Public transport in Switzerland is fantastic, but a car has its advantages: You can save time reaching smaller villages and experience the thrill of winding up and down an Alpine pass, stopping for photos or picnics whenever you like.

Deciding between driving and taking the train in Switzerland depends on your itinerary, as both options offer world-class experiences. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is arguably the best rail network in the world, with incredible punctuality and scenic routes that cars simply cannot access, such as the Glacier Express or the climb to Zermatt (which is a car-free town). Trains run every 30 to 60 minutes even to remote villages, making a Swiss Travel Pass highly efficient for solo travelers and couples. On the other hand, driving provides maximum flexibility for families or those with heavy luggage who want to explore alpine passes like the Furka or Grimsel at their own pace. While the motorway network is excellent, parking in cities like Zurich or Geneva is notoriously expensive, and many high-altitude regions still require you to park and take a train or cable car anyway. For most, the train is the superior, stress-free way to absorb the stunning landscape without worrying about mountain driving or navigation.