Getting around Switzerland

Getting around Switzerland

Q: I am heading to the Swiss Alps in September with my 1-year-old. Any suggestions for getting around? I know the public transportation system is second to none, but with an infant, I was thinking that renting a car was a better option. Also what is the best resource for finding apartments for rent?

— Rob, Seattle

A: Your first instincts were right. The Swiss transportation system is one of the best in the world. Given the cost of renting a car, gas and the difficulty of reaching so many places that are so easily accessed by a combination of narrow gauge train, boat and bus, public transportation makes the most sense, even with a baby. Remember, this is how many Swiss people get around.

There are some incredible journeys through the Alps, tiny mountain villages and lakes, all linked seamlessly through a network of trains, buses and steamers timed for efficient connections. Swiss trains really do run like clockwork, so be prepared to arrive on time, or risk missing a crucial connection.

See www.myswitzerland.com,the Swiss tourism site, for more details and information on buying a Swiss Card from Rail Europe. The card provides round-trip travel from any Swiss airport or border station and a 50 percent discount on tickets for trains, lake steamers, postal buses and Alp excursions.

Vacation Rentals By Owners (www.vrbo.com) is a reliable source for apartment rentals throughout the world. There are many listings for apartments in various Swiss cities. One owner advertises a three-bedroom apartment (sleeps 6-8) in Zurich from $225 per night; Another has a two-bedroom chalet in Zermatt (well worth a trip by narrow gauge train) for $600-$700 per week.

— Carol Pucci, The Seattle Times

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