Heading to Switzerland over Christmas break. I think I need a rail pass? I will be there 10 days so I am forced to get a 15 day right?
Taking train to Zermatt first night to try to stay at the Iglu Dorf hotel but they are not responding to my emails for reservations. Will need Gornergrat but it doesn't look like this is part of rail pass?
Next night taking train to Montreux for a few days. Would like to do Glacier 3000. Do I need to buy a pricey excursion or can I just take the train and buy my tickets at Glacier 3000? Would like to see the Chillon Castle. Can I take a train or bus from Montreux?
After Montreux heading to Luzern for a few more days. Would like to see Mt Titlis, another pricey excursion. Can I just take the train and buy tickets once I am there? It looks like I can take a train from Luzern to Root to go to Chocolate World at Aeschbach instead of buying the expensive excursion, right? I might want a day to see Grindelwald and Interlaken as well. Free train ride from Luzurn?
Then train to Zurich for the night b4 the flight out and train to the airport. Does that sound like it would be worth it for the rail pass?
I almost booked $1000 of excursions. Would love to see everything I want to see but use the rail pass to pay!
Posted by
Vancouver, WA
478 posts
Regarding your stay in Luzern: Yes, you can easily take the train to the Aeschbach Chocolate World and to Engelberg, at the base of Mt. Titlis. The Aeschbach factory tour is self-guided, so there is no need to pay additional for an excursion. The train stops at Root, near the factory (about a 5-minute walk, as I recall). Be sure to choose the "make your own chocolate bar" option! You will want to see if the Swiss Travel Pass includes the cable car up to the top of Mr. Titlis--if not, it's likely that the cable car is discounted. You don't mention how long you will be in Luzern; if you keep your plans flexible you can check the weather and head to Mt. Titlis on the first clear day (fingers crossed for you!).
Posted by
Knoxville, TN, USA
7209 posts
Do not prebook expensive mountain top excursions. If the weather is rainy and dreadful and socked in with thick clouds at the top then you won’t want to go.
Yes, just buy your tickets there at any train station. If you buy a Half Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass then just show your passes at the ticket counter and they’ll sell you the correct ticket. STO covers most everything.
Castle Chillon is very easy. Jump on the boat at the dock in Montreux and be delivered right to the castle...covered by your STP.
Posted by
Green Bay
20072 posts
The Gornergratbahn gives half off with a Swiss Travel Pass. I believe Titlis lifts are the same. The 15 day STP will definitely save some money. The Half Fare Card will probably save more, but you still have to buy a ticket for each ride.
Not surprising you have not heard from Iglu Hotel. Since the "hotel" is rebuilt out of snow every year, and all the snow is melted now, the operators are probably off on holiday.