Switzerland Railway Network boasts a highly efficient and extensive railway network in Train Sim World, renowned for its punctuality and integration, with the Swiss Federal Railways SBB operating most mainline trains and numerous smaller private operators handling local and regional Switzerland routes in Europe.
The World Swiss railway network
- Extensive and Integrated: Switzerland has a dense rail network that covers the entire country, making it easy to travel between cities and regions.
- Punctuality and Reliability: Swiss trains are known for their punctuality and reliability, operating on a frequent and efficient schedule.
- Different Train Types:
- InterCity (IC): High-speed trains connecting major cities.
- InterRegio (IR): Semi-fast trains with more stops than IC trains, connecting regional destinations.
- RegioExpress (RE): Trains connecting regional destinations with larger cities.
- Regio (R): Trains connecting local towns.
- S-Bahn (S): Suburban rail systems, like the Zurich S-Bahn, offering frequent and reliable services within and around major cities.
- Scenic Routes: Many routes offer stunning views of the Swiss Alps and other picturesque landscapes.
- Rail Passes: The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for tourists.
- Private Operators: Besides SBB, numerous smaller private operators run local and regional routes.
- International Connections: Switzerland’s rail network is well-connected to neighboring countries, with EuroCity (EC) trains linking major Swiss cities to destinations in Italy, Austria, Czechia, and Germany.
- Infrastructure: The Swiss railway network includes both international and narrow-gauge lines, with a significant portion of the system being double or more-tracked.
- Electrification: The entire Swiss railway network is 100% electrified.
- Baggage Services: SBB offers baggage services, including door-to-door delivery, for a reasonable fee.
- Onboard Amenities: Trains offer onboard bistros, restaurants, and mini-bars, as well as family and quiet zones.
- Bicycles: Bicycles with a valid bike ticket are allowed on trains operated by the SBB railway network, and there is no additional charge for folded bikes, which must be stored or carried along as hand luggage.
Examples of Train Types and Routes:
- Gotthard Line: A major north-south route through the Alps, using the Gotthard Base Tunnel.
- Simplon Tunnel: Another important north-south route, connecting Domodossola to Brig-Lausanne-Geneva.
- Scenic Trains: Popular scenic routes include the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and GoldenPass Line.
Tips for Traveling by Train in Switzerland:
- Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass: If you plan to travel extensively by train, a Swiss Travel Pass can be a cost-effective option.
- Book Reservations for Scenic Trains: Reservations are required for some scenic trains, such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
- Check the SBB Website or App: The SBB website and app are excellent resources for planning your journey and booking tickets.
- Be Aware of Train Etiquette: It’s common practice to avoid sitting with someone if there’s room in another section.
- Enjoy the Views: The Swiss Alps and other scenic landscapes are best enjoyed from the comfort of a Swiss train.
Rail Network Lines
Locomotives and Multiple Units
Switzerland Railroad Companies
