Swiss Travel Pass Explained: What’s Included and What’s Not
The Swiss Travel Pass is one of the most convenient and flexible ways for tourists to explore Switzerland. But while it covers a wide range of transport and attractions, not everything is included. This article brings clarity.
If you’re planning to travel across Switzerland as a tourist, the Swiss Travel Pass offers a powerful package: unlimited travel on most trains, buses, and boats throughout the country. It even includes urban public transport – like trams and city buses – in cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, and Lucerne. With this pass, you won’t need to buy separate tickets for local transportation.
What Types of Swiss Travel Pass Are Available?
There are several versions of the Swiss Travel Pass, allowing travelers to choose what best suits their itinerary:
- The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days.
- The Swiss Travel Pass Flex allows you to choose your travel days freely within a 1-month period.
- A Youth version is available at a discounted price for travelers under 25.
This flexibility makes it easy for visitors to match the pass to the length and style of their trip.
How Much Does the Swiss Travel Pass Cost?
The price of the Swiss Travel Pass depends on the type and duration you choose. As of the latest information, prices in euros are approximately as follows:
- Swiss Travel Pass (consecutive days): starting from €244 for 3 days (2nd class)
- Swiss Flex Pass (flexible travel days): starting from €267 for 3 non-consecutive days within 1 month (2nd class)
- Swiss Half Fare Card: fixed price of €127 for 1 month
Prices may vary depending on exchange rates, class (1st or 2nd), and seasonal adjustments. For the most accurate and up-to-date rates, please check directly on the official Swiss Travel Pass or partner websites.
Where to Buy?
You can book your Swiss Travel Pass directly via one of the three banner options below or via this link. These are provided through our affiliate partner GetYourGuide – you won’t pay more, but you’ll support our work. Alternatively, you can also purchase the pass directly via the official SBB website.
(Image: still frame from the video by SwitzerlandforYou: https://youtu.be/_3Vm5F5bLYo)
What Is Included in the Swiss Travel Pass?
The Swiss Travel Pass includes extensive coverage of public transportation and cultural attractions:
- Unlimited travel on all SBB trains and many private railway companies (such as the Glacier Express route, Bernina Line, and GoldenPass)
- Free use of city trams and buses in major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, Lausanne, and Lucerne
- Most regular boat cruises on Swiss lakes, including Lake Lucerne, Lake Geneva, and Lake Thun
- Additionally, the Swiss Travel Pass includes the Swiss Museum Pass, granting free access to over 500 museums across Switzerland, including popular institutions like the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne and the Landesmuseum in Zurich.
What Is Partially Included or Not Covered?
Compared to the Swiss GA (Generalabonnement), which is designed for residents, the Swiss Travel Pass is more tailored to tourist needs, offering broader benefits like museum access but slightly fewer regional and fringe-line inclusions. However, it’s important to note a few exceptions: some mountain railways and cable cars are only partially covered, offering 25% to 50% discounts rather than full access. Also, special services like night buses may require a small surcharge depending on the region. While the Swiss Travel Pass offers excellent coverage, there are some important exceptions:
- Mountain excursions such as the Gornergrat, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, and Titlis are only partially included, often offering a 25% to 50% discount rather than full access
- Cable cars and funiculars in city or mountain regions may not be fully covered (e.g., Harderbahn, Stoosbahn, Marzilibahn)
- Night buses in some cities require an extra surcharge for late-night travel
- Seat reservations for premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express are not included and must be purchased separately
It’s recommended to consult the official coverage map to plan accordingly.
Where Can You Use the Swiss Travel Pass in Cities?
Whether you’re exploring cities or scenic alpine routes, the Swiss Travel Pass is a smart and seamless way to move around – but it’s wise to check the coverage map for specific mountain routes and premium lines. One of the best features of the Swiss Travel Pass is that it includes full access to local public transportation in almost all major Swiss cities. This means you can take:
- Trams, buses, and trolleybuses
- Urban S-Bahn trains within the city zones
- Certain regional ferries or water taxis (such as in Geneva)
- No need to buy additional city tickets – your pass covers it all for the duration of its validity.
Planning to travel with ease across Switzerland? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments, leave a like, and consider subscribing for more Swiss travel tips!
