Car Shuttle Trains
Car trains, also known as vehicle shuttle trains, are vehicle transports by rail that carry travelers and their vehicles quickly and efficiently from one place to another. They represent a convenient way to cross alpine mountain regions and bypass mountain pass roads. For this reason, the five car shuttle services at the four locations in Switzerland (Furka, Lötschberg, Simplon, and Vereina) are considered a practical and straightforward option for crossing the Alps.
How do Swiss car trains work?
As a rule, no prior reservation is required to use the car trains. Drivers proceed directly to the tunnel entrance, pay the fare or present a ticket already purchased in advance, and then drive onto the train. A reservation is only mandatory for the Lötschberg–Simplon route between Kandersteg and Iselle.
To use the car train, the vehicle is driven onto specially designated loading wagons that ensure safe transport. Once the vehicle is positioned, first gear should be engaged (or park mode activated), the handbrake applied, and the engine switched off.
In general, the instructions on the signage as well as the directions given by staff must be followed. Depending on the route, travelers may either remain in their vehicle or move to the train's passenger carriages. Leaving the vehicle while it is in motion is only permitted in emergencies, so this decision should be made before departure. Throwing cigarettes or other items out of the windows is prohibited.
Paying for car trains (vehicle shuttle services)
For most vehicle shuttle services, tickets can be purchased online in advance. If several lanes are available at the entrance and a ticket has already been purchased, the self-service lane can be used. Ticketing procedures vary depending on the shuttle service:
On some routes, the ticket can be registered to the license plate, so the barrier opens automatically upon entry.
If there is no automatic license plate recognition, a ticket with a QR code is usually issued, which must be scanned at the entrance.
If scanning is not possible, the ticket can be shown to the staff at the entrance.
If the ticket is not purchased in advance, it is possible to buy it directly on site. In this case, however, the self-service lane cannot be used. Purchases can be made either at a staffed counter or at a ticket machine.
Which tunnels offer car shuttle services?
Prices for car shuttle services vary depending on vehicle category, tunnel, and day of the week. Since vehicle categories and price tiers differ from tunnel to tunnel, it is advisable to check the applicable classifications in advance. The following tunnels offer car shuttle services:
Furka Tunnel: This car shuttle service runs entirely within Switzerland and connects Realp and Oberwald. Departures run hourly on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends. The journey takes about 15 minutes.
Vereina Tunnel: This route connects Klosters-Selfranga and Sagliains. During the day, trains run every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 18 minutes.
Lötschberg Tunnel: This domestic Swiss car shuttle service connects Kandersteg and Goppenstein. Departures run every 30 minutes during the day, and the journey takes about 15 minutes.
Lötschberg–Simplon Tunnel: This connection between Switzerland and Italy allows for a direct journey from Kandersteg to Iselle. Operation is seasonal, from April to October, with one to nine departures per week. The journey takes about one hour.
Simplon Tunnel: This car shuttle service connects Brig with Iselle di Trasquera in Italy. Departures run every 90 minutes, and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
Are there discounts for vignette or rail pass holders?
No, holders of a Swiss motorway vignette are not entitled to any discounts on car shuttle services. Rail passes such as the Interrail Pass also do not replace a ticket for car trains. A separate, specific ticket is required for each car shuttle service in every case.
Advantages and disadvantages of car trains
Advantages
Using car shuttle services offers numerous advantages. In particular, they can significantly ease travel, for example when mountain pass roads are closed or when travelers wish to deliberately avoid them. Car trains enable a fast and comfortable continuation of the journey and are also described by many travelers as a special and enjoyable experience. In addition, car shuttle services are considered a more environmentally friendly alternative to crossing the Alps independently.
Disadvantages
It should be noted that tunnel crossings can sometimes take longer, and the lighting may be switched off during the journey. Depending on personal sensitivity, darkness and confined space can cause discomfort, such as claustrophobia or fear of tunnels. Although the vehicle's interior lighting can be switched on or a flashlight used, it is still advisable to consider this aspect in advance. If mountain pass roads are open and preferred, using car shuttle services is not strictly necessary.
Tips for using car shuttle services
It is advisable to check the car train timetables in advance. Most connections run from early morning until late evening, but not overnight. During the off-season, schedules may be limited.
In addition, it should be checked in advance whether your own vehicle, particularly vans, motorhomes, or vehicles with trailers, meets the respective size restrictions. Any luggage attached to the outside of the vehicle must be securely fastened.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
We wish you a pleasant journey to Switzerland and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country's impressive nature. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your journey optimally and display the corresponding toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. Feel free to contact us at any time via email.
