Reserved train type - Maybe it does matter?

Hello:

We plan to travel Lugano-Zurich 21 April 2016 and have 2 train options: an EC train [takes 1/2 hr longer] and an ICN [tilting], and wondering which train is better, ie comfort [1st or 2nd class] as well as keeping to its schedule.

Both trains depart at similar times, both trains have no changes for our city pairs, both trains require reservations, both trains are pricing out the same using a Swiss Half-Fare Card.

I can't find seating charts or interior photos for either train. The EC train [#12] looks like it originates in Italy. The ICN train [#870] looks like it originates in Lugano.

Also, wondering about the ride comfort [regardless of class] of the "tilting" ICN train and it being 1/2 hr faster than the EC train. Is that ICN train going to be a rock-n-roll ride compared to the EC train?

Don't think this matters with these questions, but separately, we're going to transfer to a TGV train Zurich-Paris with a minimum 30-ish+ transfer time.

Thanks kindly & Regards

Hi dgdgdg,

The EC train just takes 13 minutes longer, and both trains do not require reservations. You can book seats but you don't have to. I traveled by the ICN train a few months ago and it's a really nice train, no rock-n-roll whatsoever. I don't know about the EC but it will for sure be comfortable too. The ICN has various zones like a family zone for kids and a 1st class quiet zone where you're not supposed to talk/call. The ICN indeed starts in Lugano so it will be less crowded when you board.

Enjoy the ride!

Hi dgdgdg-

I've ridden the tilting trains many times from their earliest introduction as "Pendolino" train sets.

You don't notice the tilt, and , if anything it smooths the ride a bit, because you are slightly aided in resistingor minimizing any sense of force on you during turns.

Slowpoke