Halbtax explained
Half-fare travel in Switzerland, in plain words.
What it is
A card that gives you half price on most trains, trams, buses and boats in Switzerland. It sits on your SwissPass.
The price
Adults: CHF 190 for a year until 12 Dec 2026, CHF 195 from 13 Dec 2026. Ages 16 to 24: CHF 120 (unchanged). Renewals cost less. Prices can change, so check sbb.ch.
See the price on sbb.ch →
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Meet someone for coffeeWho it's worth it for
SBB says it pays off after about four second-class return trips Bern to Zurich. If you travel outside the city a few times a month, it usually does.
How to buy
Online at sbb.ch or at a staffed station counter. It is loaded onto your SwissPass.
Halbtax PLUS
A prepaid credit on top of your Halbtax: pay CHF 800 and get CHF 1000 to spend on tickets. Larger packages exist. The Halbtax itself is not included, and unused credit expires.
Day pass with Halbtax
The SBB Saver Day Pass costs from CHF 29 in 2nd class with a Halbtax, instead of from CHF 52 without. You must buy it at least one day ahead, and the number of passes is limited.
Halbtax or GA?
The GA (Generalabonnement) is a flat rate for almost all travel and costs several thousand francs a year in 2nd class. The Halbtax is much cheaper and pays off if you only travel further now and then. Check current prices on sbb.ch.
See sbb.ch →