Cruise ending in Basel is it worth going to the Alps?

Is it “worth” going to the Alps? Only you can answer that.

Let’s start with this question.... does the cover of RS’ Switzerland travel book intrigue you? 😊

We feel that the Alps are almost always worth a couple of days of your time and will be quite different from what you've already seen on a Rhine cruise. Switzerland is not cheap, of course, so you're budgeting a few nights hotel and meals, as well as trains and mountain lifts - see some transport costs at https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/transportation/trains/switzerland-rail-passes.

I haven't been in late November, but would expect shorter daylight hours, some snow, and also rather a quiet tourist scene until the real ski season starts. Specifically in the Berner Oberland, the Stechelberg – Mürren – Schilthorn lifts will be closed for maintenance from Nov. 16 to Dec. 11, and so may be some hotels in Mürren. The alternate route to Mürren via Lauterbrunnen and Grütschalp remains open during that time, as do trains on the other side of the valley, such as from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch.

You might prefer to go to Luzern to combine a more lively, year-round town with easy high-mountain access. The seasonal maintenance at Mt. Pilatus is in the first half of November, so it shouldn't affect your visit.

Hi Laura, in the link you provided below your 1st paragraph in which RS discusses travel passes, there is still no mention of SBBs Saver Day Passes and they have been around now for over a year I believe.

How soon will that travel pass page be updated to include Saver Day Passes & RS’ strategy and advice about them along with the other travel passes?

Thanks.

I second the vote for Luzern. And we didn’t find it expensive.

Wow - is it worth going to the Swiss Alps??? It’s always worth going to the Swiss Alps!

@Laura: I agree that the Saver Day Pass, which has been around since 2018, is now a very serious omission. Especially after their quantities at cheaper fares (starting at CHF52) were greatly increased.

I have not yet visited the Alps, but as I always ask: "When will you ever be that close again?"

When we visit the Alps, it will involve an overseas flight to see the area. You will be RIGHT there. So, if you can allocate the few extra days and expense................

Thanks, guys. You're right that I didn't pay much attention to the Saver Day Pass when it started. I'll put that on our to-do list.