The Best Ways to Travel in Switzerland
- The Swiss have one of the most complex systems to get you from place to place, offering travel by rail, boat and bus, with rail and bus being the most popular.
Tickets can be purchased before arriving in Switzerland through MySwitzerland.com, but take a look at your itinerary before buying anything. In addition to regular one-way tickets there is a variety of passes available.
All Swiss passes are good on all three forms of travel, but there are several different benefits of different types of passes. A saver pass, for example, gives a hefty discount when traveling with at least one other person, while a youth pass gives significant savings for second-class travelers under the age of 26.
One fantastic advantage for family vacationers in Switzerland is the family card, which allows any child under 16 who is accompanied by a parent to travel for free.
When you buy a pass you will notice that there is a first-class and second-class option. If you are on a budget and only traveling short distances, or traveling during off-peak season, second class should be comfortable. It can get crowded to the point of standing-room only during peak season. The primary advantage of first class is the extra space. You will also be treated to amenities not available in seond class, such as Internet access.
If your itinerary consists of more than just Switzerland, then it's a good idea to bypass the Swiss pass options and get a Eurail pass. The Eurail pass is accepted in Switzerland just like a Swiss pass, but it will also cover travel to other countries. Rates vary depending on how many countries you plan to visit and if they border each other. Eurail passes can also be purchased through MySwitzerland.com.
Although reservations are not generally needed when traveling wthin Switzerland, they are in many other European countries.
Travel by car or motorcycle can be less expensive, but not nearly as enjoyable as you will miss much of the gorgeous scenery while focusing on the road. - Getting around within Swiss cities is easy and can be inexpensive.
All major cities in Switzerland have good public transportation, and if you have already bought a Swiss pass it will be valid for most city buses.
Another popular choice is bicycle rental. You will find rentals available in train stations and at many hostels, even if you are not staying at the hostel. The hostel rentals are usually less expensive but require a deposit.
A bicycle will allow you to enjoy the scenery and mountain air while getting around in a timely manner. If you need to get across town you can take your bicycle on a bus or train, but check with the railway if you are planning to take it long distances as some railways require a bicycle reservation.
Taxis are also available in most cities, but in general they are expensive and unnecessary. - One of the most pleasurable travel experiences in Switzerland is to travel with the intent of watching the breathtaking views rather than traveling with the intent of getting somewhere. There are many ways to accomplish this. Some examples are panoramic view trains, cable cars and boat cruises.
If you have a Swiss pass you can use it for a boating trip on one of Switzerland's many lakes. Lago Maggiore is the only major lake that does not offer a steamliner covered under the Swiss pass. When you look for a boat trip covered by your Swiss pass, check for steamliners operated by the Swiss Federal Railways or other allied private companies. Some smaller companies will not accept your Swiss pass, but if you do not have a Swiss pass, these smaller companies will often be your cheapest route.
Panorama trains are specially designed with extra-large windows that stretch up to the ceiling so that you can take everything in. Your Swiss pass o Eurail pass will not get you a seat on a panorama train, but in some cases it may get you a discount. There are several routes available on panorama trains. For more information click the "scenic trains" link at MySwitzerland.com. Reservations will be needed for panorama trains.
Cable cars can be the most expensive sightseeing outing, but they can also be the most relaxing and unique as you slowly soar above land among the mountains.
