By Shiromi Nassreen
Traveling by train is an excellent way to see Switzerland, where it's not uncommon to have trains passing through alpine fields with stunning views of the Alps. It's very easy to take a train in Switzerland. You can purchase a ticket online before you arrive or you can go to the railway station once you get there. Whether you are going from Point A to Point B or plan to do most of your Swiss travel by rail, you'll find it's a very fun way to travel.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step 1
Decide between a rail pass and a point-to-point ticket. This will depend on how much traveling you plan to do. Are you traveling from Berne to Geneva or are you planning to explore Switzerland by train? For point-to-point travel, all you will need is a ticket. For exploration over a period of time, consider purchasing the Swiss Pass.
Step 2
Check the schedule. You can find train-schedule information at the Swiss Travel System website. If you plan to do a lot of rail travel and won't have easy Internet access, you might want to consider purchasing a copy of the Thomas Cook European Rail Timetable, which is revised every summer and winter.
Step 3
Book your ticket or pass. You can purchase your ticket online through Rail Europe or at any Swiss railway station. But Swiss Pass is cheaper to buy online because it is designed for nonresidents.
Step 4
If necessary, make a reservation. If you are traveling on a high-speed train such as the Glacier Express or an overnight train, you will have to make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. You can get a reservation at a station ticket window.
Step 5
Get to the station early. Arrive about 20 to 30 minutes before your train departs, particularly if you are leaving from a major station. If you have a rail pass and haven't used it, you will need to go to the ticket window and have it validated. Arriving early also lets you find your platform without feeling rushed. Listen for announcements in four languages, including English, at large stations.
Resources
About the Author:
Shiromi Nassreen is a British writer. She holds a B.A. in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama and has been writing professionally for three years. She writes primarily travel and outdoor articles on Hawaii. Her articles have appeared in Dysfunkshion Magazine as well as Illusion Television and Matador Travel.
