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Problems trying to buy Swiss Rail Tickets online

I have tried to buy 2 SBB Rail Tickets from Lucerne to Milan online. I get through all of the steps, but when it is time to pay, they reject my credit card. I have called my bank (Chase) and they said the charge did not even come through to them. Does anyone know what is up or how to solve this problem?

Posted by
21145 posts

SBB uses 3-D secure, where your bank queries you in real time to enter a PIN you have previously set up. In the US, its called Visa Checkout, or Master Pass. American Express apparently does not require this, but Visa and Mastercard do.

Posted by
17427 posts

My AmEx Card works fine on the European train sites, including SBB. The first time you use it, you may get a text from AmEx, asking you to confirm the transaction, so kero your phone handy.

Posted by
768 posts

Try using a debit card. That worked for me last year when my credit cards didn't go thru.

Posted by
27 posts

Thanks everyone. Right now, I can't even log in after registering for the site. I'll give it a try again tomorrow!

Posted by
27 posts

I was able to purchase the tickets this morning using an American Express Card. Thanks for the help!