Experience the Best of Swiss Summer with All-Inclusive Guest Card
Updated: Jun 7
Are you dreaming of a perfect summer getaway in Switzerland, where many aspects of your trip are taken care of? Look no further than Switzerland's all-inclusive summer travel cards! These cards offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the breathtaking Swiss Alps, charming villages, and stunning landscapes without worrying about transportation or activity costs. In this article, we'll delve into three of our favorite all-inclusive summer guest cards: the Upper Engadine Card, Arosa Card, and Carte Bienvenue (Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets).
If you are using short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb, make sure you inquire about the availability of these all-inclusive cards before you book. In some regions, short-term rentals do not qualify or only qualify under certain circumstances.
Timeframe: Valid from 1 May to 31 October 2024.
How to Get It: Simply book a minimum of 2 nights in any participating hotel and inquire about the Upper Engadine Card.
Highlights: Enjoy complimentary rides on amazing cable cars like the Funicular Railway Muottas Muragl and the Aerial cable car to Corviglia and Piz Nair. Public transport included.
Why Stay There: The Upper Engadine Card is the best of all-inclusive experiences, granting access to spectacular mountain railways that lead to unforgettable hikes and panoramic views of the Engadine Valley. Whether you prefer the vibrant ambiance of St. Moritz or the small-town charm of Pontresina, Silvaplana, or Celerina, this card ensures a Swiss-style stay filled with adventure and relaxation. Learn more here about the upper Engadine card. During our last visit to the Engadine Valley, we stayed at Conrad's Mountain Lodge in Silvaplana, which I highly recommend.
What to do: Explore our recommended short trip to Engadine on days 4 and 5 of this article.
Timeframe: Valid from 8 June to 20 October 2024.
How to Get It: Just spend one night in an Arosa hotel, holiday apartment, or campsite, and you'll receive the Arosa Card at the reception.
Highlights: Take advantage of the cable car ride up to Weisshorn and enjoy reduced entrance fees for attractions like the bear sanctuary, boat rentals on the Obersee, and convenient public transport access.
Why Stay There: Arosa is tailor-made for a delightful summer weekend escapade. With the Arosa Card in hand, you can explore scenic trails, engage in water activities, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while relishing the comfort and affordability of your accommodation. Here is a summary of our favourite Arosa stay.
What to do: Discover more activities and insights in our article about Arosa.
Timeframe: Specific summer dates for 2024 are yet to be announced but are likely to be from July to October.
How to Get It: Stay in any affiliated accommodation in Ollon, Gryon, or Ormonts-Dessus (Les Diablerets) which contribute to the tourist tax.
Highlights: Enjoy a cable car journey up to Roc d'Orsay and convenient public transport options to explore the region.
Why Stay There: Opt for accommodation in Villars Sur Ollon for breathtaking views of the valley and a chance to glimpse the majestic Mont Blanc. The Carte Bienvenue is given to you when you stay in an accommodation in the communes of Ollon, Gryon, and Ormonts-Dessus (Les Diablerets) that are affiliated with and contribute to the tourist tax in 2023, excluding Airbnb accommodations. Learn more about Carte Bienvenue here.
Other All-Inclusive Travel Cards in Switzerland
In addition to the Upper Engadine Card, Arosa Card, and Carte Bienvenue, Switzerland offers a range of other all-inclusive travel cards. Here are some honorable mentions:
Davos Klosters Premium Card
Timeframe: Available during the summer season.
Website: Davos Klosters Premium Card
Highlights: Free use of mountain railways, discounted or free admission to numerous leisure facilities, and complimentary public transport within the Davos Klosters region.
Saastal Card
Timeframe: Valid from June to October.
Website: Saastal Card
Highlights: Free use of cable cars, postal buses, and discounts on various recreational activities in the Saastal region.
Appenzeller Holiday Card
Timeframe: Summer season.
Website: Appenzeller Holiday Card
Highlights: Unlimited travel on public transport in Appenzell, including mountain railways and cable cars, along with free admission to museums and discounts on cultural events.
Ticino Ticket
Timeframe: Throughout the year.
Website: Ticino Ticket
Highlights: Free use of public transport throughout the Ticino region, including boats on the lakes, buses, and trains, allowing easy exploration of this Italian-speaking Swiss canton.
Interlaken Guest Card
Timeframe: Available during the summer months.
Website: Interlaken Guest Card
Highlights: Free travel on local buses and trains in the Interlaken area, as well as discounts on various attractions and activities.
Scuol Guest Card
Timeframe: Summer season.
Website: Scuol Guest Card
Highlights: Free use of public transport in the Lower Engadine region, including the Scuol-Motta Naluns mountain railway, and discounts on wellness facilities and local attractions.
Bernese Oberland Pass
Timeframe: Valid during the summer season.
Website: Bernese Oberland Pass
Highlights: Unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, and many mountain railways in the Bernese Oberland region, including popular destinations like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen.
Tell Pass
Timeframe: Available for varying durations (e.g., 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days).
Website: Tell Pass
Highlights: Free travel on trains, buses, boats, and some mountain railways in Central Switzerland, covering iconic locations such as Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, and Lake Lucerne cruises.
Kandersteg Guest Card
Timeframe: Generally valid during the summer months.
Website: Kandersteg Guest Card
Highlights: Free access to local buses, discounted rates for cable cars and mountain railways, and various benefits in Kandersteg and its surrounding areas.
These additional all-inclusive travel cards offer a wealth of benefits, from free transport to discounts on attractions, making them perfect companions for an unforgettable Swiss holiday. Each card is tailored to enhance your experience in specific regions, allowing you to immerse yourself in Switzerland's diverse landscapes, cultural treasures, and outdoor adventures with ease and convenience.
