I plan to travel in Italy and Switzerland, but am flying out of Lyon, France. I will travel by rail for most of the trip, but I want to drive for two days in Tuscany. Should I just buy a Eurail pass and rent a car separately, or would it be better to buy a car and rail pass for Italy and then buy a Swiss flexipass? I saw that the Swiss Flexipass also covered other scenic trains in Switzerland, so I was wondering if it would be cheaper in the long run to get the separate Swiss pass.
Also, how much does it usually cost to travel from Switzerland to Lyon?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
For the two countries, I would skip the Eurail pass altogether. Generally not needed in Italy especially since Trenitalia is beginning to accept U.S. credit cards and you can get the non-refundable mini-fares if you buy early. A rental car in Tuscany is great. Once you get to Switzerland, a Swiss Flexipass will work well. So will a Swiss 1/2 fare card which gets you a 50% discount on all travel everyday for 30 days. Again, if you buy early, you can get discounted fares from Switzerland to Lyon on the Swiss website (www.rail.ch). If you have some type of Swiss pass or card, this will reduce your costs to the Swiss border.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32355 posts
John, A few points to note regarding driving in Italy.... One important point to note is that for driving in Italy, each driver must have the compulsory International Driver's Permit, which is used in conjunction with your home D.L. These are valid for one year, and easily obtained at any AAA office (two Passport-sized photos required, which in some cases are provided by the issuing office). Failure to produce an IDP if requested can result in fines on the spot! Have a look at This Website for more detailed information. You may also want to search other Posts here regarding the Zona Traffico Limitato areas that are becoming increasingly prevalent in many towns in Italy (especially Florence!). EACH PASS through one of the automated Cameras will result in a €100+ ticket! A GPS along with a good Map would also be a good idea. Be sure to also give some thought to the question of CDW. If you accept the CDW offered by the rental firm, it will be expensive but will provide "peace of mind". Some "premium" credit cards provide rental vehicle insurance, however I've found this to be somewhat complicated so I just accept that offered by the rental firm. Check the Car Rental section in Europe Through The Back Door for further information.