Switzerland Transportation Tips by bianchis

Trains,Car , Boat

Car travel in Switzerland


In Switzerland, names of towns are used for navigation rather than highway numbers. Signs show the names of the major cities, road numbers are rarely seen. Signs on or for highways use white letters on green background. Signs for major roads use white letters on blue background, signs for local roads use black letters on white background.


Highways are often congested, particularly in summertime. Weekends are especially bad. The most busy highway is the highway A1 between Zürich and Bern, but also the Gotthard tunnel between Göschenen and Airolo is often very crowded. Cars may build up for as long as 20 km and it needs a lot of patience to get to the other side of the Alps. An alternative is the San Bernardino pass but congestions are there very likely too.

Toll or Autobahn Vignette
In order to use the highways in Switzerland, a toll has to be paid. There are no toll booth, instead a special sticker - known as the "Autobahn Vignette" - is required. Sticker is valid for one calendar year . Costs CHF 50.00 and is available at customs the borders and at all gas stations and post offices throughout the country. Sticker must be fixed to the windshield.
Trains
The best choice is the avoid cars and use public transportation instead. Trains and busses are available everywhere and on the larger lakes, taking a boat may be a very enjoyable alternative. The "Schweizerische Bundesbahnen" (SBB) - the Swiss Federal Railroad - has a nice website with an on-line time table.


Railway System

Train Tickets

Swiss Travel System offers a wide range of tickets to cut costs. Rates for 1 Person:
Swiss Youth's Pass and
Swiss Pass (valid 4,8,15, 22 days or 1 month) 4 days for CHF180.00.etc.
Swiss Flexi Pass (3 days up to 8 days within 1 month)
Swiss Card (1 month)
The tickets can be ordered over the phone at 00800 100 200 30 within Europe.

Mode: AROUND

Type: Train