Interlaken and Zermatt are two of the most popular tourist spots in Switzerland. You might consider staying in both of these places if you spend a week in Switzerland. Traveling by train within Switzerland is an easy, comfortable, and impressive journey. So I would definitely recommend traveling by train between Interlaken and Zermatt. This article discusses what you need to know to travel from Interlaken to Zermatt.
With its high winter peaks, great scenery, sailing on Lake Thun, walking, and biking, Interlaken is a real treasure. On the other hand, Zermatt is one of the ultimate destinations in Switzerland. One of its symbols is the Matterhorn, which you’ll see on Toblerone chocolates, too. They’re both awesome places to stay and visit. Lots of people are probably going to try and see the two while they’re here.
If you are thinking of taking the train from Interlaken to Zermatt or the other way around, read on below.
Here’s how to get from Interlaken to Zermatt and vice versa.
To begin, you can go to SBB’s website: www.sbb.ch.
You can put your departure and arrival destinations on the website. It will then guide you to where and when you need to be. An app is also available for iOS and Android devices.
If you wish to pay half the fare for all your train rides in Switzerland, a Half Fare Discount Card is available at www.sbb.ch. Your discount card allows you to travel and board most trains throughout Switzerland for half the price.
How to Travel From Interlaken to Zermatt
To travel by train from Interlaken to Zermatt, you will have to take the following trains:
- Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Spiez.
- In Spiez, take the train to Visp.
- In Visp, take the train to Zermatt.
The travel time from Interlaken to Zermatt is 2 hours and 14 minutes to 2 hours and 21 minutes.
How to Travel From Zermatt to Interlaken
To travel by train from Zermatt to Interlaken, you will have to take the following trains:
- Take the train from Zermatt to Visp.
- In Visp, take the train to Spiez.
- In Spiez, take the train to Interlaken Ost.
The travel time from Zermatt to Interlaken is 2 hours and 13 minutes to 2 hours and 21 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Interlaken to Zermatt?
As of the time of writing (updated December 2022), there are no direct trains from Interlaken to Zermatt.
To get to either Interlaken or Zermatt, you will have to take 2 regional trains and an Intercity train between Visp and Spiez.
How Long Is the Train Ride From Interlaken to Zermatt?
The following table shows the train ride duration from Interlaken to Zermatt:
| Route | Duration (fastest) |
| Zermatt – Interlaken West | 2 hours 8 minutes |
| Zermatt – Interlaken Ost | 2 hours 13 minutes |
| Interlaken West – Zermatt | 2 hours 9 minutes |
| Interlaken Ost – Zermatt | 2 hours 14 minutes |
Is the Train Route From Interlaken to Zermatt Scenic?
Not entirely. The train route from Zermatt to Interlaken via Spiez and Visp is not entirely scenic. In fact, between Spiez and Visp, the train goes through the Lötschberg Tunnel.
However, the route from Zermatt to Visp is quite scenic and is actually part of the Glacier Express route.
If you want to take a more scenic route between Spiez and Visp, you’ll have to go via Kandersteg. Even though this will take longer, you won’t be going through a tunnel. You’ll have beautiful views of the Swiss Alps while you’re on the train.
How Much Will the Train Ticket From Interlaken to Zermatt Cost?
As of the time of writing (updated December 2022), here are the train ticket prices from Interlaken to Zermatt:
| Route | Full Fare (CHF) | Half Fare (CHF) |
| Zermatt – Interlaken Ost | 83.00 | 41.50 |
| Zermatt – Interlaken West | 81.00 | 40.50 |
As you can see, if you avail of the Half Fare Travel Card, you can definitely save on your fare for long train journeys. So this is definitely something to consider during your travel to Switzerland. You can do simple calculations and decide from there if it will be worth it for you.
Do You Need a Seat Reservation on the Train?
No, there is no need to reserve a spot on the train. But you can always add this option if that is your wish.
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