Switzerland possesses one of the world’s most reliable public transport services, which makes reaching even the most remote parts of the country relatively easy.

Trams and buses
The main Swiss cities boast efficient public transportation, with trams and buses forming the core of the urban network. The average cost of a single, short journey ticket is about CHF 3, which is usually only valid for an hour. Depending on the travel required, it may be more economical to purchase a day pass, a monthly pass or a prepaid discount card.

Travel by train
Switzerland has over 5000 kilometres of railroad track, of which about 60 percent is owned and operated by Switzerland's government-run transport provider (Schweizerische Bundesbahn or SBB in German, Chemins de Fer Fédéraux or CFF in French, and Ferrovie Federali Svizzere or FFS in Italian). Major cities are connected by InterCity trains, which run at least once every hour throughout the week. Switzerland does not have its own high-speed railway line, but foreign high-speed trains such as the French TGV and the German ICE run throughout Switzerland on a daily basis. Restaurants tend to be a standard facility on the main InterCity connections and international trains.

The SBB provides additional services such as educational hikes and day trips. Scenic trains are available for those who want to fully experience the beauty of the Swiss landscape; these routes include the Glacier Express, Chocolate Train, GoldenPass Line and Bernina Express.

Travel by car
Travelling by car in Switzerland is easy, for all villages and towns are well-indicated and accessible. Road surfaces are usually well-maintained; although heavy snowfall in winter can lead to some closures. To drive on the motorways between main cities, it is necessary to purchase a special licence called a vignette for CHF 40. Larger vehicles such as caravans can safely travel along the Alps passes, with even lorries driving over mountain passes when tunnels are too busy. Note that traffic is heaviest during the summer months, especially at weekends. While most mountains are accessible by road, some resort towns including Braunwald, Murren, Wengen and Zermatt are completely car-free. Public transport in these locations is therefore exceptionally good.

Other forms of transportation
Other forms of transportation are also readily available. Ferryboats operate on all main lakes and it is also possible to rent bikes at most train stations. As is the case across Europe, taxis are readily available in the town centres of all cities, though can be expensive. The cost often doubles after 22.00, thus it is advisable to ask the price beforehand.

Passes and discounts
The high standard of public transport in Switzerland comes with high prices, especially for train travel between larger cities. If using public transport frequently, it is advisable to purchase a GA (General Abonnement) ticket. The GA provides unlimited travel on the entire Swiss network, and is available in one-month, six-month and one-year durations. The next best option is to purchase a Half-Tax card, which entitles the bearer to half-price travel on the whole network. Finally, those under 25 years old who already possess a Half-Tax card can upgrade to a G7 (Gleis 7) card, granting free travel on the whole network after 19.00. Bearers of these cards are also entitled to reduced-price products at a number of shops throughout the country.

Chris Morillon / Expatica