Travel from Lugano to Zermatt by Rail

Hi,

We are planning to travel from Lugano to Zermatt by rail in late October 2014. Would like to enquire which is the best route (either most convenient or most scenic route) to take?

Option 1: Lugano - Locarno - Domodossia - Brig - Zermatt

Option 2: Lugano - Bellinzona - Goschenen - Brig - Zermatt

Option 1 goes through Italy. I understand the Swiss pass will cover the entire journey but I'm a little uncertain how it actually works. When we change trains inside Italy, do we simply show them the Swiss pass and board the train? Or do we need to get tickets for the Italian portion of the journey as well?

Option 2 remains entirely in Switzerland so the Swiss pass will cover all. When using the Swiss pass in Switzerland, is there any need to get tickets (apart from the panoramic rides)? Or we simply show the passes and board the trains?

Appreciate any advise

Hello starhorizon,

Both routes offers beautiful scenery. I would prefer option 1 if you have never done that before. The route through Italy is quite special.

You never need to show your Swiss Pass when boarding a train, nor do you need tickets. You can just board and show your pass when requested. More information about how the Swiss Pass works can be found here. In rare cases a seat reservation or supplement is required. A small supplement applies to some of the trains between Locarno and Domodossola. You can see so in the timetable.

Enjoy the ride; it's really nice!