And Why Switzerland Is the Gold Standard
When you travel fast like we do—covering multiple cities in a single trip—you want to move through Europe efficiently, comfortably, and beautifully. And that’s why we love traveling by train.
We’ve used trains across France, Austria, Italy, and beyond, but no country has wowed us like Switzerland. From sleek panoramic coaches to punctual regional rides, the Swiss rail experience is second to none—and it’s become our top recommendation for anyone trying train travel for the first time.
Why Train Travel Works for Fast-Luxe Itineraries
- City-to-city travel without airport delays
- No checked bags or security lines
- Scenic views the entire ride
- More time exploring, less time in transit
When your trip involves 2 days per city, the way you move matters. Trains give you the freedom to stay mobile and stress-free—especially in Switzerland.
Our Swiss Rail Experience
On one of our recent trips, we used a 7-day Swiss Rail Pass to visit Geneva, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Lugano, and Zurich. With a single pass on our phones, we were able to hop between cities without reservations, skip long lines, and even enjoy free access to hundreds of museums and attractions.
- Travel Class: Regional and panoramic trains in Switzerland; First Class from Paris to Geneva
- Booking: No advance reservations needed—we kept our schedule flexible and let the scenery guide us
- Ticket Checks: Keep your pass handy—train staff check it often
- With Kids: Children were free with our pass, which made a big difference for family travel
What Makes Swiss Trains Special
- Punctuality: Trains run like clockwork. Truly.
- Clean & Quiet: The coaches are spotless, comfortable, and often feel luxurious
- Digital Simplicity: The pass is stored on your phone—no paper, no stress
- Unmatched Views: Snowy Alps, sparkling lakes, charming towns—you see it all without ever touching a steering wheel
We debated renting a car—but realized that train travel let both of us enjoy the ride. It turned transit into part of the vacation.
First-Timer Tips for Train Travel in Switzerland (and Beyond)
✅ Get a Rail Pass
If you’re visiting multiple cities, a pass will save you money and time—plus it often includes museums, boats, and buses.
✅ Use Google Maps
It shows real-time train schedules, platform numbers, and even delays. A must-have for planning on the go.
✅ No Need to Reserve Regional Swiss Trains
Unlike high-speed international routes, most trains in Switzerland don’t require seat reservations—perfect for flexible travelers.
✅ Store Your Bags Securely
Use the luggage racks onboard (they’re common and safe). We typically taxi between hotels and stations, but when we traveled pre-kids, we walked to see more of the city.
Want Help Planning a Train-Based European Adventure?
We specialize in creating fast-paced, luxury-level itineraries that work seamlessly with rail travel. Whether you’re headed to Switzerland or beyond, we’ll match you with the best routes, hotels, and experiences to fit your style—and make sure it all fits in your carry-on.
Contact us for VIP Concierge Planning
From passes to panoramas, we’ll handle the logistics so you can sit back and enjoy the view.