Car Shuttle Trains
Car shuttle trains, also known as auto trains, are vehicle transports by rail that carry travelers and their vehicles quickly and efficiently from one place to another. They offer a comfortable way to cross alpine mountain regions and avoid mountain pass roads. For this reason, the five car shuttle trains 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 shuttle trains work?
As a rule, no prior reservation is required to use the car shuttle trains. Drivers proceed directly to the tunnel entrance, pay the fare or present a ticket 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 shuttle train, the vehicle is driven onto specially designed 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.
Generally, 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 the train is moving is only permitted in emergencies, so this decision should be made before departure. Throwing cigarettes or other objects out of the windows is prohibited.
Paying for car shuttle trains
For most car shuttle trains, 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. Ticket procedures vary depending on the car shuttle train:
On some routes, the ticket can be registered to the license plate, so the barrier opens automatically upon entry.
If automatic license plate recognition is not available, a ticket with a QR code is usually issued, which must be scanned upon entry.
If scanning is not possible, the ticket can be shown to staff at the entrance.
If the ticket is not purchased in advance, it can be bought 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 trains?
Prices for car shuttle trains vary depending on the vehicle category, tunnel, and day of the week. Since vehicle categories and price tiers differ by tunnel, it is advisable to check the applicable classifications in advance. The following tunnels offer car shuttle trains:
Furka Tunnel: This car shuttle train runs entirely within Switzerland and connects Realp and Oberwald. Departures run hourly on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends. The journey takes around 15 minutes.
Vereina Tunnel: This route connects Klosters-Selfranga and Sagliains. Trains run every 30 minutes during the day, with a journey time of about 18 minutes.
Lötschberg Tunnel: This domestic Swiss car shuttle train connects Kandersteg and Goppenstein. Departures run every 30 minutes during the day, and the journey takes around 15 minutes.
Lötschberg–Simplon Tunnel: This connection between Switzerland and Italy allows a direct journey from Kandersteg to Iselle. It operates seasonally from April to October with one to nine departures per week. The journey takes about one hour.
Simplon Tunnel: This car shuttle train connects Brig with Iselle di Trasquera in Italy. Departures run every 90 minutes, and the journey takes around 20 minutes.
Are there discounts for vignette or rail pass holders?
No, holders of a Swiss motorway vignette do not receive any discounts on car shuttle trains. Rail passes such as the Interrail Pass also do not replace a ticket for car shuttle trains. A separate, specific ticket is required for each car shuttle train in every case.
Advantages and disadvantages of car shuttle trains
Advantages
Using car shuttle trains offers numerous advantages. In particular, they can significantly ease travel, for example when mountain pass roads are closed or when travelers wish to avoid them deliberately. Car shuttle trains enable fast and comfortable onward travel and are also described by many travelers as a special and enjoyable experience. In addition, car shuttle trains are considered a more environmentally friendly alternative to crossing the Alps individually.
Disadvantages
It should be noted that some tunnel passages can take a relatively long time, and the lighting may be switched off during the journey. Depending on personal sensitivity, the darkness and confined space may cause discomfort, such as claustrophobia or fear of tunnels. Although the vehicle's interior lighting can be turned on or a flashlight used, it is advisable to consider this aspect beforehand. If mountain pass roads are open and preferred, using car shuttle trains is not strictly necessary.
Tips for using car shuttle trains
It is advisable to check the timetables of the car shuttle trains in advance. Most connections run from early morning to late evening, but not at night. During the off-season, schedules may be limited.
In addition, it should be checked beforehand whether your own vehicle, particularly vans, motorhomes, or vehicles with trailers, meets the respective size restrictions. Any luggage attached to the outside 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 trip optimally and display the relevant toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to help. Feel free to contact us at any time by email.
