Swiss transport ticketing - general information by Mark Sukhija

Although several train companies operate Swiss Railway System, the ticketing system is highly integrated. It's quite possible you won't even notice that you've changed to a different companies tracks. When you do have to change onto another companies trains, the vast majority of journeys are covered by a single ticket.

1. Buying tickets - Tickets can be bought at ticket offices at the vast majority of stations or from vending machines. Newer ticket machines offer English-language option and accept credit-cards. Most ticket options are available from vending machines.

2. Standard singles and return tickets are the most expensive ways to travel in Switzerland. The variety of national and regional passes are available from the Swiss Railway and offer a variety benefits. Which one you select will depend very much on where you travel and how long you intend to stay.

3. Travel Classes - Swiss Railways run two travel classes - 1st and 2nd. In my opinion, 1st class isn't usually worth the extra although on some crowded trains 1st class may be the only place where you'll find a seat.

4. Reservations are not usually required but are sometimes to be recomended. For some of the scenic trains and Intercities, a reservation is mandatory.

5. Ticket inspection and enforcement - There are no ticket inspectors checking tickets as you get on the trains. Usually, local train networks ("S-Bahn") are self-enforcing but there are spot-checks and travelling without a ticket can land you with a fine (usually over 80 Francs and more for repeat offenders.) Express and long-distance trains almost always have a ticket inspector on-board. With some trains, you can buy your ticket on board from the conductor but it is strongly advised to buy your ticket before hand to be certain you won't be fined.

6. Frequent services are available in most areas. Reduced services operate on Saturdays, Sundays and Public holidays.

7. English is widely spoken by SBB staff albeit to varying degrees.

Further reading