Switzerland Transport Options

Transport Options

There are three major international airports in Switzerland located in the major centres of Zurich (Zurich International), Geneva (Geneva Cointrin International) and Basel (EuroAirport Basel – Mulhouse – Freiburg). Over 100 airlines fly in and out of Switzerland, the major ones being Air France, American, British, Continental, Darwin, Lufthansa, Qantas, Swiss International, South African and United Airlines. There are also a variety of low cost airlines for flights within Europe such as Air Berlin, Flybe, EasyJet and SkyEurope. Most international tourists arrive in Switzerland via another major European city such as London or Frankfurt as this is more affordable than flying directly into Switzerland.

The airports offer all the modern convenieces that travellers may require. Geneva and Zurich airports are part of the city rail network and trains depart for city centres every 10 to 20 minutes. Travellers can even pick up a free public transport ticket from a machine near baggage collection, or by visiting the Uniresco information counter. Taxis are readily available outside the arrival halls at all three major airports and cost around CHF7 per kilometre. Most major hotels offer a free hotel shuttle to and from the airport.

Switzerland offers a fast and very punctual rail service, both within the country and to other European countries, with daily services to and from major cities in Germany, Austria, Hungary, Scandinavia, The Czech Republic, France, Italy and Spain. Train travel into and around Switzerland is convenient, modern and is often less costly than air travel, especially if you are prepared to buy a half-fare card or a Swisspass. The half-fare card saves you 50% on all national trains and buses and a discount on local transport systems. An annual half-fare card costs CHF150 and one month costs CHF99. A Swisspass gets you onboard all national and city transport and will cost you CHF260 for 4 days or CHF578 for a month. Always buy your ticket before boarding trains in Switzerland as they will cost more onboard.

Road travel in Switzerland can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to driving on the right hand side of the road, or driving in the slippery conditions created by ice and snow. Car hire is readily available in all major cities and at airports. If you plan to drive, you will need a vignette (toll sticker), as most roads require a toll to be paid. Check with your car hire company about purchasing these stickers. Switzerland also has comfortable and regular bus services between most major centres and into neighbouring countries. Swiss border control checkpoints are very fast and efficient, ensuring that you’ll be on your way within minutes when you cross the border into Switzerland.