I am specifically looking at Interlaken to Florence. It would be nice to book in advance so we are already all set before we go, but I am just wondering if it is a better deal to book through sbb.com or if I'd save more money by waiting and just purchasing tickets at the stations. Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
Julie,
My preference would be to buy the tickets at the station. I NEVER pre-buy tickets on the web.
As I recall, Interlaken Ost is a "full service" station, so you should have no trouble buying tickets there. I'm not sure if there are any discounts possible for buying these a few days ahead of time? Hopefully one of the rail experts here will have further details on that.
Cheers!
Posted by
San Francisco, Ca
59 posts
Would you believe my mother gave birth in a berth on a train? Wanna Walnetto?
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19099 posts
I am not that familiar with discount tickets in Switzerland, but the prices shown on the Swiss Rail website are the same as the full fare at a ticket counter. If you buy online and the tickets are mailed, there will be a mailing fee.
In Germany, there are a lot of purchase ahead discounts and it can really pay to buy online. For instance, with the Dauer-Spezial-Tickets, you can go from anywhere in Germany to anywhere else for as low as €29. However, the prices are tiered and limited in quantity at each tier. The tickets require a three day advance purchase, but the lowest prices usually sell out well before then.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
If you are still hoping for a birth berth on a night train, it's to your advantage to book in advance.
No price advantage to buying at the station unless your status changes (e.g., you buy a Swiss pass entitling you to discounts on travel within Switzerland).