Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? | Swiss Travel Pass Review
So you are all set to explore Europe and go on this trip and Switzerland is one of the destinations in your European Itinerary. You might be looking for a way to save money by travelling on a Swiss Train. Well in this post we will be talking about the Swiss Travel Pass and will help you decide whether to buy a Swiss travel pass or just skip it entirely.
This is an unfiltered Swiss travel pass review which you have to read before thinking about putting your money in the Swiss Travel Pass. This pass is different, Unlike the other Europe Pass which we have reviewed on Chasing Whereabouts i.e. Paris Pass, Venice Pass, Barcelona Pass and a whole lot of others.
A great many of the visitors and commenters on my popular page about where to go in Switzerland on a short visit are wondering whether the Swiss Travel Pass is a good deal. Embarrassingly, I’ve always had to answer that I found the pass too confusing to confidently advise people on. Now that has all changed, after literally days of research. A considerable number of the individuals who visit and leave comments on my well-liked webpage regarding recommended destinations for a brief stay in Switzerland are curious about whether the Swiss Travel Pass is a worthwhile option.Â
Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It in 2023?
The Swiss Travel Pass has been a popular choice for travellers visiting Switzerland, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the mesmerizing landscapes of this beautiful country. But is it still worth it in 2023? Let’s delve into the details and find out.
If you plan on taking at least 2 of Switzerland’s famous scenic train rides within a 3 or 4-day period, a Swiss Travel Pass can easily pay for itself. If you take 3 or 4 scenic train rides, as well as use the pass on one or more of the famous cable cars such as Schilthorn (50% covered by the pass) or 25% off the mountain train up to Jungfraujoch, the pass is definitely worth it.
If you intend to partake in at least two of Switzerland’s renowned picturesque train journeys over a span of three or four days, a Swiss Travel Pass has the potential to quickly recoup its cost. Should you opt to embark on three or four scenic train trips and also utilize the pass for any of the renowned cable cars, such as Schilthorn (with a 50% discount from the pass) or receive a 25% reduction on the mountain train to Jungfraujoch, the pass unquestionably offers excellent value.Â
 In summary, Switzerland offers breathtaking landscapes, train trips, and cable car rides that are unparalleled worldwide. However, indulging in these experiences individually can be quite costly. Therefore, regardless of your choice of visiting Switzerland, you will either have to spend a significant amount or miss out on the extraordinary attractions that drew you there in the first place.Â
 Having proper strategic arrangements can greatly enhance the benefits one can derive from a Swiss Travel Pass, but for individuals who dislike preplanning, it may not prove to be the most suitable option. By efficiently managing your schedule, it is feasible to partake in both a picturesque train journey and a cable car expedition within the span of a day, while also leaving ample time to engage in a scenic hiking experience along the way.Â
Is the Swiss Travel Pass a good value for money?Â
The Swiss Travel Pass provides excellent value for money, especially for those planning to extensively travel within Switzerland. With just one pass, you can have unlimited access to the Swiss travel system, including trains, buses, boats, and even some mountain excursions. The pass allows you to save both time and money, as individual tickets for each leg of your journey can quickly add up. Additionally, the pass offers a variety of discounts and perks that further enhance its value.
But here is an important thing which you should be aware of, It depends on how much time you are exploring in Switzerland during your trip.  If you stay in Switzerland for a longer period of time, a Swiss travel pass will offer better value.Â
The majority of individuals who visit Switzerland tend to stay for 3 to 4 days. During such visits, it becomes essential to compare the expenses of the Pass with the activities you plan to pursue. For those who aren’t embarking on long train journeys, the Half Fare Card is often the preferred option. It’s evident that the Swiss Travel Pass is quite costly per day, except for the 8-day and 15-day variants. However, when considering the usual prices of train rides and mountain attractions, the per-day costs of these longer passes are actually quite low.Â
Put simply, if you plan on staying in Switzerland for 5 days or less, you will need to calculate which option is most beneficial for you. However, if you intend on spending 6 or 7 days in Switzerland, the 8-day Pass is highly likely to be a fantastic deal and the optimal choice.
Once you possess a Swiss Travel Pass, you will greatly appreciate the convenience of being able to easily board any train (which are known for their excellence and punctuality), as well as most boats and cable cars, without having to worry about the expense. The cost per day of an 8-day Pass, even if you only utilize it for 6 days, is approximately CHF65. Moreover, Switzerland is brimming with astonishing train journeys, boats, and cable cars, where you can easily derive that much value from before noon each day.
What are the benefits of using the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Travel Pass offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive choice for travellers. Firstly, it covers unlimited travel throughout the entire Swiss Travel System, allowing you to freely explore picturesque cities, stunning alpine regions, and charming villages. Moreover, the pass offers free entry to a wide range of museums and attractions, saving you even more on your trip. Additionally, passengers can travel for free on panoramic trains, providing an unforgettable experience of Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Schilthorn (50% Discount) And Jungfraujoch (25% Discount) Are Cheaper With A Swiss Travel Pass
Schilthorn and the Jungfraujoch tourist train are the top two breathtaking attractions and popular pastimes in Switzerland. The train takes travellers up the mountain opposite Schilthorn, offering stunning views. For those holding a Swiss Travel Pass, there is a discounted rate of 25% off the CHF205 price for entry to the Jungfraujoch. To add to the complexity, the entire rail journey to the beginning of the Jungfrau train is included with the pass, making the prices seem even more than 25% reduced.Â
Both of these exceptional experiences are quite unique from one another. However, in comparison to Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn offers a quicker and more comfortable journey up and down. Exploring Schilthorn can be thoroughly enjoyed in approximately 4 hours (or slightly longer if dining at the rotating Piz Gloria restaurant at the summit), whereas a trip to Jungfraujoch typically takes around 6 hours.Â
Consider the Swiss Half-Fare Card instead
If you do not plan on taking two or more of the long (and costly) scenic train journeys, you will find more economical options with the Swiss Half-Fare Card, which will be discussed further below.Â
Mt Rigi, Near Lucerne, Is 100% Covered By The Swiss Travel Pass
While the majority of well-known mountain trips are only given a 50% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass, the renowned trips to Mt Rigi, near Lucerne, are fully covered by the pass. This is one of Switzerland’s top mountain experiences and reaching the summit involves a combination of cog railways and cable cars. There are various ways to reach the mountain and all of them are relatively near Lucerne.
Most individuals prefer getting there by taking one of the frequent boats departing from the opposite side of the train station in Lucerne and then alighting at one of the cog rail departure points. It goes without saying that if you purchase a Swiss Travel Pass, the Mt Rigi excursion should be a priority when you visit Lucerne.Â
Is A Swiss Travel Pass Right For You? ( Swiss Travel Pass Review)
Determining whether the Swiss Travel Pass is a worthwhile investment involves analyzing which scenic rail and cable car journeys you intend to take in Switzerland and comparing the cost of the pass to the benefits it offers. In the article below, you will find a comprehensive list of the most costly and popular scenic journeys and cable cars, along with their individual prices without the pass and the potential savings you can achieve.
Typically, most people visit Switzerland for a duration of 5 or 6 days at most, making the 3-day and 4-day passes the most relevant options to consider. However, if your stay exceeds 8 days or more, the longer passes are highly likely to provide exceptional value for money.
In brief, if you plan to experience two of the pricier scenic trains and either the Jungfraujoch railway or the Schilthorn cable car, opting for the pass will result in monetary savings. While Switzerland may be expensive, the advantages of visiting the country are worthwhile, and the travel pass can contribute to making your trip more affordable.Â
How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2023?
The cost of the Swiss Travel Pass varies depending on the duration and type of pass you choose. For instance, the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass Flex for 2nd class travel costs around € 397.70 in 2023. It’s important to consider the duration of your stay and the number of travel days you will be using the pass to determine if it is worth the investment. However, considering the convenience and the wide range of benefits it offers, the cost is often justified.
What does the Swiss Travel Pass include?
The Swiss Travel Pass covers a comprehensive range of travel options, making it an all-in-one solution for exploring Switzerland.
- Free rail travel on normal trains and most scenic trains
- Discounted travel (about 50%) on popular tourist mountain trains
- Discounted travel (about 50%) on popular tourist cable cars
- Free travel on public transport in 75 towns and cities
- Free entry to around 500 museums in Switzerland
The Swiss Travel Pass covers the fare on the most popular scenic and panoramic trains. You can choose a normal seat in a regular carriage for no additional cost, but there is a supplement of 8 euros to 55 euros for a reserved seat in one of the special panorama carriages on these routes.
PRICES OF THE 2023 SWISS TRAVEL PASS
1st Class
- Adult 3-day Pass: € 377.20
- Youth (4 to 25) 3-day Pass: 260
- Adult 4-day Pass: € 457.15
- Youth (4 to 25) 4-day Pass: 315
- Adult 6-day Pass: € 583.23
- Youth (4 to 25) 6-day Pass: 402
- Adult 8-day Pass: € 631.40
- Youth (4 to 25) 8-day Pass: 436
- Adult 15-day Pass: € 690.85
- Youth (4 to 25) 15-day Pass: 479
2nd Class
- Adult 3-day Pass: 236.78 €
- Youth (4 to 25) 3-day Pass: 164
- Adult 4-day Pass: € 287
- Youth (16 to 25) 4-day Pass: 199
- Adult 6-day Pass: € 366.95
- Youth (16 to 25) 6-day Pass: 254
- Adult 8-day Pass: € 397.70
- Youth (16 to 25) 8-day Pass: 274
- Adult 15-day Pass: € 438.70
- Youth (16 to 25) 15-day Pass: 307
Swiss Travel Pass Flex
This version costs a bit more, but you don’t have to use the travel days consecutively. It’s a great option for anyone who won’t be taking longer train rides each day.
- Adult 3 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): € 433.58
- Adult 3 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): € 272.65
- Adult 4 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): € 525.83
- Adult 4 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): € 330.05
- Adult 6 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): € 624.23
- Adult 6 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): € 392.58
- Adult 8 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): € 664.20
- Adult 8 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): € 418.20
- Adult 15 Flex days in 1 month (1st Class): € 722.63
- Adult 15 Flex days in 1 month (2nd Class): € 459.20
What types of travel are included in the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Travel Pass includes unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, allowing you to easily reach every corner of the country. Whether you want to visit charming cities like Zurich, Lucerne, or Geneva, or embark on an adventure to the scenic regions of the Swiss Alps, the pass has got you covered. It offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore the diverse landscapes that Switzerland has to offer.
Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover unlimited travel in Switzerland?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass does indeed cover unlimited travel within Switzerland. You can freely hop on and off trains, buses, and boats, enabling you to create your own itinerary and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful country. The pass not only saves you money but also provides the convenience of not having to purchase separate tickets for each leg of your journey.
Can I use the Swiss Travel Pass for day trips?
Absolutely! The Swiss Travel Pass is perfect for day trips as it allows you to travel to various destinations and explore different regions of Switzerland. Whether you want to take a leisurely cruise on Lake Geneva, visit the famous Jungfraujoch, or marvel at the beauty of the Rhine Falls, the pass covers the cost of your transportation, making it hassle-free and cost-effective. Simply hop on a train, bus, or boat and enjoy your day trip without worrying about additional expenses.
How to Use the Swiss Travel Pass
Using the Swiss Travel Pass is straightforward, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Just don’t forget to book the seats for the scenic Train Ride in Switzerland. Because Panorama seats are booked beforehand and you may have to spend some extra money there.
How do I buy the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Travel Pass can be purchased online or at any Swiss railway station. It is recommended to buy the pass in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. You can easily obtain the pass by providing the necessary details and selecting the desired duration and class of travel. Once purchased, you will receive a physical pass that you’ll need to carry with you throughout your journey.
How do I activate and use the Swiss Travel Pass?
Activating and using the Swiss Travel Pass is simple. On the first day of your travel, you’ll need to enter the date on your pass, which will serve as the start date of its validity. After activation, the pass allows you unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network for the duration specified in your pass. Whenever you board a train, bus, or boat, simply present your pass to the ticket inspector for validation, and you’re good to go.
Can I travel in first class with the Swiss Travel Pass?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass gives you the option to travel in first class, providing a more luxurious and comfortable travel experience. However, it’s worth noting that travelling in first class requires an additional supplement on top of the pass cost. If you choose to travel in first class, you can enjoy spacious seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, and other amenities that enhance your journey. It is recommended to check the availability and pricing of first-class seats before making a decision.
Other Options for Traveling in Switzerland
While the Swiss Travel Pass is an excellent choice for many travellers, there are alternative options worth considering.
What is the Swiss Half Fare Card and how does it compare to the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Half Fare Card is another popular option for travelling in Switzerland. With this card, you get a 50% discount on the regular fares for trains, buses, boats, and mountain excursions. While it offers significant savings on individual tickets, it requires you to purchase separate tickets for each journey. If you plan on taking multiple trips, the Swiss Travel Pass may offer better value as it allows unlimited travel with a single purchase.
- Swiss Half-Fare Card for 30 days: Adults – 130 €
Why the Half-Fare Card is a better deal for Many
The Swiss Travel Pass is a worthwhile choice for travellers who plan on taking numerous expensive scenic journeys and visiting mountain sights in a short period of time. However, it may not be cost-effective for those who intend to take fewer expensive trips or have a longer stay. Moreover, the Swiss Travel Pass only offers a 25% discount on the incredible Jungfraujoch Railway, which ranges in price from CHF120 to CHF205 for a round trip based on the starting point. Conversely, the Half-Fare Card grants a discount of 50%.Â
The mathematics is straightforward too. You can simply calculate the combined expenses of the trains, boats, and buses you will use during your stay in Switzerland. If the sum exceeds approximately CHF240, getting the Half-Fare Card would be financially beneficial and help you save money.Â
Example itinerary:
- Zurich to Interlaken train (2nd Class): CHF50
- Schilthorn Cable Car: CHF112
- Jungfraujoch railway from Interlaken: CHF205
- Interlaken to Lucerne train (2nd Class): CHF33
- Mt Rigi roundtrip from Lucerne: CHF84
- Engelberg (near Lucerne) to Mt. Titlis Cable Car: CHF92
- Lucerne to Zurich train (2nd Class): CHF25
Total per person: CHF601
Total with Half-Fare Card (including the price of card): CHF420.50
It would be tough to do all of those things in 4 days, although it is possible. If you bought a 4-day Swiss Travel Pass here is how it adds up:
4-Day Swiss Travel Pass: CHF259
Supplements for Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, and Mt. Titlis: CHF203.25
Total cost: CHF462.25
The bottom line on the Swiss Half-Fare Card
The Half-Fare Card is more advantageous for travellers who wish to venture on the breathtaking Jungfraujoch rail journey as it offers a longer duration of 30 days and a more substantial discount. In addition, the discounts accumulate more rapidly for excursions to Schilthorn and Mt. Titlis, among other destinations. Furthermore, you can derive value from the Half-Fare Card without having to undertake numerous lengthy rail journeys.Â
Can I buy the Swiss Travel Pass online?
Yes, buying the Swiss Travel Pass online is convenient and hassle-free. Various websites offer the option to purchase the Swiss Travel Pass online, allowing you to plan and book your travel in advance. It’s advisable to buy the pass from official websites or authorized travel agencies to ensure the authenticity of the pass and to avoid any potential issues during your trip.
Is there a Swiss Travel Pass for second-class travel?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is available for both second-class and first-class travel. The choice of the class depends on your preference and budget. The second-class pass is more affordable and still offers a comfortable travel experience with ample seating and excellent views. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on the quality of your journey, the second-class Swiss Travel Pass is a great choice.
The Pass Includes Free Public Transport In Most Swiss Cities
One of the key benefits of this pass is that it includes free public transport in most Swiss cities. This means that visitors can easily hop on and off buses, trams, and trains without worrying about purchasing separate tickets. Whether you’re visiting Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, or any other major city in Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass allows you to move around effortlessly and explore all the attractions and landmarks.
Not only does it save you money, but it also saves you the hassle of figuring out the local transportation system. With this pass in hand, you can enjoy the convenience of unlimited travel, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Switzerland. So whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer holiday, the Swiss Travel Pass is definitely worth considering for a stress-free and budget-friendly travel experience.Â
Exploring Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass
With the Swiss Travel Pass, you have the opportunity to discover the mesmerizing cities, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden treasures of Switzerland.
What cities can I travel to with the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Travel Pass allows you to explore a wide range of cities and towns in Switzerland. From vibrant Zurich to picturesque Lucerne and quaint Interlaken, you can easily travel to these popular destinations with the pass. Moreover, the pass also enables you to visit lesser-known but equally charming places like Lugano, Lausanne, and Zermatt. With unlimited travel, you can create your own itinerary and immerse yourself in the beauty of each city.
Are there any additional perks or discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass offers additional perks and discounts to enhance your travel experience. These include free entry to various museums and attractions, special discounts on mountain excursions, and even complimentary travel for children under 16 with the Swiss Family Card. Pass holders can also benefit from discounts on selected hotels, restaurants, and other services, making it a comprehensive package that adds value to your trip.
