Switzerland - getting around by Mark Sukhija

The Swiss transport system is extensive, highly efficient, punctual to a fault and a fantastic example of integrated transportation.

There's more information on ticketing here and rail / bus passes here.

By train

The Swiss Federal Railway system runs an extensive network of trains throughout the country.

Typically, simple single or return tickets are, invariably, the most expensive options. If you're in Switzerland for more than a day or two you will probably find that one of the various national or regional passes more economical.

Swiss transport ticketing, however, is a complex affair with a variety of options available. In addition to the standard singles and returns, there's a number of national and regional passes. More information is also available at www.swisstravelsystem.ch

By bus

All towns and cities of even a modest size boast a railway station of some description. The Postbus network serves many of the more remote areas. They usually connect with a train directly outside the main train station.

The Postbus website has excellent information and an online timetable. The railways website includes postbus schedules when making an enquiry - even when part of your journey is on the trains.

By air

Travelling around Switzerland by air is, in reality, for a a tourist a complete waste of time. Unless you're doing the Geneva / Lugano route, you'll probably find that with all the stuffing about the train is either (a) quicker or (b) easier or (c) both quicker and easier.

1. SWISS operate domestic flights from Euroairport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, Geneva Airport, Lugano Airport and Zürich Unique Airport
2. Darwin Airlines operate domestic flights from Berne Belp Airport, Geneva Airport and Lugano Airport

Further reading