Switzerland Travel Tips: Advice for Your First Trip to Switzerland

Switzerland is one of my favourite countries to travel in, thanks to its world-class public transport, stunning alpine landscapes, ability to cater to a range of budgets (yes, really), all-round safety, and well-organized systems that work like clockwork. As a nature-loving, often solo female traveler, and an avid hiker, Switzerland is a place I’ve already visited a few times, spending over six weeks in the country. I am fairly confident that I will visit Switzerland several more times–simply because there are far too many scenic trails, picture-perfect mountains, gorgeous vineyards, idyllic villages, and beautiful lakes tucked away in the magnificence that is the Swiss Alps, than I can see in a single trip. Moreover, Switzerland is one of the safest countries I’ve traveled around, which is reassuring as a solo female traveler.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Switzerland or you’re a seasoned traveler, these tips—based on my years of experience as a travel writer, my experiences traveling Switzerland, and my obsession to find the hacks and tips that locals use—will help you navigate Switzerland by public transportation like a pro, plan the perfect Switzerland itinerary without feeling rushed, plan properly for peak season, and save on travel costs.

Getting Around in Switzerland 

Renting a car in Switzerland? Skip it. The Swiss rail network is one of the most efficient in the world, with seamless connections to mountain railways, gondolas, and cable cars. Trains are, without a doubt, the best way to get around Switzerland. You can get virtually anywhere without the hassle of driving or parking – from a peak like Brienzer Rothorn, located at 2,350m above sea level, reached via historic steam cog railway from the lakeside town of Brienz, to the stunning Lake Bachalpsee, at Grindelwald-First, reached via cable car from Grindelwald.

Train Travel Tips 

• The SBB Mobile app is your best friend—I’m not kidding: if you’re going to Switzerland, just download the app on your smartphone to make your life so much easier when traveling around Switzerland. 
• I used the SBB app to check real-time schedules, browse the fastest connections, book train tickets, get discounted Supersaver fares on certain routes (for selected departures)–I’ll explain this in a second– and even see which train carriages were less crowded so I could board strategically. 
• Oh and did I mention, the SBB app also tells you which carriages have luggage and bicycle racks? Trust the Swiss to make an app that covers every little question you could have as a public transportation user. Finally, if you have a Swiss Travel Pass or a Swiss Half-Fare Card, you can sync these with your SBB app. 

• Unlike other European countries (Italy, I’m looking at you), Switzerland does not suffer a reputation for theft, on trains or otherwise, but it’s sensible to keep an eye on your luggage on luggage racks, especially on popular tourist routes. Carry your most valuable items like passports, money, and phones on your person, and bring it with you at all times, even when using the toilets on the train. 
• Swiss train stations are spotless, with clear signage, announcements, and helpful staff on hand. You’ll always find shops, restaurants, and cafes to grab a bite while waiting for your train or buy a snack to enjoy on the train. They’re also quite safe, so you’ll almost never need to look over your shoulder, no matter what time of day or night. 

Supersaver Tickets: How to Find Train Discounted Fares 

• Supersaver train tickets: This one’s an insider secret that I wonder why not many travelers talk about. I think it’s because not many visitors realize that these significantly discounted tickets (with up to 50% discount) are available on many routes for fixed departures. I too found these fares by chance, while playing around on the SBB app.
• You’ll see Supersaver tickets, indicated in the overview with a % sign, while booking point-to-point train tickets on the SBB app or on the official website SBB.ch. There are usually multiple tickets available, so you can get discounted fares for all travelers in your party–which adds up nicely to stack up savings. 
• Supersaver tickets are available for both 1st class and 2nd class, and get this–sometimes a 1st class Supersaver ticket is cheaper than or nearly the same as a standard 2nd class ticket! So it’s worth checking for 1st class Supersaver tickets before booking a 2nd class ticket.
• The key to finding a Supersaver ticket is to book your ticket at least a day or two in advance. So if your travel dates are fixed, then look for tickets at least a day or two before to find these discounted fares. And if you do not find Supersaver tickets for a particular journey, do not give up. Sometimes, it’s as simple as searching for these tickets on the next scheduled departure, maybe 20 or 30 minutes after your ideal departure time. 

Save Big with Travel Passes 

Switzerland’s public transport is excellent, but it can be pricey if you’re buying full-price tickets. That’s why travel passes are key to saving money while maximizing your experience. 

• The Swiss Travel Pass is a must-have for first-time visitors planning to cover a lot of ground. It grants unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, plus access to over 500 museums and free or discounted entry to mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch Top of Europe and Schilthorn. It’s valid for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days, making it ideal for fast-paced itineraries. Here’s my detailed review of the Swiss Travel Pass.
• If you’re planning a more relaxed trip, the Swiss Half-Fare Card might be a better deal. It gives you 50% off all point-to-point tickets (including mountain transport) and is valid for a full month, allowing more flexibility. This is not a transport pass, instead, it’s a discount card which gives you a significant discount on transportation tickets. 

Swiss Half-Fare Card vs. Swiss Travel Pass: Which One to Choose?

I’ve used both the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Half-Fare Card and think they’re both great. If you’re confused which one is right for you, here are some things to consider. You could also do the math and add up the costs for tickets on your entire route around Switzerland, and then see which fits better to save you money. Here’s a detailed review of the Swiss Travel Pass to help you make an informed decision.  

The Swiss Travel Pass is best if you plan to:

• Visit multiple destinations in a short time. I went from Zurich to Lugano, stopping at a bunch of towns in between and then explored a fair bit of the Bernese Oberland (the towns of Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Murren, and surrounding areas) on my first trip, and on my second, I traveled around the Montreux Riviera, then went to Brienz to explore Interlaken and the Grindelwald area, and also to Zermatt and surrounding areas. So, having the Swiss Travel Pass was helpful.
• Take scenic panoramic trains like the GoldenPass Express or Bernina Express. I took the Gotthard Panorama Express between Lugano and Lucerne and the GoldenPass Express between Montreux and Interlaken. Having the Swiss Travel Pass got me great value for money.  
• Do multiple mountain excursions, which are either free or heavily discounted with the pass.
• Enjoy lake cruises and free museum entries. I did the lake cruise in the Montreux Riviera as well, which was included. Boat cruises on Lake Zurich are also included in the Swiss Travel Pass. 

However, the Swiss Half-Fare Card may be a better deal if:

• You want an option that is cheaper than the Swiss Travel Pass.
• You travel at a slower pace, visiting only a few places.
• You want greater flexibility and prefer to buy point-to-point tickets as and when your plans materialize.
• You want to take advantage of Supersaver tickets on the SBB app.

Stacking Discounts: Example Savings with Supersaver Tickets

• A standard first-class one-way train fare from Zurich to Lucerne is CHF 46.
• With a Supersaver discount, it could be CHF 27.60 for that particular departure.
• With the Half-Fare Card stacked on top, that same ticket, i.e.first-class one-way train fare from Zurich to Lucerne becomes CHF 15.00.

Using Supersaver tickets together with the Half-Fare Card can make a huge difference in your total travel cost, especially if you book early and plan your routes wisely. Even if you do not have a Half-Fare card, you will still end up saving quite a bit of money by buying Supersaver tickets, which are available for both First and Second class. 

💡 Pro Tip: If you have the Swiss Travel Pass, make sure to take advantage of the free mountain excursions, lake cruises, and scenic panorama trains included in the pass to get the most value.

Swiss Panoramic Trains: Scenic Journeys Around Switzerland

Switzerland is home to some of the most scenic panorama train journeys in the world, and if you have the Swiss Travel Pass, these rides are included, though you will still need to pay a fee for seat reservation (recommended on busy routes). Here’s why you should add them to your itinerary:

GoldenPass Express (Montreux to Interlaken)

This stunning train ride connects Lake Geneva to the heart of the Bernese Oberland, taking you through vineyards, alpine meadows, and traditional Swiss villages. Read my full review of the GoldenPass Express. What makes it special? Panoramic windows that immerse you in the landscapes. Prestige Class for ultimate comfort, with seats that recline and offer breathtaking views. Seamless travel experience with no need to change trains between Montreux and Interlaken.

Bernina Express (Chur to Tirano, Italy)

A UNESCO-listed journey that traverses glaciers, mountain passes, and dramatic viaducts, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct. This route, passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, and is stunning year-round, but especially magical in winter when the mountains are blanketed in snow.

Glacier Express (Zermatt to St. Moritz)

Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” this eight-hour ride takes you through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, offering unparalleled views of the Swiss Alps. The Excellence Class offers gourmet dining with window seats and champagne service!

Gotthard Panorama Express (Lucerne to Lugano)

This route combines a scenic boat ride across Lake Lucerne with a train journey through the historic Gotthard Pass, linking German and Italian-speaking Switzerland. It’s a fantastic way to experience Switzerland’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

💡 Pro Tip: While the Swiss Travel Pass covers these trains, paid seat reservations are required for most of them. Be sure to book early, especially during peak travel months.

Maximize Free Public Transport with Guest Cards 

• Many major cities and Swiss regions offer free guest cards for overnight visitors, covering public transport and discounts on tourist attractions. They’re trying to encourage travelers to spend a night or two in that city instead of just zipping by on a day trip. The good news is that for budget travelers, this is an excellent thing to take advantage of. These cards are usually provided by your accommodation upon checking in, whether that’s a hotel, B&B, guesthouse, or campsite. If you haven’t been given one, remember to ask if the city offers a guest card. 
• Some of the best free guest transportation cards include Interlaken, Montreux Riviera, Lausanne, Basel, and Ticino, allowing free rides on local trains, buses, and sometimes even boats and cable cars.
• Cities like Zurich and Lausanne also offer reasonably-priced city cards for purchase that cover public transportation and offer free admission or discounted entrance on must-see attractions. The Zürich Card offers unlimited 2nd class travel on all public transportation (tram, bus, train, boat, funicular, and cable car) in Zurich and the surrounding area for 24 or 72 hours, including transfers to and from the airport. It also covers trips up Uetliberg and includes mini lake, short lake, and Limmat river cruises.

Packing Smart for Switzerland 

• Layers, layers, layers. After trips to Switzerland in late summer and fall, I’ve learned that packing sensibly for Switzerland involves bringing layers that you can adjust depending on the weather in the region you’re in. I wore a sundress in Geneva, a cotton shirt and shorts in Brienz, and a Merino sweater layered with a windproof jacket in Zermatt—all in the same trip. In the mountains, the weather changes fast, even in summer. Pack a mix of lightweight layers, a scarf, gloves, a cap, and a rainproof jacket.
• Pack light. Swiss trains are the best way to get around, but you’ll thank yourself if you’re not dragging oversized luggage on and off platforms. It’s also far more convenient when your suitcases actually fit in the luggage racks instead of when you have to place them under your feet in the seating areas. 
• Outdoor activities such as hikes, kayaking, cycling, skiing, and other winter sports are a huge part of any trip to Switzerland. So be sure to pack clothing and shoes that are practical for such activities. 

Mountain Travel: What to Know

• The beauty of traveling around Switzerland is that you become aware of the utter genius that has gone into nearly every aspect of the visitor experience. The Swiss have perfected mountain tourism—you can visit nearly every famous peak, or get high enough to enjoy the views, using a combination of trains, gondolas, and cable cars. 
• That means if you’re someone who hates to drive, like me, but loves mountains, and wants to see as many viewpoints and do several hikes, then you can totally plan a trip without bothering with the question of a car rental. There are also always restaurants or at least a cafe, mountain huts, toilets, and drinking water facilities at the top.

• A lot of tourists who come to Switzerland don’t realize that nearly every city/ town has a beautiful local mountain that you can visit for incredible views. Bonus: They’re also either free to visit or much cheaper than the popular ones. It’s true what they say about the best things in life being free: the lakefront views in Montreux, Geneva, and Brienz, the viewpoints while hiking up local peaks– it’s all free.
• During my travels around Switzerland, I’ve met visitors maintaining a very rushed itinerary with day trip after day trip trying to tick off famous mountains like those in the Jungfrau region. They’re usually traveling 3 or 4 hours one way from whatever city they’re based in to go see some famous mountain, without being aware that just a 30 min or a one-hour long journey away, lies an equally spectacular viewpoint that is probably far less crowded. 
• For example, if you’re spending a few days in Zurich, why not take the train up to Uetliberg, or if you’re staying a day or two in Lucerne, why not go see the local mountain Pilatus? Or if you’re in Interlaken, go see Harder Kulm, and if you’re in Brienz, then absolutely take the cute steam cog train up to go see Brienzer Rothorn. 

• All this to say, that carefully pick which mountain excursions seem interesting to you as they can get expensive if you only choose all the famous ones. There’s no reason to overlook the lesser-known, but equally beautiful places and following the hype. When you’re crafting your itinerary of best places in Switzerland, remember: you’re not sheep. 
• Check the weather before heading up a mountain. Conditions can change rapidly, and some viewpoints may be obscured by clouds. Always wear sunscreen, bring a jacket, and a cap. 
• Want to save energy but still enjoy incredible views that you can only get while hiking? Take the cable car up and hike down! While visiting Brienzer Rothorn, I really wanted to hike in the gorgeous alpine landscapes, so we took the train all the way up to Brienzer Rothorn, and on our way down, we disembarked halfway at Planalp and then hiked 6.1km downhill to Brienz, over a fantastic three hours of walking along splendid vistas, through forests, and finally along Lake Brienz.  

How to Eat on a Budget in Switzerland 

• Eating out in Switzerland is pricey- Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries you will travel in – but you can cut costs by grabbing fresh food from supermarkets like Coop, Migros, and Aldi. They sell ready-made sandwiches, salads, and even warm meals at a fraction of restaurant prices. For days when we were heading up to a mountain–which let’s be honest, was most of our days in Switzerland, we’d often do a quick stop at the supermarket and pick up stuff that would make a great picnic meal.
• Switzerland is full of scenic picnic spots, from lakefronts to mountain viewpoints that wait like a reward at the end of a hike, or a train journey. Enjoy a meal with a view while saving those precious Swiss francs! In Brienz, we found a great pizzeria and got take-away pizza two nights in a row to sit on a bench and enjoy while watching the sunset over Lake Brienz.
• Besides eating at plenty of casual cafes, pizzerias, and restaurants, we also cooked a fair bit when our apartment or accommodation had a kitchen. 

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Switzerland Trip 

• English is widely spoken in Switzerland, but it’s helpful to know that the country is divided into French-speaking, Swiss German-speaking, Italian-speaking and Romansh-speaking Switzerland. These are also the four official languages of the country. Though many locals are multilingual, it would be wrong to assume that someone in the Italian-speaking Ticino region also speaks French or Swiss-German. 
• Book Early. Hotels, guesthouses, mountain huts, and mountain lodges in places like Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne fill up fast in the high season. And you absolutely must do this so you can book accommodation with a beautiful view–as that truly is the highlight for any trip to Switzerland. I mean, I’ll never get over the fascinating views I enjoyed from my balconies of our hotel in Zermatt and my hotel in Wengen, or the sublime lake view from our hotel in Montreux. 

• Alpine Huts for Hikers. If you love hiking, consider staying in a mountain hut for a truly Swiss Alps experience.
• There are free walking tours available in many Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Basel, Bern, and Interlaken and these walking tours are a far more interesting way to explore old towns than walking around on your own. They are led by passionate local guides and operate on a tip system.

• If you don’t like the idea of peak season crowds in popular destinations like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Zermatt, then fall is the best time to visit Switzerland. It’s still green and you can do all the hikes that you want to, but the summer crowds have left leaving smaller villages in blissful peace. 
• Try Local Food. Don’t leave without tasting Swiss classics like Rösti, Spätzle, Fondue, and Raclette, and absolutely try the Swiss cheese that’s usually served during breakfast. Sure, these days, you’ll get plenty of Indian, Chinese, Turkish, and other cuisines, but not trying Swiss cuisines, whether that’s in the German, French, or Italian-speaking areas, depending on which part of Switzerland you’re in, is a waste in my opinion. 

• Don’t sleep on Swiss wine tourism. A lesser-known fun fact is that Switzerland produces some lovely wines, like Chasselas, and you can visit some beautiful vineyards and wineries in Switzerland on your holiday, if you come in summer. For example, we visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, and it was such an unexpected yet enjoyable experience in Switzerland. 
• Order Tap Water. You only have to look the country’s incredible mountains to know that Swiss tap water is among the cleanest in the world. Yet many tourists splurge on bottled water, even with plenty of drinking water fountains available in cities, villages, and on hiking trails. Let me confirm– it’s smart to bring a refillable water bottle and skip the bottled water.
• Shops Close on Sundays. Except for some stores in train stations, most shops are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping accordingly. Our last day in Geneva was a Sunday–a day I’d planned to do all of my vintage shopping on, but I learned the hard way that that was not the brightest idea I had. 
• Tipping is Not Mandatory. A service charge is included in bills, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Travel insurance is a good idea for Switzerland, especially if you plan on doing adventure activities. 
• Emergency numbers to reach local authorities that every visitor should be aware of are 117 for Police, 118 for Fire, 144 for Ambulance, and 1414 for Air Rescue. 

Switzerland makes travel easy, efficient, and incredibly scenic. With the right planning, you can explore this breathtaking country without breaking the bank while still indulging the pleasures of its beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and rich cultural heritage. 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these, I might get a small commission with no extra cost to you, which goes towards running this site.