swiss travel pass activate

How to Buy, Activate and Use the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is an all-in-one transport pass that makes it easier and more affordable to travel around Switzerland, where the public transport system is renowned for its efficiency. 

Also sometimes referred to as the Swisspass, Swiss Train Pass or Swiss Pass, the pass is valid for various durations.

It even gives holders access to discounted travel on many mountain railways and cable cars as well as trains, buses and boats. 

Now you have decided to purchase the Swiss Travel Pass, where do you buy it? When and how can you activate it? And how do you actually use the Swiss Travel Pass? 

In this guide we cover everything you need to know before setting off on your travels around the incredible country of Switzerland. 

From how to buy the Swiss Travel Pass and whether or not your type of pass needs activating to how to use your pass on the go, this article covers it all. 

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

What's in this Article

Where to buy the Swiss Travel Pass

Let’s get started by taking a look at where you should buy your pass. 

First, you need to decide whether to purchase a regular Swiss Travel Pass (for travel on consecutive days) or a Swiss Travel Pass Flex. The differences are explained in > this article.

Then it’s super simple to purchase a Swiss Travel Pass. I recommend you buy the pass via GetYour Guide , an authorised reseller of Swiss Travel System.

What’s great about using GetYourGuide is that they offer full refunds on many products, including the Swiss Travel Pass, if you cancel up to 24 hours before use. 

Consecutive Day Swiss Travel Pass Prices

Swiss Travel Pass Flex Prices

How to buy your Swiss Travel Pass step-by-step

The GetYourGuide site is also really user-friendly. After clicking the link to purchase your pass ( this link for the consecutive day pass and this link for the Flex pass ), the first step is to choose how many adults, youths (aged 16 to 25) and children (aged 6 to 15) are travelling. 

This can be done directly beneath ‘About this activity’. Kids aged 5 or under don’t need a ticket or a pass, as they travel for free.

Next, select the start date you want: you can skip through months here by clicking the arrow on the top right.

Then, when you have selected the date you will first use your pass, click on ‘Check availability’. 

Now you can choose the pass you’d like to buy.

Add the pass you want to your cart. 

📍 I recommend double checking at this point that you have selected the right class of travel and duration. 

Then click ‘Checkout’. 

Next it’s just a case of adding your billing details as with any online purchase. 

You’ll also be asked to complete the full names and dates of birth for each traveller. Make sure these match your passports exactly to prevent any problems later on. 

How you’ll get your Swiss Travel Pass

Once you have made your purchase, when and how is your pass delivered? 

The Swiss Travel Pass (for travel on consecutive days) will be emailed to the address you provided in the booking process, and will come in the form of a PDF attachment which can be downloaded to your mobile device.

I highly recommend printing a paper copy of this as a back-up, though you can simply present the mobile version when using transport in Switzerland. 

While both paper and digital versions of the pass are accepted, your phone could suddenly run out of battery and then you’d have no way of proving you have a pass! 

You should also carry your passport or another form of photo ID each time you travel. 

> Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

How you’ll get your Swiss Travel Pass Flex

If you purchase a Swiss Travel Pass Flex, you will receive a purchase receipt and a voucher by email.

The voucher is NOT valid for travel.

Each day you wish you travel you should activate your pass (see the instructions below). By doing this, you will receive a valid ticket for travel on that date.

> Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

When and how to activate the Swiss Travel Pass

There is often confusion about whether or not a Swiss Travel Pass has to be activated. The answer varies according to the type of pass you’ve bought so follow the instructions below to learn how to activate your Swiss Travel Pass.

Activating your Swiss Travel Pass (consecutive days)

The regular, consecutive days Swiss Travel Pass does not need to be activated. All you need to do is show it to the ticket inspector when requested.

Activating your Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex, however, must be activated in advance and before each day that you use the pass. You can do this via Activate Your Pass here .

Your pass should be activated before your first trip, and you’ll need to enter your reference number as well as your full name and date of birth. 

For every travel date you activate, a valid ticket will be generated. This e-ticket can then be seen at activateyourpass.com . You can show this e-ticket to the ticket inspector on your phone or tablet, or use a printed copy. 

What if your plans change along the way? 

If you have already activated a travel date that you want to change, the Swiss Travel Pass allows you to change these as much as you want to until the start of each validity period.

The validity period commences at 23:59. Once the clock hits midnight, you can no longer change or deactivate this particular ticket. 

For example, if you have activated your Swiss Travel Pass Flex to be used on 17 July and you no longer wish to use your pass that day, you can change the date of travel until 23:59 on 16 July.

How to use the Swiss Travel Pass

So now let’s cover how to use the Swiss Travel Pass Flex or consecutive-days pass. 

When travelling with a Swiss Travel Pass – either consecutive days or Flex, you simply board the train and sit wherever you wish in the correct carriage for your class of travel. 

The only exception to this is when travelling on the Bernina Express or Glacier Express, which we cover below.

When requested by the ticket inspector, simply present your Swiss Travel Pass.  You may also be asked to present some photo ID, such as your passport to verify that you are the pass holder.

Using the Swiss Travel Pass on panoramic trains

The Bernina Express and Glacier Express , two of Switzerland’s most famous premium panoramic trains, are the only Swiss trains on which reserving a seat is compulsory.

The actual ticket price of the journey on these trains is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass but seat reservation fees are compulsory and should be purchased online well in advance of your travel date.

Seat reservations for the Bernina Express can be purchased here and Glacier Express seat reservations can be purchased here .

On all other panoramic trains* – Luzern – Interlaken Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express – seat reservations are not required. Simply board the train and sit anywhere in the correct carriage for your class of your travel.

*Note that the Gotthard Panorama Express only offers 1st class train travel. If you hold a 2nd class Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Travel Pass Flex you must pay a class upgrade for this journey.

Additionally there is a compulsory supplement of CHF 16 for each passenger that travels on the Gotthard Panorama Express. > Purchase class upgrades and the compulsory supplement here .

Using the Swiss Travel Pass on buses, boats and mountain transport

Don’t forget that Swiss Travel Pass holders can also use boats, buses and some mountain transport services. Even when this isn’t the case, you may qualify for a generous discount as a pass holder. 

When boarding boats and buses, simply show your Swiss Travel Pass when you enter.  For free (where applicable) or discounted travel on cable cars, funiculars and mountain railways, present your pass at the ticket counter.

Selected museums also allow pass holders to enter for free. Just show your Pass at the ticket counter.

Travelling beyond the Swiss border with a Swiss Travel Pass

When travelling to an area beyond that covered by the pass – such as into another country – you’ll need to buy a ticket for that sector. This will apply, for example, to journeys into France, Italy, Germany or Austria. 

International tickets are generally not available for purchase on the Swiss Railways website or app so we recommend buying them from the railway of the country concerned.

The Swiss Travel Pass covers travel as far as the major rail border points of Basel and Le Chatelard-Frontiere on the French border, Chiasso on the Italian border, Konstanz on the border with Germany and St. Margrethen on the Austrian border.

Some postal bus services within Liechtenstein and Austria are also covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.

You can view a map of the Area of Validity of the Swiss Travel Pass > here .

The SwissPass app 

Is there a Swiss Travel Pass app? No, there isn’t.  

Many travellers notice a reference to the SwissPass on the SBB Mobile app however this refers to a digital travel account for residents only. 

A SwissPass account is for Swiss citizens only, not tourists, and is a separate product that uses a chip and pin card.

The Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t have to be added to an app. All you need is to be able to show the ticket inspector a paper or digital copy, and photo ID if requested.

The excellent SBB Mobile app ( which we explain here ) can be used for checking timetables but it is not necessary (or possible) to connect your Swiss Travel Pass to the app.

Another app that is useful is the Swiss Travel Guide app which has an integrated map and timetable and points out more than 500 Swiss highlights.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

Buying, activating and using the Swiss Travel Pass summary

The Swiss Travel Pass allows you to use the clean, fast and efficient public transport system in Switzerland. It can be used on trams, buses and boats as well as trains, and can save you a lot of time and money. Exclusive free entry to museums and generous discounts can also apply. 

Buying your pass is easy, and purchasing it through our preferred supplier means you won’t even lose money if your plans change, as long as you cancel 24 hours before the start date. 

Only the Swiss Travel Pass Flex requires activation, which is easy to do via this link . 

Once you have your chosen pass, I recommend taking a paper copy as well as the digital version as back-up. Also carry your passport or other photo ID in case it’s requested. 

Unless you want to travel on the popular scenic Swiss train routes, seat reservations are not normally required. 

Wherever your Swiss Travel Pass takes you, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with beautiful Switzerland and will want to return time and time again!

How to Buy, Activate and Use the Swiss Travel Pass – Summary

Now that you have read this guide, you can confidently buy, activate (if necessary) and use your Swiss Travel Pass.

This all-in-one transport pass is the perfect hop on hop off ticket for travelling in Switzerland.

🇨🇭 Ready to buy yours? > Click here to buy the Swiss Travel Pass and > Click here to buy the Swiss Travel Pass Flex .

If you’re still unsure whether the pass is the best value for your trip, we answer the question Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? here .

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

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How to activate and use your Swiss Travel Pass

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If you've decided that the Swiss Travel Pass is for you and you've bought it (congratulations, by the way!), this post is for you. Because it answers two questions that you probably have at this stage.

• How do you activate your Swiss Travel Pass?
• And how do you use it?

Without any further ado, let's dive right in...

Do you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass?

I often get asked the question if you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass once you have it or if you're good to go right away. The answer is simple.

It depends...

Don't we love when people say that? Sounds like another way to complicate things. But don't worry. It's super easy.

If you have a "normal" Swiss Travel Pass, meaning one that is valid for a certain amount of consecutive days, you can start using it right away without having to activate it first . It's valid from the date you picked when you decided to buy your Swiss Travel Pass .

However, if you opted for the Swiss Travel Pass Flex , there are a few steps you need to take. This is because your pass is valid for a flexible amount of days within one month that you haven't selected yet.

Here's what you need to do to make sure your trip runs smoothly and your pass is ready to use.

• After buying your pass, you'll receive a booking confirmation e-mail including a PDF. In that file, you'll find all the information you need about how to proceed.
• Open the  activateyourpass page.
• Enter your reference number, first name, last name and date of birth.
• The next page will let you pick the days on which you plan to travel. There's no need to select them all at once, by the way. You can always come back later if you're not sure at this point. (Please note that your Swiss Travel Pass Flex is only valid on the days that you activate in this process. You get no discounts on the other days.)
• For each travel day you activate, the system will generate a separate ticket. You can either view it online, download it as a PDF or add it to your wallet by clicking on one of the red buttons.
• In case your travel plans change and you want to swap travel dates, there's no need to panic. You can change your mind up until 23:59 of the day before the activated travel day. Please note that same-day deactivations aren't possible.

And that's it. You're good to go.

How do you use your Swiss Travel Pass?

Now that you have your all-inclusive, worry-free, knock-yourself-out ticket all set up, there's nothing holding you back.

You can use your Swiss Travel Pass throughout the whole public transport system of Switzerland. This includes all the lines in the so-called " GA Travelcard area of validity ". To sum up again what exactly you get with your Swiss Travel Pass, here's a quick recap:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, tram and boat in Switzerland
• Unlimited travel on scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Golden Pass Line (excluding reservations fees)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums
• Free rides on these mountain railways: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos (and up to 50% discount on most other mountain trips like Jungfraujoch or Pilatus)
• Up to 30% discount on  SBB RailAway offers

All you need to do is have your Swiss Travel Pass handy for inspection and always show it in combination with your document of identification (passport or ID).

And that's it. Simple as that.

Enjoy your trip and don't forget to let me know in the comments below how your experience with your Swiss Travel Pass was.

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3 sbb day passes you need to know about, 15 spectacular mountain railways in switzerland, 5 budget-friendly alternatives to the swiss travel pass, leave a repl​​​​​y.

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Swiss Travel Pass

Exploring Switzerland has never been easier! 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 Switzerland benefit from a 30% discount off the regular Swiss Travel Pass ticket fare.

• Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat.  View area of validity
• Unlimited travel on premium panoramic trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply).
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns and cities.
• Free admission to more than  500 museums .
• Mountain excursions included:  Rigi ,  Stanserhorn  and  Stoos
• Up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions.
• Up to 30% discount on SBB RailAway offers. Available at all ticket counters within Switzerland.
• Children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday accompanied by at least one parent (holding a Swiss Travel System ticket) travel free of charge with the complimentary  Swiss Family Card .
• Children under 6 years of age who are accompanied by a holder of a valid Swiss Travel System ticket travel free of charge.
• The Swiss Travel Pass is available as e-ticket.

Information

• A seat reservation and/or supplement is required to travel on some trains/buses/boats such as Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express and Palm Express.
• Swiss Travel System tickets are available to persons with residence outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein
• In Switzerland, fares apply in Swiss Francs as detailed in the chart (in case of cash payment in EUR, USD or GBP: current exchange rates apply)

General provisions and legal information

Price – adult.

Valid on consecutive travel days.

Validity: 01 Jan 2024 – 31 Dec 2024

Price – Youth

Valid on consecutive travel days, for young travellers up to their 25th birthday (30% discount). 

Swiss Family Card

With the Swiss Family Card , children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday travel free of charge.

On request, a Swiss Family Card is provided free of charge, entitling children from their 6th up to their 16th birthday to travel free if accompanied by at least one paying parent.

Bonus Benefits with the Swiss Travel Pass

Regional passes, sales outlet swiss travel system.

How To Use The Swiss Travel Pass

If you have purchased a Swiss Travel Pass , you might be wondering how it works. There is a lot of confusion out there about how the Swiss Travel Pass is delivered, what you need to show to the ticket inspector and a whole lot more.

Luckily, it is actually not as complicated as it might seem, so let’s take a quick look at how the Swiss Travel Pass works as well as the most frequently asked questions and answer them so you can get on with planning or enjoying your trip!

Table of Contents

Using the Swiss Travel Pass

If you have purchased the regular Swiss Travel Pass (not the Flex option) then you will receive your pass via email with a QR code on it. The Flex version is a different kettle of fish, so I will write another post on that.

Keep a copy of the Swiss Travel Pass you receive handy for when you travel

• Print a copy of your Swiss Travel Pass
• Place a copy of the PDF Swiss Travel Pass in your phone wallet
• Or simply use the copy of the Swiss Travel Pass you received in your email

Ticket Inspection on Public Transport

If you are asked to show a ticket just present any version of your Swiss Travel Pass to the ticket inspector. You should also have some identification ready. It is recommended to always have your passport with you.

Using Your Swiss Travel Pass For Discounts

You get a lot of discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass including entry or discounted entry to a huge range of museums and attractions. You can also use it for free on some gondolas and cogwheel railways (Rigi, Stanserhorn).

In order to take advantage of these offers, all you need to do is show your Swiss Travel Pass when you buy a ticket at these attractions . Even for the mountain railways and gondolas, it pays to check with the ticket office if you need a ticket (even if it is free).

Activating Your Swiss Travel Pass (Pass Validity)

You do not need to activate the standard Swiss Travel Pass .

It is valid from the date you chose when you purchase for the length of that validity period you paid for.

More On The Swiss Travel Pass

General information, scenic trains, mountain trips, pass comparisons.

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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).

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 Pass

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

• Half Fare Card

Swiss Travel Pass Flex​

Your Flexible Ticket to Swiss Exploration

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex offers you unmatched flexibility when it comes to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities of Switzerland. This pass is designed for independent travelers who want the freedom to craft their Swiss adventure without being tied to a fixed itinerary.

With the Swiss Travel Pass Flex , you have the liberty to choose your travel days according to your preferences. This means you can take your time to soak in the beauty of Switzerland, whether you’re planning scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, visits to charming lakeside towns, or immersing yourself in the cultural richness of Swiss cities.

This pass grants you access to an extensive transportation network, including trains, buses, boats, and trams across Switzerland. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who want to navigate the Swiss landscape with ease.

In essence, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is your key to Switzerland’s wonders, on your schedule. It’s tailored for independent travelers seeking a flexible and convenient way to explore Switzerland without the constraints of a fixed tour.

What is the Swiss Travel Pass Flex?

• The Swiss Travel Pass Flex gives you the ultimate flexibility to choose your travel days. Unlike the consecutive Swiss Travel Pass, the Flex option allows you to select 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 non-consecutive days of travel within a one-month period.

Proof of Purchase and Activation

• Upon booking, you’ll receive a voucher that can be activated on your chosen travel days. Simply visit Activateyourpass.com to activate your pass whenever you’re ready to explore.

Museum and Exhibition Access

• Just like the Swiss Travel Pass, the Flex option also provides free entry to museums and exhibitions on any of your chosen travel days.

2023 Pricing

• For 2023, Swiss Travel Pass Flex prices start at CHF 267 for a 3-day pass, providing a flexible and cost-effective way to explore Switzerland.
• New prices for 2024 have been announced. Click here to see all prices for 2023 and 2024 .

MySwissTravelPass.com is your trusted source for Swiss travel pass. We aim to make your Swiss journey as seamless and memorable as possible Swiss Travel Pass | Swiss Travel Pass Flex | Half Fare Card

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Swiss Travel Pass FAQs: Helpful Answers for 2024

The Swiss Travel Pass is designed for backpackers, city hoppers, families, and railway lovers. It offers a cost-effective way to travel across Switzerland by public transportation.

You’re probably wondering: How much does it cost? And are there any discounts? We often get these and many other questions about the Swiss Travel Pass.

Deciding whether the Swiss Travel Pass is right for you can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive overview of benefits could be a good starter. But first-timers will end up with many unanswered questions, still.

So, we decided to answer them once and for all. We've got you covered, from where to purchase the Swiss Travel Pass to its activation and available discounts to the refund policy. Whether you're a curious first-time visitor to Switzerland or want to plan a Swiss itinerary for your friends from abroad, keep reading for answers to the most common Swiss Travel Pass FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Swiss Travel Pass

Purchase and refunds.

The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for consecutive periods of 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days and must be activated within six months of the purchase date.

The Swiss Travel Pass can be purchased on the official SBB website, at SBB ticket offices and authorized resellers, or worldwide through online travel agencies such as RailEurope .

The Swiss Travel Pass is available for anyone with a permanent residence outside of Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. This includes any foreign nationals and Swiss people with a permanent address abroad. It’s important that Swiss who live abroad can produce the following forms of identification while traveling on a Swiss Travel Pass: a Swiss passport, plus a residence permit, driving license, or residence certificate from abroad.

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass offers discounts for children and teenagers up to 16 years. Youth from 16 up until their 25th birthday enjoy a 30% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass Youth. However, there are no discounted rates for senior citizens. Children up to 6 years travel for free on all Swiss public transport. From the age of 6 to 16, they travel for free with a parent who is a holder of a Swiss Travel Pass and a Swiss Family Card. The latter is a free add-on that can be requested at a train station or during the online purchase of a Swiss Travel Pass. On the SBB website, simply add the child as a passenger under “‘Add passengers” in order to receive the Swiss Family Card automatically.

The Swiss Travel Pass price does not vary between online outlets and ticket booths in Switzerland. But time is money, and purchasing it in advance may save you precious time during your trip. Simply skip the lines at the ticket office and hop onboard public transportation! You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass a maximum of 60 days before the day you want it for, right up to the day before travel.

You can secure your Swiss Travel Pass up to 11 months ahead , ensuring availability during peak seasons and potentially benefiting from early booking discounts. Early purchase also lets you focus on other trip planning aspects.

Yes, you can get a refund if the Swiss Travel Pass is returned to the vendor before you start using it. If you have already started your journey, you may get a partial refund if you provide proof of illness or injury, if you had to stop your trip unexpectedly, or if you have a confirmation from a railway office.

If you lose your Swiss Travel Pass, contact the Swiss Federal Railways as soon as possible by submitting a loss report . They can cancel the pass to prevent unauthorized use and issue a new one at a fee. However, If you lose your pass or it gets stolen, you cannot get a refund.

Unfortunately, travel passes can only be refunded if they are returned to the issuing office prior to the first day of validity. Generally speaking, you cannot change dates of an active pass.

The Swiss Travel Pass is available as a PDF attachment that can be downloaded to a mobile device. We recommended keeping a printed copy as a backup, just in case you run out of battery on your smartphone. Both paper and digital versions are accepted, but it is important to carry a photo ID each time you travel.

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass at GetYourGuide

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

What the physical Swiss Travel Pass contains:

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2024?

As of January 1, 2024, the prices for the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex will increase an average of 5.9 percent compared to 2023. The prices for both passes will continue to be offered for 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 days.

Swiss Travel Pass Price 2024: Fares, Discounts, Price Changes

What's the difference between the consecutive swiss travel pass and the swiss travel pass flex.

There are two types of Swiss Travel Passes: the consecutive Swiss Travel Pass. and the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Both passes offer unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, but there are some key differences between the two.

The consecutive Swiss Travel Pass is valid for a specified number of consecutive days , such as 3, 4, 8, or 15 days. You can use the pass for continuous travel within the specified days.

On the other hand, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex allows you to choose a certain number of non-consecutive days within one month.

For example, if you have a 15-day Flex pass, you can travel for 15 days within one month, but these days do not have to be consecutive. The Flex Pass is ideal for travelers who wish to have more flexibility in their itinerary and have the freedom to choose when and where to travel.

When choosing between the two passes, consider your travel itinerary, stay duration, and budget. If you plan to travel extensively around Switzerland and visit many museums, then the Swiss Travel Pass is a good option. However, the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is a better choice if you want more flexibility in your itinerary and have the freedom to choose when and where to travel.

Activation and logistics

The Swiss Travel Pass for consecutive days does not need to be activated. When you purchase your pass from an online travel agent, they send an email directly to your account. You will receive a PDF file containing a QR code the train staff can check and scan. You may also receive a link in the email that will allow you to add the code to any wallet app on your smartphone. Alternatively, you may print out the PDF on a sheet of paper. The pass is ready to be used if it contains information such as your start date, passenger name, and birth date. If you have purchased a consecutive ticket, you must fill in your start date during the check-out. Your pass will automatically be activated on that particular date and run for the preset number of days. Once in Switzerland, present the pass and your passport or ID to the conductor on board.

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex must be activated in Switzerland before each day of travel. There is a dedicated website where you have to enter your ticket reference number and name to validate the travel days.

A travel day on the Swiss Travel Pass Flex is based on the calendar day, allowing for travel within the validity period of the pass. However, remember that travel days are not calculated on a 24-hour basis, and the final day of validity ends at 5 AM on the following day.

The Swiss Travel Pass is unavailable for purchase by Swiss residents, as it is primarily marketed toward tourists visiting Switzerland. It is only available to those with a permanent residency outside of Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Swiss residents have other options, such as the Half Fare Card, the GA, or other regional passes that may suit their travel needs.

Benefits and perks

No, the Swiss Travel Pass does not guarantee a seat on a train. With a valid pass, you can board any train that has seats available, including trains such as the Glacier Express that explicitly require a seat reservation. Contact the conductor to make a seat reservation on the spot.

The Swiss Travel Pass covers most of the public transportation services in Switzerland. Some private transportation services may require an extra fee or reservation. Have a look at the area of validity map to see exactly which lines are included.

The Swiss Travel Pass offers free entry to over 500 museums and other attractions. Some special exhibitions and events may require an additional fee, even with the pass. Download a list of participating museums or read our suggestions for free Swiss Travel Pass museums to visit.

You bet. The Swiss Travel Pass is available in both the first and second classes. Make your choice during the check-out when you purchase the pass, but remember that you can pay the differential to first class if you ever decide to upgrade on the spot.

The Swiss Travel Pass allows unlimited travel on all trains, buses, and boats operated by the Swiss Federal Railways and other participating companies, including the famous Glacier Express and GoldenPass Express lines.

Yes, city transportation is a key benefit of the Swiss Travel Pass. It is valid for transportation to and from the airports in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, as well as other airports in Switzerland.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass the same as the Swiss Pass?

Good question! No, the two passes are not the same. Consider the Swiss Travel Pass a golden ticket for tourists, granting them access to various transportation options. Swiss Pass is the former name.

Today, the SwissPass is a chip card and digital account intended for Swiss residents. It lets them load annual public transport passes and other products onto an electronic card.

As a tourist, it's important to remember that the Swiss Travel Pass and SwissPass are two distinct products, each catering to different needs. Adding your Swiss Travel Pass to a SwissPass online account would be like trying to use a library card to buy groceries - it simply doesn't make sense.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it will depend on your individual needs and preferences. The Swiss Travel Pass offers many benefits that can greatly enhance your travel experiences in Switzerland.

Key benefits include saving money on transportation, free access to museums, and the convenience of not purchasing individual tickets.

Read our dedicated post to find out: Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

Get our ultimate free guide! Swiss Travel Pass: How to make it work in 2024

The free guide includes a round-trip itinerary starting in Zurich for budget travelers. It “hacks” a three-day Swiss Travel Pass to make it last for a five-day stay…

Got any more questions?

We hope to have answered your pressing Swiss Travel Pass FAQs. If you have any additional inquiries, please leave a comment or send an email. We will research the answer and reply as soon as possible.

Definitive Swiss Travel Pass Solo Traveler’s Guide (2024)

Benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass in 2024

Swiss Travel Pass Overview and Insights for 2024

Dimitri Burkhard

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

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We are traveling to Switzerland in July and our must do is the Glacier Express from Brig to Chur. If I purchase the Swiss travel pass that will get us on the train but then we need to purchase and actual seat, is that correct?

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Download our e-book: 77 Facts about Switzerland

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

When planning a trip to Switzerland, you’ll likely see the Swiss Travel Pass mentioned everywhere.

But what exactly is the Swiss Travel Pass, what does it include, where can you buy it (hint – here ;)), and is it worth it?

We get so many questions from our readers about the Swiss Pass (and Swiss Pass Flex), which discounts it offers, and whether it covers some of the most popular destinations in the Swiss Alps. Many first-time visitors find it a bit confusing and I keep answering the same questions all over again…

So to save all of us some time, here is our complete guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. It should answer all your questions, give you a good overview of what exactly is included (and what is not), and help you decide whether it’s worth getting it for your trip.

READ ALSO: Switzerland Itinerary for First Trip

What is the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a ticket for international visitors that includes unlimited travel on public transportation in Switzerland for a selected number of days. You can buy this pass for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days of travel.

All the information is available on the official website of the Swiss Railways (SBB), but apparently, it’s still too confusing for many people (thus, this article).

TIP: You can also find the most important information in a nutshell and purchase the pass on GetYourGuide . We recommend this website for all tickets/tours/passes and we personally use it for all our trips, not just in Europe. It’s very simple to use.

Good to know: Traveling by train is the most convenient way to cover bigger distances in Switzerland and explore many of the nicest places in the country (not just cities, but also mountains). Furthermore, public transportation in Switzerland is very efficient and we sometimes joke that you can set your watch by how punctual the trains are. So for the majority of international visitors, it doesn’t even make sense to consider renting a car, and that’s what makes the Swiss Travel Pass so popular.

Below, you can find our explanation of what is and is not included with the Swiss Travel Pass, and how it differs from the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Read on!

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

To make things a bit more confusing, there are two types of Swiss Pass: the regular one and the Flex Pass , which is 15% more expensive.

What’s the difference? Both these passes include exactly the same tickets and offer the same discounts (that differ depending on your age). The main difference is that the flex pass allows you to freely choose on which days you use it within its month-long validity, whereas the regular pass is valid on consecutive days (depending on which validity you choose, 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days).

So, for example, you are visiting Switzerland for 5 days and you plan on traveling by public transport daily during your entire stay. In that case, you can simply get a regular pass for 5 days.

On the other hand, if you are in Switzerland for a longer time, but will be visiting different regions and spending a few days in each before traveling further, then it’s better to get a flexible pass. That way, you can use it only on those days when you will be taking public transportation a lot. Further below, you can find a bit more information about how to use both these passes.

Important to know! This is where it starts to get confusing to foreigners visiting Switzerland for the first time because they think that they will be using public transport every day, also in the mountains. But there is a big difference between let’s say an inter-city train between Zurich and Geneva or a train that brings you to Gornergrat in Zermatt or Jungfraujoch in Berner Oberland.

!!! The majority of gondolas, funiculars, and mountain trains are not part of the Swiss public transport network (and thus not included with the Swiss Travel Pass). However, to make things yet a bit more confusing, there are a couple of exceptions here too. You can find more info below, but first – how much does it cost.

How to use Swiss Travel Pass & Travel Pass Flex

For all passes , you can either print it on a white A4 paper or show an electronic version of the pass on your smartphone or tablet. You can also add it to your Apple Wallet, for example. Since the pass is issued in your name, you might be asked to show your ID as well.

Using the regular Swiss Travel Pass is pretty straightforward since it’s valid for a set number of consecutive days. You’ll simply have to show a printed or electronic version of the pass.

Using the Flex Pass is a bit more complex since you can choose the specific dates on which you will be using it. To avoid misunderstandings, you will have to activate the dates on which you want to use your pass online on this website . It’s important to activate the dates before your first journey, so e.g. you cannot do it when you are already on a train.

You will get all the information and clear instructions when you get the pass, so don’t worry about it too much in advance. Also, you can still adjust your chosen dates as long as you do it before midnight at the start of the day on which you want to use it.

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2024?

The price of the Swiss Travel Pass depends on several factors: your age, the number of days, and whether you opt for a regular pass or flex. In addition, you can choose to travel in the 2nd Class or upgrade to 1st Class.

Additional discounts: Children under 6 are free of charge. Children from 6 to 16 travel free when accompanied by a paying parent (you need to order a ticket for them, but it’s free, and you will get the necessary instructions). Youth from 16 to 25 get almost 30% discount.

Here are the prices of the regular pass in Second Class in 2024 for adults:

3 DAYS: 244 CHF. 4 DAYS: 295 CHF. 6 DAYS: 379 CHF. 8 DAYS: 419 CHF. 15 DAYS: 459 CHF.

Good to know: Flex Pass costs 15% more and you’ll have to pay over 55% extra if you opt for First Class tickets.

As you can see, the longer the duration, the cheaper the price that you pay per day. If you just get it for 3 days, it costs you about 81 CHF per day, whereas if you get it for two weeks, it costs you just around 30 CHF per day – a huge difference!

Further below, you can find our observations on whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. But first, let’s take a look at what exactly is included.

What is included with the Swiss Travel Pass

This is what IS INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass:

• Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats that belong to the public transport network. So all the inter-city trains as well as trams and buses in more than 90 towns and cities are included. Passenger ferries (not cruises) on Lake Lucerne or the lakes near Interlaken are included as well.
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (however, there might be extra fees for advance seat reservations). These include the famous Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Golden Pass Line, and a few other panoramic train routes.
• Free entry to over 500 museums in Switzerland . You can find a complete list of all the museums here .
• Free travel on the following mountain excursions : Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos. All of these are located close to Lucerne and are among our top recommendations for the best day trips from Lucerne .
• Up to 50% discount on mountain excursions all over Switzerland. So you get a big discount on the majority of the cable cars, mountain trains, funiculars, etc. There are also discounts on certain lake cruises and similar.

Below, you can find a bit more info about what is not included with the Swiss Pass (but where you get a discount).

What is not included (but gives you a discount)

Because I get this question almost daily, here is once again an explanation of what IS NOT INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Mountain excursions are not included with the Swiss Travel Pass (with the exception of Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos as mentioned above), but you do get a discount on most of them. Under ‘mountain excursions’ they mean cable cars, gondolas, funiculars, cogwheel trains, trains to the mountain peaks, etc.

Here are a few examples of the most popular mountain excursions that our readers ask about and where the Swiss Pass does not include free travel, but gives you a discount:

• Grindelwald-First cable car – 50% discount.
• Mt Pilatus cable car and/or cogwheel train – 50% discount.
• Mt Titlis gondolas – 50% discount.
• Schynige Platte railway – 50% discount.
• Oeschinensee cable car – 50% discount.
• Gornergrat railway and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondolas – 50% discount.
• Jungfraujoch – about 25% discount. Or about 40% if you only go to Kleine Scheidegg.

There are many other destinations in the Swiss Alps where you get similar discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Also, most lake sightseeing cruises are not included, whereas regular, scheduled passenger ferries are included with the Swiss Travel Pass. So if you are taking a ferry that stops in various places, your pass will be valid, but if you want to take a scenic cruise on e.g. Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne, you’ll have to pay for it.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions by our readers is whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. My answer is always the same – it depends. Here are a few examples:

If you are traveling around Switzerland for a longer time (6-10 days or more) and plan on visiting many different areas all over the country using public transportation, then the Swiss Travel Pass is definitely worth it. The pass gives even better value if you are traveling with children.

If, however, you are only coming for a few days, renting a car, and/or planning on staying in one region in the mountains (where this pass only gives you a discount and not free travel), then it’s usually not worth it. In that case, look for a regional card of the area that you are visiting.

Most likely, your trip includes a mix of destinations that you only visit for a day as well as others where you stay for several days. In that case, you can look up the prices of all the mountain excursions that you are planning to do, see how big the discount is with the Swiss Travel Pass, add the price of the pass itself, and then compare that versus the prices of individual tickets of all the transportation and places you plan to visit. (Good luck with the math! It’s doable, but you’ll need a lot of time and patience).

In most cases, the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it, especially if you are traveling for at least 6-8 days and are visiting multiple destinations in Switzerland. Plus, it saves you lots of time, research, and math. Another advantage is that you can just take the next suitable train, boat, etc. without having to waste time looking for tickets.

Furthermore, you can always opt for a Swiss Pass Flex that you only use on travel-intensive days. And then get a regional card to use on the other days, when you are staying in one area. The longer you stay in one place (typically, 3-4 days or longer), the better value you get with the regional cards.

Where can you buy the Swiss Travel Pass?

You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass online, at every major railway station in Switzerland (including Zurich or Geneva airports), and also at some tourist offices in the main cities.

We recommend getting it online in advance as it will save you time and stress (you’ll have enough to think about upon arrival as it is).

You can get the Swiss Pass on the official SBB website , but also via various online retailers, such as our GetYourGuide as mentioned before (our personal favorite one-stop shop for all tickets). The price is normally exactly the same everywhere and you get the same discounts for kids, etc.

At the moment of writing, GetYourGuide allows you to cancel for free up to 3 days in advance (and it’s really easy to cancel or amend your tickets). You can buy a regular Swiss Travel Pass here and a Swiss Travel Pass Flex – here .

In any case, it’s best to buy your tickets at least a few days before your trip. When you purchase a pass, you will receive detailed instructions on how to use it (or how to activate the individual travel dates if you opt for the Flexi Pass).

So, this is our guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. I hope that it answers all your questions and helps you decide whether it’s worth it for your trip.

TIP: If you are planning your itinerary in Switzerland, check out our Switzerland travel page . It contains an overview of all our travel guides for a wide variety of destinations all over the country. We live in Belgium and Switzerland is just a half-day drive from home. So we visit Switzerland at least a few times a year – in summer as well as in winter. On our blog, you’ll find many detailed guides for all of our favorite places.

READ ALSO: Traveling to Europe: How to Plan a Trip & Useful Tips

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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?

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!

• Aargau region
• Basel region
• Bern Region
• Fribourg region
• Geneva region
• Graubünden region
• Jura & Three-Lakes Region
• Lake Geneva region
• Lucerne Region - Lake Lucerne
• Region Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
• Ticino region
• Valais region
• Zurich region
• Avalanche course
• Bungee jumping
• Carriage rides
• Competition
• Cooking course
• Creative workshop
• Cross country skiing
• Eating with locals
• Escape Game
• Escape Room
• Exhibitions
• Food & Drink
• Ice climbing
• Indoor amusement park
• Lift tickets
• Llama and alpaca trekking
• Monster Scooter
• Mountain bike
• Mountain tour
• Natural attractions
• Night sledding
• Paragliding
• Photo course
• SBB Day Pass
• Scenic flight
• Ski touring
• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Stand up paddle
• Summer tobogganing
• Swiss Rail Passes
• Trail running
• Train ticket
• Travel preparation
• Via ferrata
• Virtual Reality Games
• Wakeboarding
• private car tour
• snowboard rental
• virtual travel companion

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

Unfortunately, this offer is not bookable at the moment.

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Avers-Juf Postbus ticket from Andeer

The small village of Juf lies at 2126 m above sea level, making it the highest place reached by PostBus. Take the Postbus to Juf above the tree line and enjoy the peace and quiet while hiking.

From Zurich: City tour and cable car ride to fondue fun at sunset

Experience Zurich's culinary side with a visit to the largest Lindt store in the "Lindt Home of Chocolate". Enjoy a traditional cheese fondue with a 4-course menu at sunset.

Zurich Old Town Guided Tour

Explore the historic Old Town of Zurich on this guided tour and get exciting insights into the exciting history of Zurich. Discover hidden corners and let yourself be inspired by the knowledge of the tour guide.

Ticket cable car Kronberg from Jakobsbad

Take the cable car from Jakobsbad to the Kronberg in Appenzellerland. You need only 10 minutes for 773 meters of altitude.

Swiss Travel Pass

About this ticket likely to sell out.

Mobile ticket accepted

Use your phone or print out the voucher

Immediate booking confirmation

No booking fees

Meeting point

SBB Travel Center, Seestrasse 19, 8002 Zurich

Free cancellation

Full refund in case of cancellation up to 24h before start

Free travel by train, bus and boat

Free travel on panorama trains (excl. seat reservation)

Free use of public transport in over 90 Swiss cities

Free admission to over 500 museums

Mountain railroads: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos

Up to 50% discount on other mountain railroads

Up to 30% discount on SBB RailAway offers

Seat reservation and/or supplement in panorama trains

• Travel on public transport crisscrossing Switzerland with a single ticket
• Ride premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express
• Enjoy the freedom to change your plans on the go at will
• Travel by train, bus and boat as often as you like on the booked days
• Experience the mountains Stanserhorn, Stoos as well as the Rigi, the queen of the mountains, without extra costs
• Visit 500 museums in Switzerland for free
• Use public transportation in more than 90 cities

The Swiss Travel Pass is a pass for guests who have their permanent residence outside of Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. It is valid for 3 to 15 consecutive days.

You can travel with it on all trains, ships and buses of public transport in Switzerland on the days of validity. You can also use public transport in 90 Swiss cities free of charge. You can download the validity area on this map as PDF .

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can also get to the Rigi, the Stanserhorn and the Stoos without additional costs. Other mountain excursions are available with up to 50% discount. you get a 30% discount on RailAway offers from SBB, such as Swissminiatur, Basel Zoo or Lindt Home of Chocolate.

How to use the Swiss Travel Pass

You no longer need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass once you have purchased it. It is valid from the date you selected when booking. You will find the validity period on the ticket you receive from us after booking.

It is important to note that the Swiss Travel Pass is personal and non-transferable. You must therefore present an official document (passport or ID) at the ticket inspection.

Travelling in a wheelchair

• In all SBB coaches (1st and 2nd class), the first compartment on the right is reserved "for passengers with reduced mobility". It has facing seating and can be used by passengers with walking disabilities and travelers. Some of these compartments can also be used by passengers in wheelchairs.
• There are stations that are not yet designed to be barrier-free. Please enquire in advance with the respective company or with the "SBB Call Center Handicap".
• You can request free boarding and alighting assistance from the "SBB Call Center Handicap" up to 24 hours in advance.
• Not all mountain railroads can yet be used with a wheelchair. However, with a folding wheelchair you usually have a good chance. Please inquire in advance directly with the operator of the mountain railroad.
• Most of the stations of the Rigi rack railroads are wheelchair accessible.

Important Information

• Requirement: Permanent residence outside Switzerland / Principality of Liechtenstein
• Please check the current timetables on the day of travel
• Valid only in combination with an official identity document

Meeting Points

From CHF 244 Likely to sell out

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Validity: All day

Discount: Swiss Half Fare Card

Experience Zurich's culinary side with a visit to the largest Lindt store in the "Lindt Home of Chocolate". Enjoy a traditional cheese fondue with a 4-course menu at sunset. More details

Duration: 4:45 hours

German, English

Explore the historic Old Town of Zurich on this guided tour and get exciting insights into the exciting history of Zurich. Discover hidden corners and let yourself be inspired by the knowledge of the tour guide. More details

Duration: 2 hours

Discount: City Pass

booked 40 times

Take the cable car from Jakobsbad to the Kronberg in Appenzellerland. You need only 10 minutes for 773 meters of altitude. More details

Discount: GA Travelcard, Swiss Half Fare Card

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Top Destinations

• Grindelwald
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Top Activities

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Discover the beauty of Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass

Travel Swiss Travel Pass

Switzerland, known for its picturesque landscapes, stunning watches, Roger Federer, chocolate and high-quality public transportation, is a traveler’s haven. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful country is by using the Swiss Travel Pass. This pass provides a hassle-free experience while allowing you to traverse through the Swiss countryside and cities at your own pace. Here’s all you need to know about the Swiss Travel Pass. Trust me, you should get this one, and travel hassle-free where the hills are alive!

What is the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a convenient all-in-one ticket that provides unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, which includes trains, buses, boats, and even some mountain excursions. It is your golden ticket to exploring the length and breadth of Switzerland without a hitch. It's not just a ticket, but a promise of endless adventures, a companion on your journey through the Swiss wonderland.

Why choose the Swiss Travel Pass

Every bend in the Swiss railways unveils a scene straight out of a fairy tale. It’s about effortless journeys, about the joy of discovering hidden gems, and about making every moment count. The cost-saving, the convenience, and the sheer range of experiences it offers make the Swiss Travel Pass a companion you’d want on your Swiss escapade.

What does the Swiss Travel Pass include?

With the Swiss Travel Pass, the heart of Europe lays sprawled open for you to explore. From the enchanting Lake Geneva to the bustling streets of Zurich, the pass embraces it all. It grants you unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, which includes trains, buses, and boats. Plus, it ushers you into many museums and attractions without a queue, and showers discounts on mountain excursions. The pass is your doorway to over 500 museums, unveiling the rich tapestry of Swiss culture and history.

Countries you can visit

While the Swiss Travel Pass is a magic wand for wandering within Switzerland, it doesn’t stretch beyond the Swiss borders. However, the beauty of it is, it makes Switzerland a playground of endless discoveries, with every town, every village, and every city holding tales waiting to be told.

How to Use the Swiss Travel Pass

Ready to head out? Navigating through Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass is a breeze unlike some of the other rail passes worldwide! Here’s how you can activate and make the most out of your pass:

How to Activate Your Swiss Travel Pass

For electronic swiss travel pass:.

• Receive Your Pass: Upon purchasing your pass, you'll receive a PDF file via email.
• Check the Information: Ensure the PDF file includes essential information like the start date, passenger name, and birth date.
• Prepare Your Smartphone: Set your smartphone screen brightness to the maximum to ensure easy scanning of the code by train staff.
• Download to Wallet App (Optional): If provided, use the link to add the pass to a wallet app on your smartphone.
• Print Back-Up Copies (Optional): Optionally, print back-up copies of the pass on A4 or letter-sized paper.

For Swiss Travel Pass Flex (Online Activation):

• Step 1: Visit Activation Website
• Step 2: Enter Your Details. Use the information on your receipt to activate travel dates: your reference number, first name, last name, and date of birth.

Manual Validation (If Required):

• Step 1: Check Travel Dates and DOB. If your pass has the dates of travel and Date of Birth (DOB) on it, proceed to the next step.
• Step 2: Write Passport Number and Nationality.

Read more about how to use the Swiss Travel Pass here!

Swiss Travel Pass VS Eurail VS Interrail

Each of these travel passes offers a unique way to explore the picturesque and culturally rich terrain of Europe, catering to different types of travelers and their specific needs. Here's a comparative analysis to help you understand the nuances of the Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail Pass, and Interrail Pass:

Geographic Scope:

• Swiss Travel Pass : Exclusively for traveling within Switzerland.
• Eurail Pass : Access to 33 European countries, ideal for broader continental exploration.
• Interrail Pass : Similar to Eurail but meant for European residents, covering 33 countries.

FAQs about the Eurail Global Pass

Is the swiss travel pass worth it.

Absolutely, especially if you plan on traveling around Switzerland a lot. It simplifies travel and can save you money.

Can I buy the Swiss Travel Pass at Zurich Airport?

Yes, you can purchase and activate your Swiss Travel Pass at Zurich Airport.

What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on the Swiss Travel Pass?

1st class offers more space, comfort and quieter carriages while 2nd class is more economical.

What is the coverage of the Swiss Travel Pass?

It covers nearly all public transportation in Switzerland including trains, buses, boats and even some mountain excursions.

Can I get a refund on my Swiss Travel Pass?

Refund policies may vary, it's best to check with the point of purchase for their specific refund policy.

Aakanksha Singh Devi

Welcome to my world of ink and adventure, where words meet wanderlust. A seasoned writer and editor, I fully believe that the pen is mightier than the sword. If I were given three wishes, one would definitely be to have the ability to travel - in time, dimension and places! Basically, I want a TARDIS! Of the 40 countries I've visited, Jordan, Japan, Italy and Croatia are my top favourite. London, having lived there, will always have my love, but Nepal and India have my soul! I love adventure (I'm from the mountains, what did you expect!), sports, music and food, so I travel to catch concerts, matches and races. I mostly write about off-beat travel, local experiences, best shopping spots, travel guides and coffee shops. Basically, give me coffee, a book, adventures and an enchanted forest, and you'll never hear me complain.

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