We're planning to buy Swiss Passes when arriving in Zurich and enjoy Switzerland via the rails. Once we are ready to move on to Italy, how do we get there by train? I notice there is a fast train from Bern to Milan, but can we get to a border town with the Swiss Pass, and then buy another ticket to Milan? What is the best solution? Thanks.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16401 posts
If you are taking one of the direct trains, Bern to Milan ( or Zurich or Luzern to Milan)' you don't want to get off the train at the border to buy a ticket; you need to have it in hand when you board the train. The pass will cover travel to Domodossola if you take the Bern train ( you cab board at other spots such as Spiez), or Chiasso if you go.from Luzern. Show your pass to the agent at the ticket window to buy you tickets before boarding, and he or she will adjust the price accordingly. You can buy your ticket at any time in advance if you do not want to leave it to the last minute.
Posted by
OP
Idyllwild, us
14 posts
Exactly what we needed to know. Thanks much!
Posted by
Nederland, CO
1457 posts
BJ - I'm a little confused "We're planning to buy Swiss Passes when arriving in Zurich" - if you are talking about the Swiss Passes sold through this website or RailEurope - I believe they must be purchased here before you go, and can not be purchased on arrival there.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16401 posts
Sometimes there is a price advantage one way or the other but not right now, at least for the pass I compared. A 4-day flex pass, Saver price in 2d class is $289 here and 262 CHF in Switzerland. That converts to $287.67 at today's exhange rate. However you also should consider the foreign transaction fee if your credit card charges that-it can add several % to the cost of a purchase in Swiss francs. Also, if you buy the pass on this website, they offer a 20% discount in the travel store, which is a great deal if you need luggage. And if you are traveling in april or October, certain Swiss passes are on a 2-for-1 special if you buy from the Swiss site.
Posted by
OP
Idyllwild, us
14 posts
Jill-thanks for the heads up! I was under the impression that you could buy them (or at least a similar product) after getting there. I'll check into it. Thanks again.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9103 posts
Swiss Passes can be purchased at major rail stations in Switzerland.
Posted by
OP
Idyllwild, us
14 posts
@Michael: if you can buy them at the major Swiss rail stations, do you know if the price and product is comparable to or the same as what's described on this website? Just don't want to waste time or money either way. Thanks to both of you for your input and help!
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9103 posts
It's more or less the same price, and they offer the same benefits. I always purchase them ahead of time via this site. I feel more comfortable having them when I arrive....one less thing to deal with after a long transatlantic flight.
Posted by
Nederland, CO
1457 posts
BJ - I apologize for giving you bum info. Just did some more research, and the other posters are 100% correct. "Most" passes must be purchased here, but not all. I learned something new today!:) Sorry again!
Posted by
OP
Idyllwild, us
14 posts
@Jill: no problem; I've learned a few things myself. Great to have this blog to get answers. Happy travels and thanks again to all for the info.