Swiss Travel Pass

The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway between Disentis and Andermatt.

The 'loetschberg' steamship is the flagship of the fleet on lake brienz in the bernese oberland., glacier express on the landwasser viaduct near filisur, can you issue print@home swiss travel system tickets.

The Swiss Travel Pass, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex and the Swiss Half-Fare Card can be issued as a print@home ticket / eTicket (you must print out the ticket).

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Who is eligible to purchase a Swiss Travel System Pass nor Ticket?

Swiss Travel System passes and tickets are available to anyone who is resident outside Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Are the tickets refundable?

In the case of loss or theft, it is not possible to refund tickets.

Please contact us directly if you are unable to travel due nto sickness or accident or if you would like to exchange your paper Swiss Travel System pass or ticket. An exchange is only possible before the date of departure and within working hours. Please note our opening hours if trying to contact us (Monday to Friday from 08:00-17:00 and Saturdays from 10:00-16:00).

Important: Print at Home Tickets are non-exchangeable, non-refundable.

Swiss Travel Pass

What is the swiss travel pass youth.

The Swiss Travel Pass Youth is valid for those aged 16-24 years on the first day of travel and offers a 15% reduction on nthe normal adult price. The Swiss Travel Pass Youth entitles you to all of the same benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass.

Which Museums are included in the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass offers free entry to more than 500 Museums , including the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Château de Chillon and the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum.

How long is a Swiss Travel Pass valid for?

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 consecutive days in 1st or 2nd class.

Where is the Swiss Travel Pass valid?

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid on the whole boat, rail and Postbus network in Switzerland, as shown here .

Which mountain excursions are included?

Trips up to Stoos, Brunni, Klewenalp, Stanserhorn and Rigi are included in the Pass. A 50% reduction is offered on most other mountain and cableways (Gornergrat, Titlis, etc).

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid on Swiss Panoramic Railways?

Your ticket price is included in the Swiss Travel Pass but seat reservations are compulsory and a supplement must be paid non most routes. It is possible to pay for a class upgrade if you have a 2nd class Pass but would like to travel in 1st class non one of these services.

Are there any further inclusions?

The Swiss Travel Pass also offers free entry to more than 500 museums throughout Switzerland.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass Flex?

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex is valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days of your choosing in 1st or 2nd class within one month. On listed travel days, pass holders are entitled to all of the same additional benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass. Please note however, that on the days between specified travel days, additional benefits, such as 50% discounts and museum entries, are not valid.

Swiss Family Card

What is a swiss family card.

A Swiss Family Card allows children aged 6-15 years to travel free of charge when accompanied by a parent.

How can I get a Swiss Family Card?

A Swiss Family Card can be issued free of charge when at least one parent is travelling using a Swiss Travel System Pass.

What about children under 6?

Children aged 0-5 years travel free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.

Swiss Half Fare Card

What is the difference between the swiss half fare card and the swiss travel pass.

The Swiss Half Fare Card entitles you to 50% discount on the whole boat, rail and Postbus network in Switzerland. An additional ticket is needed if you wish to use public transport with the cities. Please ensure that you show your Swiss Half Fare Card together with any additional tickets if you are subject to an inspection at any time.

Will I get a discount on mountain railways or museum entrances?

Most mountain railways honour the 50% discount offered by your Swiss Half Fare Card. There is no reduction on museum entrances.

How long is the Swiss Half Fare Card valid for?

The Swiss Half Fare Card is valid for one month. It is not possible to extend this period. Please be aware that the reduction offered can sometimes be less than 50% due to reserved minimum pricing (eg. short journeys, city transport networks).

swiss travel family pass

If you’re planning any Switzerland travel, and particularly if you are planning to travel Switzerland by train, you most likely have heard about the Swiss Travel Pass for tourists.

The Swiss Travel Pass is an all-inclusive pass which not only allows you to travel via the Swiss rail system, but also provides entry into a range of attractions and travel on buses and ferries as well. 

In this article, I will provide a detailed summary of the Swiss Travel Pass so you know the various Switzerland rail pass options available and you can determine exactly which offers the best value for you.  I will also cover all the Swiss pass inclusions as well as the Swiss pass price. 

To avoid confusion, the Swiss Travel Pass is also often referred to as a Swiss Pass, Swiss Railway Pass, Swiss Rail Pass and any similar combination of words.

Voralpen Express train on a bridge high above the Swiss countryside.

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

The Swiss Travel Pass provides tourists with not only exceptional value but also makes travel within Switzerland extremely convenient.  Whilst its initial outlay may appear expensive, once you add up the price of individual Swiss rail tickets, plus the entry to a few museums, you will see that in no time at all you have easily made the cost back in value from this Swiss pass for tourists.

Plus, you don’t have to worry about making bookings, carrying around multiple Switzerland train tickets, or being concerned with missing a train – because you can simply catch the next one!

Even the popular Switzerland scenic train routes are included in this pass!  That’s right, panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and the Golden Pass train are covered by the Swiss rail pass.

So if you have been dreaming of doing one of the stunning Switzerland rail tours, you can use the pass to arrange your very own Switzerland train tour .

The Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex are available for a number of different durations. In addition to the traditional 3, 4, 8 and 15-day passes, a 6-day pass was also introduced in 2022.

>> Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here. <<

Swiss train traveling over a bridge above a rushing river.

What is a Swiss Travel Pass? 

Whilst the term ‘Swiss Travel Pass’ encompasses all the various different types of Swiss Travel Passes (discussed below), there is also a pass just called the ‘Swiss Travel Pass’.

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a consecutive travel pass, meaning you can use it every day it is valid for. These passes come in 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15-day durations and are available in either first or second class. > Check Swiss Travel Pass prices.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex 

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex can be used on a set number of days during a 1-month period.  

For example, you can use your pass on 3 days within the 1-month period – but not every day.  The passes come in 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15-day durations. The Swiss flexi pass is also available in either first or second class. > Check Swiss Travel Pass Flex prices.

Swiss Travel Pass Youth 

If you’re after a hefty Swiss Travel Pass discount and are under 25 years of age, then you are in luck.  The Swiss Travel Pass Youth is available for people aged under 25 and is basically either the Swiss Travel Pass or the Swiss Travel Pass Flex but at a huge 30% discount. > Check Swiss Travel Pass Youth prices.

Swiss Half Fare Card

If you’re not keen on the upfront investment of any of the Swiss Travel Passes mentioned above, another great option is the Swiss Half Fare Card. This allows you to purchase Swiss train tickets at a discount of 50%. You are also entitled to a discount on other public transport, but the discount is not always as much as 50%.

The Swiss half price card is valid for 1 month and, depending upon how long you intend on visiting Switzerland and how much train travel you will be doing, may well be the best option for you.  > Check Swiss Half Fare Card prices.

Swiss Family Pass / Swiss Family Card 

If you’re traveling with children under the age of 16, then the Swiss Family Card is a must! The Swiss Family Pass allows children to travel for free and is completely free of charge when a parent holds one of the Swiss Travel Passes mentioned above.

Children under 6 years of age don’t require a Swiss Family Travel Pass as they travel for free regardless. You will, however, need a Swiss Family Card for children aged 6 to 15 years. You should request one when you purchase your Swiss Travel Pass .

If a child under 16 years of age is traveling alone without a parent, they receive a 50% discount on the various Swiss travel system tickets and passes.

Swiss Travel Pass Cost

The cost of the train pass in Switzerland depends upon the type of pass you purchase as well as the number of days you choose.

The tables below list the different Swiss train pass prices for the consecutive and flexible passes (all prices are in Swiss francs).

Swiss Travel Pass prices [2024]

Swiss travel pass flex prices [2024].

Both the consecutive and flexible passes are available to people under 26 years of age with a 30% discount off the regular Swiss Travel Pass cost. The discounted passes are known as the Swiss Travel Pass Youth and Swiss Travel Pass Flex Youth. > Buy your Youth Pass here.

Boat cruising on Lake Thun.

What Are the Swiss Pass Benefits?

As mentioned above, there are a stack of Swiss Pass benefits – it’s not just all about Swiss train tickets for tourists.  The Swiss Travel Pass benefits are as follows:

  • Without a doubt the biggest saving with the Swiss Train Pass for tourists is the inclusion of all long-distance buses, ferries and trains in Switzerland. This even includes all the Swiss Scenic trains, so you could plan your entire train travel in Switzerland by taking the most scenic route (note that some scenic routes require a supplement and / or reservation – see below for more information).  
  • The pass also covers the use of public transportation in Switzerland in 90 towns and cities.
  • There are a ton of great attractions covered by the pass too. In fact, the pass provides entry into over 500 different attractions in Switzerland .  All the best museums are included.
  • Three of the most popular Switzerland mountain excursions from Lucerne are also included. These day trips are Stanserhorn, Stoos and Rigi.  There is no limit to how many trips you do – do them all and go back again if you want to!  Other mountain excursions receive discounts of up to 50%.
  • One of the most popular mountain excursions in Switzerland is a visit to Jungfraujoch – the highest altitude railway station in Europe.  You can even get discount Jungfraujoch tickets with Swiss Pass. Whilst the Swiss Travel Pass Jungfraujoch tickets are not completely included, you do get a 25% discount and, of course, kids travel free if they hold a Swiss Rail Family Pass. 

Should I Buy a Swiss Travel Pass or Individual Switzerland Train Tickets?

In most cases you are always going to be better off purchasing at least some form of Swisspass rather than purchasing individual Switzerland train tickets.

When it comes to purchasing individual tickets for Switzerland train trips, there are many variables that determine the price.  The main factor is when you book the tickets as well as the timing of the actual train travel. 

Booking last minute tickets tends to be most expensive, which means you can’t be very flexible with your travel.

Swiss rain traveling next to a river and snow-covered trees.

The benefit of having the rail pass Switzerland is not only will you save money (which I can pretty much guarantee you will), but you can also be more flexible with your train travel. There is no need to snap up cheap tickets, because the pass will cover your train tickets regardless of the price. 

If the majority of your time in Switzerland will be spent in the Interlaken region, you can compare the value of the Swiss Travel Pass to the Berner Oberland Pass and Jungfrau Travel Pass to see which is the best value for your itinerary .

Also remember that with the Swiss Travel Pass, museums and other attractions are also included, so you will get free entry into a range of places as well.

In order to determine whether you should book individual Swiss train trips or purchase a Swiss rail pass for tourists, I recommend you complete the following tasks:

  • List out all the individual train trips in Switzerland you intend to take and using the SBB site find out how much it would cost for point to point tickets;
  • List out all the mountain excursions and attractions you plan on visiting and look up the admission costs on the attraction’s websites; and
  • Add up the totals from above and compare this total to the cost of the different Swiss train travel pass options mentioned above.

If the cost of the individual Swiss train journeys and attractions you plan on visiting are more than the Swiss Travel Pass price, then you will benefit from purchasing a pass.

Best Place to Buy Swiss Travel Pass

Do you need to buy a Swiss Travel Pass in advance? Whilst you can buy this Swiss rail pass at most rail stations in Switzerland, in order to start using your pass as soon as you arrive in Switzerland, the best place to buy Swiss Travel Pass is online.

Unlike some other European rail passes, you can print the Swiss pass at home, which makes purchasing them online super easy and convenient. Purchase your Swiss Travel Card and then, as soon as you arrive in Switzerland, you can start taking advantage of all the benefits that come with the pass.

Also, note that the Swiss Travel Pass is only available for purchase by people who permanently live outside of Switzerland.

TIP: After receiving your Swiss Travel Pass by email and downloading it to your phone or device, I recommend printing out a copy and carrying this with you at all times.  This eliminates any problems if your phone is lost or damaged during your trip, or your battery goes flat.

Swiss train in snow.

How to Use the Swiss Travel Pass

When you receive your Swiss rail travel pass, you are ready to hit the rails.

If you are travelling on a consecutive day pass you simply board the train and show your pass to the ticket inspector when requested to do so.

However, if you are traveling with a Swiss Travel Pass Flex, you are required to enter the date of your first travel day before commencing your journey.  You can do this at activateyourpass.com

It’s important to know that your pass is valid from midnight from the first day of validity until 5 am on the following morning on the last day of validity.

Timetable/schedules for Swiss rail travel

With the fantastic Swiss train schedule, you’ll be able to get pretty much anywhere you want to go in Switzerland.  However for precise times, you can look up the Swiss rail timetable on the SBB Mobile App .  

This app will not only help you plan what Swiss train routes you need to take to reach your destination, but will also provide you with helpful information as to which platform you need to go to and provide real time updates, so you’ll know whether the train is going to be on time or late.

Swiss Rail Map

It is recommended that you download the Swiss train map so you know exactly where the Switzerland train pass applies. However, as you can see from the Swiss travel pass map, it is fairly comprehensive and most Swiss railway journeys are covered.

The Swiss Travel Passes are valid for train, boat and bus routes marked on the map with a continuous line, whilst travel on public transport is included in towns and cities marked on the map with a red/white dot.

Where a dotted line appears, travel is available at a 50% discount.

Swiss Travel Pass Mountain Excursions

If you’re interested in any of the scenic Switzerland railway routes, below is some brief information.

GoldenPass Line – included with Swiss Travel Pass

The GoldenPass Line, which runs between Luzern and Montreux, includes two different trains. It takes in three different mountain passes (including the famous 4000-metre Alpine peaks) and goes past eight stunning lakes. If you ride all three trains, the entire journey will take around 5.5 hours.

Luzern Interlaken Express on a bridge over a river.

From Lucerne to Interlaken Ost, the Luzern-Interlaken Express passes five stunning mountain lakes as well as waterfalls and rivers.  You also might be lucky to see glimpses of Eiger, the Mönch and Jungfrau.  This train journey takes just under two hours.

Between Interlaken Ost and Montreux, you will travel on the brand new GoldenPass Express. You’ll travel through narrow valleys and alongside the River Simme, mountain villages, alpine forests and of course, you’ll get fantastic views of Lake Geneva.

Both trains on the Golden Pass Line are completely covered by the Swiss Travel Pass with no reservation or supplement required.  However, to avoid disappointment it is recommended to make a reservation.

For the Luzern-Interlaken Express section, the optional seat reservation fees are between CHF 10 and CHF 14 depending on the date of travel.

For the section between Interlaken and Montreux, seat reservations cost CHF 20 in 1st or 2nd class. In this sector, seat reservations are compulsory in the new Prestige Class, and they cost CHF 40.

BUY YOUR SWISS TRAVEL PASS HERE

Golden Pass Panoramic train near snowy mountains.

Glacier Express – included with Swiss Travel Pass

All aboard the Glacier Express, also referred to as the slowest express train in the world.  At 8 hours, the journey between Zermatt and St Moritz may not be fast, but it certainly is stunning.

The entire Glacier Express journey makes its way between the Alps, through narrow valleys, tight curves, 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges.  

However you don’t need to take the entire trip as the journey is split up into four different sections all with their own unique scenery: Zermatt to Brig, Brig to Andermatt, Andermatt to Chur and Chur to St Moritz or Chur to Davos.

Glacier Express Train traveling over a bridge in Switzerland.

Each section of the Glacier Express is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass with no supplement required, however a reservation is mandatory.  Seat reservation fees are as follows:

  • CHF 49 for 1st or 2nd class and;
  • CHF 470 for Excellence class

Please note: There will be no Glacier Express trains running from 16 October to approximately 9 December, 2024 (date to be confirmed.)

Bernina Express – included with Swiss Travel Pass

The Bernina Express is a 4-hour train journey from Chur to Tirano.  Across two sections, this scenic route takes you through alpine forests to the Poschiavo Valley in the Mediterranean.  

Along the route you will pass right through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Rhaetian Railway where you pass by glaciers as well as palm trees.  The rail journey entails passing 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges.

Bernina Express traveling next to a beautiful river.

Passengers can take the journey from Chur to Pontresina and / or Pontresina to Tirano.  During the Summer months there is also the option of taking a 3-hour bus ride from Tirano to Lugano.

Each section of the Bernina Express is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass with no supplement required, however a reservation is mandatory.  Seat reservation fees are as follows:

  • Summer season (1 June to 30 September): CHF 26;
  • Shoulder season (1 March to 31 May and 1 to 31 October): CHF 24;
  • Winter season: (1 November to 28 February): CHF 20

All prices are per adult, one way.

If you plan to take the Bernina Express bus connection between Tirano and Lugano, you need to make bus reservations, too! Seat reservation fees for the bus are CHF 16 during summer season, CHF 14 during shoulder season, and CHF 10 during winter.

Gotthard Panorama Express – included with Swiss Travel Pass

Up until recently this scenic route was known as the Wilhelm Tell Express.  Now called the Gotthard Panorama Express, this 5.5-hour journey takes passengers from Lucerne to Lugano, with the first part of the journey being via boat on Lake Lucerne.

The train journey component of the trip will take you through the historical Gotthard route which passes by the Wassen Church and numerous tunnels including the Gotthard tunnel between Göschenen and Airolo, which opened in 1882.

The last part of the trip takes travellers past stunning Mediterranean landscapes, complete with palm trees.

Aerial view of Gotthard Panorama Express next to a tall mountain and lake.

This train trip is only available to first class passengers, so if you only hold a second-class Swiss Travel pass you will need to upgrade your ticket.  In addition, you will also be required to pay a surcharge of CHF 24 per person.

The Gotthard Panorama Express does not operate year round. It will recommence service on 20 April 2024 and operate until 20 October 2024.

My Experience Using the Swiss Travel Pass

I’ve used a Swiss Travel Pass on numerous occasions when travelling in Switzerland and love the ease with which you can get around.  Here are some of the reasons I love it:

  • Arriving at the airport with a pre-purchased Swiss Travel Pass in hand, it is simply a matter of hopping aboard a train bound for the city.  There’s no need to queue at the ticket counter to purchase a ticket.
  • Getting around the city on public transport is easy, too. Again, there’s no need to buy tickets, you just hop on a local train, tram or bus (or boat, in some cases) and go where you want.
  • With entry to so many museums covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, it’s great to be able to show your pass at the ticket desk and be waved through for free.  Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva, Thun Castle, FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich and the Olympic Museum in Lausanne are just a few of the 500 or so museums that are included with the pass.
  • Being able to experience some of Switzerland’s panoramic train rides is another reason I love the Swiss Travel Pass.  I’ve used it to travel for free on the Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line and the Bernina Express.
  • Mountain excursions play a big part in my visits to Switzerland, too and with the Swiss Travel Pass there are big discounts available.  Excursions to Mt. Rigi and Stanserhorn are free for pass holders and rides on most other cable cars and funiculars come with a 50% discount.
  • The Swiss Travel Pass is great if you are travelling with children, as we have done on many occasions.  When purchasing our Swiss Travel Pass, we simply requested a Swiss Family Card and our two children travelled for free.

As you can see, there are many reasons that make buying a Swiss Travel Pass a good idea.

I hope you have found this guide to the Swiss Travel Pass useful and you can now confidently purchase the right pass – either Consecutive or Flexible – for your train travel in Switzerland.

Top image courtesy Swiss Travel System .

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Swiss Travel Pass

Carolyn's love affair with Europe started on her first visit over 30 years ago and it continues, just as strong, today. She visits Europe annually and enjoys writing about her discoveries and sharing her tips with fellow travellers.

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Wilderswil Schynige Platte Railway

Swiss Travel Pass

Buy your Swiss Travel Pass and discover the most beautiful corners of Switzerland by public transport. Choose the most coveted Rail Pass for visitors from abroad and take advantage of  unlimited travel  in Switzerland by train, bus, boat during  3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days .

Swiss Travel Pass ÖV

What's included?

In addition to unlimited access to Swiss public transport, you get the following benefits:

  • Up to 50% discount on most mountain railways such as Gornergrat, Pilatus, Jungfraujoch. Exception: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos are free. More information on this detailed map of validity .
  • Free entrance to over 500 museums
  • Free Swiss Family Card for families - Children up to their 16th birthday accompanied by at least one parent travel free of charge throughout Switzerland.
  • For the panoramic trains, an additional seat reservation is required. 

The Swiss Travel Pass can only be sold to non-residents of Switzerland or Liechtenstein.

Could also be of interest to you

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Swiss Travel Pass Flex

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Swiss Half Fare Card

SwissASAP logo featuring the iconic Swiss cross and company name, representing quality Swiss travel services.

Swiss Travel Pass FAQs

Buy swiss travel pass : faqs & essential guide for travelers.

Welcome to your essential guide, covering everything from Swiss Travel Pass FAQs to the extensive benefits and how to buy your Swiss Travel Pass . This comprehensive resource is designed to answer all your questions about traveling in Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass. Dive into the details of Swiss Travel Pass benefits , explore our FAQs to streamline your travel planning, and follow our straightforward guidance to effortlessly purchase your pass. Our aim is to make your Swiss journey planning as seamless as possible, ensuring a memorable experience in the heart of Switzerland. Enhance your travel experience with the SBB app , your digital companion for real-time travel information and more.

Buy your Swiss Travel Pass 2024 for consecutive days and receive an e-Ticket with a QR code directly to your email. Simply show the QR code to the ticket staff when boarding the train for smooth and hassle-free travel in Switzerland.

Swiss Travel Pass Consecutive e-Ticket with QR Code received after you buy Swiss Travel Pass. ตั๋วเดินทางสำหรับเที่ยวสวิตเซอร์แลนด์ด้วยตัวเอง

Understanding the Swiss Travel Pass 2024

🇨🇭q: is the ‘ swiss pass ’ the same as the ‘ swiss travel pass ’.

A:  Although their names sound similar, the ‘ Swiss Pass ‘ and the ‘ Swiss Travel Pass ‘ serve different purposes. The ‘Swiss Pass’ is a chip card and digital account designed for Swiss residents to facilitate their public transportation use.

On the other hand, the  Swiss Travel Pass  is a comprehensive travel pass created specifically for tourists, providing unlimited access to Switzerland’s extensive train, bus, and boat network. It also offers additional benefits, such as free or discounted admission to various attractions and free travel on premium panoramic trains.

Please note that until 2014, the  Swiss Travel Pass  was known as the ‘ Swiss Pass ’. However, these two passes are now distinctly separate in their functions and target users.

🇨🇭Q: What is the difference between Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Flex Pass ?

A: The Swiss Travel Pass provides consecutive days of travel, allowing for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days of unlimited travel across the network. In contrast, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex offers the flexibility to choose any 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 non-consecutive days of travel within a one-month period, perfect for travelers who prefer to pace their journey.

🇨🇭Q: Is it necessary to print the Swiss Travel Pass?

A:  Printing your Swiss Travel Pass is not necessary unless you prefer to have a physical copy for peace of mind. Instead, you can easily display the digital format of your Swiss Travel Pass e-Ticket , whether it’s a PDF or an image file, on your phone. Simply present the e-Ticket with the QR code to the ticket staff. It’s a straightforward process that eliminates the need for physical documentation.

🇨🇭Q: How does the Swiss Family Card function, and is it provided free of charge?

A: The Swiss Family Card is a fantastic benefit for families traveling in Switzerland. It allows children aged 6 to 16 to travel for free on nationwide public transport when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass. This card offers an excellent opportunity for families to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of Switzerland together, without the added expense for children’s travel. To fully appreciate the advantages and explore how the Swiss Family Card can make your family trip more enjoyable and cost-effective, we invite you to read more about the specific benefits and conditions of the Swiss Family Card on our dedicated section here .

🇨🇭Q: What is the process for obtaining the Swiss Family Card?

A:  To obtain the  Swiss Family Card , you can request it at any ticket counter or online when   purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass . The system will issue your family card for free during your pass purchasing process. To order simply select the number of children traveling with you.

First-class cabin in a Swiss train, illustrating the luxury travel experience discussed in our Swiss Travel Pass FAQs.

Swiss Travel Pass Benefits:

🇨🇭 q: what mountain excursions are free with the swiss travel pass.

A: With the Swiss Travel Pass, you get free access to three mountain excursions: Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos .

🇨🇭 Q: How much discount do I get on other mountain excursions with the Swiss Travel Pass?

A: Along with the array of Swiss Travel Pass benefits, the pass offers significant discounts on several popular mountain excursions:

  • Jungfraujoch: 25% discount
  • Schilthorn : 50% discount
  • Grindelwald First: 50% discount
  • Pilatus : 50% discount
  • Titlis: 50% discount

For details on discounts for other mountain excursions, please click here to visit our mountain excursions page.

🇨🇭 Q: Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover city transportation?

A: Absolutely, the Swiss Travel Pass provides unlimited use of public transportation in over 90 Swiss towns and cities, including trams in Zurich , ensuring convenient and easy exploration of urban areas.

🇨🇭 Q: Are museums included with the Swiss Travel Pass?

Here are the top 10 museums in Switzerland, showcasing the Swiss Travel Pass benefits for cultural exploration, highly recommended for pass holders:

Swiss Museum of Transport  (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) – Located in Lucerne, it showcases various forms of transportation and offers interactive exhibits.

Kunsthaus Zürich  – One of Switzerland’s most significant art museums, housing a vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks.

Swiss National Museum  (Landesmuseum) – Situated in Zurich, it features exhibitions on Swiss history, culture, and art.

The Olympic Museum  – Located in Lausanne, it is dedicated to the history and spirit of the Olympic Games.

The Museum of Art and History  (Musée d’Art et d’Histoire) – Situated in Geneva, it houses a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and applied arts.

Chillon Castle  (Château de Chillon) – A medieval castle located on Lake Geneva, offering a captivating glimpse into Swiss history.

Paul Klee Center  – Located in Bern, it showcases the works of renowned Swiss painter Paul Klee.

Basel Art Museum  (Kunstmuseum Basel) – One of Europe’s oldest public art collections, featuring an extensive range of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times.

The Collection de l’Art Brut  – Situated in Lausanne, it displays unique and unconventional artworks created by self-taught artists.

Museum of Contemporary Art  (Museum für Gegenwartskunst) – Located in Basel, it showcases contemporary art from around the world.

🇨🇭 Q: Can I travel on premium panoramic trains with the Swiss Travel Pass?

A: Yes, travel on iconic premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express , Bernina Express , and GoldenPass Express is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass . Please note that while the pass covers the travel, seat reservations are mandatory for these journeys.

Swiss Travel Pass Pricing: Current Costs and 2024 Updates

🇨🇭 q: how much does a swiss travel pass cost.

The price of a Swiss Travel Pass is tailored to match your travel schedule and preferences, with variations for the pass duration and type you select. On our dedicated pricing page , you’ll discover up-to-date rates for both 2023 and 2024, allowing you to plan your trip with precision. We offer a range of passes to cater to every traveler’s needs, including the Swiss Travel Pass for consecutive days of travel, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex for non-consecutive travel days, and the Swiss Travel Pass Youth for younger adventurers, in addition to the Swiss Half Fare Card for those seeking to explore at their own pace.

For a quick glimpse, below is an overview of the Swiss Travel Pass for consecutive days 2024 for adult , ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Swiss experience without interruption. Visit our pricing page to explore all options and find the perfect pass for your journey through Switzerland. Book your Swiss Travel Pass for Consecutive Days now and unlock the door to seamless travel across Switzerland’s majestic landscapes!

🇨🇭 Q: Where can I buy Swiss Travel Pass?

A: You can conveniently purchase Swiss Travel Passes online at SwissASAP.com . Our platform allows you to quickly select and secure your pass for your upcoming trip. Additionally, you can check the full pricing details for all passes for both 2023 and 2024 . To view the complete price list and choose the best option for your travel needs, visit our Swiss Travel Pass Shop . Start planning your Swiss adventure today with the perfect travel pass! SwissASAP.com is not only the official website for purchasing your Swiss Travel Pass but also a recipient of the Swiss Travel Pass Top Sales Performance award in December 2023 from Switzerland Tourism . This recognition is a testament to our trusted service and our growing popularity among travelers from around the world who choose to explore Switzerland independently. With SwissASAP, you’re choosing a partner that’s committed to making your Swiss journey seamless and memorable.

🇨🇭Q: Are there any price adjustments for the Swiss Travel Pass 2024 and Swiss Travel Pass Flex 2024?

A: Yes, starting from January 1, 2024, there will be an average increase of 5.9% in the prices of both the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex . The available duration options for these passes will remain the same, offering 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 days.

🇨🇭Q: When is the best time to buy Swiss Travel Pass?

A:  You have the flexibility to purchase your  Swiss Travel Pass once your travel plans are confirmed. However, it is advisable to buy Swiss Travel Pass in advance to secure availability, particularly during peak travel seasons. We recommend purchasing the pass at least 7 days prior to your intended travel start date. 

🇨🇭Q: How about the pricing for the Swiss Half Fare Card and Swiss Family Card in 2024?

A: Good news! In 2024, the Swiss Half Fare Card will continue to be available at the stable price of CHF 120 , offering the same great benefits. Additionally, the Swiss Family Card will remain available at no cost , ensuring families can enjoy their travels with added convenience and savings.

🇨🇭Q: Where can I find the detailed price table for the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex for 2024?

A: The detailed price adjustments for 2024 can be found in the table on our Pricing Overview 2023-2024 page.

Clickable banner showcasing scenic Swiss landscapes, promoting the purchase of the Swiss Travel Pass.

Train Travel and Amenities​

🇨🇭q: where can i check train timetables and information .

A:  Simply download  SBB app  and find the current online timetables and important information for your train trips. The online timetables is constantly updated and thus informs about any disruptions.

🇨🇭Q: Is it necessary to link my Swiss Travel Pass to the SBB Mobile app? 

A:  No, there is no need to register or log in to the SBB Mobile app  for using the Swiss Travel Pass . It’s important to note that the app is primarily designed for Swiss citizens. Its main purpose is to provide train timetables and essential information to users.  

🇨🇭Q: Is it necessary to activate the Swiss Travel Pass before using it? 

A:  No, activation is not required for the Swiss Travel Pass Consecutive Days . You can simply board the train and begin using it. However, if you have the Swiss Travel Pass Flex, you will need to activate it on the day you plan to use it by visiting  activateyourpass.com .

🇨🇭Q: Are seat reservations required with the Swiss Travel Pass? 

A:  While the  Swiss Travel Pass  permits easy boarding on most trains without the need for seat reservations, some scenic and panoramic trains , including the Glacier Express and Bernina Express , do require advance seat reservations. This ensures your spot, especially during peak travel periods. Additionally, reservations might be necessary for international journeys. Always check specific train requirements to ensure a smooth journey.

🇨🇭Q: Can I use the Swiss Travel Pass to travel to neighboring countries? 

A:  The  Swiss Travel Pass  is valid for travel on trains between Swiss cities and some neighboring countries, such as Germany, France, Italy, and Austria. However, it is important to note that the pass covers transportation within Switzerland more comprehensively than international travel. Additional fees or conditions may apply for cross-border journeys, so it is recommended to check the details and restrictions before planning your trip.

🇨🇭Q: Does Swiss Travel Pass include cable car? 

A:  The  Swiss Travel Pass  includes unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, which consists of trains, buses, and boats. As for cable cars and mountain transport, the Swiss Travel Pass provides free travel on certain routes and significant discounts on others.

Many cable cars and funiculars in Switzerland offer a discount of about 50% for Swiss Travel Pass holders . Some famous mountain excursions like Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos are fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.  Find out the comprehensive list of benefits included in the Swiss Travel Pass .

🇨🇭Q: What amenities and benefits are provided in 1st class on Swiss trains?

A: In 1st class, you benefit from:

Greater comfort thanks to ample legroom, more space between your seat and the one next to you, adjustable seats, power sockets in each compartment, 2-seat and 1-seat seating.

Coaches with business zones and quiet zones.

At-seat service for dishes and beverages.

Mother and child enjoying a scenic journey on an InterCity train in 1st Class with a Swiss Travel Pass.

🇨🇭Q: What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on Swiss trains?

A: In first-class carriages, the seating arrangement usually consists of two seats on one side of the aisle and one seat on the opposite side. In second class, you can expect two seats on each side of the aisle, ensuring a comfortable and spacious experience. While first class offers slightly more legroom, second-class seating provides ample legroom, ensuring a comfortable journey without feeling cramped.

🇨🇭Q: Is choosing 1st class worth it when traveling on Swiss trains?

A:  Swiss trains offer a comfortable experience, making 2nd class a perfectly satisfactory choice. Opting for first class comes at a higher cost, approximately 65% more expensive. In return, you gain access to  more spacious and comfortable seats , along with larger windows. Additionally,  first-class compartments tend to have fewer passengers on average , enhancing the overall tranquility of the journey.

Swiss Travel Pass 2024 Price (Consecutive Days) :

2nd class price:

3-day pass: CHF 244.-

4-day pass: CHF 295.-

6-day pass: CHF 379.-

8-day pass: CHF 419.-

15-day pass: CHF 459.-

1st class price:

3-day pass: CHF 389.-

4-day pass: CHF 469.-

6-day pass: CHF 602.-

8-day pass: CHF 665.-

15-day pass: CHF 723.-

Please note that the Swiss Travel Pass 2023 – 2024 prices are in Swiss Francs (CHF) and represent the costs of the  Swiss Travel Pass  for the respective durations and classes.

🇨🇭Q: Are there dining options available on Swiss trains? 

A:  The majority of InterCity trains operated by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) feature  on-board restaurants or bistros  where freshly prepared meals are served. These meals utilize high-quality ingredients, primarily sourced from Switzerland. The menu also includes a selection of fine Swiss wines, beers, and soft drinks. Alternatively,  passengers are welcome to bring their own food on board .  

🇨🇭Q: Does the Swiss Travel Pass grant free access to the Glacier Express? 

A:  The  Glacier Express ,  Bernina Express , and   GoldenPass Express  are renowned as Switzerland’s most breathtaking train journeys, and with your Swiss Travel Pass , you can experience them for free. However, please note that a mandatory seat reservation fee is applicable regardless of whether you hold a travel pass or a point-to-point ticket. To reserve your seat on the Glacier Express , you can visit their official website by  clicking here .  

🇨🇭Q: How can the Swiss Travel Pass be maximized for the best experience? 

A:  The  Swiss Travel Pass offers numerous benefits  for seamless travel within Switzerland. With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel without the need to purchase additional tickets. Simply present your pass and embark on your journey hassle-free. Additionally, when it comes to cable cars and various mountain transport options,  you’ll automatically receive generous discounts ranging from 25% to 50% . Experience the convenience and savings of the Swiss Travel Pass while exploring Switzerland.

🇨🇭Q: Are there charging facilities available on Swiss trains? 

A:  Swiss trains are equipped with charging sockets for passenger use.

Travel Planning and Recommendations​

🇨🇭q: which weather app is recommended for accurate forecasts in switzerland .

A:  For reliable weather forecasts in Switzerland, we suggest using the  MeteoSwiss  app, which can be downloaded for free from the  Apple App Store .

Group of friends strolling through Interlaken, exploring Switzerland's beauty with their Swiss Travel Pass.

🇨🇭Q: Does SwissASAP offer Switzerland Travel Itinerary? 

A:  Absolutely! We provide  Switzerland Travel Itineraries  to help you make the most of your trip. You can easily download our carefully curated itineraries for 4-day, 8-day, and 15-day journeys. These itineraries are designed to showcase the best of Switzerland, from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant cities. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure by accessing our itineraries  here .

🇨🇭Q: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worthwhile for mountain excursions? 

A:  Absolutely! The  Swiss Travel Pass  provides free or discounted (up to 50%) access to most mountain railways, making it a cost-effective choice for explorers keen on experiencing Switzerland’s stunning peaks.

🇨🇭Q: What are the top mountain excursions in Switzerland? 

A:  Switzerland is home to countless magnificent peaks, but standouts include the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Jungfraujoch – the ‘Top of Europe’,  Schilthorn  in the Bernese Alps, and Mount Pilatus near Lucerne. Each offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Purchasing and Receiving the Swiss Travel Pass 2024 e-Ticket

🇨🇭q: i've purchased a consecutive swiss travel pass online. what should i expect in terms of email confirmations and e-tickets, and what steps should i take if i don't receive them.

A: After purchasing the pass online, you’ll first receive a confirmation email containing your booking ID (Start with 1100…) , which starts with the numbers 1100… Shortly after, within 5-10 minutes, you should receive a second email with a PDF link to your Swiss Travel Pass e-Ticket . If you don’t get the second email within this timeframe, first check your spam mailbox. If the eTicket email is still missing, there might be a rare delay in ticket delivery. In such cases, please contact [email protected] , reference your booking ID from the first email, and inform the back office about the issue.

We hope this Swiss Travel Pass FAQs section has helped clarify your questions and prepared you for an amazing travel experience in Switzerland. 

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We are honored to have received the  Swiss Travel System Excellence Expert Award for 2023 by   Swiss Travel System AG , and to be recognized as a  Qualified Switzerland Travel Expert for 2023-2024  by  Switzerland Tourism .

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Swiss Family Card

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Switzerland, the hub of tourism in Europe has earned its name as it provides to the visitors a vast and unparallel range of exotic natural beauty with lush green alpine meadows, high alpine peaks and mountain passes, pristine lakes, gushing rivers with glacial waters, beautiful & cozy Swiss Chalets, excellent gourmet services, world class hotels and the Swiss Travel System which we consider as the 8th wonder of the world.  

Doubtless is the fact of Swiss Travel System being a wonder as it provides quick connections with highly optimized time tables that make every city, town, village and even mountain tops accessible with quite impressive frequency.   Travelling by Swiss Travel System is the most impressive way of exploring the country.  The wide range of products of Swiss Travel System ensures that there is an appropriate ticket to match your specific needs and travel plans. With this system one can choose from a plethora of destinations on its network of over 20’000kms by Train, Tram, Boat and Buses.

Swiss Travel Pass for adult and youth

A power travel tool for every tourist traveling in Switzerland.Anyone who is neither a permanent resident of Switzerland nor the Principality of Liechtenstein is eligible to buy these passes.Children under the age of 16 years travel free of cost with their parents. Youth below the age of 26 years get a special discount of 15%. 

For children 6 to under16 years.

On request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children aged from 6 to under 16 to travel free if accompanied by at least one parent holding a valid Swiss Travel Pass.  Children below 6 years do not require Swiss Family Card and can travel with their parents without any ticket.

Advantages:

  • Unlimited travel by Train, Bus, Tram and Boat.
  • Free travel on most panorama routes like Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line etc.
  • Free travel on public transport in 75 towns and cities
  • Free admission to more than 480 museums
  • 25-50% discount on most of the mountain railways and cableways
  • Children under age 16 travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Family Card

Information:

  • Panorama routes may be subject to a seat reservation charge
  • Only persons domiciled outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein are entitled to purchase this  ticket.

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Swiss Travel Pass

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Your Passport to Swiss Travel Pass Experience

Swiss Travel Pass 2024

Transform your Swiss journey with the Swiss Travel Pass 2024 ! Effortless travel awaits as you navigate Switzerland’s extensive train, bus, and boat networks. Embrace the ease of unlimited travel, enjoy exclusive museum access, and embark on scenic routes like the Glacier Express. Tailor-made for every traveler, the Swiss Travel Pass is your key to an unforgettable Swiss adventure. Discover more and grab your pass on our website now – your Swiss exploration starts here!

Exterior of Gotthard Panorama Express Train

  • Enjoy limitless travel across the Swiss Travel System network.
  • Available in 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15-day options.
  • Gain complimentary entry to over 480 museums and exhibits.

swiss travel family pass

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

Luzern-Interlaken Express train beside Lake Brienz

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

swiss travel family pass

10 Benefits of Swiss Travel Pass

  • Unlimited Travel: Enjoy unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with this all-in-one pass.
  • Premium Panoramic Trains: Experience Switzerland’s stunning landscapes on premium panoramic trains , fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass .
  • Flexible Options: Choose from various pass durations—3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days—to suit your travel plans.
  • Museum Access: Gain free entry to over 500 museums and exhibitions throughout Switzerland.
  • Mountain Excursions: Receive up to 50% discounts on mountain adventures, including cogwheel trains, cable cars, and funiculars.
  • Family-Friendly: Children under 16 can explore Switzerland for free when accompanied by a parent with one of our available pass options.
  • Convenience: Skip the ticket lines and hop on and off public transport with ease.
  • City Travel: Many city trams and buses are also included, making urban exploration a breeze.
  • Boat Cruises: Enjoy scenic boat rides on Swiss lakes as part of your pass benefits.
  • Savings: The all-in-one pass often results in significant savings compared to buying individual tickets.

Swiss Travel Pass: Your Worldwide Passport to Switzerland

The Swiss Travel Pass from MySwissTravelPass.com offers an unparalleled opportunity for travelers from the USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, and beyond to immerse themselves in the splendor of Switzerland. This pass is more than just a travel document; it’s your all-access pass to the heart of Swiss culture, nature, and history. With its hassle-free approach to traversing the nation’s varied landscapes and cities, the Swiss Travel Pass ensures that every moment of your Swiss journey is spent in awe, not in line.

Whether you’re setting off from the bustling streets of Singapore or the serene landscapes of Australia, the Swiss Travel Pass adapts to your travel needs, providing a smooth, comprehensive experience. Recognized for its excellence and convenience, MySwissTravelPass.com brings this essential travel tool to your fingertips. For explorers seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Switzerland with ease and sophistication, the Swiss Travel Pass is the perfect companion, promising a journey that’s as seamless as it is spectacular.

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Swiss Travel Pass 2024: What’s Included & What’s Not (& Is It Worth It)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

Swiss Travel Pass 2024: What’s Included & What’s Not (& Is It Worth It)

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

Red train in Swiss mountains in Jungfrau region Switzerland

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!

Red tram in Bern old town, Switzerland

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.

Lake Lucerne ferry boats are free with Swiss Travel Pass

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.

Matterhorn Gotthard Train in Switzerland

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.

Gornergrat scenic railway and the Matterhorn in Zermatt Switzerland

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).

Stoos funicular in Switzerland

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.

Mt Titlis rotating gondola in Switzerland

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.

A goat at Oeschinensee in Switzerland

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).

Mountain train near Wengen in Switzerland

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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Swiss Travel Pass in Switzerland - what is included and is it worth buying it

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Saturday 30th of March 2024

Hi Jurga My wife and I will be traveling to Swizerland and planning to go thru several places from Zurich to Lucerne - Interlaken -Lauterbrunnen-Murren-Wengen-Gimmewald-Gridelwald and train to Milan.

Is the Swiss Pass a good option getting around for 10 days?

Thursday 4th of April 2024

@Jurga, Jurga, thank you very much for your response.

One more question: I read that the Bernese Oberalnd Pass better to use in my situation. What do you recommend between the two? Thank you.

Hi Robert, yes, if you are staying for 10 days and plan on using public transportation daily, a Swiss Pass definitely a good idea.

Sunday 24th of March 2024

Thanks. Good information. One question: If I buy a flex pass for, say, 6 days, but will be in Switzerland for 9 days and 8 nights, is the pass good for local busses, say in Bern or Zurich, on days I am not traveling between regions, without it counting as a full day of use?

Monday 25th of March 2024

@Jurga, thanks for the helpful answer. We'll buy two 8 day passes. Only 20 Francs more than the 6 day flex pass. Cheers!

Hi Bruce, I'm afraid that any use will count for that day (also museums, buses, etc.). With the flex pass, you will have to activate the dates on which you are using it online (you'll get the instructions when you get the pass) and if someone checks it on the day you didn't activate it for, you may get a fine. It might be simpler/cheaper to buy a local ticket if you need it for just one or two short rides on those days and keep your Swiss Pass for the days when you embark on the much more expensive journeys.

Sunday 3rd of March 2024

Thank you Jurga, for your Travel Pass explained, you saved my sanity! The official sites are good but not usually for a first-time visitor. Like how you explained one should board the N1 trolley and not the bus from Lucerne railway station to get to Kriens. Additionally, your guides to Lucerne and the various day trips from the picturesque city are very insightful. I am now confident with my decision to take the acclaim Swiss public transportation from Geneva to Lucerne in the spring for a girls' trip. Fingers crossed ;)

Monday 4th of March 2024

Glad to help, Jacqi. Have a great time in Switzerland!

John Altshuler

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Most helpful discussion of the various Swiss passes I've seen so far.

Wednesday 28th of February 2024

Glad to help, John. Have a great time in Switzerland!

Swiss Travel Pass for Tourists: Cheapest Way to Travel in Switzerland

Cheapest way to travel in Switzerland

Everyone knows that it’s super expensive to travel in Switzerland, so when Myla and I recently spent 10 days there, I was determined to do my best and find the cheapest way to travel in Switzerland.   After copious amounts of research, I stumbled across the Swiss Travel Pass – an all in one card that pretty much covered all the places we wanted to see whilst in Switzerland.

In this post, I’m going to cover off on, not only what a Swiss Travel Pass is, but how you can use it to your full advantage to save money whilst travelling around Switzerland.  I will also detail all the trains we caught and attractions we visited whilst in Switzerland and show you what it would have cost if were to travel within Switzerland without the Swiss Travel Pass.

Click here if you want to see our exact itinerary throughout Switzerland.

Cheapest Way to Travel in Switzerland: Swiss Travel Pass

If you’re planning to travel by train via several Switzerland cities and visit a few attractions at each destination, then chances are the cheapest way to travel Switzerland is going to be with a Swiss Travel Pass.  But don’t just take my word for it, keep reading below to see why I recommend the Swiss Travel Pass as the best way to travel around Switzerland.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass?

So what is the Swiss Travel Pass ?  Quite simply, it is the ideal Swiss train pass for tourists as it’s an all in one pass that covers travel by train, bus and ferry within Switzerland.  However in addition to transportation it also covers a wide range of attractions that are no doubt on your Switzerland to do list.  It’s not one of those dodgy city passes, which only covers the B grade attractions – this pass includes all the must do Switzerland attractions.

With the Swiss Travel Pass for tourists you can basically go wherever you want, whenever you want.  No need to make plans in advance.  So if you’re the type of traveller that wants to go with the flow, then this is ideal for you, as you aren’t stuck paying the inflated last minute train tickets.

Even for advanced planners like us with a set Switzerland itinerary, we found it great not having to worry about booking our tickets in advance to ensure our plans were firm.

In most cases you don’t need to book a seat, you can literally just get on board any train you like.  There are a few trains that you do need to book, and you may just want to book a seat anyway to ensure there is room for you, but this is really only necessary during peak times.

Swiss Train Tickets for Tourists:  The Different Types of Swiss Travel Passes Available

When it comes to Swiss train tickets for tourists, there are various types of Swiss Travel passes available depending upon your individual circumstances.  They are as follows:

  • Consecutive travel day pass: This pass comes either as a 3, 4, 8 or 15 day pass and allows you to travel each day during the period the pass is valid for.  Prices start at $325 AUD.
  • Swiss Flexi Pass: This pass comes either as a 3, 4, 8 or 15 day pass and allows you to travel on a set number of days within a 1 month period.  So if you purchase the 4 day pass, you can travel any 4 days within 1 month period.  Prices start at $373 AUD.
  • Swiss Family Card: Children between the age of 6 and 16 traveling with a parent holding one of the Swiss Travel Passes mentioned above travel absolutely FREE!!!!  That’s right completely free of charge.  All you need to do is apply for the Swiss Family Pass when you purchase your own Swiss rail pass and this will be provided completely free.
  • Swiss Travel Pass Youth: Youth passes are for those aged under 26 and are available in both the consecutive and the flexible travel passes.  Prices start at $277 AUD.
  • Swiss Half Fare Card: The Swiss Half Fare Travel Card allows you to travel on Switzerland’s trains, buses and boats for up to 50% off – this also includes most mountain railways and public transportation. The card is valid for 1 month and is $168 AUD.

See the current price of each pass below or click here to purchase online.

What are the Swiss Travel Pass Benefits?

Mount Rigi

I absolutely loved traveling with the Swiss Travel Pass and as I said just can’t recommend it enough.  As a tourist the pass is so beneficial.  Let’s have a quick look at some of the Swiss Travel Pass benefits:

  • Long distance travel by train, bus and ferry throughout Switzerland. This even includes all of the Swiss Scenic trains, so you could plan your entire trip in Switzerland ensuring you take the most beautiful route.  We took the Golden Pass between Lucerne and Montreux which was just stunning!
  • Use of public transportation in Switzerland in 90 towns and cities.
  • Entry to more than 500 attractions – this is a fantastic saving! See below for the various attractions we visited whilst in Switzerland.  Click here for the full list.
  • 3 Mountain day trips are included for free – which again is a massive saving. These day trips are Stanserhorn, Rigi (oldest mountain railway in Europe) and Schilthorn.  There is no limit to how many trips you do – we did both Rigi and Schilthorn during our time in Switzerland and it felt wonderful to have 2 day trips which were completely covered.
  • Jungfrau is the highest altitude railway station in Europe and a must do whilst in Switzerland and you can even get a discount Jungfrau ticket with Swiss Pass. Whilst your day trip to Jungfrau is not covered, you do get a 25% discount which given the price of this day trip is well worth it.  Plus having the Family Card – you don’t have to pay for the kids on this day trip – another huge saving!
  • As mentioned children between 6-16 can travel free with a Swiss family travel pass, but also children under 6 can also travel free without the need to even have a Swiss rail family pass on hand.
  • Download the Swiss Travel Guide App to help you get the most out of your pass. It lets you know what attractions your pass covers at each destination as well as few other little discounts for restaurants and shopping as well.

What’s Train Travel in Switzerland Like?

Switzerland by train is absolutely beautiful!  I just love train travel in Switzerland.  The trains are so comfortable and, in our experiences, mostly always ran on time.

First thing I recommend you do for Switzerland train travel is to download the SBB Mobile App .  This will help you plan what transportation you need to take to reach your destination as well as provide helpful information as to which platform you need to go to and provide real time updates, so you know whether a train is late.

On board the trains are super comfortable with lovely wide chairs, free wifi and even plugs so you can charge your devices whilst travelling.  We found there was always plenty of room for our luggage whether that be at our seats or in the designated luggage racks.

Toilets were always ample as well as super clean.  There were also plenty of bins for your rubbish too.

We didn’t eat at the cafes on board, so can’t comment on these.  But it’s good to know that you’re more than welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board to help keep the cost down.

Honestly, I just spent the whole time travelling around Switzerland just glued to the window.  The scenery is so beautiful, even on your non-scenic train routes.

swiss travel family pass

How to use the Swiss Travel Pass?

To purchase your Swiss Travel Pass you must reside outside of Switzerland.  The good news is that unlike some other rail passes you can purchase the pass anywhere as the pass will be emailed to you.  You can also purchase the pass from any major rail station in Switzerland as well as some tourist offices.

If you have a consecutive pass, all you need to do is to show the pass to the ticket officer on board the train when requested.  If however you have purchased a flexible pass you will need to enter a date on your pass before you commence each day of travel.

There are some trains that require you to book a reservation.  So for these trains you will also need to do this in advance.  There aren’t many trains that require a reservation, I didn’t find any that required a reservation during our travels in Switzerland.  If you need to make a reservation book it directly through the SBB website or at the station – you can book just a seat and not a ticket, as your pass is your ticket.

How to Take Full Advantage of your Swiss Travel Pass?

In order to get the absolute most out of your Swiss Travel Pass, I recommend that you get onto the Swiss Travel Guide App, type in every city you intend on visiting and make a list of all the places your pass provides free entry for. In fact you can even save the attractions as favourites within the App.   Also list out any other special discounts available to you.  Once you have completed your list, plan out your itinerary, based on this information.

By doing a bit of preparation like this, you will ensure that you don’t accidentally pay for an attraction that was covered by your pass or eat at a restaurant which you had a discount voucher for.

How Much is A Swiss Travel Pass?

Of course, you’re wondering how much is a Swiss Travel Pass.  Well they are not overly cheap, but when you consider all the Swiss Pass inclusions, I think you’ll agree that they are worth every penny.

Before deciding whether the Swiss Travel Pass cost is worth it for you; be sure to check out my comparison table in the next section.

Below is the current cost of each Swiss Travel Pass at the time of publishing (I have included rates in CHF and AUD):

Click here to purchase your Swiss Travel Pass online.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth it?

swiss travel family pass

The short answer is it really depends on where you plan on travelling to, what you will do at each destination and who you are travelling with.

The only real way of knowing is to complete the following exercise:

  • list out all the train trips you intend to take and using the SBB site find out how much it would cost for point to point tickets (please keep in mind that tickets tend to dramatically increase in cost the closer to the time of travel);
  • list out all the attractions you plan on visiting and look up the admission costs on the attraction’s websites; and
  • add up the totals from above and compare this total to the cost of the various Swiss Travel Passes.

If the cost of the train journeys and attractions you plan on visiting are more than the Swiss Travel Pass, then it makes sense to buy a pass.

I completed a similar exercise prior to going to Switzerland.  In the table below you will find the cost of train travel and admission fees to all the attractions Myla and I visited during our 10 days in Switzerland.

The above train travel and attractions total 727.80 CHF.  So given we were travelling on a 15-day consecutive Swiss Travel pass which costs 513 CHF (around $715 AUD) – the pass saved us 214.80 CHF (around $300 AUD) making it well and truly well worthwhile.  Not to mention the flexibility it provided us, being able to take any transport we liked, at any time of the day, without concern for making reservations or even missing a train.

Please note that the above ticket prices were correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.

Also note that the above rates assume a Junior travelcard or Children’s Co-travelcard are purchased for 30 CHF which allows a child to travel free with an accompanied adult.  If you don’t purchase this, the savings would be even greater.

** Despite the Swiss Travel Pass claiming the Swiss Transport Museum is covered by the pass, the Museum would not accept our pass and we were required to pay full admission.

Read more about our time in each Switzerland city by click the city link: Lucerne , Wengen and Montreux .

Swiss Travel Passes: Our Verdict

Swiss Travel Pass

Image Credit: Swiss Travel System

I found the Swiss Travel pass so convenient and absolutely well worthwhile.  It allowed us to visit many more attractions then we probably would have without it as I wasn’t concerned with how much attractions cost.

Plus it’s was super easy just turning up at a station and jumping on board a train.  We had no concern for train times, whether we would miss our booked train etc, it was super convenient.

However even if I was to go back to Switzerland tomorrow, I’d still do the comparison to decide whether it was cheaper or not.  Even if the Swiss Travel Pass worked out a little more expensive, I’d still buy it as it’s totally worth the convenience

Click here to purchase your own Swiss Travel Pass.

Thank you very much to Swiss Travel System for providing us with our Swiss Travel Passes.  Despite being provided with these passes, I can assure you I wasn’t paid to write this article or express the views I have in this article.  All opinions expressed in this blog are my own and have not been influenced in anyway.

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links, which means that should make any bookings using my links, I may be paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.  This allows me to provide this information free of charge – thank you for supporting our website.

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Pass Name Here

With a Swiss Travel Pass in your pocket, you have the ideal Rail Pass to travel in Switzerland.

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GET EUR 25 OFF

On purchase of Eurail Global Pass in conjunction with Jungfraujouch.

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Get Free Nights*

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  • 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.
  • 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
  • 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

Top free museums

Free and discounted attractions, free mountain excursions.

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

Glacier Express

Bernina express, golden pass line.

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How to plan a family summer trip to the Swiss Alps

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region promises dramatic Alpine scenery, flower-flecked meadows and thrills on every summit. And with an extensive network of cable cars and rail routes, it's ideal for a 10-day stress-free family adventure.

Mother Nature pulled out all the stops in the Jungfrau region of the Bernese Alps. From waterfalls and cloud-capped peaks (including the big three: Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau) to high pastures jangling with cowbells, cliff-hugging villages sprinkled with log chalets and Alpine railways taking you from pine to peak, this is picture-postcard Switzerland at its finest. For families, adventure awaits. Bomb down the mountains on a Trottibike scooter or thunder towards the Eiger on a zip-line. Head up high to play in the summer snow or get close to the water in glacier gorges. From villages to via ferrata, here’s how to plan a 10-day tour that takes it all in.

Days 1-3: Mürren

Begin your trip with one of the area's most spectacular rail and cable journeys, with the town of Interlaken as a starting point. Take the train to Lauterbrunnen and switch onto a gondola to Grütschalp, where a second and arguably more beautiful train ride will whisk you up to Mürren. Perched on a ridge at 1,638 metres, this high-altitude village offers knockout views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, and its flower-strewn pastures, spruce forests and dark-timber chalets are the picture of Swiss Alpine beauty.  

It's the ideal spot to ease into an active holiday. Hiking trails thread from its flanks in all directions, and a funicular glides up to Allmendhubel , where you can enjoy a meal on the mountain-facing sun terrace while kids romp among giant insects and Alpine blooms in the flower-themed adventure park. Budding botanists will love the nearby flower trail, which features 150 species of mountain flowers, from gentian to edelweiss. Alternatively, adults and older children can ramp up the adrenaline on the nearby Mürren-Gimmelwald via ferrata. A guide will help you learn the ropes, and before long you’ll be exploring a series of chalelnging suspension bridges, zip-lines and tightropes, with sky-high views of the Bernese Alps.

A circular restaurant building atop a high mountain peak, with a cable car travelling up from the valley below.

Devote a third day to Schilthorn, which begins with a dramatic cable-car ride above great fangs of rock to the eyrie-like summit of Schilthorn — Piz Gloria. Visited by James Bond in the 1969 film adaptation of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service , this dramatic destination enjoys views across 200 peaks all the way to Mont Blanc and the Black Forest on clear days. Enjoy the helicopter and bobsleigh simulators at Spy World , before heading down to middle station Birg for exhilarating, vertigo-inducing moments on the Skyline Walk and cliff-hugging Thrill Walk (crawl through the tunnel if you dare).

Days 3-7: Grindelwald  

With sensational views of the Eiger’s imposing North Face and a lineup of 4,000-metre peaks, it’s no surprise that Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations for active travellers. The first task is to pick your peak. Swing high above the meadows to 1,391-metre Pfingstegg for a mad downhill dash on the summer toboggan run or zip-line. Or opt for mountain-rimmed Männlichen, where you can enjoy nature-focused fun on the treetop path, explore the vast playground that's home to a giant wooden cow, or head out on the Lieselotte Trail, where children can search for crystals, blow into an alphorn and peek at burrowing marmots through binoculars.  

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On day two, make for the 2,184-metre summit of First Mountain, which has the edge for thrill-seekers. Clinging to near-vertical cliffs, the First Cliff Walk is an ideal place to begin your day’s activity, with giddy views of the Bernese Alps. From the top, you can whizz towards the Eiger on the First Flyer zip-line at speeds of up to 50mph, before tearing down the slopes back to Grindelwald by mountain cart or chunky Trottibike. Back in the valley, feel nature’s colossal force in Grindelwald’s Glacier Canyon, as you teeter across a walkable ‘spider’s web’ strung between towering rock faces polished by the waters of the Lütschine River. Daredevils can also enjoy the canyon swing , which involves a 90-metre freefall before you rip across the gorge at speeds of 75mph.

However, all of this is just laying the groundwork for a third-day trip up to 3,454-metre Jungfraujoch. From Grindelwald, hop aboard the tri-cable Eiger Express gondola for a riveting ride with views of the Eiger’s mile-high North Face. From the Eiger Glacier station at its top, switch to the Jungfrau Railway. This red train has been chugging up to the summit since 1912 and will transport you up to Europe’s highest railway station in less than 30 minutes. Here, the Sphinx observation terrace offers out-of-this-world views of the 14-mile Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding sea of 4,000-metre peaks. It’s snowy up top all year round, so dress warmly for sledding, tubing and zip-lining in the snow park, or a subzero wander through the glittering, sculpture-strewn tunnels of the Ice Palace.

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Days 7-10: Meiringen (Haslital)

From Grindelwald, take a beautiful train ride via Interlaken, or a panoramic bus ride over the Grosse Scheidegg mountain pass to reach Meiringen, a pretty Alpine town in the Haslital Valley that's surrounded by dramatic activity. Top billing goes to the 120-metre-high Reichenbach Falls, which crash over forested cliffs with a roar. This is where writer Arthur Conan Doyle had fictional detective Sherlock Holmes and villainous Dr Moriarty fall over the edge in the 1893 story The Final Problem . For a less intense experience, take the funicular up and hike back down before stopping in at Patisserie Frutal for a Swiss meringue — Meiringen lays claim to fame as the 18th-century birthplace of this sweet treat.

The next day, continue your exploration of Meiringen’s surrounding cliffs and ravines. A quick train ride from town will see you reach the Aare Gorge, which carves a deep, narrow path through limestone tunnels and galleries and past a turquoise torrent of glacial water. Visit later in the day if you can, as the canyon is at its most entrancing when illuminated by summer-evening rays. Its closest rival is the waterfall-splashed Rosenlaui Gorge, where a circular trail leads through primeval forest and past chalk-slate cliffs pounded smooth by the Weissenbach River.

Finally, head north of Meiringen, to Hasliberg. This area is a family favourite, thanks to the three-mile Muggestutz Dwarf trail that runs from Mägisalp to Bidmi, where kids can dry pine cones, take on the ‘eagle swing’ and find cave treasure. Make a day of it and check out the marble run from Bidmi to Reuti, which offers 12 giant marble runs immersed in nature and a firepit for barbecues (wood is provided).  

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Related Topics

  • FAMILY TRAVEL
  • EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL
  • ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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Swiss Family Card

Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge on nationwide public transport when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel System pass or ticket.

The complimentary Swiss Family Card is available on request from all Swiss Travel System points-of-sale worldwide and within Switzerland. And even if not accompanied by a parent, children still receive a 50% reduction off the entire Swiss Travel System range of tickets.

Advantages at a glance

  • Children under 16 years of age 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

Information

  • The Swiss Family Card is obtainable at nearly every Swiss railway station as well as all points-of-sale worldwide
  • Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday not accompanied by a parent, receive a 50% discount on the Swiss Travel System range of tickets

Bonus Benefits with the Swiss Travel Pass

Regional passes, sales outlet swiss travel system.

IMAGES

  1. Swiss Travel Pass Ultimate Guide

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  2. Swiss Travel Pass: All You Need To Know [2023 Guide]

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  3. Everything You Need to Know About the Swiss Travel Pass

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  4. Swiss Travel Pass

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  5. How to Buy, Activate and Use the Swiss Travel Pass

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  6. The Swiss Travel Pass & Zermatt: All You Need to Know

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COMMENTS

  1. Swiss Travel Pass

    The Swiss Travel Pass has been developed for guests from abroad. It is available to persons permanently resident outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. For online purchasing, purchase as a "guest". You do not need a login. To receive the Swiss Family Card directly, add the child as a passenger under 'Add passengers ...

  2. Swiss Family Card

    Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge on nationwide public transport when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel System pass or ticket. The complimentary Swiss Family Card is available on request from all Swiss Travel System points-of-sale worldwide and within Switzerland.

  3. Swiss Travel Pass guide for 2024 with prices, inclusions, map

    Swiss Family Card: children, stepchildren, and foster children from 6 up to and including 15 travel for free (even on routes where the parents just get a discount), if accompanied by at least one parent with a Swiss Travel Pass. You can get the Swiss Family Card free of charge while ordering a Swiss Travel Pass.

  4. Save money on Swiss travel tickets: promotions and discounts

    The Swiss Family Card offers free traveling for children, wherever the Swiss Travel Pass, Swiss Travel Pass Flex, or Swiss Half Fare Card offers free or discounted travel for parents. So even if the parents need a discounted ticket (for example for a mountain excursion such as Jungfraujoch), the children travel for free all the way.

  5. Where can I buy a Swiss Travel Pass or a Swiss Family Card?

    Swiss Travel System tickets can also be purchased at every major railway station in Switzerland (e.g. at Zurich or Geneva airports) as well as at the tourist offices in Zurich, Berne, Geneva and Lucerne. Links. Details about the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Family Card. List of sales outlets worldwide. Was this article helpful? 523 out of 700 ...

  6. Swiss Travel System: tickets for guests from abroad

    The Swiss Travel System offers you 29,000 captivating kilometres of public transport. We offer the densest public transport network in the world. And exclusively for visitors to Switzerland a unique choice of travel tickets which cover the entire country. Trains, buses and ships are ready and waiting to take you in comfort to your desired ...

  7. Swiss Travel Pass

    For foreign guests, the all-in-one ticket Swiss Travel Pass is the key to Switzerland's public transport network. This single ticket enables visitors to explore Switzerland from end to end by train, bus and boat on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days. With the Swiss Travel Pass Youth, young people up to their 25th birthday travelling through ...

  8. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

    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 request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children from their 6th ...

  9. Travelpass

    with the complimentary Swiss Family Card, your children travel free of charge from their 6th up to their 16th birthday. Children under 6 years of age travel free of charge. *Seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply. Please contact the issuing point-of-sale for cancellations and refunds. More information about the Swiss Travel Pass.

  10. FAQ

    The Swiss Travel Pass Flex is valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days of your choosing in 1st or 2nd class within one month. On listed travel days, pass holders are entitled to all of the same additional benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass. ... A Swiss Family Card allows children aged 6-15 years to travel free of charge when accompanied by a parent. Did you ...

  11. The ultimate Swiss Travel Pass Flex overview

    Swiss Family Card: children, stepchildren, and foster children from 6 up to and including 15 travel for free (even on routes where the parents just get a discount), if accompanied by at least one parent with a Swiss Travel Pass Flex. You can get the Swiss Family Card free of charge while ordering a Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

  12. Swiss Travel Pass

    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.

  13. The Ultimate Guide to the Swiss Travel Pass 2024

    The Swiss Family Pass allows children to travel for free and is completely free of charge when a parent holds one of the Swiss Travel Passes mentioned above. Children under 6 years of age don't require a Swiss Family Travel Pass as they travel for free regardless. You will, however, need a Swiss Family Card for children aged 6 to 15 years.

  14. Swiss Travel Pass

    Swiss Rail Passes. Swiss Travel Pass. from £ 222. Buy your Swiss Travel Pass and discover the most beautiful corners of Switzerland by public transport. Choose the most coveted Rail Pass for visitors from abroad and take advantage of unlimited travel in Switzerland by train, bus, boat during 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days. + Buy online.

  15. Buy Swiss Travel Pass: FAQs on Benefits & Pricing

    A: The Swiss Family Card is a fantastic benefit for families traveling in Switzerland. It allows children aged 6 to 16 to travel for free on nationwide public transport when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass.

  16. Swiss Family Card

    For children 6 to under16 years. On request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children aged from 6 to under 16 to travel free if accompanied by at least one parent holding a valid Swiss Travel Pass. Children below 6 years do not require Swiss Family Card and can travel with their parents without any ticket.

  17. What is a Swiss Travel Pass?

    Swiss Travel Passes also come with a complimentary Swiss Family Card for groups with children aged 6-15 plus free access to 500+ museums and galleries and discounts on other means of transportation! You can discover, book, and experience the best things to do including attractions, activities, car rentals, SIM cards, and more on Klook.

  18. Swiss Travel Pass: Your All-Access Ticket to Switzerland

    Unlimited Travel: Enjoy unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with this all-in-one pass. Premium Panoramic Trains: Experience Switzerland's stunning landscapes on premium panoramic trains, fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. Flexible Options: Choose from various pass durations—3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days—to suit your travel plans.

  19. Swiss Travel Passes

    Explore Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass, the most convenient and flexible way to travel by train, bus and boat. Book online and save with our affiliate discount.

  20. Swiss Travel Pass 2024: What's Included & What's Not (& Is It Worth It)

    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 ...

  21. Swiss Travel Pass for Tourists: Cheapest Way to Travel in Switzerland

    Prices start at $325 AUD. Swiss Flexi Pass: This pass comes either as a 3, 4, 8 or 15 day pass and allows you to travel on a set number of days within a 1 month period. So if you purchase the 4 day pass, you can travel any 4 days within 1 month period. Prices start at $373 AUD.

  22. Buy Swiss Travel Pass

    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.

  23. How to plan a family summer trip to the Swiss Alps

    The Jungfrau Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on mountain transport for three to eight days, plus reductions on tickets to Jungfraujoch. TGVs run from Paris to major Swiss cities in three to ...

  24. Swiss Family Card

    Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge on nationwide public transport when accompanied by at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel System pass or ticket. The complimentary Swiss Family Card is available on request from all Swiss Travel System points-of-sale worldwide and within Switzerland.