Modern trains glide along railways built more than 100 years ago, making it a breeze to get around these two stunning countries. Here’s what you need to know to plan your ideal Italian-Swiss train getaway. All aboard!
Direct Connections Link Italian and Swiss Cities
One big advantage of traveling by train? Many direct routes, no layovers or transfers required. Simply board the train in your starting place and arrive directly at your destination in Switzerland or Italy.
Daily EuroCity express trains connect the fashion metropolis of Milan with the Swiss cities of Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern and Lugano. Business travelers can easily zip between commercial centers, while leisure travelers can enjoy a hassle-free transit between holiday destinations.
There are also convenient direct links from Italy, such as from Venice, Verona, and Bologna, to the larger Swiss destinations. Whatever your itinerary, there’s probably a direct train to deliver you there in comfort and style.
What We Like
Scenic Train Rides
Although direct train lines keep travel convenient, it’s the breathtaking scenery along the way that makes rail travel so unforgettable.
Outside your window is an unforgettable backdrop of alpine panoramas, glacial lakes and storybook Swiss villages.
One of the most famous routes is the Bernina Express train connecting Chur, Switzerland with Tirano, Italy. Full of old-world elegance, these bright red vehicles swoop past glacial vistas, sparkling lakes and sleepy mountain hamlets. This railway was recognized by UNESCO for combining engineering prowess and nature’s raw beauty.
To get even more dramatic Alpine scenery, upgrade to the Bernina Express Bus. Equipped with panoramic windows, onboard commentary and premium seating, this bus will have you ooh-ing and aah-ing around every curve.
The Glacier Express is another incredible sightseeing train ride. Ride in first-class comfort between Zermatt and St. Moritz as you cross bridges, pass through 91 tunnels and stare at sweeping panoramas on the way.
Access is Convenient from Key Train Stations
There are direct connections between Italy and Switzerland from these train stations when you choose your departure point:
- In Italy, trains to Switzerland depart directly from Milano Centrale station in central Milan and the Malpensa Aeroporto Train Station that’s attached to Milan’s biggest airport. It’s an easy step from the plane to your next Alpine adventure.
- Other handy Italian departure points include Venice Santa Lucia, Verona Porta Nuova, Bologna Centrale, Genoa Piazza Principe, and Florence Santa Maria Novella stations.
- Zurich and Lugano on the Swiss side have wide rail connections into Italy. Other popular termini for boarding other Italy-bound trains include Geneva, Basel, Bern, Zermatt and St. Moritz.
Check the Swiss train schedules for routings and book tickets ahead of time for the best rates and availability.
Train Travel is Quick, Affordable, and Sustainable
This rail travel provides an affordable and environmentally responsible way to travel between Italy and Switzerland.
Direct train services, such as the EuroCity, can get you from Zurich to Milan in under 4.5 hours and from Zurich to Rome in just 3.5 hours. When considering time spent at the airport, train-travel times are competitive with flights on these popular routes.
And the train fare is super affordable if booked in advance. Second class economy seats offer comfortable value so you can save pennies for gelato! Enjoy it from a luxury perspective with premium first class for special flights or long-haul flights.
In addition to being easier on your wallet, travelling by train has less impact on the environment than flying, with fewer carbon emissions per passenger. Your conscience and your budget can take a breather on the rails.
Travel In Comfort with Extra Legroom and Large Windows
Do you prefer a roomier, smoother ride?
You can’t beat trains for taking scenic routes in comfort. Forget about cramming yourself into a packed airline seat and get comfortable in your reclining, rotating chair with plenty of legroom.
Panoramic train windows allow you to soak up the dramatic mountain views in earnest, rather than squinting through a small oval plane window.
Dining cars cranking out local munchies and beverages keep long haul journeys more tolerable. Stretch your legs between cars, breathe fresh air on scenic observation decks and meet other travelers along the way.
On overnight trips, private sleeper cabins allow you to sleep well while crisscrossing countries. Wake up to mountain views and Continental breakfast delivered straight to your bedside.
Expert Tips for Booking Your Train Adventure
Now you’re ready to start planning your own unforgettable Italian-Swiss getaway by rail. Keep these tips in mind:
- To get the best deals, book ahead, and make sure to travel economy class
- If travelling long distances or multiple countries, consider Eurail passes
- Build up loyalty points through train loyalty programs for access to flash sales and member discounts
- When booking tickets for scenic routes, reserve seat assignments
- Earth: Ensure you have cash for food and drinks on board
- With the old-timey romance comes some logistics: Check out luggage policies — some scenic trains have size and weight limits.
- Check out the scenic train routes such as Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express etc.
- Download offline maps and train schedules to prep for tunnels without service
- Include snacks, water and entertainment devices for the travel
Italy and Switzerland are a breeze to explore via trains, thanks to their seamless connections, stunning scenery and relaxed pace.
You’ll be glad you decided to take a ride on the rails for this bucket list adventure. Let your rail journey begin!
