Car trains are vehicle transport trains that allow travelers and their vehicles to quickly get from A to B. They offer a convenient way to cross mountainous regions and avoid mountain passes. The five car train services at four locations in Switzerland (Furka, Lötschberg, Simplon, and Vereina) are thus considered a practical and easy way to traverse the Alps.
Usually, you do not need to reserve car train tickets in advance. You simply drive to the tunnel, pay (or show your pre-purchased ticket), and continue onto the train. A reservation is only required for the Lötschberg–Simplon tunnel between Kandersteg and Iselle.
To use the car train, you drive your vehicle onto the train. The train is equipped with special loading wagons, ensuring that your vehicle is safely transported. Once on board, you should put your vehicle in first gear or park mode, engage the handbrake, and turn off the engine.
General rule: Follow all instructions given on signage and by the staff. After that, you have two options: you can either stay in your vehicle or move to the passenger car of the train. Options vary depending on the route. Note that it is prohibited to leave your vehicle during the journey (except in emergencies), so make this decision before the train departs. Also, do not throw cigarettes or other objects out of the windows.
You can usually purchase car train tickets online in advance. If multiple lanes are available at the car train entry and you have already purchased a ticket, you can use the self-service lane. Ticket handling may differ per car train service:
If you don’t purchase a ticket in advance, you can also buy one on site. However, you then cannot use the faster self-service lane. In this case, you’ll need to use a staffed ticket counter or a ticket machine.
Car train ticket prices vary depending on vehicle category, tunnel, and day of the week. Each tunnel defines different vehicle categories, which affect the pricing. It’s important to check in advance which category your vehicle falls into. The following tunnels offer vehicle transport:
No, there are no discounts with the Swiss motorway vignette. Likewise, rail passes such as Interrail (a pass valid for trains across Europe) do not replace a car train ticket. In all cases, a separate and specific ticket is required for vehicle transport.
Using car trains comes with many advantages. Most importantly, they can greatly simplify your journey—especially if mountain passes are closed or if you'd rather avoid driving them. Car trains will get you to your destination quickly and are often considered a unique and enjoyable experience by many travelers. Another benefit: Car trains are more environmentally friendly.
However, keep in mind that some tunnel rides are quite long and the lights may be turned off. If you're uncomfortable in the dark, this could trigger feelings of claustrophobia or general tunnel anxiety. You may leave your vehicle’s interior light on or bring a flashlight—but it’s important to consider this in advance. If you enjoy mountain driving and the passes are open, you are not required to use car trains. Experienced drivers can navigate mountain roads without issue.
If you plan to use a car train, we recommend checking the train schedule in advance. Most car trains operate from (early) morning to (late) evening, but not overnight. Off-season schedules may be limited.
To ensure your vehicle is eligible, check whether your van, camper, or caravan meets the size restrictions. Also, make sure all luggage on the outside of your vehicle is properly secured.
We wish you a great trip to Switzerland and are happy to help with any questions regarding Switzerland and the relevant toll regulations. Feel free to contact us at: info@digitale-vignette-schweiz.de
Please note that Switzerland requires a vignette for vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW and imposes a Heavy Vehicle Fee for vehicles over 3.5 t GVW. Feel free to reach out to us to determine which toll regulations apply to your specific vehicle and to learn more about the vignette requirement, related vehicle classes, and the Heavy Vehicle Fee.
