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Rail pass question for Switzerland and beyond

Rail pass questions seem to be so popular lately but I couldn't find the answer I was looking for so here it goes.

We are flying into Zurich and taking the train to Zermatt. From Zermatt we are moving on to Germany with Füssen being our first stop. (I understand we have to train back to Zurich from Zermatt in order to continue on to Füssen). From there, we are going to be based in Munich for a few days and taking day trips to Salzburg, Nuremberg, Dachau. (The itinerary is what it is due to several reasons ;) We are a family of four (2 parents, 2 teenagers.)

Would an Eurail pass for whatever the amount of days we will be using the train be the right choice for us? (about 5-6 non-consecutive days within a month). Or should I look into a Swiss pass separately and get the German Eurail pass?
Thank you in advance!

Posted by
33819 posts

when is the trip - now or in the summer?

If all you are doing in Switzerland is flying in, taking a train to Zermatt, and taking a train to Germany I can't imagine any pass or half price card which will pay off. It will cost more than you will save.

For Germany once you are in Bavaria the Bayern Ticket (regional trains and local transport only) which is very cheap and valid all day will do everything you need. All three of your named side trips are included. On days when you plan to stay in Munich there are MVV tickets.

How old are the teens? Makes a difference on the price perhaps.

No need for a fancy Eurailpass, you'll never spend enough. Nor a German Rail Pass if you are staying in Bavaria. Later in the year the 49€ month long all Germany but not fast trains subscriptions will be coming.

Posted by
13 posts

Thank you for your reply! That's exactly what I was wondering, if it was worth it. I have found it hard to find train info ahead of time from a variety of sources in one place - everything points to Eurail and their website is so easy to navigate. I will check out the Bayern ticket and MVV for later in Munich. We are going at the end of March, beginning of April. The teens are both 13 so with Eurail they get a discount. I am assuming they might not be free in other systems but still a discount. Thanks again!