Is it possible to purchase a 30 day second class half fare card for Switzerland. If you must purchase a 30 day half fare card and it is First Class use can you use that card to purchase second class tickets and ride in second class of course? In the past it was possible to purchase a second class 30 day half fare card but from Rick's site I see only first class for 30 day Swiss half fare card. I would appreciate any help.
Posted by
Green Bay
21154 posts
Actually, the 30 day Half Fare comes in only one variety, Half Fare. Buy a first class ticket, pay half the first class fare. Buy a second class ticket, pay half the second class fare.
http://www.sbb.ch/en/leisure-holidays/holidays--short-breaks-in-switzerland/swisstravelsystem/swiss-halffare-card.html
Posted by
OP
Lincoln City, OR
90 posts
That may be true and has been true in the past, but if you will look at Rick Steve's site to purchase the 30 day half fare card you will see that it indicates "First Class" from $140. That is where I have the concern, in that it is stating on that site to purchase the 30 day half fare card that it is "First Class." I have tried to look at the SBB site but cannot find specifically the fact that the 30 day half fare card can be used to purchase either second or first class half fare cards. Again thank you for your reply, but if you would look at the Rick Steve's site I think you may see where my confusion comes from.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Rail Europe's description of the Swiss Half Fare Card is throwing you off, but it's basically correct. They call it "1st class" to indicate that it covers both 1st and 2nd class, which is true of every 1st class pass. You have the choice to buy either type of ticket (for half price) each time that you select one. Of course, some lifts, trams, or buses don't have any class distinction.
Posted by
OP
Lincoln City, OR
90 posts
Thank you very much and I will not worry about this any longer.