1st class Swiss Travel Pass worth extra money?
A traveler named mep1027 is considering whether to pay extra for first class when purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass for an 8-day trip in March with a group of six. They want to know if the benefits of first class, such as larger seats and less crowding, are worth the additional cost.
- First class is indeed more spacious and less crowded, but second class is still comfortable and may require seat reservations for groups.
- It's best to purchase your Swiss Travel Pass a few weeks before your trip after finalizing your itinerary and accommodations.
- Traveling during off-peak times may make second class a better option for saving money and still enjoying ample luggage space.
AI-generated summary-
Is it worth it to pay more for 1st class when purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass? In US dollars, it’s a difference of $684 for an 8-day pass for 6 of us. On the purchase site it says 1st class seats are larger, more luggage space, and generally less crowded but are those really the only differences?
-
Hi mep1027,
That’s right 1st class seats are larger and almost always less crowded. But 2nd class is no way less comfortable. It’s just that sometimes it’s difficult to get seats especially during peak travelling periods as most local commuters travel 2nd class. If you are travelling in a group, you might have to make seat reservation if you prefer to sit together.
You can find more information about the differences between 1st class and 2nd class here: http://www.myswissalps.com/train/practical/2nd1stclass
Regards,
Anna
Thank you! Is it advantageous to buy our passes now for a March 2023 trip?
Hi again,
I recommend getting your railpass after you have all your plans (itinerary , tickets, accommodation, etc) confirmed. Ideally a few weeks before your trip. You can purchase the Swiss Travel Pass easily online with instant delivery: http://www.myswissalps.com/swisstravelpass/price
Regards,
Anna
Hi mep1027,
I had bought a 15 day Swiss Travel Pass, (2nd class, in 2018-Sept) and had no regrets what so ever. I did upgrade to first class on the Glacier Express from Chur to Zermatt, only because it was a six hour journey and thought it would be a more comfortable trip. I did bounce back and forth many times and ultimately went with the second class. I rode the Gotthard, the Bernina, and the Glacier Expresses, and again, I had no regrets at all in second class. Not sure when you’re traveling, but if its not in the busier season, I would go with the second class. Thats a big savings on your end and there is plenty of room for luggage and such (even in second class). Be it above, behind the seats, or in the storage area near the entrance of each car. Enjoy your trip, whichever you decide.
Danielsan
That’s all very helpful, thank you! We are traveling the last week of March.
- The thread ‘1st class Swiss Travel Pass worth extra money?’ is closed to new replies.
