Switzerland's integrated public transport system is one of the easiest ways to reach a ski resort. Trains, buses, cable cars and cog railways connect with timetabled precision, so a car is rarely necessary.
Choosing an airport
- Zurich (ZRH): best for Davos Klosters, St. Moritz and the Jungfrau Region, and a good option for Zermatt.
- Geneva (GVA): closest to Verbier and a strong choice for Zermatt and the Valais.
- Basel-Mulhouse (BSL) and Bern (BRN): useful for the Bernese Oberland, with regional connections.
Journey times by train (approximate)
| Resort | Typical route | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Zermatt | Zurich or Geneva to Visp, then Matterhorn Gotthard Railway | 3.5–4 hours |
| Verbier | Geneva to Le Châble, then gondola | 2–2.5 hours plus gondola |
| St. Moritz | Zurich to Chur, then Rhaetian Railway | About 3.5 hours |
| Davos | Zurich to Landquart, then Rhaetian Railway | About 2.5 hours |
| Jungfrau Region | Zurich or Bern to Interlaken Ost, then mountain railway | About 2–2.5 hours |
Verify: times vary by connection and season. Use the official SBB timetable for exact schedules.
Tickets and passes
The Swiss Travel Pass covers trains, buses and boats nationwide for consecutive days, with discounts on many mountain railways; the Half Fare Card gives 50% off many tickets for a month. Compare these with point-to-point tickets for your itinerary. Scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express need seat reservations and supplements.
Luggage
Ski bags and suitcases can be awkward on multi-train journeys. SBB offers luggage services at many stations, and some resorts and hotels arrange transfers from the station. Check availability and cost in advance.
Driving in winter
- Cars need a motorway vignette to use Swiss motorways; verify the current price on official Swiss sites.
- Winter tyres are strongly recommended and may be required in conditions; carry snow chains where roads require them.
- Zermatt is car-free: park at Täsch and take the shuttle train. Wengen and Mürren are also car-free.
- Alpine passes close in heavy snow; check road status before you leave.
Scenic rail routes
The Glacier Express links Zermatt and St. Moritz in about eight hours. The Bernina Express runs between Chur or Tirano and the Engadin region; check winter operation. The Albula line, part of the Rhaetian Railway in a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, is a scenic highlight of the route to St. Moritz.
Local lift and bus links
Many resorts include ski buses with a valid lift pass, and some villages run free shuttles. Ask your hotel about local arrangements.