How to Book Train Travel From Zurich to Interlaken

Interlaken could aptly be called the gateway to the Swiss Alps because of its strategic location in the heart of the country. For those wishing to escape the urban congestion of Zurich for an alpine oasis, the trip to Interlaken should definitely be on your list. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A passport
• An Internet connection

Plan Your Trip from Zurich to Interlaken

1. Talk with a travel agent or take a peek at a travel guide to get some ideas for the area around Interlaken. Consider taking a few side trips once you arrive. The "Berner Oberland Bahn" train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen is spectacular!
2. Decide whether you'd like to arrive at the Interlaken Ost (east) train station or the Interlaken West station. There are plenty of trains from Zurich that service both stations. Don't worry if you end up at the wrong station. They're only a 4-minute train ride or 10-minute bus ride away from each other.

Book Your Ticket from Zurich to Interlaken

3. Make your way to the Zurich train station sometime after 5:30 a.m. to book your ticket at the main ticket window. The bilingual ticket agents are quite helpful. They'll make sure that you get the correct ticket for your destination.
4. Log on to the English-language version of the Swiss Railways Web site (click on the link in Resources below) if you'd like to avoid the lines at the ticket counter and book your ticket before your arrival at the station. Find the train that suits your needs, book directly on the Web site and then print out your ticket(s).
5. Book a train with a restaurant car and enjoy the passing scenery while you enjoy a hot meal. The 2-hour trip is the perfect distance for grabbing a bite to eat. Maybe you'll have time for a post-meal nap!
6. Book a ticket on a train with a family car if you are traveling with the kids. The family cars are essentially "playgrounds on wheels" according the Swiss Railways Web site. They're guaranteed to keep the little ones occupied for the 2-hour trip.

Tips & Warnings

• The family car is only available on the trip from Zurich to the Interlaken Ost Station.
• Travel during the day to enjoy the exquisite mountain scenery on the way.
• Call Rail Europe at 877-257-2887 to book train tickets from Zurich to Basel if you'd prefer not to book online.

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