To check train times & fares within Switzerland, use the Swiss Railways website www.sbb.ch.

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This page explains how to travel from Zurich, Geneva, Interlaken, Luzern or anywhere in Switzerland to other cities all over Europe, and how to buy tickets.  Information current for 2024.

Station guidesGeneva  Lausanne  Basel SBB  Zurich HB

bullet pointBefore you buy your tickets

Take a moment to read these tips for buying European train tickets.  It answers all the usual questions, "Do I need to book in advance or can I buy at the station?", "Can I stop off?", "Are there Senior fares?" and that old favourite, "Should I buy an $800 railpass or a €35 point-to-point ticket?".  How far ahead can you buy train tickets?

bullet pointEuropean train travel FAQ

An introduction to European train travel

 

Senior fares (over 60)

 

Guide to Eurail passes (overseas visitors)

Important tips for buying European train tickets

Youth fares (under 26)

 

Guide to Interrail passes (for Europeans)

How to check European train times

Child fares & child age limits

 

Couchettes & sleepers on night trains

Do I need to book in advance?

Luggage on European trains

 

Train seat numbering plans

How far ahead can I book?

Luggage storage at stations

 

Wheelchairs & special needs

Can I stop off on the way?

Taking a bike by train

 

Real-time service updates

Should I travel 1st or 2nd class?

Taking a car by train

 

Hotels & accommodation

How long to allow for connections?

Taking dogs & pets by train

 

Changing stations in Paris by metro or taxi

How early to arrive at the station?

Maps of the European rail network

 

What to do when things go wrong...


Train travel within Switzerland

Buy Swiss train tickets


Switzerland to London & UK
A Eurostar e320 train at London St Pancras   Eurostar e320 first class seats

A Eurostar e320.

 

Standard Premier/Business Premier.  Larger photo.

Eurostar e320 2nd class seats   Eurostar e320 cafe-bar

Standard class seats.  Larger photo.

 

One of two cafe-bars, in cars 8 & 9.  Larger photo.

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Switzerland to Dublin & Ireland

Option 1, Switzerland to Dublin via London & Holyhead - daily departures

Option 2, Switzerland to Dublin via Paris & Cherbourg - several times a week

Irish Ferries' WB Yeats

Sail from Cherbourg to Dublin aboard Irish Ferries' WB YeatsWB Yeats photos courtesy of Irish Ferries.

Irish Ferries' WB Yeats club cabin   Irish Ferries' WB Yeats deluxe cabin

Club cabin on the WB Yeats with shower & toilet.

 

Deluxe cabin on the WB Yeats with shower & toilet.

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Switzerland to Paris from €29
TGV-Lyria to Geneva at Paris Gare de Lyon

TGV-Lyria train at Geneva. These 320 km/h (199 mph) double-deck trains now operate all TGV-Lyria services.

TGV Duplex cafe-bar   TGV Duplex 2nd class seats, upper deck

The cafe-bar on upper deck in car 4 (or 14), serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwave dishes.

 

2nd class seats, this is upper deck seating.  There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating.  360Ί photo.

TGV Lyria first class, upper deck   A TGV-Lyria train from Paris to Switzerland

1st class seats on the upper deck, a club duo on the left, a club quatre on the right.  Larger photo.

 

A TGV-Lyria for Geneva, boarding at Paris Gare de Lyon.  You enter on the lower deck, with 9 stairs up to top deck.

Lake seen from the Paris to Geneva train

The Geneva-Paris route has the nicest scenery of all the TGV-Lyria routes.  For the first hour or so out of Geneva, the train snakes through the hills on the wonderfully scenic Haut-Bugey line.  Above, a lake, probably the Lac de Nantua.

Scenery along the Haut-Bugey line, seen from the Geneva to Paris train

More scenery as the train snakes through the hills on the wonderfully scenic Haut-Bugey line.

Scenery along the Haut-Bugey line, seen from the Geneva to Paris train

More scenery along the river valley between Bourg en Bresse & Bellegarde.  This wonderful view is on the left hand side, although you can't pick sides when booking.

Crossing the Cize-Bolozon viaduct on the Haut-Bugey Line, on a Geneva to Paris train

Towards the end of the Haut-Bugey Line the train crosses the spectacular Cize-Bolozon viaduct over the Ain gorge (above), the major structure on the Haut-Bugey line.  The best view from the viaduct is on the right hand side of the train when heading towards Paris, pictured above.

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Switzerland to Bordeaux, Toulouse, Lourdes, Brittany & northern France

Option 1, Switzerland to anywhere in France via Paris - this usually means changing stations by taxi or metro.

Option 2, Basel to Bordeaux, avoiding Paris - options for avoiding Paris are limited, but here's a possibility for Bordeaux.

Option 3, Basel to Le Mans, Angers & Nantes, avoiding Paris - options for avoiding Paris are limited, but here's a possibility for Nantes.

Option 4, Geneva to Le Mans, Angers & Nantes, avoiding Paris - options for avoiding Paris are limited, here's another possibility.

Option 5, Geneva to Narbonne, Carcassonne & Toulouse, avoiding Paris

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Switzerland to Lyon, Avignon, Marseille, Cannes, Nice & South of France

If you're starting in Geneva & western Switzerland, the route via Lyon is probably best even for Nice.  From southern or eastern Switzerland, the route via Milan is best if you're going to Nice, but the route via Geneva & Lyon is better if you're going to Lyon or Avignon.

Option 1, Switzerland to Nice via Geneva & Lyon

Option 2, Switzerland to Nice Milan & Ventimiglia

Option 3, Basel to Lyon, Avignon, Marseille via Mulhouse - a once-a-day service from Basel that might come in useful

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Switzerland to Mulhouse, Colmar, Strasbourg
A Basel to Strasbourg train at Basel SBB

A Basel to Strasbourg TER train at Basel SBB platform 31.

1st class on a Basel to Strasbourg TER train   2nd class on a Basel to Strasbourg TER train

1st class on a Basel-Strasbourg TER.

 

2nd class on a Basel-Strasbourg TER.

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Switzerland to Brussels & Bruges from €37.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Brussels by ICE high-speed train through Germany - the fast & easy route

ICE3M to Cologne & Frankfurt, boarding at Brussels Midi

An ICE3M at Brussels Midi.  More about ICE trains.

2nd class on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train   1st class on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train

2nd class seats on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

 

1st class seats on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

Erdinger Weissbier on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE train   Restaurant car on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train

Proper china, metal cutlery.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!  See current month's menu.

 

Restaurant car:  This is the small 12-seat restaurant area on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

Option 2, Switzerland to Brussels via the Rhine Valley - the scenic route, takes an extra hour

EuroCity train from Zurich

EuroCity train boarding at Zurich HB.

2nd class seats on Munich-Zurich EuroCity train   Restaurant car on EC9 Hamburg-Cologne-Zurich train

2nd class seating.  Larger photo.

 

The Swiss restaurant car:  Treat yourself!  Larger photo.

Swiss panorama car, Munich to Zurich train   1st class seats in panorama car, Munich to Zurich train

Panorama car with 1st class seats, available on train EC8, but not EC6.  Make sure you reserve a seat in car 263 as there is just one 1st class panorama car and two other regular 1st class cars.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle seen from the train

Pfalzgrafenstein castle on the Rhine.  See the Rails Down the Rhine page.

Option 3, Zurich & Basel to Brussels using the Zurich-Cologne sleeper train - the time-effective option

AB33 sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich Nightjet train

The sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich sleeper train.  More about NightjetsWatch the video.

Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train   Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train

Single-bed sleeper with washbasin.  Larger photo.

 

Breakfast next morning.  Larger photo.

Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train   Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train

4 or 6 berth couchette compartment.  Larger photo.

 

Couchette car at Basel.

Option 4, Geneva to Brussels using the direct Lyon-Brussels TGVs - convenient with no need to cross Paris

Option 5, Switzerland to Brussels via Paris - cheap & fast, but involves crossing Paris.  Geneva to Brussels in as little as 5h36

Option 6, Switzerland to Brussels with overnight stop in Frankfurt - might work out more time-effective

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Switzerland to Amsterdam from €37.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Amsterdam by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

AB33 sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich Nightjet train

The AB33 sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich sleeper train.  More about Nightjets.

Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train   Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train

Single sleeper, washbasin behind door on right. Larger photo.

 

Breakfast next morning.  Larger photo.

Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train   Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train

4 or 6 berth couchettes, bedding supplied.  Larger photo.

 

Couchette car on this train at Basel.

Option 2, Switzerland to Amsterdam by daytime trains - the fast daytime option

ICE3 at Amsterdam Centraal

An ICE3M at Amsterdam CentraalMore about ICE trains.

2nd class on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train   1st class on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train

2nd class seats on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

 

1st class seats on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

Erdinger Weissbier on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE train   Restaurant car on the Frankfurt-Brussels ICE3M train

Proper china, metal cutlery.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!  See current month's menu.

 

Restaurant car:  This is the small 12-seat restaurant area on an ICE3M.  Larger photo.

Option 3, Switzerland to Amsterdam via the Rhine Valley - the leisurely scenic route, takes an hour longer

EuroCity train from Zurich

EuroCity train boarding at Zurich HB.

2nd class seats on Munich-Zurich EuroCity train   Restaurant car on Zurich to Munich train

2nd class seating.  Larger photo.

 

The Swiss restaurant car:  Treat yourself!  Larger photo.

Swiss panorama car, Munich to Zurich train   1st class seats in panorama car, Munich to Zurich train

Panorama car with 1st class seats, available on train EC8, but not EC6.  Make sure you reserve a seat in car 263 as there is just one 1st class panorama car and two other regular 1st class cars.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle seen from the train

Pfalzgrafenstein castle on the Rhine.  See the Rails Down the Rhine page.

Option 4, Switzerland to Amsterdam with overnight stop in Frankfurt - might work out  more time-effective for you

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Switzerland to Luxembourg from €37.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Luxembourg via Basel, Mulhouse, Strasbourg, Metz - in theory the fastest & most direct route

Option 2, Switzerland to Luxembourg via Basel & Koblenz from €37.90 - slower but cheaper & easier to book, with through tickets.

EuroCity train from Zurich

EuroCity train boarding at Zurich HB.

2nd class seats on Munich-Zurich EuroCity train   Restaurant car on Zurich to Munich train

2nd class seating.  Larger photo.

 

The Swiss restaurant car:  Treat yourself!  Larger photo.

Swiss panorama car, Munich to Zurich train   1st class seats in panorama car, Munich to Zurich train

Panorama car with 1st class seats, available on train EC8, but not EC6.  Make sure you reserve a seat in car 263 as there is just one 1st class panorama car and two other regular 1st class cars.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle seen from the train

Pfalzgrafenstein castle on the Rhine.  See the Rails Down the Rhine page.

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Switzerland to Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome & Italy from €29

Choose between fast, comfortable & scenic (option 1, using mainline trains) and slow, comfortable, fabulous world-class highlight-of-your-trip scenic (option 2, via the Bernina Express).  The choice is yours!  With the daytime trains increasingly fast, there are no longer any sleeper trains between Switzerland and Italy.

Update 2024: A freight train derailed in the Gotthard Base Tunnel in August 2023, in 2024 trains are still being diverted over the original (much more scenic) Gotthard line taking an extra hour and with fewer departures.  Check times online.

Option 1, Switzerland to Milan by EuroCity train, then high-speed train to Venice, Florence, Rome or Naples - the fast & comfortable way

EuroCity train from Zurich to Milan at Zurich HB

Step 1, Switzerland to Milan by EuroCity train.  This is a Giruno train at Zurich HB.  More about these EuroCity trains.

1st class on Giruno   Restaurant car on Giruno

Giruno, 1st class.  Larger photo.

 

Restaurant car with bar counter. Larger photo.

2nd class on Giruna   Bar counter in the restaurant car

Giruno 2nd class.  Larger photo

 

Level boarding. Note the destination screen in the door. 

Lake Lugano, seen from a Milan to Zurich train

The Zurich to Milan trains take the Gotthard main line through the Swiss Alps, past Lake Lugano.

Lake Maggiore, seen from a Milan to Basel train

Zurich-Milan trains pass the Zugersee, Vierwaldstattersee & Lake Lugano, all in Switzerland.  Geneva-Milan trains skirt Lake Leman, and both Geneva-Milan & Basel-Milan trains pass Lake Maggiore in Italy.  Above, Lake Maggiore is seen from the restaurant car of the 11:25 Milan to Basel over an enjoyable lunch of salmon tagliatelle & excellent Swiss red wine.

Frecciarossa 1000 at Roma Termini

Step 2, take a high-speed Frecciarossa train from Milan to Florence, Rome or Naples.  This is a Frecciarossa 1000 at Rome TerminiMore about Frecciarossas & their 4 classes.

Frecciarossa 1000 standard class   Frecciarossa 1000 premium class

Standard class, 2+2 across width.

 

Premium class, 2+2 across width.

Frecciarossa 1000 Business class   Frecciarossa 1000 executive class

Business class, 1+2 across car width.

 

Executive class, with food & drink included.

Option 2, Switzerland to Italy via the Bernina route - the ultimate scenic route

First class seats   Bernina Express panormaic cars

Bernina Express 1st class seats.

 

the Bernina Express uses panoramic carriages.

The train descends from the Bernina Pass

The Bernina Express descends from the Bernina Pass.

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Switzerland to Sicily

Option 1, Switzerland to Sicily using the Milan-Sicily sleeper

Coastal view from the Palermo to Milan sleeper train

Room with a view.  The Milan to Sicily sleeper travels overnight from Milan, then speeds along the coast of Italy in daylight, often right next to the water, before being shunted onto a ferry to cross the Straits of Messina to Sicily.  Courtesy Philip Dyer-Perry.

2-bed sleeper, night mode, on the Milan-Sicily sleeper  

Milan-Sicily train on board the train ferry

2-berth sleeper. It converts to a sofa by day.  Larger photo

 

Yes, the train goes onto a ferry!  This is the Milan-Sicily sleeper train on board the train ferry from Villa San Giovanni to Messina. Photos courtesy of Andrew Harris.

Option 2, Switzerland to Sicily using a Rome-Sicily sleeper

Option 3, Switzerland to Sicily by daytime trains with overnight stop in Rome

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Switzerland to Barcelona, Madrid & Spain

Option 1, Switzerland to Spain in a day via Lyon - from the Alps to the Pyrenees in a single day, recommended

2nd class seats on Geneva-Lyon TER train   Geneva-Lyon TER train at Geneva

Step 1, Geneva to Lyon by TER: This is a TER to Lyon about to leave Geneva.

AVE from Barcelona to Lyon   2nd class seats on an AVE S100

Step 2, Lyon to Barcelona by high-speed AVE, seen here at Barcelona Sants.

 

2nd class seats, all with power sockets & free WiFi. Panorama photo of 2nd class.

1st class seats on the Barcelona to Lyon AVE train   The cafe-bar on an S100 AVE

1st class seats on an S100 AVE, all with power sockets.  Panorama photo of 1st class.

 

Cafe-bar on an S100 AVE serving tea, coffee, beer, wine, soft drinks, snacks & hot dishes.

Mt Canigou in the Pyrenees

Mt Canigou & the Pyrenees.  One of the highest peaks in the mighty Pyrenees, the 2,784m (9,137 feet) high Mt Canigou dominates the skyline on the right all the way from Girona to Perpignan, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canigou.

Option 2, Geneva to Barcelona & Spain in a day via Lyon - earlier departure, with an extra change of train

2nd class seats on Geneva-Lyon TER train   Geneva-Lyon TER train at Geneva

Geneva to Lyon by TER: This is a TER to Lyon about to leave Geneva.

TGV Duplex at Paris Gare de Lyon

Lyon to Montpelier to Barcelona by TGV. These 320 km/h double-deckers link Paris, Montpelier & Barcelona.  Watch TGV Duplex video.

TGV Duplex cafe-bar   TGV Duplex upper deck 2nd class seats

Cafe-bar on upper deck in car 4, serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwave-style hot dishes.

 

2nd class seats on the upper deck.  There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating.  360Ί photo.

First class on board a TGV Duplex   An TGV Duplex at Paris Est.

1st class upper deck seats, club duo on the left, a club quatre on the right.  360Ί photo.

 

A TGV Duplex.  The 1 near the door indicates 1st class, a 2 indicates 2nd class.

Lunch from the cafe-bar on the train to Barcelona   The hilltop cathedral at Beziers

Dinner from the cafe-bar.

 

View from the train, passing Bιziers.

Mt Canigou in the Pyrenees

Mt Canigou & the Pyrenees.  One of the highest peaks in the mighty Pyrenees, the 2,784m (9,137 feet) high Mt Canigou dominates the skyline on the right all the way from Perpignan to Girona, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CanigouMore about the Paris-Barcelona journey.

Option 3, Zurich or Basel to Barcelona & Spain in a day via Paris

Option 4, anywhere in Switzerland to Barcelona & Spain with overnight stop in Lyon

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Switzerland to San Sebastian

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Switzerland to Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Vigo
Turista Plus seats on an Alvia train   Alvia train to Galicia

Above left, Comfort class seats on an Alvia train, 1+2 across the car width.  Turista seats are 2+2 across the car width.  Above right, The Barcelona to Galicia Alvia train.  Note the unusual power car nose - these Alvia-S130 trains are nick-named Patito (little duck) by staff.  They have adjustable axles so can run on standard-gauge high-speed lines at up to 250 km/h or on Iberian broad gauge classic lines at lower speed. Photo courtesy of Ekain Munduate.

Scenery in Galicia seen from the train

Scenery as the train enters Galicia on its way to Vigo.  Photo courtesy of Martin Hill.

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Switzerland to Ibiza & Mallorca

Option 1, Switzerland to Ibiza or Mallorca by ferry from Barcelona - all year round

Option 2, Geneva to Menorca or Mallorca by ferry from Toulon - several times a week April-October

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Switzerland to Algeciras & Gibraltar
Madrid-Algeciras train at Madrid Atocha

An Intercity train (formerly branded Altaria), about to leave Madrid Atocha for Algeciras.

Cafe-bar on Madrid-Algeciras train   Turista Plus seats on Madrid-Algeciras train

Cafe-bar, with bar stools.

 

Comfort class seats.

Turista seats on Madrid-Algeciras train   Algeciras station

Standard class seats.

 

Algeciras station, across the road from the bus station.

Bus M-120 for La Linea (Gibraltar's frontier) boarding at Algeciras bus station.   The Rock of Gribraltar, viewed from a taxi approaching La Linea

Bus M-120 boarding at Algeciras bus station

 

Rock of Gibraltar, seen from a taxi near La Linea.

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Switzerland to Lisbon & Portugal

Option 1, Switzerland to Lisbon via Barcelona & Madrid

Option 2, Switzerland to Faro & the Algarve using a bus from Seville

Option 3, Switzerland to Porto via Barcelona & Vigo

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Switzerland to Andorra

Option 1, Switzerland to Andorra via Toulouse

Bus station next to Toulouse Matabiau station   Bus station next to Toulouse Matabiau station

Toulouse to Andorra by bus, this is bus stand 15.  The bus station is right next to the rail station.

 

Bus station in Toulouse Matabiau forecourt.  Photos courtesy of Andrew McIntyre.

Option 2, Switzerland to Andorra via Barcelona

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Switzerland to Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne & Germany from €27.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Berlin by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

Option 2, Switzerland to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

A double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich HB, as used on the Zurich-Hamburg train. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

1-berth sleeper in Nightjet double-deck sleeping-car   Nigtjet double-deck sleeper, standard 1 or 2 bed sleeper, lower deck

A 1 or 2-bed sleeper on the upper deck, set up as a single.  More about Nightjets.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car or liegewagen.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Option 3, Switzerland to Cologne & Dόsseldorf by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

AB33 sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich Nightjet train

The AB33 sleeping-car on the Amsterdam-Zurich sleeper train.  More about Nightjets.

Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train   Single-bed sleeper on Amsterdam-Zurich train

Single-bed sleeper with washbasin.  Larger photo.

 

Breakfast next morning.  Larger photo.

Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train   Couchette compartment on Amsterdam to Switzerland Nightjet train

4 or 6 berth couchette compartment.  Larger photo.

 

Couchette car at Basel.

Option 3, Switzerland to anywhere in Germany by daytime trains

ICE4 at Zurich HB

An ICE4 at Zurich HB.  Most Switzerland-Hamburg/Berlin ICEs are now ICE4  Click on interior images for larger photos.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car on an ICE4.

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

The bar counter, other end of the restaurant car.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Option 4, Switzerland to Koblenz, Bonn, Cologne, Dortmund, Hamburg by classic train along the Rhine Valley - the scenic route

EuroCity train from Zurich

EuroCity train at Zurich HB.

2nd class seats on Munich-Zurich EuroCity train   Restaurant car on Zurich to Munich train

2nd class seating.  Larger photo.

 

The Swiss restaurant car:  Treat yourself!  Larger photo.

Swiss panorama car, Munich to Zurich train   1st class seats in panorama car, Munich to Zurich train

Panorama car with 1st class seats, available on train EC8, but not EC6.  Make sure you reserve a seat in car 263 as there is just one 1st class panorama car and two other regular 1st class cars.  See advice on booking it.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle seen from the train

Pfalzgrafenstein castle on the Rhine.  See the Rails Down the Rhine page.

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Switzerland to Munich from €18.90
ETR610 EuroCity train to Milan at Zurich HB

A Swiss Astoro train at Zurich HB More about these Munich to Zurich EuroCity trains.

Lunch on an ETR610 train   ETR610 restaurant car, as used from Zurich to Munich

Lunch in the restaurant car.

 

The restaurant car.  Larger photo.

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Switzerland to Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck & Austria from €29

Option 1, Zurich to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

The Nightjet from Zurich to Vienna.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

1-berth sleeper in Nightjet double-deck sleeping-car   Nigtjet double-deck sleeper, standard 1 or 2 bed sleeper, lower deck

A 1 or 2-bed sleeper on the upper deck, set up as a single.  More about Nightjets.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Option 2, Zurich to Innsbruck, Salzburg, Linz & Vienna by railjet train through the Arlberg Pass - the scenic daytime option

A railjet train about to leave Zurich Hbf for Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna

A railjet to Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna about to leave Zurich HB More about railjets & the Arlberg route.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Railjet restaurant car

Business class.  About.

 

Restaurant.  In 1st & business you're served at your seat.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Economy class seats on a railjet train

First class.

 

Economy class.

The lakes between Zurich and the Austrian border

Swiss lakes:  Soon after leaving Zurich, the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Zόrichsee and then the Walensee.

Train into Austria: Mountain scenery   Schaan-Vaduz station

Sargans castle:  Watch out for hilltop castles, this is the one at Sargans.

 

Liechtenstein:  The train cuts across Liechtenstein, passing non-stop through Schaan-Vaduz station.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Arlberg Pass:  Above, we're now in Austria, with brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel:  Between Bludenz and St Anton am Arlberg the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

River Inn:  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Landeck & Φtzal.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Mountains near Innsbruck.  The train calls at Innsbruck Hbf for several minutes.

Kufstein station and castle   Lunch is served at your seat in first & business classes

Kufstein:  The train stops at Kufstein, where the castle towers above the station.  Above right, lunch is served.  In first & business class on a railjet, the steward takes your order & serves lunch at your seat.

Cutting across Germany:  East of Kufstein, the train takes a short cut through Germany without stopping, see the route map here.  All fast Vienna-Salzburg-Innsbruck trains do this, they're still considered Austrian domestic trains even though this short cut means they spend an hour on German territory!  Such a train is called a Korridorzug.  The train crosses back into Austria near Freilassing, just before Salzburg.

View of Salzburg as the train crosses the River Salzach

Salzburg:  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the right hand side as the railjet crosses the River Salzach into Salzburg Hbf heading east.

Watch the video:  Zurich to Austria through the Arlberg Pass

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Switzerland to Copenhagen from €49.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Copenhagen in a single day

ICE4 at Zurich HB

Step 1, Zurich or Basel to Hamburg by ICE.  This is an ICE4 at Zurich HB, most Switzerland-Hamburg ICEs are now ICE4.  Click on the interior images for larger photos.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car.  See current month's menu

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

The bar counter, other end of the restaurant car.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Option 2, Switzerland to Copenhagen using the Zurich-Hamburg sleeper - the time-effective option!

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 1, Zurich or Basel to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich HBMore about Nightjets. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact the compartment is.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car or liegewagen.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Option 3, Switzerland to Copenhagen with an overnight stop in Hamburg

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Switzerland to Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmφ from €56.90

Option 1, Switzerland to Stockholm using the Hamburg-Stockholm sleeper train - the time-effective option

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

The inaugural train from Hamburg to Stockholm calls at Padborg, just after entering Denmark.

Scenery from the Hamburg to Stockholm train

Typical Swedish scenery on the morning run into Stockholm.

Option 2, Switzerland to Sweden using the Zurich-Hamburg sleeper

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 1, Zurich or Basel to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich HBMore about Nightjets. Courtesy DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact it is.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 3, Copenhagen to Stockholm by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Φresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Option 3, Switzerland to Sweden with overnight stop in Copenhagen

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Copenhagen to Stockholm by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Φresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Option 4, Switzerland to Sweden with overnight stop in Hamburg

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Switzerland to Oslo & Norway

Option 1, Switzerland to Oslo with overnight stop in Copenhagen - by train all the way

Option 2, Switzerland to Oslo via the Kiel-Oslo cruise ferry - the most luxurious way to Oslo

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 1, Zurich or Basel to Hamburg by Nightjet sleeper train and transfer to Kiel by regional train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich HB. Courtesy DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact it is.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Germany to Oslo Color Line ferry at Kiel

Step 2, sail from Kiel to Oslo with Color Line.  This photo is taken from the exit of Kiel station, so you can see how close the ferry is.  It's a 5-6 minute walk across the harbour, with a street lift up to a connecting walkway which takes you to the ferry terminal. If you have reserved one of what Color Line call their "5 star suites", check in at the desk rather than the machines and you'll be directed to a special lounge to wait with free tea, coffee, juice, snacks & WiFi.  You'll also have priority boarding of the ship.  Photos courtesy of Andrew Leo.

Boarding the ferry in Kiel

Boarding the Color Line ferry to Oslo in Kiel.

Kiel to Oslo ferry, Color Class suite   Kiel to Oslo ferry, restaurant

A 5 Star Suite on the ferry.

 

More cruise liner than ferry!  The restaurant.

View from Color Line ferry to Oslo

Wake up to this...

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Switzerland to Helsinki & Finland

Option 1, Switzerland to Helsinki using a Finnlines ferry from Germany - the easiest option

Finnlines ferry Travemunde-Helsinki

Finnlines operate the Finnstar, Finnmaid & Finnlady on the Travemόnde-Helsinki route.  Photo courtesy of Hubert Bartkowiak.  Photos below courtesy of Chris Russell.

Cabin on Finnlines ferry Travemunde-Helsinki   Gym on Finnlines ferry   Sauna on Finnlines ferry

Standard cabin.  Larger photo.

 

Gym with a view.

 

Sauna.

Option 2, by train to Stockholm, then ferry to Helsinki

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Switzerland to Prague & Cesky Krumlov from €37.90

Option 1, Zurich & Basel to Prague by sleeper train - the most time-effective option

The Prague to Zuirch sleeping car boarding in Prague

This is a Czech sleeping-car of the Comfortline type seen at Zurich HB, as used on the Zurich-Basel-Prague sleeper train.

Czech Railways standard (economy) 2-berth sleeper   Standard (economy) sleeper in day mode   City Night Line deluxe sleeper, private toilet & shower   Comfortline sleeper corridor

Standard sleeper set up as a 2-berth, with blind down & washstand open.  Each room can be used with 1, 2 or 3 beds.  Larger photo.

 

Same sleeper with beds folded away & seats folded out, washstand closed.  Similar to a deluxe, but without the shower & toilet.  Larger photo.

 

Deluxe sleepers are virtually identical to standard, a bit more floorspace & compact shower & toilet instead of washstand.  Larger photo.

 

Just like a hotel, the corridor in a Comfortline sleeping-car.  There's a shower at end of the corridor for standard sleeper passengers.

Couchette car 6-berth   RDC couchette car

6-berth couchettes.  There are also 4-berths.  Larger photo.

 

Couchette car on the inaugural departure from Prague, leased from RDC as CD don't have enough 200km/h couchette cars of their own.  Photos courtesy of @_wrzlbrnft_

Option 2, Zurich to Prague by direct sleeping-car - another time-effective option

The Zurich to Prague sleeping car boarding at Zurich HB

At Zurich HB, the Czech sleeper attendant greets passengers boarding the Zurich-Prague sleeping-car.  More about the Zurich-Prague sleeper.

Czech Railways standard (economy) 2-berth sleeper   Standard (economy) sleeper in day mode   City Night Line deluxe sleeper, private toilet & shower   Comfortline sleeper corridor

Standard sleeper set up as a 2-berth, with blind down & washstand open.  Each room can be used with 1, 2 or 3 beds.  Larger photo.

 

Same sleeper with beds folded away & seats folded out.  Similar to a deluxe, but without the shower & toilet.  Larger photo.

 

Deluxe sleepers are almost identical to standard ones, but with a bit more floorspace & shower & toilet.  Larger photo.

 

Just like a hotel, the corridor in a Comfortline sleeping-car.  There's a shower at end of the corridor for standard sleeper passengers.

Option 3, Switzerland to Prague by daytime train from €37.90 - the cheapest option

Munich to Zurich train, at Munich HB

Step 1, Zurich to Munich by EuroCity train, with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, seen here on platform 27 at Munich Hbf More about Zurich-Munich EuroCity trains.

1st class on a Zurich to Munich Astoro train   Restaurant car on a Zurich to Munich Astoro train

1st class seats.  Larger photo.

 

Restaurant car.  Larger photo.

Lunch on an Astoro train   1st class seats on an Astoro train

Lunch in the restaurant.

 

2nd class.  Larger photo 360 degree photo.

Express train from Munich to Prague

Step 2, Munich to Prague by air-conditioned express train with modern Czech Railways open-plan cars & Lδnderbahn Alex compartment cars, power sockets at all seats, refreshment trolley & free WiFi.  More about Munich-Prague trains.

2nd class compartment in a Landerbahn car   2nd class open saloon car

Choose a Lδnderbahn compartment car.

 

Or a Czech Railways open-plan car.

Option 4, Switzerland to Prague with overnight stop in Munich - breaks the journey up nicely

Option 5, Switzerland to Prague by daytime trains via Linz - an alternative daytime route via the scenic Arlberg Pass

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Switzerland to Bratislava & Slovakia

Option 1, Zurich to Bratislava by direct railjet train - the best option if the timing suits you

A railjet train about to leave Zurich Hbf for Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna

A railjet train about to leave Zurich HB More about railjets & the Arlberg route.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Railjet restaurant car

Business class.  About.

 

Restaurant.  In 1st & business you're served at your seat.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Economy class seats on a railjet train

First class.

 

Economy class.

The lakes between Zurich and the Austrian border

Swiss lakes:  Soon after leaving Zurich, the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Zόrichsee and then the Walensee.

Train into Austria: Mountain scenery   Schaan-Vaduz station

Sargans castle:  Watch out for hilltop castles, this is the one at Sargans.

 

Liechtenstein:  The train cuts across Liechtenstein, passing non-stop through Schaan-Vaduz station.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Arlberg Pass:  Above, we're now in Austria, with brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel:  Between Bludenz and St Anton am Arlberg the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

River Inn:  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Landeck & Φtzal.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Mountains near Innsbruck.  The train calls at Innsbruck Hbf for several minutes.

Kufstein station and castle   Lunch is served at your seat in first & business classes

Kufstein:  The train stops at Kufstein, where the castle towers above the station.  Above right, lunch is served.  In first & business class on a railjet, the steward takes your order & serves lunch at your seat.

Cutting across Germany:  East of Kufstein, the train takes a short cut through Germany without stopping, see the route map here.  All fast Vienna-Salzburg-Innsbruck trains do this, they're still considered Austrian domestic trains even though this short cut means they spend an hour on German territory!  Such a train is called a Korridorzug.  The train crosses back into Austria near Freilassing, just before Salzburg.

View of Salzburg as the train crosses the River Salzach

Salzburg:  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the right hand side as the railjet crosses the River Salzach into Salzburg Hbf heading east.

Option 2, Zurich to Bratislava by daytime trains with an easy change in Vienna - if the direct train doesn't suit you

Option 3, Zurich to Bratislava using the Zurich-Vienna nightjet sleeper train - the most time-effective option

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 1, Zurich to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car at Zurich.  More about Nightjets. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact the compartment is.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

The train from Vienna to Bratislava, at Vienna Huaptbahnhof...   Inside the hourly train from Vienna to Bratislava...

Step 2, Vienna to Bratislava Hlavna by hourly regional express train, seen here about to leave Vienna Hbf.  Behind the locomotive there's usually a smart Slovakian air-conditioned intercity coach, whilst the rest of the train consists of more basic non-air-con Austrian City Shuttle carriages, with interiors as shown in the photo above right.  Find a seat in the more comfortable Slovakian car if you can!

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Switzerland to Budapest & Hungary from €49.80

Option 1, Zurich to Budapest by railjet train via the Arlberg Pass - the scenic daytime option

A railjet train about to leave Zurich Hbf for Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna

The railjet about to leave Zurich HB More about railjets & the Arlberg route.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Railjet restaurant car

Business class.  About.

 

Restaurant.  In 1st & business you're served at your seat.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Economy class seats on a railjet train

First class.

 

Economy class.

The lakes between Zurich and the Austrian border

Swiss lakes:  Soon after leaving Zurich, the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Zόrichsee and then the Walensee.

Train into Austria: Mountain scenery   Schaan-Vaduz station

Sargans castle:  Watch out for hilltop castles, this is the one at Sargans.

 

Liechtenstein:  The train cuts across Liechtenstein, passing non-stop through Schaan-Vaduz station.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Arlberg Pass:  Above, we're now in Austria, with brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel:  Between Bludenz and St Anton am Arlberg the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

River Inn:  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Landeck & Φtzal.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Mountains near Innsbruck.  The train calls at Innsbruck Hbf for several minutes.

Kufstein station and castle   Lunch is served at your seat in first & business classes

Kufstein:  The train stops at Kufstein, where the castle towers above the station.  Above right, lunch is served.  In first & business class on a railjet, the steward takes your order & serves lunch at your seat.

Cutting across Germany:  East of Kufstein, the train takes a short cut through Germany without stopping, see the route map here.  All fast Vienna-Salzburg-Innsbruck trains do this, they're still considered Austrian domestic trains even though this short cut means they spend an hour on German territory!  Such a train is called a Korridorzug.  The train crosses back into Austria near Freilassing, just before Salzburg.

View of Salzburg as the train crosses the River Salzach

Salzburg:  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the right hand side as the railjet crosses the River Salzach into Salzburg Hbf heading east.

A railjet train from Vienna to Budapest, arrived at Budapest Keleti

The railjet has landed!  Arrived on platform 9 at Budapest Keleti station.

Option 2, Zurich to Budapest by sleeper train - the time-effective option

Hungarian sleeper train

The sleeper from Zurich to Budapest.  Above, the sleeper attendant waits to greet passengers at Zurich HB.  In the sleeping-car, some complimentary Hungarian sparkling wine awaits you in your compartment.  More about this sleeper train Watch the video.

Sleeper compartment in the Hungarian sleeping-car from Budapest to Zurich   4-berth couchettes on train to Budapest   6-berth couchettes on train to Budapest

1, 2 or 3 bed sleeper, set up as a 2-bed.

 

4-berth couchettes.

 

6-berth couchettes.

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Switzerland to Sighisoara, Brasov, Bucharest & Romania

Option 1, Switzerland to Romania using the Dacia Express sleeper train from Vienna to Sighisoara, Brasov & Bucharest.

A railjet train about to leave Zurich Hbf for Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna

Step 1, Zurich to Vienna by railjet, seen here about to leave Zurich HB.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Economy class seats on a railjet train

Railjet is Austrian Railways premier train. More about railjet trains

 

Economy class, in open saloons with large windows, power sockets & free WiFi.

The lakes between Zurich and the Austrian border

Swiss lakes:  Soon after leaving Zurich, the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Zόrichsee and then the Walensee.

Train into Austria: Mountain scenery   Schaan-Vaduz station

Sargans castle:  Watch out for hilltop castles, this is the one at Sargans.

 

Liechtenstein:  The train cuts across Liechtenstein, passing non-stop through Schaan-Vaduz station.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Arlberg Pass:  Above, we're now in Austria, with brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel:  Between Bludenz and St Anton am Arlberg the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

River Inn:  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Landeck & Φtzal.

View of Salzburg as the train crosses the River Salzach

Salzburg:  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the right hand side as the railjet crosses the River Salzach into Salzburg Hbf heading east.

Dacia Express sleeper at Vienna   Dacia Express sleeper

Step 2, Vienna to Romania by Dacia Express seen here at Vienna Hbf.  This is the sleeping-car.  Sleeper photo courtesy of @PaliparanDotCom.  Larger photo.

Romanian couchette car from Vienna to Bucharest   Dacia Express couchette car

The Dacia Express couchette car, boarding at Vienna Hbf.  Larger photo.

Scenery in Transylvania

Transylvania:  The Dacia Express crosses rural Transylvania.  Courtesy of @PaliparanDotCom.

Dacia Express Carpathian mountains

The Carpathian mountains:  Almost Alpine scenery between Brasov & Bucharest.  Courtesy of @PaliparanDotCom

Option 2, Switzerland to Romania by sleeper train to Budapest, a day to explore, then sleeper train Ister to Brasov & Bucharest

2-berth sleeper on the Ister   The Ister at Bucharest Nord

A 1, 2 or 3-bed sleeper with washbasin.  Larger photo.

 

The sleeping-car (vagon de dormit) on the westbound Ister at Bucharest.  Sleepers convert from beds to private sitting rooms for day use.  Courtesy of DiscoverByRail.

Couchette car on the Ister EuroNight train from Budapest to Bucharest   Romanian couchette car from Vienna to Bucharest

The vagon cuseta (couchette car) on the westbound Ister, boarding at Bucharest.  Couchettes convert from bunks at night to seats by day.  Courtesy of @AndyBTravels, DiscoverByRail.com .

 

4 or 6-berth couchettes.  Larger photo.

Option 3, Switzerland to Romania with overnight stop in Budapest - if you prefer day trains & hotel to sleeper trains

The daytime train from Budapest to Bucharest

The daytime train from Budapest to Bucharest has modern air-conditioned Romanian carriages.  Three cars travel all the way, additional cars are attached whilst in Hungary, and additional cars and a bar car are attached between Drobeta Turnu Severin & Bucharest.

The 'Transylvania' train to Brasov about to leave Budapest   2nd class on the Budapest to Bucharest train

On the left, the daytime train to Bucharest is about to leave Budapest Keleti.

 

Comfortable 2nd class seats on the Budapest to Bucharest train.  There are power outlets under the tables.  Larger photo.

Bar stools on the Budapest to Bucharest train   Bar car on the Budapest to Bucharest train

A bar car is attached between Drobeta Turnu Severin & Bucharest.  Photos courtesy of @AndyBTravels, DiscoverByRail.com.

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Switzerland to Ljubljana & Slovenia, Zagreb & Croatia

Option 1, Zurich to Ljubljana & Zagreb by sleeper train - the time-effective option

The Zurich to Zagreb sleeper train boarding at Zurich HB

The Zurich-Zagreb sleeper train boarding at Zurich HB as the sun sets on a summer day.  That's the Croatian couchette car on the right, the Croatian sleeping-car on the left.  See the Croatian sleeper video.

Sleeper compartment in the Croatian sleeping-car from Munich to Zagreb   Sleeper compartment in the Croatian sleeping-car from Munich to Zagreb   4 or 6-berth couchettes on train from Munich to Zagreb

1, 2 or 3 bed sleeper.

 

Set up as a single-berth.

 

4 or 6-berth couchettes. 360Ί photo.

Scenery between Ljubljana & Zagreb

Wake up to scenery like this between Ljubljana & Zagreb, along the river Sava.

Scenery between Ljubljana, Zagreb & Belgrade

Option 2, Switzerland to Slovenia & Croatia by daytime trains

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Switzerland to Dubrovnik & Split

Option 1, Switzerland to Split & Dubrovnik by train via Zagreb.

Option 2, Switzerland to Split & Dubrovnik using a ferry from Italy with cosy cabin

Ancona to Split ferries in Split Harbour   Deluxe cabin onm Ancona to Split ferry

Blue Line & Jadrolinija ferries in Split Harbour.  Above right, a deluxe cabin on the Blue Line ferry, which comes complete with an en suite jacuzzi.  Courtesy of Andrew Leo.

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Switzerland to Belgrade & Montenegro

Option 1, Switzerland to Belgrade using the Zurich-Zagreb sleeper - the time-effective option

The Zurich to Zagreb sleeper train boarding at Zurich HB

The Zurich-Zagreb sleeper train boarding at Zurich HB as the sun sets on a summer day.  That's the Croatian couchette car on the right, the Croatian sleeping-car on the left.  See the Croatian sleeper video.

Sleeper compartment in the Croatian sleeping-car from Munich to Zagreb   Sleeper compartment in the Croatian sleeping-car from Munich to Zagreb   4 or 6-berth couchettes on train from Munich to Zagreb

1, 2 or 3 bed sleeper.

 

Set up as a single-berth.

 

4 or 6-berth couchettes. 360Ί photo.

Scenery between Ljubljana & Zagreb

Wake up to scenery like this between Ljubljana & Zagreb, along the river Sava.

Scenery between Ljubljana, Zagreb & Belgrade
2nd class seats in a Serbian air-conditioned train   The train from Belgrade to Zagreb & Zurich, about to leave Belgrade

Step 2, Zagreb to Belgrade by Serbian train.

Option 2, Switzerland to Belgrade with overnight stop in Budapest - slower, but by train all the way

Serbian local train of the type used between Subotica and Novi Sad

Serbian local train of the type used between Szeged & Subotica and Subotica & Novi Sad.  They are air-conditioned, 2nd class only, with toilets.  Courtesy of @AndyBTravels, DiscoverByRail.com.

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Switzerland to Sofia

Option 1, Switzerland to Sofia via Bucharest

Option 2, Switzerland to Sofia via Belgrade

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Switzerland to Warsaw, Krakow & Poland from €49.90

Option 1, Zurich to Warsaw in a single day

ICE4 at Zurich HB

Step 1, Switzerland to Berlin by ICE. Most Switzerland-Berlin trains are now ICE4 like this.  Click on the interior images below for larger photos.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car on an ICE4.  Sample menu.

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

Bar counter at the other end of the kitchen.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Berlin to Warsaw train at Berlin

Step 2, Berlin to Warsaw by EuroCity train, seen here on platform 11 at Berlin Hbf.

1st class compartment on a Berlin to Warsaw train.   2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

1st class compartment.

 

2nd class.  Some seats are in compartments.

Restaurant car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

Restaurant car.  You don't need to reserve a table, just go along and sit down.

 

The bar counter.

 

Decent food, served on proper china.

Option 2, Zurich to Krakow in a single day - starting 10 December 2023.

A railjet train about to leave Zurich Hbf for Innsbruck, Salzburg & Vienna

Step 1, Zurich to Vienna by railjet, seen here about to leave Zurich HB.

Business class seats on a railjet train   Economy class seats on a railjet train

Railjet is Austrian Railways premier train. More about railjet trains

 

Economy class, in open saloons with large windows, power sockets & free WiFi.

The lakes between Zurich and the Austrian border

Swiss lakes:  Soon after leaving Zurich, the railjet runs alongside the shore of the Zόrichsee and then the Walensee.

Train into Austria: Mountain scenery   Schaan-Vaduz station

Sargans castle:  Watch out for hilltop castles, this is the one at Sargans.

 

Liechtenstein:  The train cuts across Liechtenstein, passing non-stop through Schaan-Vaduz station.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

Arlberg Pass:  Above, we're now in Austria, with brooding skies over the Arlberg pass.  The pass itself is long, narrow and curvaceous with the train snaking along the valley sides, often high above the valley floor.

Arlberg Tunnel:  Between Bludenz and St Anton am Arlberg the train passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, 6.2 km (6.3 miles) long and opened in 1884.  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlberg_Railway_Tunnel.

Scenery in the Arlberg Pass

River Inn:  Running alongside the river Inn in the Tirol, somewhere between Landeck & Φtzal.

View of Salzburg as the train crosses the River Salzach

Salzburg:  View of the Fortress Hohensalzburg on the right hand side as the railjet crosses the River Salzach into Salzburg Hbf heading east.

 

The Danubius from Vienna to Krakow

Step 2, Vienna to Krakow by EuroCity train Danubius.  This is the Danubius at Vienna Hbf on a winter afternoon.  That's the Czech through car to Wroclaw nearest the camera, the Polish cars to Krakow are ahead of it.  Courtesy of Helmut Uttenthaler.

2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train   2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

Most 2nd class cars have compartments like this with side corridor & 6-seat compartments.

Option 3, Zurich to Warsaw, Wroclaw or Krakow using the Zurich-Berlin sleeper

The Nightjet sleeper from Berlin to Zurich

Step 1, Zurich or Basel to Berlin by Nightjet sleeper trainMore about Nightjets.

Nightjet deluxe 2-berth sleeper   Nightjet deluxe sleeper in day mode   Nightjet deluxe sleeper toilet & shower   Nightjet standard (economy) sleeper

Deluxe sleeper.  Each compartment can be used as a 1, 2 or 3-bed room.  Larger photoVideo of deluxe room

 

Same deluxe sleeper in evening/morning mode with beds folded away, seats folded out.  Larger photo.

 

Deluxe rooms have a compact shower & toilet, towels & hair/body wash provided.  Larger photo.

 

Standard sleeper set up as 2-berth, washstand open.  It can be used as a 1, 2 or 3 berth.  Larger photo.

6-berth couchettes   4-berth couchette on Nightjet train   Couchette car on Munich-Amsterdam sleeper

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

 

Nightjet couchette car.

Berlin to Warsaw train at Berlin Hbf

Step 2, Berlin to Krakow or Warsaw by EuroCity train.  This is the Wawel to Krakow on platform 11 at Berlin Hbf.

2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train   1st class compartment on a Berlin to Warsaw train.

2nd class.  Some seats are in compartments.

 

1st class seats on the Wawel.

Restaurant car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

Restaurant car.  You don't need to reserve a table, just go along and sit down.

 

The bar counter.

 

Decent food, served on proper china.

Option 4, Zurich to Krakow or Warsaw using the Zurich-Vienna sleeper

Hungarian sleeper train

Step 1, Zurich to Vienna by Hungarian sleeper train.  Above, the sleeper attendant waits to greet passengers outside his sleeping-car at Zurich HB.  Some complimentary Hungarian sparkling wine awaits you in your sleeper.  More about this sleeper train.

Sleeper compartment in the Hungarian sleeping-car from Budapest to Zurich   4-berth couchettes on train to Budapest   6-berth couchettes on train to Budapest

1, 2 or 3 bed sleeper, set up as a 2-bed.

 

4-berth couchettes.

 

6-berth couchettes.

The morning train from Vienna to Krakow

Step 2, Vienna to Krakow by EuroCity train, seen about to leave from Vienna Hbf.

Austrian restaurant car   Meal in an Austrian restaurant car on a Munich-Verona train

Austrian restaurant car.  Larger photo.

Lunch with wine.

2nd class seats in an open-plan car   2nd class seats in 6-seat compartments

2nd class seats in an open-plan saloon.  One of the Vienna-Krakow cars is like this.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class seats in a compartment.  The other Vienna-Krakow car is like this. Larger photo.

Option 5, using the EuroNight sleeper train from Salzburg to Krakow & Warsaw - starting 10 December 2023

Modern Polish sleeping-car

Salzburg to Krakow & Warsaw by sleeper train.  This is the modern Polish sleeping-car on the EuroNight train Chopin, seen at Vienna Hbf.

Modern Polish sleeper in day mode   Modern Polish sleeper in day mode, set up as a triple   Deluxe 2-bed sleeper in modern Polish sleeping-car   Deluxe sleepers have a private shower & toilet

Standard sleeper in evening/morning mode with seats folded out.

 

Standard sleeper set up as 3-berth, can also be set up as a single or double.

 

Deluxe sleeper, set up as a 2-berth, showing TV & wardrobe.

 

Deluxe sleeper:  En suite shower & toilet.  Click the photos for larger images.

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Switzerland to Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn

Option 1, Switzerland to Lithuania with overnight stop & morning free in Warsaw

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Switzerland to Lviv, Kyiv & Ukraine

Option 1, Switzerland to Lviv & Kyiv via Vienna

The Vienna-Kiev sleeping-car at Vienna Hbf

Boarding the Vienna to Kyiv sleeping-car at Vienna Hbf.

Sleeper to Kiev about to leave Vienna   Ukrainian sleeper corridor   1, 2 or 3 bed Ukrainian sleeper compartment

The Vienna-Kyiv sleeper about to leave Vienna Hbf. Courtesy of Helmut Uttenthaler.

 

The sleeper corridor.  Courtesy Helmut Uttenthaler.

 

1, 2 or 3 bed sleeper compartment.

The Vienna-Kiev sleeping-car has its wheels changed at Chop

The Vienna-Kyiv sleeper is jacked up to have its bogies changed at Chop on the Ukrainian border.  Photo Helmut Uttenthaler.

The Vienna-Kiev sleeping-car at Kiev Pass

The Vienna-Kyiv sleeping-car at Kyiv Pass.  Photos courtesy of Helmut Uttenthaler.

Option 2, Zurich to Lviv by daytime trains via Budapest

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Switzerland to Moscow, St Petersburg & Russia

Option 1, Switzerland to Moscow via Kyiv - runs daily & avoids Belarus, the route I'd recommend

Option 2, Switzerland to Moscow via Warsaw, runs daily, requires a Belarus transit visa

The train from Warsaw to Moscow uses Russian air-conditioned sleeping-cars, pictured below, with compartments which can be used as 1st class 2-berth or 2nd class 4-berth (shown below right), with a shower & toilets at the end of the corridor.  See panorama photo inside one of the new Russian sleepers.

A modern Russian sleeping-car of the sort used on the Polonez   A 2-berth or 4-berth compartment in daytime mode

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Switzerland to Athens, Corfu & Greece

Option 1, Switzerland to Athens & Greece via ferry from Italy - the most practical route

Superfast ferry from Bari to Patras in Greece

The ferry Superfast II from Bari to Patras, boarding at Bari.  Photos courtesy of DiscoverByRail.com.

Boarding the ferry from Italy to Greece   Lounge and reception desk on the ferry to Greece

The passenger gangway, onto the ferry.

 

Reception desk & lounge on the ferry.

Lounge & bar on the ferry from Italy to Greece   Self-service restaurant on the ferry from Italy to Greece

Lounge and bar on the Superfast II.

 

Self-service restaurant.

En suite toilet & shower on ferry to Greece   Cabin on ferry from Italy to Greece

Private cabin with en suite toilet & shower.

Scenic views from the ferry from Italy to Greece

The ferry passes Cephalonia & Ithaca then approaches mainland Greece.  This is what travel to Greece should be like!

The ferry from Bari arrives at Patras

The ferry approaches the new port of Patras.

Option 2, by train all the way via Belgrade

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Switzerland to Istanbul & Turkey

Option 1, Switzerland to Istanbul via Bucharest

Option 2, Switzerland to Istanbul via Belgrade & Sofia

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Railbookers custom-made tours

If you just want to buy train tickets at the cheapest price, book online as shown on this page.  However, if you want someone to sort out your whole trip for you, arranging all your trains, hotels and transfers, and to look after you if anything affects your arrangements, the people to talk to are Railbookers.  Railbookers can tailor-make a train trip around Europe to your own specification.  Just tell them what you want and they'll advise you on the best trains, routes & hotels.  They get good reports and a lot of repeat business!  They now have offices in the UK, North America and Australia.

UK flag  UK call 0207 864 4600, www.railbookers.co.uk.

US flag  US call free 1-888-829-4775, see website.

Canadian flag  Canada call free 1-855-882-2910, see website.

Australian flag  Australia call toll-free 1300 971 526, see website.

New Zealand flag  New Zealand call toll-free 0800 000 554 or see website.

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Find hotels in Switzerland

Find hotels at Booking.comMy favourite hotel search: www.booking.com

Booking.com is my favourite hotel booking site and I generally use it to book all my hotels in one place.  I've come to trust booking.com's review scores, you won't be disappointed with any hotel that scores 8.0 or more.  Crucially, booking.com usually lets you book with free cancellation, which means you can confirm accommodation risk-free before train booking opens and/or you can hold accommodation while you finalise your itinerary and alter your plans as they evolve - a feature I use all the time when planning a trip.  I never book hotels non-refundably!

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com:  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

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Travel insurance & VPN

 

Staysure travel insurance

 

Columbus Direct logo

Always take out travel insurance

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

UK flag  www.staysure.co.uk offers enhanced Covid-19 protection & gets 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot.

UK flag  www.columbusdirect.com is also a well-know brand.

US flag  If you live in the USA try Travel Guard USA.

 

Maya.net logo

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility listMaya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data.

 

Curve card

Curve card

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:  1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android.  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card, they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

 

Express VPN

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explainedExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

 

Anker Powerrbank

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com.

 


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