaudi Sommer with the majestic Swiss Alps as our backdrop — this Switzerland itinerary has it all.

Budget Breakdown for 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary Across 6 Cities

Accommodation:  ~S$558 Activities:  S$365.31 Transport:  S$1,057.39 (incl. Swiss Travel Pass ) Food & Miscellaneous:  S$304.70

Total: ~S$2,285/pax  Click here for full breakdown

This Switzerland itinerary starts off in Zürich. Flight prices aren’t included in the budget since they fluctuate all year round.

Travelling with the Swiss Travel Pass

Unless you’re renting a car to drive (petrol is crazy expensive btw!), the Swiss Travel Pass is an absolute essential for getting around Switzerland without busting your budget.

Apart from train rides, the Swiss Travel Pass also covers an extensive network of buses, boats and 500 museums across the country. For more details on what’s covered and what’s not, check out our guide to maximising the Swiss Travel Pass .

The Swiss Travel Pass is available in 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 days. For our Switzerland itinerary, the 8-day pass works best! We flew into Zürich, rented a car to cover our first day of transport to Lucerne and surrounds, before activating the pass for days two to nine.

Once back in Zürich, you can get around the city either by walking or with the ZVV day-pass — valid for 24 hours. Using the pass only within Zürich meant we covered two zones, which set us back at CHF17.60/pax for the day.

Read also: Getting around Switzerland — How to Maximise Your Swiss Travel Pass

Day 1 – 3: Lucerne 

An hour away from Zürich Airport, we spent two days in the historic city of Lucerne. Highlights include its charismatic old town, getting to the top of Mt Pilatus via the famous Golden Round Trip, and its panoramic view of the Swiss Alps from Mount Rigi .

Transport:  Commute via public trains with the 24-hour  ZVV day-pass  or rent a car from Zürich Airport and drop off in Lucerne (~CHF100/day) Accommodation:  Airbnb  — private room in a shared apartment for three pax at ~S$178/night, 15mins from Lucerne main station

Lucerne Old Town

Admire Lucerne’s medieval architecture including Europe’s oldest wood-covered bridge of Kapellbrücke , and the nine fortified towers of Musegg Wall . You could spend the afternoon enjoying coffee by the Reus riverside at Mill’feuille , or get a drink with a bird’s eye view of Lucerne at the elaborately-decorated Hotel Château Gütsch bar at night.

How to get there:  Walk across the Bahnhof Luzern (main train station) to the old town area. The old town is situated along the Reus river.

Make Your Own Swiss Army Knife: Victorinox Brand Store (Brunnen)

While there are Victorinox stores all around Switzerland, this particular Victorinox Outlet in Brunnen is a store, museum and visitor centre all in one. But the highlight for us was getting hands-on and  making our own Swiss Army Knife  from scratch — the process only takes 15 minutes, and you can even get your name engraved at the end. Advanced bookings via  e-mail  for this experience is required.

Besides wandering around the museum, there’s also a 1.5-hour tour to learn all about the family business and its products, including a visit to the chocolate factory and winery! Go big or go home — spice up your tour experience by adding on fringe activities to the agenda.

Think: A round trip on the Urnersee cruise to see Lake Lucerne, a half-day hike in historic Switzerland, or drinking brandy at the Arnold Dettling AG Kirsch Distillery tour, just to name a few.

Cost:  CHF35/customised knife (~S$48) — Entrance to the museum is free Opening hours (Visitor Center):   Varies Address:  Bahnhofstrasse 3, 6440 Brunnen Switzerland (There are a few Victorinox outlets in the area so be sure to key in the exact address!)

Visit the Highest Outdoor Lift in Europe: Hammetschwand Lift

Located at the top of Bürgenstock mountain, the  Hammetschwand lift is the highest outdoor lift in Europe and offers a panoramic view of Lake Lucerne. Unfortunately, this one’s only accessible by car but is a much cheaper option to go to Pilatus or Titlis (especially without the Swiss Travel Pass ).

Cost:  CHF13 (two-way on the lift), CHF10 (one-way) Opening hours: 9:30AM – 6PM How to get there:  Park your car at  Hotel Villa Honegg  and hike one hour along the Felsenweg (Rock Trail) Address:  Bürgenstock Resort, Felsenweg, 6363 Bürgenstock

Ascend to Mount Pilatus via the “Golden Round Trip”

The famous Golden Round Trip takes you to various points of Mount Pilatus  through five different modes of transport — by boat, cogwheel train, aerial cable way and cable car up, followed by a bus back to Lucerne Station. Check out the Golden Round Trip interactive map to understand how the route works (more details in our Swiss Travel Pass guide )!

At the peak, there are many hiking trails available but our favourite is the 40-minute Tomlishorn hike. A ‘low effort, high returns’ hike, this trail is an easy one with endless photogenic views that get better as you walk on. To get to the starting point, walk past the restaurant area, and you’ll see the signage to the start of the hike.

On the descend, take the aerial cable way and get off at Fräkmüntegg station for the Fräkigaudi Toboggan  (CHF8/ride) — Switzerland’s longest Summer Toboggan Run at 1,350m long. Adjust the handle to suit your need for speed as you zoom down the curves of the slide. Once at the bottom, don’t worry about lugging your Toboggan back up because you’ll get pulled back up to the top.

If you intend to take photos or videos, strap your GoPro to your body because both hands are needed to manoeuvre the Toboggan.

The total travelling time up and down Mount Pilatus takes ~2.5 hours. Factor in one hour to ride the Fräkigaudi Toboggan and extra time to explore Mount Pilatus itself, so set aside about 4-6 hours for the whole experience.

Cost: CHF108 or CHF36 with Swiss Travel Pass . Transport hours: First cogwheel ride up from Alpnachstad to Mount Pilatus at 8:30AM. Last connection down to Kriens on the cableway leaves Pilatus Kulm at 5:30PM. Starting point: Luzern (main station) for the train or boat ride to Alpnachstad OR Kriens (take bus no.1 from Luzern main station) 

Picnic With A View at Mt Rigi

The train ride up to Mount Rigi is entirely free for  Swiss Travel Pass holders. So when planning your Switzerland itinerary, you’ll want to visit this on the day your pass is activated. There are two routes up and down Rigi Kulm  — either take the cogwheel train from Arth-Goldau (37mins) or Vitznau station (32mins).

From there, it’s a 15-minute hike to the top where you can view over 13 lakes and the whole of the Swiss Alps in a full 360-degree panoramic view. The clear skies, vast grass plains, and fresh Swiss air make for a perfect picnic!

Cost: CHF72 (Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm), CHF45 (Rigi Kulm to Vitznau). Free for Swiss Travel Pass holders Opening hours: Varies Starting point:  Arth-Goldau OR Vitznau station

Day 3 – 5: Interlaken

Interlaken is a must-add to your Switzerland itinerary if you’re a backpacker, and serves as the perfect base for day trips to surrounding adventures.

What to expect: Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen  — between valleys that inspired the LOTR movies, riding the Gelmerbahn — Switzerland’s steepest open-air Funicular, challenging your vertigo on the Thrill Walk — 200m-long walkway made of glass and metal wires, and last but not least, making it to Jungfraujoch — the highest train station in Europe.

From Lucerne – Interlaken: Ride the Luzern-Interlaken Express (~120mins). It departs every hour from 7:05AM to 3:05PM except 8:05AM Accommodation:   Backpacker’s Villa Interlaken (Hostel) — ~S$75/bed per night in a 7-bed mixed dorm, 10mins walk from Interlaken OST Station, or 5mins ride on Bus 102 (towards Interlaken West) alighting at Sonnenhof Station

Ride Switzerland’s Steepest Open-air Funicular: Gelmberbahn

A cargo-railway historically built to transport heavy materials for the construction of the Gelmer Dam, the Gelmer Funicular  is now a cable railway attraction, the steepest of its kind with an inclination of over 106°. Open air and securing its passengers with only one bar across, this funicular ride is for the acrophiles out there.

Queue early to get seats in the first two rows for unobstructed views as you ascend!

At the top, take a short 5-minute hike to see the Gelmer Lake and its turquoise waters. It’s possible to hike around the whole lake (~2hrs 50mins) but the best views are probably from the right side, towards the dam and only a 5-minute hike.

Once back down, continue your adventure by hiking to the Handeck Suspension Bridge . It hangs 70m above the Handeck gorge, with a view of the beautiful waterfalls.

Cost:  CHF32 CHF (two-way), CHF16 (single trip) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM (Jun, Sep – Oct), 9AM – 5PM (Jul – Aug) How to get there:  Take the Line 470 Train from Interlaken OST, followed by Bus 171  (2hrs 17mins). Alight at the Handegg, Gelmerbahn bus stop

*Pro-tip:   Book two-way tickets 3 days in advance as tickets sell out quickly! If you only have a one-way ticket to the top, the only way down is a 2-hour hike.

Explore Iseltwald and Lake Brienz

Looking for a hidden gem to add to your Switzerland itinerary? The small fishing village of Iseltwald is a lesser-known destination with cosy holiday chalets and leisure activities like kayaking.

Walk down the quaint streets and see the Iseltwald Castle across the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. While most people go to the Lake Brienz Station to take in the view, we feel that it’s more magical to eye it from Iseltwald. Have a picnic here, and watch the sun set across the horizon!

How to get there:  From Interlaken Ost station, take bus 103 to the last stop of Iseltwald Dorfplatz (15mins)

Paraglide over Lauterbrunnen

There are a few paragliding spots from Interlaken but nothing beats the experience of flying between the valleys of Lauterbrunnen . Running off from Mürren, we flew really close to rock faces, waterfalls, and over the scenic village huts of Lauterbrunnen, all while enjoying the Swiss Alps in the distance. I don’t think there’s anywhere else in the world with an experience like this.

If you’re confident, you might even get a chance to take over the flight for bit! For the daredevils, you’ll even get to enjoy their signature “roller coaster” as they spend the last minute or two making sharp drops and swerves before landing safely on the ground. Your heart is sure to get a good healthy dose of adrenaline for the day.

We signed up with Airtime Paragliding , which entitles you to a free drink (a coffee, hot chocolate or even a beer!) at the  Airtime Cafe in Lauterbrunnen town.

Cost:  CHF170 (~S$232) (additional CHF40 for GoPro rental) Bookings: E-mail , or call +41 (0)79 247 84 63 Meeting point:  Airtime Cafe — 10-minute walk from Lauterbrunnen station

The James Bond Experience: Schilthorn

Right next to the landing spot for paragliding is the cable car station that brings you up to Schilthorn .  Swiss Travel Pass holders get to ride this cable car for free! Just show your tickets at the counter to collect your ticket.

After that, hop on the next cable car to head further up to the Piz Gloria Schilthorn Summit  — the actual set of ‘ James Bond: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service ‘. Walk around the James Bond museum or dine above the clouds at the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant .

Cost:  CHF82.60 (roundtrip), free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Opening hours: 7:25AM – 4:25PM How to get there:  From Lauterbrunnen, take bus No. 141 to the Stechelberg Schilthornbahn. The cable car to Mürren departs every 30mins. Alternatively, take a cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp, then a train to Mürren

Visit Europe’s Highest Train Station: Jungfraujoch

Get 3,454m above sea level at Jungfraujoch  for icy air and views of Switzerland’s 4,000m peaks. While there’s a high chance that the view above will be foggy, the ride on the Jungfrau railway is arguably one of the most scenic in our Switzerland itinerary!

At the top, walk through the Ice Palace , Alpine Sensation and watch the Jungfrau Panorama .

Before leaving, send a postcard at Europe’s highest mailbox. Stamps can be purchased for CHF2 and postcards for CHF3, but you can bring your own postcard.

Cost:  CHF197.20 or CHF137.40 with  Swiss Travel Pass Opening hours:  First train leaves Interlaken OST at 6:35AM (arrives every 30mins).  Click here for detailed timings. How to get there:  From Interlaken OST Station, take the Bernese Oberland Railway to either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald (20/35mins). At either station, take the Wengernalp WAB cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg Station (30–45mins). Finally, transfer to the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch (50mins with two sightseeing stops)

Hike Grindelwald First for stunning lake views 

Located in the heart of the Bernese Alps, Grindelwald First is a place adventurous people would love to place in their Switzerland itinerary.  Be it on the way up to Grindelwald’s peak, or on the way down, — there are hiking trails and thrill-activities populating the whole area, promising non-stop alpine excitement. 

Ride the gondola up to the Mount First Top Station , and start your Grindelwald Hike to Lake Bachalpsee . This is an easy hike that crosses alpine meadows to the Bernese Alps. The reward: the crystal-blue, (literally) glistening Bachalpsee Lake , with the peaks of Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn in the distance!

Back at the Mount First Top Station station and on the way down, there are five adventure activities you can try to satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie. Try out the  First Cliff Walk by Tissot ,  First Flyer (zipline) ,  First Glider (Eagle glider ride) , Mountain Kart (go-kart/sled vehicle)  or  Trotti Bike (scooter)  all the way back to the base of Grindelwald.

Wanna try everything? Go for the cheaper  4-in-1 package (Grindelwald First Top Adventure) , which sets off from Zürich and gives you a full day of thrill activities and sightseeing at the same time.

Grindelwald Firstbahn Gondola Cost: CHF30 (50% discount with  Swiss Travel Pass ) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 4:30PM.  Check website for updates How to get there:  SBB Train from Interlaken OST to Grindewald (~33mins)

Day 6: Montreux

Crossing into Montreux, you’ll first realise the stark difference between the German-speaking cities of Lucerne and Interlaken and French-speaking Montreux. Other than its French-influenced architecture, it has the Swiss Alps as a backdrop and Lake Geneva at its doorstep.

It’s a place to unwind due to its serene atmosphere and slower pace of life. Even getting to Montreux via the Golden Pass Line is an experience in itself. See Switzerland’s grandest castle Château de Chillon , stroll along the romantic streets of Vevey, and take a detour to the Leukerbad Thermal Baths before hitting the next city (Zermatt).

Accommodation: Airbnb — private room in a rental unit fit for 1 pax — ~S$85/night, 10mins walk from Montreux main station

Ride the Golden Pass Line to Montreux

A famous route between Interlaken to Montreux is the Golden Pass Line  which brings you along the dreamiest sights across Switzerland, complete with panoramic ceilings on the two-hour ride. The service runs once every two hours.

If you miss this train, there are various local trains that go from Interlaken to Montreux but via Bern instead of Zweisimmen.

Cost: CHF74, free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Schedule:   Varies Route:  Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

Château de Chillon

Château de Chillon  is known as Switzerland’s grandest castle for good reason. Rich in history, the castle has been inhabited by three royal families. Take a guided castle tour or explore the highlights for yourself — be sure to check out the courtyard, great halls and chapel.

Outside, take an idyllic stroll along the riverside. There’s a small beach to the left of the castle for photo opportunities, or a quick dip in the summer.

Entrance fee:  CHF12.50, free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Opening hours: Varies How to get there:  Take Bus 201 from Montreux station (9mins). Drop off at Chillon Station and you’ll be able to see the castle.

Day Trip to Vevey

A charming small town right next to Montreux, Vevey  is known as one of the ‘Pearls of the Swiss Rivera’ with vineyards, holiday accommodations and alfresco restaurants all over.

Spot the Charlie Chaplin statue at the promenade as the iconic actor spent his last years there. The Nestlé Headquarters and the  Alimentarium   (CHF13, free on Swiss Travel Pass ) — the world’s first food-themed museum — are also found here.

Look out for the “symbol” of Vevey at the promenade — the world’s tallest fork standing at 8m high!

How to get there:  From Montruex, take Bus 201 to Vevey (30mins), or a train from Montreux Station to Vevey Station (10mins) and walk to the main promenade area (9mins)

Soak in the Leukerbad Thermal Baths

After exploring Montreux and Vevey, we stopped by the Leukerbad Thermal Baths en-route to Zermatt. It’s the largest thermal spa resort in the Swiss Alps with natural thermal waters rich in minerals — just what you need after days of hiking and adventuring. Plus point: the bus ride there is free on the  Swiss Travel Pass !

Indulge in 10 thermal baths (28 – 44°) at the Leukerbad-Therme  while being surrounded with mountainous views — especially fairytale-like in the winter. Not many tourists know of this gem, so enjoy the bubbling jets, cold tubs and saunas undisturbed!

Entrance fee:  CHF25 for 3 hours Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM How to get there: Train from Montreux to Leuk. Change to the LLB bus (30mins ride) to Leukerbad. The bus has sufficient luggage storage at the bottom and there will be luggage storage rooms at the spa

*Pro-tip:  Bring your own towel or you will have to rent towels at CHF5/towel.

Day 7: Zermatt

Home to the  Matterhorn , a.k.a. the “Toblerone Chocolate Mountain”, Zermatt is a car-free town that has ski slopes open all 365 days of the year. And if you’re thinking of adding a hike to your Switzerland itinerary, know that Zermatt is the gateway to some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Plot your route around the vast Matterhorn landscape with this full map of the Matterhorn Paradise .

Highlights here obviously include seeing the Matterhorn up close, but it’s also a great place to enjoy affordable cheese fondue ( Cafe Du Pont )!

Transport:  Take a train from Montreux to Leuk (1hr 20mins) and stop at the Leukerbad Thermal Bath. Thereafter, take the train to Visp (~30mins). The final leg is Visp to Zermatt (~1hr) Accommodation: Zermatt Youth Hostel — 8-bed dorm room at ~S$81/bed per night, 15mins walk from Zermatt Station (incl. a long flight of stairs just before the hostel)

Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise

Of all the beautiful views in our Switzerland itinerary, the Matterhorn sunrise outshone them all (pun intended). You’ll see the clearest reflection of the Matterhorn in the still water of the Riffelsee.

For this view, we took the first train at 7AM on the Gornergrat Bahn (Matterhorn Railway) from Zermatt village to Riffelboden Station. Riffelsee is only a 5-minute hike from the station.

After sunrise, take the train to Gornergrat Peak , where Switzerland’s highest hotel, the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat stands. At the top, admire the whole range of 29 4,000m-tall peaks!

Cost: CHF49 (one-way) (50% discount with the  Swiss Travel Pass ) Operation hours:  First train up at 7AM ( full schedule ) How to get there:  Take the Gornergratbahn from the Bahnhofplatz Base Station (~15mins to Riffleboden, 33mins to the Gornergrat peak). The station’s located near the Zermatt train station and is easy to spot

Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike

An alternative hike is the 5-Lakes Walk , where you’ll see the Matterhorn in its full glory at every turn. The five alpine lakes are Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, Leisee, and Stellisee (tongue twister much?), with Stellisee offering the clearest view of the Matterhorn.

The whole hike is ~9.3km long, and takes about four hours to complete. It’s not difficult either, manageable even for families with children!

Zermatt Bergbahnen Cost: CHF40 (50% discount with the  Swiss Travel Pass ) Operating hours:  ( Full schedule ) How to get there:  Take a funicular from Zermatt Station to Sunnegga (2,288m). Transit to the gondola up to Blauherd (2,571m). Start the hike from Blauherd downwards towards Sunnegga, then take the funicular back to Zermatt

Day 8: Glacier Express to St Moritz 

The Glacier Express is the queen of Swiss railways and the 8-hour picturesque ride is so popular that you’re advised to  make reservations  at least one month in advance to secure seats!

*Note: Bookings open three months ahead.

On the trip, plug into the train commentary for information about various stops along the route.

Beginning from Zermatt and ending in St Moritz, highlights of the route include passing through the Oberalppass at 2,033m above sea level, the Rhine Gorge (a.k.a the Grand Canyon of Switzerland), and the famous Landwasser Viaduct .

*Pro-tip: Sit on the right side for the best views!

Cost:  From CHF185 (second class). Pay a top up of only CHF33 (for the reservation) if you have the Swiss Travel Pass . Timetable: Check schedule for specific timings

Day 9: St Moritz

The final stop of the Glacier Express is St Moritz, a popular town with luxurious alpine resorts. From here, you can take a day trip to the town of Filisur where you can hike to the famous view point of the Landwasser Viaduct.

Transport:   Glacier Express (8hrs) Accommodation:   Youth Hostel — single bed in quadruple room for ~S$92/night, ~15mins bus ride from St Moritz station

Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint

With 65m-high pillars towering over Graubünden, the Landwasser Viaduct is one of the most photographed railways in the world. You may have glimpsed it while on the Glacier Express, but seeing it from above is a different experience.

From St. Moritz, alight at Filisur Village  on the Rhätische Bahn. The first viewpoint just 15 minutes from the station is a frontal view of the viaduct. But our personal favourite is the the Aussichtsplattform Landwasserviadukt, which is a 40-minute hike to see the train from above.

Cost: CHF21.80 (free with  Swiss Travel Pass ) Timetable:  Check schedule for specific timings Coordinates (Aussichtsplattform Landwasserviadukt):  46.680606, 9.67496387237543 How to get there:  Board the  Rhätische Bahn between St Mortiz and Chur (arrives every hour). Choose the last cabin, specifically designed with windows you can roll down for photos. Alight at Filisur Village, and walk to the viewpoint.

Day 10: Zürich

The last day in our Switzerland itinerary is none other than Zürich, a bustling city with historical charm that offers a change of pace after days spent amidst nature. We arrived in Zürich from St Moritz at night, and started the next (and last) day exploring the city. Besides taking a day trip out to see the Rhine Falls , we explored Zürich Old Town and caught the sunset at Lindenhof .

At this point, our  Swiss Travel Pass had expired, so we got around either by public buses or by foot.

When leaving the city en route to the Zürich Airport, there’s a direct train from Zürich HB station (~10mins, CHF6.80) or you can opt for a private car transfer  to get straight to your flight with convenience.

Transport:  Local SBS train from St Moritz to Zürich (3hrs 6mins) Accommodation:  Hotel Bristol Zürich — Various room configurations are available at ~S$95/pax. 5mins walk from Zürich station.

Tour Rhine Falls

One of the best day trips out from Zürich is to the Rhine Falls,  Europe’s largest waterfall at 23m! We signed up for a half-day tour  beginning with a pick up near Zürich main station.

The drive is about 40 minutes before arriving at the entrance of Rhine Falls. Ride the panoramic elevator at the top of the Laufen Castle, down to the viewing platforms. For a more intimate experience, take a boat ride to the Rhine Falls Basin to feel the full force of the falls at close proximity. Note that you’ll have to pay an extra fee for the boat ride (CHF10).

If you’d like to top your visit to the Rhine Falls with exploring Zürich City as well within the day, you can opt for an all-in, full-day tour which includes a cogwheel train ride.

Cost: ~S$83  (for the half-day tour) Meeting point: Zürich Central Station, Sihlquai Car Park at 8 1, 8005 Freienbach. Airport pick-ups available

Explore Zürich Old Town

Zürich Old Town offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and retail experiences. Look out for the twin towers of the  Grossmünster  (entrance fee of CHF5), one of Zürich’s most prominent historical landmarks, which you can climb up for a panoramic view of the city. Sightsee at  St Peter’s Church , which houses Europe’s largest clock-face.

Stroll along Lake Zürich and enjoy views over ice-cream from Niederdorfstrasse , a shopping street filled with lively cafes. If you’re feeling fancy, head to the high street of Zürich — the Bahnhofstrasse , just to switch it up from the old town vibes.

If you’d like to experience Zürich City while learning more about its history with a guide, go for this Zürich Day Tour .

Shop the Latest Trends at ‘IM VIADUKT’

Featuring a 500m stretch of stores sitting underneath a viaduct, IM VIADUKT is a shopping concept that’ll impress the trendiest of people.

The shops here are carefully curated, gathering ‘hipster’ vendors from all over the world to create a refreshing retail experience selling everything from clothes, bags, and sneaker-fashion to household/decorative ornaments.

Opening hours: 11AM – 7PM, 10AM – 6PM (Sat), closed on Sun How to get there:  First head to the main railway station (Zürich Quartierweg). Then, take the Sihlquai exit and walk in the direction of Zollstrasse. Cross Hafnerstrasse to Josefstrasse, and you’ll arrive (~20mins walk)

Visit the FREITAG Flagship Store

FREITAG is famous for fashionable bags made from recycled truck tarps. The flagship store in Zürich is iconic for its storefront design as the tallest shipping container structure in the world! The 26m structure is made by reclaiming shipping containers, and you can climb all the way up for a bird’s eye view of the city.

For dinner, you can head next door to the  Frau Gerolds Garten , a beer garden where you can dine alfresco while exploring artsy installations.

FREITAG Store Opening hours:  10:30AM – 7PM (Mon – Fri), 10AM – 6PM (Sat), closed on Sun. Address:  Geroldstrasse 17,  8005   Zürich,  Switzerland

Frau Gerolds Garten Opening hours:  11AM – 12AM (Mon – Sat), 12PM – 10PM (Sun) Address:  Geroldstrasse 23/23a, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland

Catch the sunset over  Zürich  at Lindenhof

Walk up to Lindenhof Hill to see the cityscape of Zürich, particularly of the Limmat River and Niederdorf (medieval quarter). It’s a favourite spot for locals and travellers alike — sit on the ledge and catch the sun setting over Zürich city.

How to get there:  Take a short uphill hike from the riverfront. The lookout point is quite easy to spot from the bottom

Budget Considerations for 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary

Eating out anywhere in Switzerland sets you back at least S$20 per meal. For perspective, a simple main at an inexpensive restaurant costs at least S$22, water at restaurants cost S$5 a glass, and a McDonald’s meal goes for S$19. Our wallets would have experienced a money crisis scarier than ‘The Nun’ (more like ‘The None’).

The solution: Good ol’ supermarkets of Coop and Migros, which are found all over Switzerland. There are so many picnic-worthy spots in Switzerland anyway — great excuse to enjoy supermarket food outdoors! Think CHF4 salad pastas and CHF3 tuna sandwiches. Croissants, ham, and spreads in Switzerland are fresh and delicious for breakfast and lunch.

Opt to cook dinner instead of eating out too. We were kids in a candy store (kitchen, rather) trying out different recipes!

To our surprise, we actually managed to keep to a budget of ~CHF20/day. This was spent on groceries with a few restaurant meals of Cheese Fondue in Zermatt, a traditional Swiss restaurant in Lucerne and a comforting meal of McDonald’s. To be honest, food isn’t a highlight in Switzerland so we didn’t feel like we were missing out on much!

2) Accommodation

The cheapest accommodation options for any Switzerland itinerary are hostels and  Airbnbs . Renting a whole Airbnb apartment can be pretty costly, but a room is usually good enough, even for the three of us!

Hostels are great because they’re not only affordable, but also often conveniently close to train station and offers access to travellers’ necessities — kitchen, laundry, and  free breakfast.

Plus point: You also get to mingle with other like-minded travellers! Hostels in general cost about S$50–70/pax per night in a shared dorm, which is considered reasonable by Swiss standards.

3) Transport in Switzerland

Travelling within or between cities inevitably incurs heavy expenses — one ride from Lucerne to Interlaken could easily cost S$41. We overcame this by planning our route around maximising the Swiss Travel Pass .

For a flat price, we got all unlimited rides on buses, trains and even discounted entries (many up to 50%) to some attractions! After doing the math, we realised we saved a whopping total of ~ S$971  with the pass. Seriously!

The cheapest and most fuss-free option is to get the E-ticket Swiss Travel Pass via Klook . Confirmation is almost immediate and you have the convenience of accessing the ticket on your phone. Not to mention, they’re also 5% cheaper than getting physical tickets!

*Pro-tip: If you’re staying with an Airbnb host or hostel, ask for a Visitor Card. This gives you free transport within the city for the whole duration of your stay.

Planning your Switzerland Itinerary

Every city and town in Switzerland was so unique from each other — and every day was a surprise. Also, travelling across the country via rail, and waking up to a new destination each time felt magical. We hope this Switzerland itinerary inspires you to try out this Swiss adventure — an experience filled with unfiltered natural beauty, amazing outdoor adventures, and rich cultural offerings!

If you can’t see the widget above, find the cheapest flight tickets from Singapore to Zurich here .

Have any questions about our Switzerland itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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95 comments.

Does it includes 2 way plane ticket from Sg to Switzerland?

Hi Nikita, we didn’t include flights this round because flight prices tend to vary a lot and there wasn’t a flight promo we could share this round 🙁 hope it’s still helpful!

Hi Cherie, may i know which date/month for your trip at Switzerland ? also your return ticket is from the same airport?

Yup it is! They were in Switzerland the first 2 weeks of October.

Hi Tabitha, we were there around the 1st week of October so the weather was comfortably cool. & yes we flew in and out from Zürich but I’ve seen itineraries that recommend an open jaw between Zürich and Geneva.

Can you share itinerary with me? I’m going there with my children in March 2019.

Thanks Jacely

Hi Jacelyn,

This is our itinerary! 🙂

HI, THANK YOU for the details in your itinerary. You mentioned that for Days 1-3, we could use ZVV 24-hour day pass or drive . Which did you use? If it was the day pass, please advise the zones which you bought – as I am likely to follow your itinerary closely. Much appreciated. Jeannie

Hey Jeannie, we rented a car from Zurich airport and dropped it off in Lucerne. Hope that helps! 🙂

Hi Cherie, can i go from Zurich airport directly to lucerne for free with the swiss pass?

Hi Tabita, may I know which agency you r attached with before?

Hi Guys, just wanna let you know that this itinerary was really useful for our trip! We just came back from Switzerland and it was really helpful as we followed quite closely to your itinerary. Thank you so much for all the detailed info and tips! we had a great time in Switzerland!

Awwwww. Glad it helped. 🙂

When is you trip to Switzerland?

Heading Switzerland this July! And this posts really help. We have budget around 4k per pax.

Is the package apply for year end school holiday above 20th Nov?

Hi Luna, this itinerary was created just to share our own experience, we’re not selling any packages. However, in November, many of the mountain access will be closed due to heavy snow so do check them out beforehand!

Hi, Can I check, do you still need to purchase the GEX pass even if you had purchased the Swiss Travel Pass? Hope you can clarify on this. thank you.

The Swiss Travel Pass includes your basic ticket on the GEX but you’ll need to top up CHF33 for a seat reservation!

You have mentioned that you went there by first week of October, and we’re also planning to go there at the same time. But I’m worried because I have read in another blog that some of the places were closed. Did you have problem with it? We’re planning to go to Zermatt and Grindelwald.

I think we were there a week before everything was closed! We managed to take all the transport up Grindelwald First as well as the Gornegrat Bahn but to be sure, you might want to double check: https://www.gornergratbahn.ch/en/ and https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/grindelwaldfirst/

Can i check with you, that the reservation for Glacier Express, after i reserve the seat, and choose no meals, i click next and it just brought me back to the first page. Is it successfully reserved ? Or i am suppose to receive any confirmation email and itinerary? Thanks!

You should receive a confirmation email from Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn

On the Glacier Express website to book, how do i ascertain that the booking of seat is on the ride side? , there is no indication on the website . Do we assume that class 1 is the front of the train

Oh man, that’s tricky. But if you’re heading towards St Moritz, the bottom of the train would be the right side — does this make sense?

Thanks so much for your detailed post.

As I am planning to travel to Switzerland next year May with my teenage daughter after she finished her JC, can you advise me if it is safe to travel around Swiss just for two of us (ladies) ? ( we will also try to stay out late at night )

That is my main concern since there are only 2 of us and I heard pick-pocket and crime rate is increasing.

Appreciate your kind advice.

Best regards Belinda

Hi Belinda! Switzerland is perhaps one of the safest places in Europe! — ok, don’t take my word for it since I haven’t been everywhere in Europe 😛

But generally the Swiss are super honest and very friendly so there wasn’t a time we felt unsafe or cheated. That said, I wouldn’t keep my luggage out of sight when taking the trains. Either stow it above if it’s not too big or under the chairs. Hope you both’ll enjoy Switzerland as much as we did! 🙂

Hi! Where did you buy your sim card from and what plan did you get?

Hi Talia, we got our Europe Sim Card off Qoo10! The exact link we used is no longer available, you can do a simple search and see what suits you! Just searched Europe Sim Card and there were quite a few options.

Do you mind to share your itinerary for Zürich? Or isit just a stopover for you to take flights?

Hi Phillip!

We covered a bit of Zürich on day 10! It’s not much but if you hit “read more” there’s a few interesting things we covered 🙂

Is the glacier express one-way? Planning to travel from Zermatt back to Zurich but cant really find this train route. Also, can we hop on with heavy luggages? And do people usually take glacier express as a one-day itinerary?

Hey Jan, the Glacier Express runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz both ways but if you’re planning to head back to Zürich, there are no direct trains so you you need to switch at Visp. Check out this article for more tips on planning your route: https://thetravelintern.com/swiss-travel-pass-guide/

Hi Cherie, I am going for 8 days. Arriving at Zurich in the morning and going to Lucerne on the first day from the airport. I guess i can somewhat follow your itinerary. But i was thinking of going to the following: Day 1 Lion Monument, Chapel bridge & old town as i wont have as much time on the first day since everything seems to close at 6pm. Day 2 Hammetschwand Lift, Mount Pilas and golden round trip & mount rigi. Day 3-5 I will probably follow yours for Interlaken . (I noticed that you didnt go to Trummmelbachfall & stubbachfall) I am wondering if it is doable in 3 days for all of this. Day 6 Zermatt can i go directly from Interlaken? I am thinking of doing a hike there. (any suggestions?) Day 7 Glacier express – should i book that now? Is it better to get window seat? i cant seem to find one. Day 8 Zurich and my flight back during afternoon. Do you think this is doable? Thank you so much Cherie!!

Hi Phil, will you be renting a car? The Hammetschwand Lift is a little inconvenient to get to without one. Other than that, this plan sounds alright. We didn’t go up to the waterfalls but we saw it up close during our paragliding ride (this was one of my favourite experiences)! Definitely try the gornegrat hike mentioned in the article (it closes in winter though so I hope you’re going early). From Zurich to Interlaken, there’s a change of trains. We used https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html to plan our routes.

Glacier Express MUST be reserved early. Locals usually book 2 months in advance but you’ll be able to enjoy the view all the same even if you don’t get a window seat.

Hi Cherie, I am going for 8 days. Arriving at Zurich in the morning and going to Lucerne on the first day from the airport. I guess i can somewhat follow your itinerary. But i was thinking of going to the following: Day 1 Lion Monument, Chapel bridge & old town as i wont have as much time on the first day since everything seems to close at 6pm. Day 2 Hammetschwand Lift, Mount Pilas and golden round trip & mount rigi. Day 3-5 I will probably follow yours for Interlaken . (I noticed that you didnt go to Trummmelbachfall & stubbachfall) I am wondering if it is doable in 3 days for all of this.

Hi which website u use to check train price and weather it cover in the Swiss travel pass? Thank you!

We used https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html

More info in this Swiss Travel Pass Guide! https://thetravelintern.com/swiss-travel-pass-guide/

Hi Cherie, so sorry for the late reply . Thank you for your info but im going in early September. I am wondering what the weather will be like. So its probably best not to go for Hammetschwand lift since i wont be renting a car. Hmm i m wondering if going to zermatt for one day is enough…….yes i got the glacier express reserved but it wont be a window seat unfortunately. However, i still havent purchased my swiss travel pass yet. Do i just show them the pass when i get there since i already paid for reservation fee? Thank you so much Cherie.

September is perfect because all the hikes will still be open and it’s starting to get cooler. If you’re planning to do the hikes in Zermatt, it’s worth spending at least a night so you can watch the sun rising over Matterhorn. The weather isn’t always great so buffer a day or two if you can. For the Glacier Express, there will be someone walking around to check the passes so just show them your Swiss Travel Pass and a print out of your reservation slip.

I just realized from the weather forecast that it will be raining a lot the next two weeks. That is somewhat unfortunate. when i looked the weather forecast initially a month ago it was supposed to rain 1 day out of the time im coming but now that i look at it closer it is raining almost every single day. oy vey hah. I guess no sunrise moment over matterhorn then 🙁

oh man 🙁 We were there for 3 days, on the first day it was pouring so heavily we couldn’t get anywhere, the second day we caught the most magnificent sunrise and on the last day, it was so gloomy that Matterhorn was no where in sight! So don’t lose hope!! The good news is that Zermatt is still incredibly gorgeous even when the weather is terrible 😉

it is unfortunate and im sad that it will be raining almost all the days i am visiting according to the weather forecast. 🙁

Hi I am planning a 14 nights trip to Switzerland in Dec and will follow your route quite closely except we will stop over in Bern. Can I ask your 8 Day travel pass is flexi pass or consecutive ? What do you advise if for a 14nights in Switzerland, should we get a 15 days? In Zurich is it the pass is not really necessary as we will be in Zurich for 2-3 nights thereafter will fly back to Sin.

Thank you. Vanessa

Hi Vanessa! Glad you found our itinerary useful 🙂 Our 8-day pass was consecutive since we were travelling between cities almost everyday. Will your 15-day itinerary be covering 12-13 different destinations? If not, the 8-day flexi will be more worth it since it’s cheaper and you’ll get to spend more time in each location. We didn’t use the Swiss Travel Pass in Zurich so we saved that city for the last when our pass had expired.

Hi, Should I reach juangfrauch by helicopter? Train ride prize is 190chf and helicopter is 250chf so which is more preferable?

Hi Alok, it’s really up to you! We wanted to save money so we went by train! 🙂

Thank you very much for your reply. I will look into my itinerary and take note of your advice in regards to the flexi pass.

Regards Vanessa

Just curious, which was more enjoyable and enriching between Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi?? We may only have time to do one. Thanks!!

Hey Van! The team preferred Mt Pilatus and would recommend that if you only have time for one. 🙂

Hi, from your itinerary from paragliding to hiking Gliderwald. Did you do it on the same day?

I can’t remember exactly but I believe it was done on 2 separate days because of the weather. But if you’re taking the first slot for paragliding in the morning, there’s more than enough time to do another hike before the sun sets.

Thank you very much for your reply.

Hi Cherie may I have your itinerary pls. Thinking of going there in the beginning of May. Is it a good time to visit the places you covered?

I am planning for a switzerland trip on December. May I know if the hikes and all will still be opened?

A lot of them close in October up till Feb/March so I think there’s a pretty high chance it’ll be closed. Which hikes are you planning for? There’s usually a section on the official website that has info on the opening periods.

Hello thank you fr your lovely post.

Can i just ask, is the visitor card necessary even when i have the Swiss pass?

And also, the activities like paragliding do i need to book in advance or can i book when im there?

Thank you in advance 🙂

Hey Faliq, the visitor card is useful if you’re on the flexi Swiss Travel Pass! So on day where you’re just staying in the city, you can use the visitor card to get around on public transport for free while saving the days on your Swiss Travel Pass.

Paragliding can be really popular especially during summer so best to book in advance! 🙂

hi, can we pay with credit card for the cable car or train to jungfraujoch or pilatus?

yup! credit cards are accepted almost everywhere

Hi, not sure if you will be able to help. I’ve bought the Swiss Travel Pass and intend to pre-book my train tickets (Lucerne-Interlaken, Interlaken-Zermatt) via Trainline. Does not seem to have an option for that Discount Pass though. Did you guys pre-book those as well? Or you guys managed to get the tickets at the train station on the day of travel? Or are those train tickets via those cities free if we have the Swiss Travel Pass?

Yup those routes you mentioned are free with the Swiss Travel Pass. Just have them on hand when the conductors do their routine checks. The only train we pre-booked was the Glacier Express between Zermatt to St Moritz. Hope that helps!

Thank you very much for the lovely and detailed post. I am planning 10 days trip to Switzerland in Mid to Late June 2020. My itinerary looks like following: Day 1-2: Lucerne (1 day for Lucerne City Tour + Mount Rigi and 1 day for Mount Pilatus) Day 3-4-5-6: Interlaken (1 day each for Schilthorn and Jungfrau, 1 day for Lauterbrunnen + Paragliding and 1 day to visit other villages) Day 7-8: Zermatt (1 day for Gronergrat ride and 1 day for 5-lake hike) Day 9: Zurich (City tour with Rhine falls) Since I will be traveling from India, 1.5 days will be taken by flight. Do you think I need to add anything else? I am confused between spending 6th day in Interlaken and Montruex. What is your suggestion? Also where should I stay for Day 3-6 (Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen or somewhere else?) I am thinking to book whole Airbnb apartment. And finally if I book flights and Airbnb 3 months before, will there be any issue with price hike or should I book early? (I am not sure about the dates as of now)

Thanks in advance!

Hi Jaymeen, this looks pretty similar to what we did! We managed to cover both Schilthorn and Jungfrau on the same day so perhaps you could just play by ear. If you manage to fit them on the same day, you could visit Montreux on day 6. Montreux feels quite different from the rest of Switzerland so it was quite a refreshing change in environment. We stayed 2 nights in Interlaken because that’s where all the cheaper options are but if you have more to spend, a night in in the Jungfrau/Lauterbrunnen area would be great! That way, you can take the earlier train up to Jungfrau too. I’m not too familiar with the Airbnb rates as they differ quite a bit but the prices at the Youth Hostels are quite consistent up till the day.

Hope this helped and have an amazing trip! 🙂

Wasn’t very clear on how many nights you stay on each city, would you mind sharing? For example you mentioned Day3-5 Interlaken, I was assuming 3 nights but you comment stated you stayed 2 nights only. I am planning the activities around these cities but not sure which city I should cater more nights so as not to be too rushed.

Hi Shann, we stayed 2 nights each in Lucerne, Interlaken, and Zermatt and single nights in the rest! Day 3-5 = 3D2N, hope that clarifies! It’s a little packed but it’s because we wanted to maximise the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass. Some attractions can be taken out to allow more time to soak in the charms of each city.

Hi, where do you purchase the tickets for the Golden Round Trip? Understand that we just need to top up CHF36 if we have the swiss travel pass. Do I purchase the tickets online or can I purchase the tickets a day before/actual day itself from Lucerne? Also, do I just show the swiss travel pass when I board the boat from Lucerne to Alpnachstad?

That’s right! It’s CHF36 for Swiss Travel Pass Holders. You can buy tickets at the entrance, no need to purchase in advance. & yes for the boat rides, they will come around to check for tickets when the boat is moving off.

Hello! I was thinking of where to go for my honeymoon in June and was so happy to chanced upon this itinerary! Thank you so much for all the details but I’m still confused of where to start and all. Could you please help? Thank you 🙂

Hey Zu! Happy to help with queries 🙂

When I reach Zürich, I need to rent a car to get to Lucerne? Where do I rent the car at and which exact destination I need to head to?

May I check with you if it’s possible to travel to Pilatus and Rigi within the same day? Many thanks for your advice in advance!

Yes it is! That’s what we did. Took the first train to Pilatus and visited Rigi before sunset

Hi Travel Intern,

My friends and I are travelling to Switzerland in the late April. I would like to know if the plan is feasible and smooth for the 10 days trip in Swiss?

Also, is your 8-days Siwss Travel Pass activated on the Second day when at Lucerne?

Day 1 – Zurich To Lucerne *Day 2 – Lucerne – Pilatus (Cogwheel Railway operation closed till early May) – is it worth the CHF 36? or Rigi ? Day 3 – Lucerne to Interlaken Day 4 – Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen (Paragliding) & Schilthorn Is it possible in 1 day? Day 5 – Interlaken – Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) & Hike Grindelwald First for stunning lake views?? Possible?? Smooth Day Trip? Day 6 – Interlaken to Zermatt Day 7 – Zermatt (Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise & Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike) Day 8 – Glacier Express to St.Moritz *Day 9 – St.Moritz (St.Moritz to Zurich by night) *according to your guide, is it still covered by Swiss Travel Pass when travelling to Zurich? Day 10 – Zurich

*8-Days Swiss Travel Pass Consecutive Activated Start/End Im looking using AirBnb for the entire Swiss Trip rather than mix w Hote/Hostel

Alright, here goes: – Yes, we rented a car and drove from Zurich airport to Lucerne so we didn’t activate the pass on this day. After splitting up the cost of the car rental, this is much cheaper than using a day on the Swiss Travel Pass. – Day 2: Pilatus is one of my favourites so personally, I do think it’s worth it. Rigi was so so for me but it’s free! – Day 4: This is what we did! Book the first slot for paragliding (the weather in the morning is usually calmer too) and there should be enough time. – Day 5: It’s a bit of a squeeze. I could spend an entire day at Grindelwald. We actually managed to squeeze in Jungfrau on the paragliding day although that was a squeeze too. – Day 6: you might be able to squeeze in an early trip to Jungfrau before travelling to Zermatt (depending on train connections though, not sure if it’ll be different in other seasons. We went in Oct) Day 9: Yes, from Day 2 – 9 is 8 days

Thank you for the reply.

Ya, I also looking into gg to visit Pilates but not so sure if it fit into our budget due to various places to go.

Will look into it to find a way that is smooth and worth the pockets, as we are tagging along with luggage as well. 🙂

Hey Cherie,

Please do bear with me as I’m finishing up the itinerary for the last remaining days for swiss.

Just to check, on y’all trip to ‘Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise’. How did y’all manage to make y’all way up to catch the sunrise? Not through tour right?

Kind of confuse when I read it. “For this view, we took the first train at 7AM on the Gornergrat Bahn (Matterhorn Railway) from Zermatt village to Riffelboden Station. Walk to Riffelsee (~5mins)

Also the Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike, y’all also did the hike? If I were to plan, i will need to travel back down to Zermatt and Zermatt to Sunnegga and transit to Blauherd. At Blauherd hike downwards towards Sunnegga and return to Zermatt.

This is very helpful ! Planning to have a vacation trip in Switzerland after pandemic ! This 7 day itinerary and your blogs is such a big help and great 🙂 Hoping pandemic ends as soon as possible ! Looking forward for your next blogs.

Did you check how much one can save by using Interrail Global Pass instead of Swiss Travel Pass?

https://www.myswissalps.com/interrailglobalpass/validity

hmm, just looked through, the Swiss Travel Pass we got from Klook still seems to offer more savings! It costs S$382 for the same 4-day consecutive pass, whereas the Interail Global pass costs €246 (S$398). Also for the Swiss Travel Pass, you get a free ride up Schilthorn but only 25% off on this pass

Its really a great post. Thanks for sharing

Hi there, I appreciate the valuable information you have shared. Switzerland travel will be easier for a new traveler after studying the information uploaded here.

Hello there, firtsly thank you so much for the very helpful post. May i know on the first day you rent a car from zurich to lucerne what route did you take? Any tips for which stops that shoud visit? Thank you again

I am hoping to go to Switzerland in the middle of the year. So many years, I know someone who always wanted to go to there but because of the price, they did not even consider it. I studied your entire trip and came up with this below. Not sure whether is it correct but is possible to share your exact itinerary with me? The order of the places in which you all travel and do in each day. I was hoping to squeeze in as much good places as possible. Most prob, we will follow the exact itinerary that you all go but mainly change the lucerne, Zurich and the Interlaken part a bit to fit our physical limitations. And also some of the food places. Thank you very much

Day 1: Fly to zurich airport Rent a car to drive from airport to lucerne -Visit workshop to make swiss army knife at brunnen -Visit the Highest Outdoor Lift in Europe, Hammetschwand Lift Drive back to Lucerne to explore the city area Eat at Wirtshaus Taube Luzern for dinner Check in to lucerne airbnb near main station for 2 nights – day 1 to 3

Day 2: Activate the swiss travel pass on day 2 Mount pilatus (around 6+ hours whole trip) -Travel to Alpnachstad from lucerne by boat -Travel to pilatus kulm by railway at 8.30am from Alpnachstad -Go hiking or the 40-minute Tomlishorn hike -Take Panorama Gondola cable car to kriens from pilatus kulm, along the way stop at Fräkmüntegg to take the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Slide -Travel back to lucerne from kriens kriens Mount rigi -Take train from lucerne to Arth-Goldau -Take cogwheel railway from Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm -15 minutes hike to the top to see the 13 lakes and the whole of the Swiss alps -Take cogwheel railway from rigi kulm to Vitznau -Take boat back to Lucerne from vitznau Cook dinner at airbnb

Day 3: Leave airbnb at Lucerne Take train to interlaken Put down luggage at hostel Gelmerbahn -Take train and bus from interlaken ost to Handegg, Gelmerbahn -Ride Switzerland’s Steepest Open-air Funicular: Gelmberbahn -At the top, go see the Gelmer Lake and its turquoise water -Then go Handeck Suspension Bridge -Go back interlaken same way Take train nearby from interlaken to Iseltwald along Lake Brienz Go back to hostel

Day 4: Stay at hostel from day 3 to day 5

Paragliding at murren -Go Lauterbrunnen by train from interlaken -From Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg by bus -From Stechelberg to muren by cableway for paragliding Schilthorn -Afterwards, go Schilthorn famous james bond place by cableway from murren -Go for the trail walk on the way up the cableway -When at the Piz Gloria Schilthorn Summit, walk around the james bond museum -Then go back down Jungfrau -Then go wengen -Go Jungfraujoch via Kleine Scheidegg -While at the Jungfraujoch top -Walk through the Ice Palace and Alpine Sensation -Watch the Jungfrau Panorama -Send a postcard at Europe’s highest mailbox -Take train back to interlaken hostel from wengen

Day 5: Airbnb stay on day 5 to day 6 Leave interlaken hostel Grindelwald in interlaken -Go Ride the gondola up to the Mount First Top Station -Start the Grindelwald Hike to Lake Bachalpsee -Back to interlaken Take golden line train to montreux from interlaken Leave luggage at airbnb Visit Château de Chillon Travel vevey to see hq of nestle and the world tallest fork in the lake geneva Go back to airbnb

Day 6: Hostel from day 6 to day 8 Take train and bus to leuk and then leukerbad Go Leukerbad Thermal Baths and soak Then travel to zermatt Settle down then explore zermatt city area Go cafe du pont to eat cheese fondue

Day 7: Go Gornergrat Peak from zermatt by railway at 7am to see matterhorn toblerone chocolate mountain sunrise Go highest hotel in switzerland for the view Then go 5-Seenweg Hike Go back zermatt from Riffleberg

Day 8: Take glacier express from zermatt 8am to st moritz 6pm St moritz hostel from day 8 to 9

Day 9: Hotel from day 9 to day 10 at zermatt Explore st moritz a bit Go filisur by train to see the Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint Come back to st moritz and go to zurich Last day of swiss travel pass

Day 10: Go for half day tour to rhine falls Go shop the Latest Trends at ‘IM VIADUKT’ Visit the FREITAG Flagship Store Catch the sunset over Zürich by hiking up Lindenhof hill Take train to zurich airport Fly back to singapore

Cool read! How were you able to take that photo of Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint with a train passing by? Any tip where I can take off my drone? 😀

Hi, able to share the extact itenary as I watched the YouTube video you uploaded. It’s like a tour package with all the activities I want to do. I was thinking I just follow yours, stay the same hotel etc.. since u have researched and happy with it. 🙂 If hotel you dont recommend after staying there.. perhaps also can let me know. Are u able to see my email or I can also paste in the next comment if need. Thank you in advance!

Hi Yap! You can check out the places we stayed with in the breakdown sheet here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15fLZ376uxru2khSOwuo9kFDPR1NVgjLPUqLss9WXbTg/edit

Hi, Wanted to know if you stayed a night at Montreux? I was trying to follow the itinerary, but it sounded like you just took the train to Montreux, visited the chateau and Veveyand continued onto Zermatt and stayed the night at Zermatt for Day 6?

Hi Vanessa! We stayed a night in Montreux as we arrived pretty late from Interlaken the day before!

Hi guys, thank you so much for this article, it’s a lifesaver! About the Swiss Travel Pass Promo of getting extra 2 days, If we are planning to book the 8 day pass now (to travel on 24 April 2023), do we get it automatically after we made the purchase? if you don’t mind explaining it to us, we would really appreciate that! Looking forward to hearing from you. Cheers.

We will be carrying 25’inch with us. How did you handle the luggage transport services ?

What is the best way to transport the luggage from one place to another place ?

on trains, we generally could fit our luggages in the overhead compartment where we were seated and could wheel it around almost everywhere as there were lifts and escalators around.

When thinking about travelling in Switzerland I can recommend to go to the Berner Oberland. The nature and the lakes like the lake thun are awesome.

Hi, may I know how did you guys travel from St Mortiz to Zurich?

Hi Han Ying, the team took the local SBS Train from St Mortiz to Zurich!

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• Aargau region
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Swiss Travel Pass - is it worth buying in 2024?

The Swiss Travel Pass is a popular passport for foreign tourists who want to discover Switzerland by public transport. With the Swiss Travel Pass you have access to all public transport in Switzerland and explore the whole country by boat, bus and train.

Swiss Travel Pass

Validity: All day

With the Swiss Travel Pass you have free travel throughout Switzerland by boat, bus or train. You travel wherever you want, on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive travel days.

Use your phone or print out the voucher

No booking fees

Free cancellation

booked 185 times

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

With the Swiss Travel Pass Flex you have free travel throughout Switzerland by boat, bus or train. You travel wherever you want, on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 freely selectable travel days within a month.

booked 18 times

Launched in the summer of 2015, the Swiss Travel Pass is Switzerland's most sought-after passport. It is an all-in-one ticket that allows foreign tourists to explore every corner of Switzerland by public transport .

The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited rides on buses, trains and boats, in addition to numerous discounts. It's perfect for you if you want to discover the entire Switzerland on your own. In this article, we'll introduce you to all the benefits of this ticket and help you decide if it's right for you.

• What is included in the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass offers an incredible range of benefits. With it, you can travel at will across the country on one of the world's densest public transport networks Switzerland's rail network covers almost 5500 km and is operated by 80 railroad companies. The bus network is over 21,000 km long and a total of over 23,000 bus stops are served. And there is also a lot going on on the water in shipping in Switzerland With the Swiss Travel Pass you have access to almost all public transport routes in Switzerland. On this overview map you can see exactly what is included. But the Swiss Travel Pass is not only a ticket for public transport. It also serves as a museum pass and offers other attractive benefits.

• Access to train, bus, post bus, streetcar and ship without an additional ticket. The Panoramazüge der Schweiz are also included, although you may also need a seat reservation, depending on the route.
• The mountain railroads to the Rigi , the Stoos and the Stanserhorn are free with the Swiss Travel Pass.
• On other mountain railway tickets, incl. Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, you get up to 50% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass.
• Free admission to over 500 Swiss museums
• Up to 30% discount on SBB RailAway offers
• Up to 50% discount on bike and e-bike rentals at train stations
• Children between the ages of 6 and 16 travel free with the free Swiss Family Card when accompanied by at least one card-holding parent.
• Certain cross-border buses and trains, such as the EuroAirport-Basel bus line in France and the train from Brig to Domodossola in Italy, accept the pass and allow free travel.

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost?

The price varies depending on the type and duration of use. You can choose between 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 travel days. There are two variants of the Swiss Travel Pass The "normal" Pass is available on a certain number of directly consecutive days. The Swiss Travel Pass Flex on the other hand is valid for a certain number of flexible days within one month. Below you will find the prices for the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex in CHF for the respective duration. Young people under the age of 25 benefit from a 30% discount with the Youth Pass.

• Swiss Travel Pass prices (CHF)
• Prices Swiss Travel Pass Flex (CHF)
• Prices Swiss Travel Pass Youth (CHF)
• Prices Swiss Travel Pass Flex Youth (CHF)
• Prices Children Swiss Travel Pass

Children from the age of 6 until before the age of 16 accompanied by at least one parent (with a valid Swiss Travel Pass) travel free of charge with the free Swiss Family Card.

Children under 6 travel free of charge.

What you can experience with the Swiss Travel Pass

No matter how remote, every corner of Switzerland is accessible by public transportation. So your options for what you can do with the Swiss Travel Pass are endless. Here are a few suggestions for your trip.

• With the Swiss Travel Pass on the panorama train through Switzerland

There are several panorama trains in Switzerland. These include the Bernina Express, the Glacier Express or the Golden Pass Line. Since the Swiss Travel Pass is valid on these trains, you can take the following route, for example. From Lucerne you take the Golden Pass Line to Montreux. From Montreux the "normal" train takes you via Visp to Zermatt. In Zermatt you board the Glacier Express and travel to St. Moritz in the Engadine. If you want to add more panorama trains, you can take the Bernina Express to Lugano. The Gotthard Panorama Express departs from Lugano and returns to Lucerne For this trip we recommend you to plan at least one week. The Swiss Travel Pass includes these routes, but you have to book a seat reservation online or at the ticket office

• Traveling by boat with the Swiss Travel Pass

Many of the larger Swiss lakes are accessible by shipping . Your Swiss Travel Pass is valid on numerous lakes, such as Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Lake Lucerne, Lake Constance, Lake Zurich or Lake Geneva

You can make the following excursions by boat:

• Take a boat from Interlaken to Brienz and visit the Aare Gorge, Ballenberg, Brienzer Rothorn, Reichenbach Falls or other destinations from Brienz
• Board the boat in Montreux to Chateau Chillon and visit the most popular castle in Switzerland.
• Visit Lucerne and enjoy a boat trip on Lake Lucerne. You can take a round trip that lasts several hours or make a stop along the way. The mountain peaks of Pilatus, Rigi, Stanserhorn and Bürgenstock are popular destinations in Lake Lucerne Region.
• Take your time traveling from Thun to Interlaken and travel by boat. The historic paddle steamer "Blüemlisalp" also operates here. On the way you can enjoy a magnificent view of the mountain peaks of the Bernese Alps, such as the Niesen or the Stockhorn. On the way you can make a stop at the Beatus Caves.

• Into the city with the Swiss Travel Pass

In the city, the pass is particularly interesting because it not only includes all means of local transport, but also admission to over 500 museums. So you can ride all city buses and streetcars for free and explore the city and its museums on your own

Since many Swiss cities are located on a lake, you can perfectly complement your city trip with a boat trip or two

These are just a few suggestions on how you can organize your trip with the Swiss Travel Pass. But they give you an idea of what is possible. So let your creativity run free when planning your trip. In our Travel Guide you will find more inspiration, which destinations could be possible for you

• Hiking with the Swiss Travel Pass

Switzerland is an absolute hiker's paradise. In this travel guide we have picked out 53 hikes for you

However, the starting and ending points of many hiking routes are somewhat remote and often not accessible by train. Good that there are post buses. These yellow buses are especially widespread in peripheral regions and are known for providing access to even the most remote villages. With the Swiss Travel Pass you have access to all postbus lines in Switzerland

So you can easily travel to and from your next hike by public transport. Whether you go hiking in one of the 19 nature parks of Switzerland , the national park, in Ticino or in the Jura, it doesn't matter. The Swiss Travel Pass helps you get where you want to go.

• Is it worth buying the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass is extremely good value for money. The offer you can use with this great ticket is incredibly extensive in the dense transport network of Switzerland. If used frequently, the Swiss Travel Pass will quickly pay for itself and let you enjoy the breathtaking Swiss landscape at a comparatively low price

With the pass also comes flexibility and extra time. You can board any bus, train, streetcar and most boats without having to buy a ticket. So if you spontaneously want to stay a little longer in one place or have to choose another destination at short notice due to the weather, the Swiss Travel Pass makes this possible. You also get discounts on the cable cars that access the numerous mountain peaks in Switzerland

Swiss Activities Tip: The price per day is reduced for longer durations calculated down to the single day. To make the shorter pass worthwhile for 3 or 4 days, you need to use it for a higher value than if you are traveling for 6, 8 or even 15 days.

In the following cases the Swiss Travel Pass is worthwhile for you:

• You have your main residence outside of Switzerland. (If you live in Switzerland, these Travel and Tourist Passes might be interesting for you)
• You plan to visit several regions in Switzerland and travel longer distances by public transport.
• You plan to take one or more trips by boat or panoramic train. This includes, by the way, the world famous Glacier Express
• You want to visit museums, castles, chocolate factories or other sights from this list during your stay.
• You prefer the freedom of not having to worry about buying the right ticket and just being able to get on any train or bus.

Is the SBB Saver Day Pass an alternative to the Swiss Travel Pass?

With the SBB Saver Day Pass , you can travel throughout Switzerland without restrictions and use all means of public transport for as little as CHF 29. The earlier you book, the higher your chances of benefiting from attractive discounts. It can actually be an alternative to the Swiss Travel Pass if you know your travel dates early enough.

The SBB Saver Day Pass is bound to a fixed date and cannot be cancelled. So you give up your flexibility to a certain extent, but you can save money. You can buy these tickets up to 6 months in advance. They are valid on the selected day in the entire network of public transport in Switzerland (GA area). This way you travel freely throughout the country by boat, bus, streetcar, post bus and train during one day, until 5:00 am the following day.

• How much does the SBB Saver Day Pass cost?

You can find the minimum prices of this ticket in the table. When the cheapest prices are sold out, it increases to the next cheapest price.

• When is it more worthwhile to buy SBB Saver Day Pass than the Swiss Travel Pass?

The following table helps you to decide up to which price a SBB Saver Day Pass is cheaper than the Swiss Travel Pass (STP). The calculation was based on the prices in 2nd class without Swiss Half Fare Card. So if you find your required number of saver day tickets at an average price that is lower than the values in the table, it is not worth buying the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex).

So you see, the longer you are in Switzerland, the more worthwhile a Swiss Travel Pass is. However, if you want to use public transport between 3 and 6 days, buying SBB Saver Day Passes can be cheaper.

• Swiss Activities Conclusion about the Swiss Travel Pass

As you can see, the Swiss Travel Pass is ideal for people who want to do and experience a lot while traveling in Switzerland. Basically, the Swiss Travel Pass is a great option for discovering Switzerland and making your trip a destination. With all its included services, it is your ideal companion on your trip and can help you save money in Switzerland .

Only you can decide if the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it. If you are not quite sure whether you want to buy it or not, we recommend a rough calculation. Make a rough plan of where you want to travel and use the timetable function on the SBB website to estimate the prices for your routes.

This will give you a good feel for whether the pass is worth it for you in combination with a visit to a museum or two.

As a final tip, we can give you the following: With an all-inclusive ticket in your pocket, you're more likely to discover more of Switzerland. Especially if you are price-conscious and often calculate the costs in your head, a ticket that includes everything is absolutely worth its weight in gold. You can make it your challenge to explore as much of Switzerland as possible and get the most out of your Swiss Travel Pass. After all, you paid for it.

Table of contents

Discover leisure activities, top destinations.

• Lauterbrunnen
• Brienzwiler

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• Jungfraujoch
• First Cliff Walk
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Lake Lucerne
• Schynige Plate
• Eiger Glacier
• Glacier Gorge Grindelwald
• Chillon Castle
• Lake Brienz

18 Best Things To Do In Zurich For Free

Switzerland is an expensive country to visit, and it’s no secret that Zurich is one of its priciest cities. It costs a fortune to stay in the city for a few days, especially if you’re not going to survive on supermarket food the entire time. So, it’s perfectly normal to want to save money on tourist attractions while you’re staying in Zurich.

The funny thing is that there’s a plethora of things you can do in the city without spending a cent. Many museums have free entry, as do churches and public parks. You can even visit a bird sanctuary for free, and walk around a 19th-century botanical garden. Those are some of my favorites, and here’s a more in-depth look at all the best things to do in Zurich for free!

Table of Contents

Uetliberg Mountain

Uetliberg is Zurich’s home mountain that offers dramatic views of the city rooftops and Lake Zurich. The mountain is most easily accessible by mountain trains, but those cost money. So, instead of paying for a train ticket, you can hike to the mountain from the city center for free.

It takes about two hours to reach the top of Uetliberg , and it’s absolutely worth it. The hike is a really good way of getting some exercise into your trip to Zurich and getting to enjoy the splendid sights without spending any money. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and for experienced hikers, this will be a piece of cake. 

Once you’re at the summit, there are a bunch of other things you can do for free. My favorite is the Planet Trail , which is easy and very fun to follow. 

Old Town Zurich

The old town of Zurich is the best thing about this city, at least for me. The cobblestone alleys, the wonderful architecture, and the towering Gothic churches are all stunning sights to behold.

While there are countless guided tours of Zurich Old Town , strolling through the central city streets doesn’t have to cost you a dime. You can easily organize a self-guided tour and spend hours roaming around Zurich Altstadt, discovering all of its famous landmarks.

The top sights in the old town of Zurich are Grossmunster, Fraumunster, Bahnhofstrasse, St. Peter’s Square, Lindenhof, Paradeplatz, the Swiss National Museum, and the Zurich Opera House. Some of these attractions have free entrances and are mentioned in more detail below.

Tip : Many churches are free to enter and touring them is a must during a walking tour of the Zurich Old Town. And if you try to walk inside a church with paid entrance, the worst that can happen is that you’ll not be let in.

Botanical Garden

Zurich has several botanical gardens, but the one in the heart of the old town is where you’re going if you don’t want to pay any entrance fees. Situated at the western edge of the city center, the Old Botanical Garden boasts a wonderful collection of trees and medicinal plants.

The garden dates back to the early 19th century, and it is locally famous for its octagonal palm house. The small glass building houses all the plants and trees that have no business being in Zurich, and which wouldn’t survive a day in the harsh Swiss climate.

The Old Botanical Garden in Zurich is open every day from 7 AM until 7 PM. In the garden is also the Ethnographic Museum, another Swiss museum with free entry. Visit the place to see some unique objects in the collocation, and learn something about the Swiss culture and tradition.

Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is arguably the most expensive street in Zurich. Lined with luxury shops on either side, this iconic city street is home to some of the priciest boutiques in the city. But walking down the street is entirely free, as long as you’ve got enough self-control to stay on the street and not go inside the shops.

The iconic Bahnhofstrasse is also the most famous street in the city of Zurich. It runs all the way from the Zurich HB railway station down to the lake, featuring many iconic city landmarks. The street can be traversed on foot, which is completely free, or in a tram.

Grossmunster

Grossmunster is one of the two famous churches in the city’s old town. It is best known for its twin clock towers, which offer stunning panoramic views of the Limmat River. The protestant church is also famous for being the home church of Huldrych Zwingli, the leader of the Reformation in Switzerland.

Anyone can enter the church for free and tour its immaculate interior. See the beautiful stained glass windows and the ornate sculptures that decorate its walls. Access to the towers is charged, and the panoramic views of Zurich’s rooftops have a price of 5 CHF.

Lindenhof is the hill in central Zurich, situated on the site of a former Roman fort. You can see remnants of the old fort here, and you can also enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Limmat River and the buildings that line its shore.

The hilltop is also a popular gathering place for the locals, especially the older crowds. Open-air chess is played here, and you can challenge someone to a match, or just observe the veterans in action.

Lindenhof is easily accessible by a short walk in the old town of Zurich.

Fraumunster

Fraumunster is an evangelical church on the bank of the Limmat River. The church is most easily recognizable for the green roof of its clock tower.

Touristic tours of the church are usually charged 5 CHF, but you can enter the church for free if you pretend that you’ve come to pray. Also, anyone can attend the Sunday service at 10 AM for free. It’s held in German and you might not understand what’s going on, but it’s a good opportunity to discover the gorgeous stained glass windows by Giacometti and Chagall for free.

The Crypt Museum is accessible only if you’ve paid the entrance fee.

Lake Zurich

One of the best things about Zurich is that it lies on the shore of Lake Zurich. For anyone who visits the city in the summer, this means lounging on beaches and swimming in the lake.

Head to the shore and walk around for a little while, admiring the panoramic views before your eyes. Lake Zurich is wonderfully scenic, and even just being near the water is enough to put you in a good mood.

But on a warm summer day, jumping in the chilly lake is the perfect way of cooling down. Although there are multiple bathing areas that charge an entrance fee, there are even more spots where you can put down a towel without having to pay for anything.

Zoological Museum of Zurich

The Zoological Museum of Zurich is hands down my favorite free attraction in the city. Situated at the University of Zurich, this natural history museum boasts two floors of exhibits. With so many different things to see here, the museum practically gives away a couple of hours of fun for free.

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The museum’s collection includes everything from mammoth skeletons to unicorn models. It’s a fascinating museum and an absolute must for all animal lovers in Zurich. The only downside is that it’s a bit away from the city center, but it’s still easily accessible by bus, tram, and funicular.

Also, the museum is on a hill above the lower city and offers beautiful views of Zurich’s rooftops from its surroundings.

Swiss National Museum

The Swiss National Museum boasts the largest exhibit on the culture and history of Switzerland, and it’s a must for anyone who wants to learn more about this spectacular country. The standard entrance fee is 10 CHF, but it is possible to enter the museum for free with a variety of cards and passes.

So, if you have the Zurich City Card or the Zurich Museum Pass, you can tour this museum without spending a cent. Until recently the museum was also free with the Swiss Travel Pass, but this rule has been changed a few times. Currently, it is still included in the list of museums you can enter for free with the Swiss Pass, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go in and ask.

St. Peter’s Square

Situated in the heart of Zurich Old Town, St. Peter’s Square is a large public space in front of the namesake church. The square boasts charming buildings, cobblestone alleys, and plenty of benches that you can sit on if you ever need a break.

It’s a great place for a quick rest in between sightseeing sessions. St. Peter’s church is free to enter for everyone, but it’s not quite as grand or striking as the other Zurich churches, so you might be underwhelmed if you’re expecting breathtaking artwork and stunning vaulted ceilings.

Zurich Succulent Plant Collection

Head to the Mythenquai beach to see a very interesting greenhouse in Zurich. It houses the city’s succulent collection, which is surprisingly rich for a city with a pretty harsh climate.

The Succulent Plant Collection mostly features cacti and more species than you would expect to see in a desert. The collection is categorized by origin and includes succulents from Madagascar, South America, Africa, and many other places where cacti are native.

The display is impressively large, and it’s a miracle that such a fun place can be toured for free. Expect to spend at least 20-30 minutes here walking around, possibly even more if you read all the info panels to learn something about the succulents.

It goes without saying, but do not touch any of the cacti at this botanical garden because you’ll have regrets. If you get the free bike rental, you can easily cycle from the old town to the greenhouse in about 10 minutes. Otherwise, it’s a 30-minute walk from central Zurich.

Voliere Zürich

Arboretum Zürich is a vast public park on the northwestern shore of Lake Zurich. In it is the Zurich Aviary, a small bird sanctuary with free entrance. This is more than just a zoo in Zurich; it’s a rescue station for wild birds found injured or sick. The Aviary is staffed every day and accepts emergency cases daily.

Anyone can show up at Voliere Zurich and tour the place in 20-30 minutes. You can see many unique bird species here, and learn about each one. It’s even possible to sign up for tours of the bird care station and boarding house, which aren’t normally open to the public.

But this is available only to groups and school clubs, and you would have to try to contact the aviary well in advance to ask for a tour. You’re more likely to be granted a tour of these places if you work with animals or have previous experience caring for birds.

Free Bike Rental

The Zurirollt program offers anyone the option to rent a bike for free. You just need to show your ID and leave a deposit of 20 CHF, which you will get back once you return the bike. So technically, it won’t cost you anything.

Zurich is a fairly big city, and cycling is a great way to get around quickly without spending money on public transport. You can cycle along the shore of Lake Zurich, past the Opera House and the Chinese Garden, and even up to Uetliberg.

River Pools

The popularity of outdoor bathing in Zurich draws roots from the Roman Era, and there’s a lot to unpack about the bathing cult of Zurich. What’s most important in this context is that the city offers a wide selection of river pools that anyone can access free of charge.

Throughout Zurich, there are various bathing areas on both the Limmat River and Lake Zurich. Many have paid entrance, and those places usually include lockers, bathrooms, and even cafes and restaurants. But the city also has a bunch of places with free entrance, and they’re perfect for travelers who want to experience the bathing cult of Zurich without spending any money.

Männerbad Schanzengraben , Flussbad Oberer Letten , and Flussbad Unterer Letten are some of the best free river pools in Zurich.

Tip : In the summer, the free bathing areas get crowded quickly. For the most enjoyable experience, head there early in the morning and get ready to leave when other people’s towels start touching your own.

Belvoir Park

Situated in the southwestern part of Zurich, Belvoir Park is a vast green space near the lake with free entry. It’s right next to the Rieterpark with the Rietberg Museum, which is one of the museums you can visit for free with the Swiss Travel Pass. But that’s not the point.

Belvoir Park features landscaped walking paths, sculptures, fountains, and playgrounds. Visit to spend an afternoon away from the crowds of central Zurich, relaxing under the shade of a massive tree. In the spring, come here to see some beautiful flowers and enjoy the park in all its glory.

The park is situated on the grounds of a 19th-century mansion, and the villa still exists on the grounds. Nowadays it houses the Belvoirpark Restaurant, which serves classic Swiss cuisine in an idyllic setting.

Zurich West

Zurich West is a city district that often gets overlooked by tourists because it isn’t home to the city’s most famous landmarks. While most people prefer to roam around the old town, Zurich West is a great area for the younger crowd. The trendy neighborhood has increased in popularity over the past few years, after its 180° transformation from an industrial quarter.

A walking tour of this neighborhood is a great way to discover a different side of Zurich. The modern buildings, office campuses, and even the tallest tower in the entire city area are all in Zurich West. The district also has a bunch of free public parks, as well as some of the best nightclubs in Zurich. But those aren’t free.

Langenberg Wildlife Park

The Langenberg Wildlife Park in Langnau am Albis is a top destination for outdoor lovers in Zurich. It’s a vast wilderness area with hiking trails, wildlife, and plenty of barbecue spots. Best of all, access to the wildlife park is free of charge!

I love to go here when I need a break from the crowds of Zurich because it’s such a serene place. I can spend hours watching the bears swim and admiring all the wildcats. There’s a cafe at the park where you can get a bite to eat, but I prefer to bring my own food and make use of the designated BBQ areas because it’s more fun.

If you get a free bike from Zurirollt, you can travel to the wildlife park for free. It takes about 45 minutes to cycle from the old town, and the terrain is mostly flat except for the last stretch from Adliswil.

Map of Zurich Attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

What museums are free in zurich.

The Zoological Museum, Paleontological Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Archeological Institute and Museum, and focusTerra are free museums in Zurich. Many other museums are free for tourists who have the Zurich City Card and the Swiss Travel Pass. 

What is free in Zurich with SwissPass?

With the Swiss Pass, you get free entrance to 24 museums, free use of public transport, unlimited travel on buses and boats, and free rides on panorama trains.  Discounts for mountain trains are also a benefit of the Swiss Travel Pass. 

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Visitor Card Lucerne

Benefit in Lucerne: CityCard Promotion

Your advantages: Visitor Card Lucerne

Tourist Information Lucerne

• Guided tours for individual guests
• Guided tours for groups
• Personal tour guide
• Experiences
• Central Switzerland voucher

Museums card: One card, ten museums

Official Guided tours

Tell-Pass: Free travel by train, bus, boat and mountain railroads

The Visitor Card gives overnight guests in city hotels free use of buses and trains within zone 10 of the city network, as well as a range of discounts for cableways, mountain railways, museums and excursions in the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region. You can also take advantage of ‘Free WiFi – LUZERN.COM’ hotspots dotted around the city.

Your advantages

The Visitor Card is available to you during your entire stay in the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region.

Free use of buses and trains within zone 10 of the city network

Discounts for cableways, mountain railways, museums and excursions in the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region

Free WiFi – LUZERN.COM hotspots dotted around the city

Terms and conditions

The Visitor Card will be sent to you by e-mail directly from your accommodation shortly before your stay. You can then download the Visitor Card to your mobile phone in the wallet or print it out as a PDF (print@home). You may also ask for the Visitor Card when you check in at your accommodation.

The Visitor Card is personal, non-transferable and valid for the days of arrival and departure and all those in between. The Visitor Card is valid for up to 14 days per stay, starting from the day of arrival. Persons from 6 to 15.99 years count as children.  Validity in accordance with the standard opening times and terms and conditions governing the individual suppliers delivery of service. Partners taking part in the scheme may, for reasons they deem important, limit the availability of discounted services in part or in full. In order to benefit from the discounts, the Visitor Card must always be presented. The suppliers are entitled to check the identity of Visitor Card holders by means of a passport or ID card.

The Visitor Card gives visitors staying in an accommodation in the city of Lucerne free travel on public transport in the city of Lucerne. It offers free use of buses and trains (2nd class) within zone 10 (excluding boat trips). When you first arrive at your accommodation, the reservation confirmation is accepted as a valid ticket.

Further information on public transport in Lucerne may be found on the website of the  Passepartout regional tariff association . On the first arrival to your accommodation, the reservation confirmation will be accepted as a valid public transport ticket.

At selected locations in the city of Lucerne, guests staying overnight in Lucerne have the opportunity to connect to the WLAN network "Free WiFi - LUZERN.COM" free of charge.

To register with "Free WiFi - LUZERN.COM", please use your personal Visitor Card number. You will find this on the printed card or in your smartphone wallet. Detailed instructions can be found  here . 

Use #visitlucerne and share your moments with us.

Feel free to contact the Lucerne Tourist Information if you have any questions regarding the Visitor Card or the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region.

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Panorama Express

Gotthard Panorama Express

Swiss Travel Pass

Starting From GBP 212

Book Swiss Travel Pass

Type of pass : continuous.

• Unlimited travel within the set selected days For example: If you choose Consecutive 8 Days Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel unlimited times on Swiss Public Transport for 8 days.
• Pass is valid from the selected start date For example: If the selected start date is 1 st Jan 2024, then your pass is valid till 8 th Jan 2024 midnight.

Type of Pass : flexi

• Unlimited travel within 1 month from the selected start date For example: If you choose Flexi 8 Days Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel unlimited times for any 8 days in one month
• Pass is valid from the selected start date For example: If you select start date as 1 st Jan 2024, then your pass is valid till 30 th Jan 2024 and you can travel unlimited for any 8 days within these 30 days.

Type of First class

• The First Class pass means a passenger can access the first-class sections of public transport like Train and Boat.
• In a train, the first-class seating is more spacious and has a separate section
• In a boat, the first -class section is the upper deck of the boat

Type of Second class

• The Second Class pass means a passenger can access only the second-class sections of public transport.
• Enjoy reduced-rate travel across Switzerland for one month with the Swiss Half Fare Card.
• Holders get a 50% discount on standard ticket fares for trains, buses, boats, and cableways in Switzerland
• The Swiss Half Fare Card is available as an e-Ticket to persons with residence outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
• Children under 16 years travel for free with the Swiss Family Card if travelling with parents.

You must secure your discounted tickets prior to boarding. Tickets can be purchased on the SBB app or website, from ticketing machines at the stations or at staffed rail stations during operating hours.

Combo Offers

Save CHF 30 per person

• Last date of purchase: 15 th Aug 2024
• Offer applicable only on the 2 nd Class ticket of the Swiss Travel Pass

Save CHF 15 per person

About swiss travel pass, swiss travel pass is the ideal ticket to travel across switzerland..

You can enjoy unlimited access by public train, bus, and boat to visit more than 90 cities, reach peaks of many mountains, and sail through beautiful lakes in Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass. You also benefit from free entrance to 500+ museums, discounted city tours, and access to private and scenic trains with a pre-requisite seat reservation.

Swiss Travel Pass offers children up to the age of 16 travel free of charge, just select Swiss Family Card when you purchase your pass. There are two broad types of Swiss Travel Pass: Continuous and Flexi, with an option to choose from 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 days. So, whether you are travelling alone or with family, Swiss Travel Pass is the most preferred option to experience Switzerland, while helping you save money in your journey.

The Swiss Travel Pass is a must-have for any traveller to Switzerland.

Apart from it being an ‘all-in-one’ pass which allows a traveller to access all modes of public transportation within the country, it also offers numerous other benefits on the mountain excursions.

You can use trains, buses and even lake ferries to reach any destination including popular cities like Montreux, Lausanne, Zermatt, Geneva, Bern, Basel, Zurich and Lucerne.

Just reach your station or bus terminal or pier and hop on to the next available train or bus or boat for your destination. Allow them to take you through the most picturesque sceneries of your dream destination.

The Switzerland Rail Pass is the perfect partner whether you are looking to travel from town to town, or up to the mountains or off into the sunset on a cruise, hop on and off trains, buses and ferries at any time according to your wish for the day or time.

You only have to remember that there are some scenic train and bus routes that require a mandatory reservation. It would be wise to check with the ticket office before you board any such transport as it may not include in your Swiss Travel Pass cost .

If you are not looking to travel to a new destination but only within the town you are staying at, you can still use the Swiss Pass to move around town on the local buses or trams.

This way you can cover each of the towns and their attractions seamlessly with your Swiss Pass and make the most of it.

It is jam packed with bonuses! Free public transportation, discounted city tours (check at the local tourism offices in each place or at the stations), free entrances to over 500 museums, free boat trips and more are included in your Swiss Pass price.

The Swiss Travel Pass benefits not just passengers who want to be constantly on the move.

If you are one of those travellers who wants to spend time in each place and move to other places only after a few days, you can opt for the Swiss Travel Pass Flex which will allow you to use your days as and when you need them within a period of one month.

So be it the adventurous, the avid or the leisure traveller, you will have the chance to make the most of your Switzerland Rail Pass. Switzerland tourism also benefits from such an inclusive pass that eases the overall cost of the travellers and helps in exploring the alpine country freely.

Don’t forget your Swiss Pass is the most family friendly pass ever! It allows your children under 16 years to travel absolutely FREE with the Swiss Travel Pass Family Card !

Types of Swiss Pass

Validity: Valid on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 days Both the above passes are available in 1st and 2nd class and also offer the youth pass option for travellers under 25 years of age.

There are 2 types of Swiss Travel Passes:

Continuous and Flexi Swiss Passes

• Continuous Swiss Travel Pass The pass allows the passengers to travel on consecutive days depending on the number of days the pass is purchased for.
• The Swiss Travel Pass Flex This pass offers the same services and benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass but gives greater flexibility since it allows you to utilize the chosen number of days within a one month period.

Major Benefits of Switzerland Rail Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is packed with benefits, some of which are listed below

• Unlimited Free travel on all public buses, boats and trams and trains in over 90 cities
• Free travel on panoramic trains (reservations may be needed)
• Free admission to over 500 museums
• Free mountain excursions: Rigi, Stoos and Stanserhorn
• Up to 50% Swiss Travel Pass discount on other mountain excursions
• Children under 16 years of age accompanied by at least one parent holding a valid Swiss Travel Pass, travel FREE with the Swiss Family Card.
• Available in electronic version making it really simple
• The Swiss Travel Pass is worth it when compared to multiple single-journey tickets

How and Where to Buy Swiss Travel Pass

Make sure that your Swiss Travel Pass is purchased from a reliable supplier. You can buy Swiss Travel Pass online on swisstours.com and the same will be instantly sent to your email id.

How to choose your Swiss Rail Pass

Depending on your Switzerland itinerary , create your Swiss Travel Pass itinerary. If you are in Switzerland for a short duration, it would be best to have a pass covering your entire stay. This way you will be able to use the pass on a daily basis for intercity and local public Switzerland transport as well.

If you are staying for a relatively longer period and are sure you will not be travelling every day, then you may want to consider the Swiss Travel Pass Flex so that you can use it only for your intended days of travel.

Basic steps to identifying your ideal Swiss Pass would be

• List your travel days and requirements
• Find out the point to point sector fares for the same
• Compare it to the cost of the available Swiss Pass cost

What are Swiss Travel Pass Inclusion?

Your Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel all the public boats, trains, trams and buses in 90 cities and towns in Switzerland.

It also includes free transport to some of the mountains and discounted travel on many others. The pass also allows free entrance to over 500 museums on your Switzerland trip.

Top free museums

The Switzerland Train pass allows free entrance to almost 500 museums.

Some of the more popular ones are the Open-air museum in Ballenberg, The Tinguely Museum in Basel, the Richard Wagner Museum in Lucerne and the Einstein Museum in Bern.

Free and Discounted attractions

The Swiss Travel Pass allows free travel to some really popular mountains.

Travel to them for some amazing views over towns, lakes and nearby regions.

Just show your Switzerland train pass at the base stations of these mountains and take the next available transport to the peaks.

Free mountain excursions

• Stanserhorn

Top discounted mountains with Swiss Pass

Enjoying mountain excursions is always included in every traveller’s things to do in Switzerland

No Switzerland tour package is complete without visiting the most popular mountains. There are many mountains in each region that you can visit.

Your Swiss Travel Pass will allow you to avail of either discounted fares to reach these peaks by train, funicular or cable cars.

Some of the most popular mountain excursions and the places that you can reach them from are as follows :

• Jungfraujoch , Interlaken
• Mount Titlis , Lucerne
• Mount Pilatus, Lucerne
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt
• Gornergrat, Zermatt
• Sunnegga Paradise, Montreux
• Glacier 3000 , Gstaad

Free boat cruises

Your Switzerland Rail Pass also covers the transport on some of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. Some popular cruises listed below. You just have to show your pass and hop on these cruises

There are also other lake cruises in Switzerland like the boat trip on the Rhine from Basel, on which you can use your with Swiss Travel Pass discount.

How to use a Switzerland Train Pass

The Switzerland Pass is super easy to use. All passes are now electronic passes making it really simple.

The Swiss Travel Pass 2022 is a pre validated pass. It is ready for travel once you have received and printed the same.

The PDF file that you receive will have a code that train staff can scan from your smart phone.

Once your swiss rail Pass is valid, you can use it for the number of days you purchased it for. The time of start does not matter.

The swisspass works on calendar days, which means if you have an 8 days Switzerland itinerary and purchased an Swiss Pass 8 Days starting on the 5th of May, the pass will be valid till midnight on the 12th of May.

You do not need seat reservations for trains and buses in Switzerland. You can simply board with your Swiss Travel Pass.

However there are exceptions - the panoramic trains like the Glacier Express which require a mandatory seat reservation at an extra cost. Seat reservations are not included in the swiss rail pass cost.

If you are travelling to a mountain or using any other discounted service, you must keep in mind that one of your Swiss Travel Pass will be used that day. You will be requested to show your Swiss Train Pass and the purchased mountain voucher at the boarding point of such services.

Electronic passes or e-Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Rail Pass is an electronic pass.

The electronic Switzerland Rail Pass can be shown on your smart phone or as an A4 size print whenever requested for by the checker.

Remember that you must also have your passport in hand incase it is asked for along with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Where is the Switzerland Travel Pass valid

Your Switzerland Travel Pass is valid throughout the country. Some of the most popular places that you can visit and stay at with your Swiss Train pass are

It is the industrial, financial, and cultural centre of the country and one of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic Swiss cities. Throughout the city centre, green space extends to the shores of Lake Zürich, which are lined by attractive public parks, and up to the slopes of Zürichberg.

Zürich’s lively and well-preserved Altstadt (Old Town), part of the city centre, boasts an architectural legacy including the Romanesque Grossmünster, built by Charlemagne in the 700s; the 13th-century St. Peter’s Church; and elegant guild houses and patrician residences, some of which are used as restaurants or for civic functions.

Among the must see places in Zurich are the Grossmünster, The Fraumunster, Uetliberg- Zurich;s own mountain, Zurich Lake and the famous Bahnofstrasse where you can see all the high end luxury shops and indulge in some retail therapy. Don’t forget your Swiss Pass price includes the tram network of the city making all these places very accessible to you.

Lucerne or Luzern as it is called, is divided into two parts by the Reuss River, which is crossed by seven bridges within the town.

Lucerne has one of the most picturesque settings in Switzerland. The Spreuerbrücke (1407), which is now considered the oldest bridge, is roofed and decorated with 56 paintings including scenes from the Dance of Death from the early 17th century.

Until its destruction by fire in 1993, the Kapellbrücke or the more popularly called Chapel Bridge, was the oldest bridge.

The old town is distinguished by well-preserved 14th-century town walls with nine watchtowers, quaint alleys, and squares. It houses the old town hall, the historical museum, St. Peter’s Chapel, the Hofkirche, the Lion Monument and the Swiss Museum of Transport .

You can use your Swiss Train Pass to cover the things to do in Lucerne town using its buses and boat cruises.

You can take one of the free boat cruises or opt for the Lucerne Dinner Cruise or the Saphir boat cruises both of which are discounted on the Switzerland Travel pass

Interlaken is a town in Central Switzerland in the Bernese Highlands. The town gets Its name from its position nestled between 2 lakes: Lake Brienz to the east and Thun to the west. It is one of Switzerland’s oldest and most frequented summer tourist resorts.

The main attraction of this tiny town is its main avenue, the Höheweg, which is lined with numerous watch and jewellery shops, souvenir shops and hotels that range from modest hostels to luxury and boutique hotels.

Interlaken commands a magnificent view of the Jungfrau to the south and is a starting point for many Alpine excursions.

Closer to home it has the Harder Kulm which you can visit for a lovely snack and an amazing view over the town. Your Swiss Travel Pass allows you to travel on the buses and trains that connect this city and run between Interlaken ost (East) and West.

Interlaken is also a perfect base if you want to stay for a few days and cover the rest of the country from there. Among the things to do in Interlaken includes the Trummelbach falls, and Giesbach Falls.

The nearby towns of Thun, Brienz and Grindelwald are also a huge attraction. You can also take a boat cruise for free on the Lakes with your Swiss Travel Pass or else opt for the adrenaline pumping jet boat cruise (payable).

The town itself is at an elevation of 5,302 feet and commands some of the finest views in Switzerland and is also a popular centre for mountaineering and winter sports. Cableways are numerous, and the highest in Europe leads up the Klein-Matterhorn.

Equipped with your Switzerland Train pass, you can visit one or more of the most popular mountain excursions: the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with Swiss Pass discount, the Gornergrat or the Rothorn Paradise.

Zermatt is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland in winter .

Your Swiss Travel pass allows you unlimited access on all of these peaks.

A town that offers it all, lakes, mountains and vineyards, Montreux offers a picture perfect landscape.

It is the perfect base from which you can cover the full Geneva region including Geneva and Lausanne.

Montreux and the nearby region has been immortalised by many celebrities. Freddy Mercury’s album cover for Made in Heaven is picturised here, Charlie Chaplin chose to spend the last 2 decades and more of his life in the region. Visit the Chillon Castle, walk the lake promenade, visit the casino and enjoy the unmatched beauty of this lakeside resort with your convenient Swisspass.

Take a boat cruise and reach Lausanne, visit the nearby cheese factory in Gruyeres or the buildings of the UN and the famous jet D’eau in Geneva.

Your Switzerland Train Pass will allow you to get up close to all of the must-see places in the region

Montreux and the nearby region has been immortalised by many celebrities. Freddy Mercury’s album cover for Made in Heaven is picturised here, Charlie Chaplin chose to spend the last 2 decades and more of his life in the region.

Visit the Chillon Castle, walk the lake promenade, visit the casino and enjoy the unmatched beauty of this lakeside resort with your conveneient Swiss Travel pass.

If you are on honeymoon in Switzerland , Montreux is a must-visit place for you.

Your Switzerland Train Pass will allow you to get up close to all of the must-see places in the region.

Lugano, the largest city in the Canton of Ticino is situated in the Southern Italian speaking belt.

Lugano lies in a bay on the northern side of Lake Lugano, surrounded by numerous mountains offering splendid viewpoints. Thanks to its mild climate, Lugano is a popular all round tourist destination.

Lugano is famous for its lake promenade with lush green vegetation, parks with sub- tropical plants and wood carvings.

It also has 2 mountains which make for nice excursions Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, give you an outstanding panorama of the town, Lake Lugano and the alpine scenery.

From Monte Brè there is a walk down to the village of Brè, which has preserved its typical Ticino village centre, and enhanced it with works of art.

From the San Salvatore another popular walk leads down through the beautifully situated Carona to Lake Lugano at Morcote. Taking a boat trip back to Lugano is a splendid way to round off the day.

Other excursions are to the fishing village of Gandria, up the Monte San Giorgio or the Monte Generoso or to the Lilliput world of Switzerland in Miniature at Melide.

All in all Lugano is a place to eat, chat and enjoy the mild Mediterranean atmosphere. The Swiss Travel Pass will help you to discover this regions. You can use it on the buses, boats and trams that connect the region.

Taking a boat trip back to Lugano is a splendid way to round off the day. Other excursions are to the fishing village of Gandria, up the Monte San Giorgio or the Monte Generoso or to the Lilliput world of Switzerland in Miniature at Melide ( Swiss Miniatur ).

All in all Lugano is a place to eat, chat and enjoy the mild Mediterranean atmosphere. The Swiss Pass offers you to discover this regions. You can use it on the buses, boats and trams that connect the region.

Scenic routes on Switzerland Train Pass

All you need to do to avail of this amazing journey is purchase a reservation for the segment needed and then use the same with your Switzerland Travel Pass.

Journey time:

Total journey time: The entire route takes almost 5.5 hours.

Segments: Montreux to Zweisimmen, Zweisimmen to Interlaken, Interlaken to Lucerne

Highlight: VIP seats Montreux to Zweisimmen

Your Swiss Travel Pass offers you to travel on some of the most beautiful routes and trains that the country offers.

Glacier Express

Sit back and prepare to be amazed!! You are aboard the Glacier Express, the slowest express train in the world!!

The panoramic journey on the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps is one to remember. Start off in St. Moritz, the playground of the rich and famous and travel to Zermatt, the home to the world's most photographed mountain, the Matterhorn.

This 8-hour journey takes you over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels. Along with the eyes, feast your palate as well! Order the meal freshly prepared on board and served at your seat.

All you have to do now is learn more about the route through the Alps via headphone – making sure you don't miss a single highlight.

To make the experience even more special, opt for the Glacier Express Excellence The new Excellence Class sets standards as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route.

All you need to do to avail of this amazing journey is purchase a reservation for the segment needed and then use the same with your Switzerland Train pass

Total journey time: 7.30 hours

Zermatt to St Moritz or vice versa

Along the way: Oberalp pass, Rhine Gorge, Landwasser viaduct

Bernina Express

Go from snow- capped mountains to palm fringed lakes all in a day! Switzerland’s South is arguably the most stunning. It is also the melting pot of its various cultures and languages.

Traverse through this enchanting wonderland of diverse landscapes through towns dotted with castles, lake rivieras and UNESCO World heritage sites on the unique Bernina Express journey via bus and train.

Travel in Spring if you want to see the perfect combination of green valleys and lots of snow in the mountains. In winter, the section from St. Moritz to Tirano is especially worth it.

Book the most famous routes from St Moritz to Lugano via Tirano in Italy on this famous train and bus combination and make your holiday truly special with a discount with the Swiss Pass .

All you need to do to avail of this amazing journey is purchase a reservation for the segment needed and then use the same with your Switzerland Rail Pass

Average journey time: 4 hours

Chur / Davos / St Moritz to Tirano

Bus from Tirano to Lugano

Highlights: 196 bridges, 55 tunnels, UNESCO World Heritage site

Golden Pass Line

A cross-country journey like no other! The 3 train journeys that make up the amazing Golden Pass Line route takes you from the pristine Lake Geneva region, past the Bernese Oberland and into the historical heart of Switzerland.

Start your Switzerland Tour by taking off from Montreux say goodbye to the Mediterranean ambience and the views of Lake Geneva.

In Zweisimmen, be prepared for a treat if you have booked early enough and are privileged enough to get the seats with the drivers eye view. Then sit back and relax on the Lucerne Interlaken Express which passes through amazing lake vistas and the Brunig pass before getting you into Lucerne.

Why To Buy Swiss Travel Pass

• Unlimited Access to Rail, Boat, and Bus in 90+ Towns and Cities
• Free Entry at 500+ Museums
• Up to 50% Discount on Many Mountain Excursions and Rail Travel
• Children Entry Free

How It Works

Select your swiss travel pass.

Choose the right Swiss Travel Pass that suits your requirements in terms of number of days, and class of travel.

Confirmation

Follow the step-by-step booking procedure which allows you to view rates, select total number of passengers and see your total amount payable before you make the final booking.

Make the Payment

After selection of the pass and submission of your details (name, date of birth, email id etc.) you will be directed to the 3D secured payment page where you can make payment by Debit/ Credit Card/ Net Banking/ UPI.

Time to Travel like a Swiss

Once you have made the payment, you will immediately receive a confirmation email from us. You can download your e-Swiss Travel Pass from your email (a download link will be in the email).

* If you need assistance in selecting the right Swiss Travel Pass for you, please contact us.

* If you are travelling to multiple countries in Europe, you can also book rail passes of other countries with us.

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FAQs on Swiss Travel Pass

What is a swiss travel pass.

A Swiss Travel Pass is a pass that allows you to access unlimited travel on a train, bus, boat, and tram across Switzerland’s public transport and provides up to 50% discounts on excursions.

Where can I use my Swiss Travel Pass?

You can use your Swiss Travel Pass in the whole Swiss Travel System : in all trains, post buses, trams & even boats.

How do I book the Swiss Travel Pass online with Swisstours?

• Book your pass on www.swisstours.com by clicking on the Swiss Travel Pass tab on the home page.
• From the list of passes, select the Swiss Travel Pass that suits your travel requirements in terms of the number of days, 1st or 2nd class and consecutive or Flexi days’ pass.
• If you need help selecting the most appropriate pass, contact our specialists at [email protected]
• After selection of the pass and submission of your details (name, date of travel, and other mandatory information) you will be directed to the payment page to make the payment.
• Once the payment is complete, you will immediately receive an e-Swiss Travel Pass voucher in your email as an attachment.

How can I validate my Swiss Travel Pass?

Effective 1st September 2015, the Swiss Travel Pass is a pre validated & closed dated pass.

The traveller will need to provide their first day of use of the pass while making the booking. This date will be printed on the pass.

Travellers must carry a valid passport in order to travel with this rail pass.

What is an adult pass?

A passenger 25 yrs and above is entitled to purchase an adult Swiss Travel Pass.

What is a youth pass ?

A person under 25 yrs can purchase a youth Swiss Travel Pass.

Are there family passes?

The Swiss travel system offers the Swiss family card. This card provides free travel for children under 16 years when travelling with atleast one parent.

What is the difference between a Consecutive-day pass and a Flexi pass?

A consecutive-day pass provides unlimited rail travel on all days for the chosen duration of the pass. This pass is preferred by those who wish to travel every day during their stay in Switzerland. A flexi pass is valid for a specific number of days which can be used consecutively or non-consecutively within a longer period. This pass is preferred by those who wish to travel only on certain days during their stay in Switzerland.

Till what age can children travel free on the Swiss transport system?

Children under 16 years of age accompanied by at least one parent can travel free on the Swiss travel system. Children travelling without parents can still avail of a 50% discount on the Swiss travel pass.

Is reservation on trains compulsory if I have a Swiss Travel Pass?

Swiss Travel Pass is valid on trains operated by SBB (Schweizerische BundesBahn), the national railway company of Switzerland. For domestic trains operated in Switzerland, seat reservations are not required. Exceptions are the special scenic trains such as Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Golden Pass and Wilhelm Tell Express. For these trains, a supplement and/or seat reservation is required for Swiss Travel Pass holders.

What is the cancellation charge if I am unable to use my Swiss Travel Pass?

• Refundable up to 2 days prior to first date of validity with an administrative fee of CHF 10 per pass.
• Thereafter, no refund. If pass is used or flexi days are activated, non-refundable.
• Once the pass has been cancelled the passenger will not be able to use it.

Can Mountain excursions be bought along with the Swiss Travel Pass?

Yes, you can surely buy the mountain excursions online with the Swiss Travel Pass and benefit from upto 50% discounted rates. Once you have purchased your Swiss Travel Pass you can add the desired mountain excursions to your shopping cart and pay for all services at one go.

The mountains in the combo offer are added to the Swiss Pass. Kindly select your number of Swiss Pass days and click ‘Book Now’ to proceed with the combo offer.

A Swiss Half Fare Card is valid for one month. It doesn’t have to be the first day of a month. You can choose any start date you want. For example: you can start the validity period on August 10. In this case, September 9 is the last day you can use it.

Validity ends at 5: 00 AM of the day following the last day.In the above example, validity ends on September 10, 5: 00 AM.

• Once booking is complete, you will receive a PDF file on the email ID entered at the time of boking. Keep that on your smartphone. The file contains a code that train staff can scan. Alternatively carry a print on plain A4 paper.
• The pass is good to use as it has all the necessary information, such as the start date, passenger name, and birth date. Your passport number won't be included on the card. If your name is too long to fit, it might be shortened on the pass, but that's not an issue.
• You don’t have to link your pass to any account, such as a SwissPass account or the SBB App.
• Proof of owning a Swiss Half Fare Card is not required at the time of ticket purchase; it will be verified on board.
• Most trains in Switzerland don't require seat reservations. With your Swiss Half Fare Card and a discounted ticket, you can board the train. However, panoramic trains require compulsory seat reservations.