What Are Car Shuttle Trains?

Car shuttle services are car-carrying trains that transport travellers and their vehicles quickly and efficiently from one location to another. They offer a convenient way to cross mountainous regions while avoiding alpine pass roads. For this reason, the five car shuttle services operating at four locations in Switzerland (Furka, Lötschberg, Simplon, and Vereina) are considered a practical and straightforward option for crossing the Alps.

How Do Swiss Car Shuttle Trains Work?

As a general rule, car shuttle trains do not require advance reservations. Instead, drivers proceed directly to the tunnel entrance, pay the fare (or present a previously purchased ticket), and then drive onto the train. A reservation is only mandatory for the Lötschberg–Simplon route between Kandersteg and Iselle.

To use the car shuttle service, vehicles must be driven onto the train, which is equipped with specially designed loading wagons to ensure safe transport. Once the vehicle is positioned on the loading wagon, drivers should engage first gear or select park mode, apply the handbrake, and switch off the engine.

In general, passengers must follow the instructions provided on signage and by on-site staff. Travellers may either remain in their vehicle or move to the passenger carriage, depending on the specific route and available facilities. It is important to note that leaving the vehicle during the journey is strictly prohibited except in emergencies. This decision must therefore be made prior to departure. In addition, discarding cigarettes or other objects from windows is not permitted.

Payment for Car Shuttle Services

Tickets for most car shuttle services can be purchased online in advance. If multiple lanes are available at the entrance and a ticket has already been purchased, drivers may use the self-service lane. Ticket systems vary depending on the shuttle service:

• For some services, tickets can be registered to the vehicle’s licence plate, allowing the barrier to open automatically upon approach.
• If automatic licence plate recognition is not available, a ticket with a QR code is usually issued, which must be scanned to access the train.
• If scanning is not possible, either digitally or in printed form, the ticket can be presented directly to staff at the entrance.

If tickets are not purchased in advance, they may also be bought on site. In this case, however, the self-service lane cannot be used. Tickets purchased on site must be obtained either from a staffed ticket counter or a ticket machine.

Which Tunnels Offer Car Shuttle Services?

The cost of car shuttle services varies depending on the vehicle category, tunnel, and day of the week. Vehicle classifications and price tiers differ by tunnel, making it essential to verify the specific classification applicable to your vehicle. The following tunnels offer car shuttle services:

• Furka Tunnel: This service operates entirely within Switzerland and connects Realp and Oberwald. Departures run hourly on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
• Vereina Tunnel: Located within Switzerland, this route connects Klosters-Selfranga and Sagliains. Departures operate every 30 minutes during the day, with a travel time of 18 minutes.
• Lötschberg Tunnel: This Swiss domestic service connects Kandersteg and Goppenstein. Departures run every 30 minutes during the day, and the journey takes 15 minutes.
• Lötschberg–Simplon Tunnel: This international route connects Switzerland and Italy, offering a direct link between Kandersteg and Iselle. Operation is seasonal, from April to October, with between one and nine departures per week. The journey duration is approximately one hour.
• Simplon Tunnel: This route links Switzerland with Italy, connecting Brig and Iselle di Trasquera. Departures take place every 90 minutes, with a travel time of 20 minutes.

Are Discounts Available for Vignette or Rail Pass Holders?

No, discounts are not available for holders of the Swiss motorway vignette. Similarly, rail passes such as the Interrail Pass do not replace a car shuttle ticket. In all cases, a separate and specific ticket is required to use car shuttle services.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Car Shuttle Trains

Advantages

Car shuttle services offer several advantages, most notably the fact that they can significantly simplify travel, particularly when mountain passes are closed or when travellers prefer to avoid them. Car shuttle trains provide a fast and efficient route to the destination. Additionally, many travellers regard the experience as unique and enjoyable. Another important benefit is that car shuttle services are more environmentally friendly than individual mountain crossings.

Disadvantages

Travellers should consider that tunnel journeys can be relatively long and that lighting may be switched off during transit. Depending on personal comfort levels in confined or dark environments, this may cause discomfort such as claustrophobia or tunnel anxiety. While interior vehicle lighting may be used or a torch carried, it is advisable to consider this aspect in advance. If mountain passes are open and preferred, the use of car shuttle services is not mandatory, and experienced drivers may safely navigate the passes themselves.

Tips for Using Car Shuttle Services

Travellers intending to use car shuttle services are advised to check departure schedules in advance. Most services operate from early morning until late evening, but not overnight. During the off-season, reduced timetables may apply.

To ensure eligibility for transport, vehicle dimensions should be checked in advance, particularly for vans, motorhomes, or vehicles towing caravans. In addition, all luggage carried externally must be securely fastened.

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Trip

We wish you a pleasant journey to the Czech Republic and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country’s impressive landscapes. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your trip optimally and display the relevant toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. You can contact us at any time by email.