Purchasing a Swiss Card or a Swiss half card

tlk1951

4 posts
new member

Feb 3, 2013 - 1:02 AM

I'll be arriving in Geneva from Paris mid day on Monday June 23. My understanding is that I can buy a Swiss Card or a Swiss Half Card upon my arrival in Geneva which will allow me to avoid the prepurchase fees. Is my understanding correct?

Arno

16110 posts
expert &
moderator

Feb 3, 2013 - 2:50 AM

Hello tlk1951,

Yes, you can buy locally or online; please see the Swiss Half Fare Card page and Swiss Card page for details. There are prepurchase fees in some cases, but none in other cases. I assume you've checked the details, but just to be sure: the pages also show the prices of the various resellers (which vary by country of residence, exchange rate, promotions), whether you can pay in your own currency rather than Swiss francs (to avoid bank fees), and more details. Currently, for example, UK residents save money by buying online.

MySwissAlps.com recommends to read this:
All Swiss rail passes How to choose a pass?

Last modified on Jan 27, 2020 - 11:14 AM by Arno

tlk1951

4 posts
new member

Feb 3, 2013 - 8:36 AM

Thanks fior the response. I made an error in my earlier note in that I am arriving mid day on Sunday, June 23 (not Monday). Where can I find the business hours for the Geneva train station so I can be sure I can buy a ticket locally?

Arno

16110 posts
expert &
moderator

Feb 4, 2013 - 1:55 AM

Hi tlk1951,

Opening hours are on the website of the SBB.

Last modified on Jun 16, 2021 - 1:01 PM by Arno

tlk1951

4 posts
new member

Feb 4, 2013 - 8:12 AM

Thanks for your prompt response. I did find the site (thank you). It looks like "prompt sale" will be available on Sunday. That said, what is the defination of "prompt sale"? Machine only? Or, counter sales without advice?. I just need to make sure that I can buy a Swiss half card or Swiss card upon my arrival whether it is from a machine or a person.

Arno

16110 posts
expert &
moderator

Feb 4, 2013 - 8:46 AM

Hi tlk1951,

Both cards cannot be purchased through machines. You'd best contact the SBB for more information about that prompt sale option. You can also have either of those cards being delivered to your hotel for minimal costs, but I assume you've seen this option amongst the others.

Purchasing a Swiss Card or a Swiss half card

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