Which Pass Covers Which Switzerland Mountains Best

If you're planning a scenic trip through Switzerland's majestic Alps, you're probably wondering: which travel pass gives me access to which mountain destinations? It's a common question — and with good reason. Switzerland has several incredible transport passes, and choosing the right one can save you serious money while unlocking amazing alpine views. So let’s break it down simply and clearly.

Understanding Mountain Access with Swiss Travel Passes

The Swiss Travel Pass and regional passes are extremely handy, but they don’t all offer the same coverage when it comes to iconic mountain excursions. Let’s go over which famous peaks are included or discounted — and which pass is the best fit for your trip.

Swiss Travel Pass: What’s Included?

Quick answer: The Swiss Travel Pass offers free rides to many mountains by cogwheel train or cable cars and discounts (usually 50%) on most premium peaks.

This pass is ideal if you're doing a widespread trip across Switzerland. You get free travel on nearly all public trains, buses, boats, and many scenic routes. When it comes to mountains, here's where it shines:

• Free access: Rigi, Stanserhorn, Brunni, Stoos, and Mount Pilatus are all fully covered.
• 50% discount: Got your eyes on Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Titlis, or Glacier 3000? You still get half-off the ticket.

Important: Jungfraujoch is partly covered — the pass includes the train to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and up to Wengen or Eigergletscher. After that, it's 50% off to the top.

Regional Passes: Tailored Mountain Access

Quick answer: Regional passes often give you better coverage for specific areas, including alpine excursions, with more mountain lifts included for free.

If your trip focuses on a particular region, a local pass might give you more bang for your buck than the nationwide Swiss Travel Pass. Here's a handy breakdown:

• Bernese Oberland Pass: Covers unlimited travel in the Interlaken-Lauterbrunnen-Grindelwald area, including free access to Jungfraujoch (summer) and Schilthorn.
• Tell-Pass (Central Switzerland): Includes Mount Rigi, Pilatus, Stanserhorn, Titlis, and more — all fully covered, no extra charge.
• Regional Pass Lake Geneva – Alps: Useful for the western Alps; covers Rochers-de-Naye and discounts for Glacier 3000.
• Graubünden Pass: Great for travelers heading to St. Moritz or Davos — includes lots of cable cars and scenic regional trains.

These passes really shine if you’re staying local. They can often include high-mountain experiences that would otherwise cost CHF 100+ per summit ride.

Which Pass Is Right for You?

Short answer: If you're moving across the country, go with the Swiss Travel Pass. If focusing on a specific mountain region, choose that area's regional pass.

For example, plan to base yourself in Lucerne? The Tell-Pass gives you full access to Mount Pilatus and Titlis. Staying in Interlaken or the Jungfrau region? The Bernese Oberland Pass will give you a smooth, scenic ride to the top of Europe — included in the summertime.

Time of year also matters. Some regional passes only run from spring to fall and include lifts during those seasons. Always check what's open if you’re traveling in the winter or shoulder months.

A Quick Comparison: Highlights by Pass

• Swiss Travel Pass: Best for full-country rail and mid-level discounts on major mountain rides.
• Tell-Pass: Comprehensive Central Switzerland coverage. Great for Lucerne-based travelers.
• Bernese Oberland Pass: Includes top alpine experiences like Jungfraujoch (summer). Ideal for Interlaken area explorers.
• Lake Geneva – Alps Pass: Best for French-speaking Switzerland and Glacier 3000 access.
• Graubünden Pass: Your gateway to the scenic eastern mountains and luxury resorts like St. Moritz.

If you're using an itinerary from TipsTrips or planning your route in advance, matching your pass to the region you’ll explore can seriously simplify your budget and logistics.

FAQs:

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover all mountains in Switzerland?

No, but it includes many. While it offers full access to some mountains like Rigi and Pilatus, others such as Jungfraujoch only offer partial coverage with a 50% discount.

Which pass includes Jungfraujoch for free?

The Bernese Oberland Pass includes Jungfraujoch at no extra cost during the summer season, making it a great deal for visitors to the region.

Is the Tell-Pass worth it for Central Switzerland?

Yes, especially if you're based in Lucerne. It covers must-see peaks like Mount Titlis, Pilatus, and Stanserhorn — all fully included in the pass.

Do these passes work year-round?

Some passes like the Swiss Travel Pass are valid year-round, but regional passes may be seasonal with limited winter coverage. Always check seasonal availability before booking.

Can I combine regional passes with the Swiss Travel Pass?

Technically yes, but it’s rarely necessary. Choose one pass that aligns best with your travel plans to avoid overlapping benefits and extra costs.