I will be traveling in Switzerland and then to Budapest. I will have a Swiss Flexi Rail Pass. Can the Swiss Rail Pass be used to get the passholder rate on the train from Zurich to Budapest? Second how and when can you make reservations for the night train from Zurich to Budapest?
Posted by
Green Bay
21145 posts
Since it is operated by the Hungarian Railway, MAV, I would think you would contact them first. If you get an advance purchase discount fare, I would guess that would trump any small discount your Swiss Pass would offer. Only 10% of the total journey passes through Switzerland. At least that is my experience with the Railjet train from Zurich to Austria. Also, Swiss Pass would not include any extras like sleeper or couchette fees.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
The 7 p.m. Rule for night trains doesn't apply with a Swiss Travel Pass, which may be lucky for you - all train travel that you do within Switzerland up until midnight should be covered. The night train crosses the border at Buchs about 23:00. The Swiss web site www.sbb.ch sells the ticket but I can't confirm for certain whether you qualify to select the GA "General coverage" discount that Swiss locals would use if they had that type of annual pass. If you don't book the train until you are actually in Switzerland, then station ticket agents can do the calculations.
Rail Europe doesn't have this sleeper ticket/reservation for sale online. The Hungarian web site does not sell e-tickets for international journeys (must pick up in Hungary).
Posted by
San Francisco
14977 posts
@ nevenhus....There is a day/ night combination going from Zürich to Budpaest via Munich. Take the direct Zürich to Munich, then Munich to Budapest night train.