Swiss Pass vs Eurorail Pass

Hello Harvey,

The Eurail Pass is valid for most regular train, bus and boat routes, but includes only few of the Swiss cable cars and mountain trains. The Swiss Pass covers considerably more mountain transportation. An overview of the validity of the Eurail Pass can be found under 'Features' at the Eurail Austria-Switzerland Pass page (assuming this is the Eurail Pass variant you have in mind). An overview of the validity of the Swiss Pass can be viewed by clicking the link 'Overview of the network on which the Swiss Pass is valid' at the Swiss Pass page.

My guess would be that a Swiss Pass is the best solution in your case, since you'll only have a short stay in Austria (for which you can purchase single tickets or a local Austrian pass) and since you're interested in using Swiss mountain lifts. You may also consider a Swiss Flexi Pass. It offers the same possibilities as the Swiss Pass, but on a limited number of days. On the days in between these 'free travel days', a 50% discount applies. The Swiss Pass would be best if you intend to travel (almost) each day and make long journeys; the Swiss Flexi Pass is suitable if you plan a number of larger trips and if you'll be making short, regional, or no trips in between.

Which pass ultimately is most economical, depends on your exact travel plans. If you know what trips you'd like to make, you can find the regular prices in the online timetable. Next, you can compare the discounts offered for these trips by the rail passes you consider. More information on this can be read in our rail FAQ.