Mar 30, 2026
Best way to travel from Paris to Amsterdam (train vs flight)
Best way to travel from Paris to Amsterdam (train vs flight) Travelling between Paris and Amsterdam is one…
Read MoreAre there discounts on Swiss trains for tourists? (And Is It cheaper to book in advance?)
Switzerland is known for having one of the most efficient and scenic rail networks in the world — but also one of the most expensive.
So it’s no surprise that travellers often ask: Are there discounts on Swiss trains for tourists? And is it cheaper to book in advance?
The short answer: yes, there are ways to save — but it’s more about value than cheap prices.
Are There Discounts on Swiss Trains for Tourists?
Yes — while Switzerland doesn’t typically offer “cheap” train tickets, there are several ways tourists can reduce costs and maximise value.
1. Swiss Travel Pass
One of the most popular options is the Swiss Travel Pass, designed specifically for international travellers.
It offers:
Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats
Access to panoramic routes
Free entry to many museums
Discounts on mountain excursions
👉 Best for: travellers planning to move frequently across the country.
2. Saver Day Pass & Advance Fares
Swiss trains (operated by SBB) offer Saver Day Passes and discounted tickets when booked early.
These tickets:
Are limited in availability
Increase in price closer to the travel date
Can offer significant savings compared to standard fares
👉 Best for: travellers with fixed plans.
3. Regional and Tourist Discounts
Some routes and regions offer:
Discounts on scenic trains
Combined tickets (train + attraction)
Seasonal promotions
However, these are usually value-based rather than “low-cost”.
Is it cheaper to book Swiss trains in advance?
Yes — in many cases, booking in advance can help you save money.
While Switzerland doesn’t have the same aggressive pricing model as countries like Italy or Spain, you can still benefit from:
Lower prices on Saver tickets
Better availability on popular scenic routes
Access to the best travel times
👉 Key takeaway:
Prices tend to increase as demand rises, especially on popular routes.
When Is It Worth Booking in Advance?
Booking early is especially recommended if you’re travelling on routes like:
Zurich → Lucerne
Lucerne → Interlaken
St. Moritz → Tirano (Bernina route)
These routes are popular for their scenery, and prices or availability can vary depending on demand.
Can You Get a Discount as a First-Time Buyer?
Some platforms may offer exclusive discounts or promo codes for first-time users, especially when booking online.
With platforms like RailClick, travellers can:
Compare Swiss train routes
Access different ticket types
Find available promotions
Book tickets in one place
👉 In some cases, first-time users may benefit from special discounts, making their first booking more cost-effective.
How to save money on Swiss train travel
Here are a few practical tips:
Book early when possible
Compare single tickets vs rail passes
Travel outside peak hours
Look for bundled experiences (train + attraction)
Use platforms that centralise offers and promotions
Final Answer: Are Swiss Trains Cheap?
Not exactly — but they can be worth it.
Switzerland offers:
Exceptional punctuality
Breathtaking scenic routes
Seamless connections
So instead of focusing only on price, the goal is to get the best value for your journey.
Plan your Swiss train journey
Switzerland is one of the best countries in the world to explore by train. Whether you’re travelling between cities or crossing the Alps, the experience is part of the trip.
With platforms like RailClick, you can compare routes, find available discounts, and book your tickets easily — all in one place.
Because in Switzerland, train travel isn’t just transportation — it’s part of the destination. 🚆🏔️
Anna Novak
Head of Rail Intelligence & AI Strategy at RailClick
Anna Novak is Head of Rail Intelligence & AI Strategy at RailClick, where she focuses on the future of rail distribution and digital mobility across Europe. With extensive experience in travel technology and rail ecosystems, she works on simplifying how rail content is discovered, integrated, and booked by travel agencies and partners worldwide. Her work explores the intersection of AI-driven discovery, multi-operator rail networks, and modern distribution infrastructure, helping the industry move toward more connected and accessible rail systems. Through her writing, Anna analyzes trends shaping the rail sector — from interoperability and ticketing technology to the role of artificial intelligence in transforming how rail journeys are searched and sold. At RailClick, she contributes to building the next generation of simplified, scalable rail booking solutions for the global travel industry.
