SBB: new summer routes for cross-border workers to Italy and Europe

Context

TL;DR

• New direct Zurich-Rimini train for summer 2026
• TGV connections to southern France from April 2026
• Nightjet services expanded to new German and Austrian destinations

Key facts

• New route: Zurich to Rimini
• Start date: 30 May 2026
• End date: 4 October 2026
• TGV routes: Lausanne and Geneva to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille
• TGV start date: 16 April 2026
• TGV end date: 2 November 2026
• Nightjet routes: Zurich and Basel to Bremen, Hamburg, Graz, Vienna, and Wörthersee region
• Construction impact: Intensive rail construction activity affecting Ticino routes and connections to Lombardy

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) have announced a series of new direct rail routes for summer 2026, designed to facilitate travel for cross-border workers from Ticino and provide alternatives to road traffic. The connections will begin on 30 May and remain in operation until 4 October 2026, overlapping with the traditional summer rail construction season, which typically reduces services.

Among the key innovations is the new direct Zurich–Rimini train, running throughout the summer season. The route, which previously had no direct connections, will allow Ticino commuters to reach the Adriatic coast without changing trains. This offers a practical option for those seeking beach destinations at more affordable prices compared to flights or private vehicles.

For cross-border workers heading to southern France, TGV connections between Lausanne and Geneva and the cities of Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille will start on 16 April. The trains will operate until 2 November, covering nearly the entire summer and autumn tourist season. While the route already exists, it is being extended to new destinations with a frequency designed to meet growing demand for travel to Provence.

SBB CFF FFS has also enhanced overnight travel with its Nightjet service, linking Zurich and Basel to destinations such as Bremen, Hamburg, Graz, Vienna, and the Wörthersee region. The overnight connections are ideal for travellers looking to optimise their journey time by avoiding midday arrival at their destination. However, punctuality remains a challenge for Nightjet services: historically, these trains experience delays above the average of daytime services, particularly in summer.

Despite the new offerings, SBB CFF FFS has emphasised that summer 2026 will see intensive rail construction activity. The company advises travellers to always check the online timetable before departure to verify any route changes or replacement bus services. The construction work primarily affects Ticino routes and those connecting the canton to Lombardy, with potential impacts on cross-border connections.

Detailed routes

📊 New direct routes for Ticino cross-border workers

What changes for Ticino cross-border workers

⚠️ Important considerations

• Construction work: Intensive rail maintenance is planned for summer 2026, particularly on Ticino routes and connections to Lombardy. Travellers should expect possible disruptions and are advised to check the online timetable regularly.
• Nightjet punctuality: Overnight trains may experience delays, especially during peak summer travel periods. Plan accordingly to avoid missed connections or late arrivals.
• New destinations: The expanded TGV and direct services offer greater flexibility for leisure and business travel, reducing reliance on private vehicles or flights.

💡 Tip: Use the SBB Mobile app or website to receive real-time updates on train schedules and potential substitutions with replacement buses during construction periods.

For cross-border workers who travel daily between Ticino and Lombardy, the new routes represent an opportunity to cut travel time and costs associated with using a car. In particular:

• Rimini can now be reached in under 5 hours from Zurich, without the need to travel to Milan and then take a regional train.
• Avignon and Marseille offer cross-border commuters the chance to reach southern France in under 4 hours from Lausanne or Geneva, avoiding highway traffic toward the Brogeda or Gaggiolo border crossings.
• Night connections allow travelers to depart in the evening and arrive at their destination the next morning, ideal for those heading to Austria or Germany for work or tourism.

However, the effectiveness of these new routes will also depend on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) ability to maintain punctuality, which in 2025 stood at 94.1% despite over 20,000 railway construction sites. While this figure is positive, there is still room for improvement, especially during the summer months when delays are more frequent.

Before vs After: What Changes for Commuters

Before summer 2026, Ticino’s cross-border workers aiming to reach Rimini had to pass through Milan Centrale, requiring at least one transfer and a total travel time of over 6 hours. Now, the direct Zurich–Rimini connection reduces the journey to just under 5 hours, with evening departures allowing travelers to arrive by the next morning.

For those heading to southern France, the situation had already improved with the introduction of TGV services between Lausanne/Geneva and Paris. Now, the extension to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille enables direct access to tourist destinations without passing through the French capital. This is particularly useful for those seeking destinations like the Camargue or the French Riviera, which have historically been less well-served by international connections.

Nightjet services, on the other hand, represent a new development for travelers heading to Austria or Germany. Until now, night connections were limited to a few destinations, such as Vienna or Munich. Now, with the addition of routes to Bremen, Hamburg, and the Wörthersee region, cross-border commuters have far more options.

⚠️ Beware of Construction Work: What You Need to Know Before Departing

Summer 2026 will see intense railway construction activity, which could lead to delays or replacement with substitute buses. SBB CFF FFS has already published an interactive map of construction sites on its website, where users can check route changes in real time. The company has also activated a notification service via its app to alert passengers to delays or cancellations.

For cross-border workers, this means it is essential to check schedules before setting off, especially if using the new direct routes. In the event of a bus replacement, travel times could increase significantly, making some destinations less convenient.

💡 An Opportunity for Ticino Tourism

The new routes are not just for cross-border workers, but also for tourists choosing Ticino as their destination. Rimini, for instance, is a popular seaside spot among Swiss people, particularly in summer. With the direct connection from Zurich, it will now be easier for Ticinesi to plan day trips without having to drive for hours.

Similarly, Avignon and Marseille are ideal destinations for those looking to spend a weekend in southern France. The possibility of reaching these cities in under four hours could encourage cross-border workers to spend more time abroad, bringing benefits to the local economy.

Operational details

The FFS' new summer rail routes represent a significant shift for cross-border workers from Ticino, though they also raise questions about their actual utility and whether Swiss railways can handle such an extensive offering during a period already complicated by construction work. Let’s examine in detail the practical implications of these changes.

Benefits for cross-border workers: time and cost savings

For workers who cross the border between Ticino and Lombardy daily, the new routes offer tangible savings in both time and money. The direct Zurich-Rimini connection, for example, eliminates the need to navigate Milan’s motorway traffic and the subsequent transfer at Milano Centrale. Those who opt for driving must contend with tolls, fuel costs, and the risk of border queues, especially during the summer months.

Connections to France also present an interesting alternative. Avignon and Marseille are increasingly popular destinations for Ticino cross-border workers, both for work and leisure. With the new TGV services from Lausanne and Geneva, these cities can now be reached in under four hours without detouring through Paris or facing delays due to transfers.

Nightjet services are ideal for those traveling to Austria or Germany for work or holidays. The ability to depart in the evening and arrive at the destination the next morning is a major advantage, particularly for those with rigid work schedules. However, the quality of these services remains uncertain: Nightjet trains are notoriously less punctual than daytime services, and summer 2026 may not be an exception.

Risks: construction work and punctuality

Summer 2026 will see an unprecedented concentration of rail construction projects. According to the FFS, the works will primarily affect Ticino’s rail routes and those connecting Ticino to Lombardy, with potential repercussions on cross-border services. This means that, despite the new routes, cross-border workers may be forced to rely on replacement buses or face delays above the average.

Another critical factor is train punctuality, which stood at 94.1% in 2025. While this figure is positive, there is room for improvement. In summer, delays are more common due to increased traffic and weather conditions, which can slow down maintenance work.

For cross-border workers, this translates into an absolute need to check schedules before departure. The FFS has introduced an app-based notification service, but not all commuters are accustomed to using such tools. Additionally, if buses are substituted, travel times could lengthen significantly, making some destinations less convenient.

Comparing rail with driving: when it pays to switch

For many Ticino cross-border workers, driving remains the most convenient and flexible option. However, with the new rail routes, there are situations where trains become a competitive alternative.

Case 1: Zurich-Rimini

• Train: 5 hours, evening departures, arriving the next morning; ticket price not yet specified.
• Car: 4.5 hours (with traffic), tolls, fuel, parking; total estimated costs between 80 and 120 CHF.
• Conclusion: The train is the better option when factoring in the hidden costs of driving (tolls, fuel, parking) and the risk of border queues.

Case 2: Lausanne/Geneva-Avignon

• Train: 3 hours and 45 minutes, multiple daily departures; ticket price not yet specified.
• Car: 3 hours (without traffic), tolls and fuel estimated between 50 and 80 CHF.
• Conclusion: The train is competitive when considering the convenience of not having to drive and the risk of motorway congestion.

Case 3: Night trains to Austria

• Train: Departure in the evening, arriving the next morning; ticket price not yet specified.
• Car: 7-8 hours (with traffic), tolls and fuel estimated between 150 and 200 CHF.
• Conclusion: The train is undoubtedly more cost-effective in terms of both time and expenses, even if punctuality remains uncertain.

📊 New routes as tourism opportunities

The new routes are not just for cross-border workers but also for tourists choosing Ticino as their destination. Rimini, for instance, is a popular seaside destination among Swiss people, especially in summer. With the direct connection from Zurich, it will now be easier for Ticinesi to plan day trips abroad without spending hours behind the wheel.

Similarly, Avignon and Marseille are ideal destinations for a weekend in southern France. The ability to reach these cities in under 4 hours could encourage cross-border commuters to spend more time abroad, benefiting the local economy.

However, the success of these new routes will also depend on the SBB's ability to provide a reliable service. If delays and bus replacements become frequent, many commuters may revert to driving, particularly for short trips.

💡 What the experts say

Railway sector analysts highlight that the new routes represent a step forward for cross-border mobility but warn that their effectiveness will be tested by the SBB's capacity to manage summer construction sites. According to experts, the key to success will be the timely communication of delays and route changes so that commuters can plan their journeys accordingly.

Moreover, it is emphasized that the new routes could have a positive environmental impact by reducing the number of cars on the road and, consequently, CO2 emissions. However, this benefit will only materialize if train demand is high enough to convince cross-border workers to leave their cars at home.

⚠️ Expert tip: Always check the latest updates on SBB Mobile or SBB website before traveling, as summer construction work may affect schedules.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

With summer 2026 just around the corner, the FFS are introducing a series of new railway routes that promise to revolutionise cross-border mobility for the people of Ticino. But how can you take advantage of these opportunities without running into delays or misunderstandings? Here is a step-by-step guide to organize your trip, check availability and make the most of the new connections.

Step 1: Check the availability of the routes

The new routes are operational from 16 April 2026 for connections to France and from 30 May 2026 for the Zurich-Rimini train. The Nightjets, on the other hand, will leave on a date not yet specified. To find out exactly when it will be possible to book, it is advisable to visit the FFS website or use their official app.

Here's how to do it: - Go to sito delle FFS and select the desired route. - Enter the departure date and check the availability of trains. - Check for any notices of construction sites or route changes.

Step 2: Book your ticket

FFS has not yet published the prices of the new connections, but the costs are likely to be similar to those of existing services. Here are some tips to save money: - Book in advance: Tickets for TGVs and Nightjets are usually cheaper if purchased at least 1-2 months before departure. - Use subscriptions: If you plan to travel often, a monthly or annual pass may be more affordable. - Take advantage of offers: FFS periodically launches promotions for train travel, especially during the summer season.

To purchase tickets: - Online on sito delle FFS - At the ticket machines in the main Ticino stations (Lugano, Bellinzona, Locarno, Mendrisio). - Via the official FFS app, available for iOS and Android.

Step 3: Check for construction sites and delays

Summer 2026 will be characterized by intense railway construction site activity. To avoid surprises, it is essential to: - Consult the mappa interattiva dei cantieri of the FFS. - Subscribe to app notifications to receive real-time updates on delays or cancellations. - Check the timetables of the replacement buses, which may be active in the event of works on the main line.

If you plan to use the Zurich-Rimini train or TGVs to France, it is advisable to leave at least 1 hour before the scheduled time, to have a margin in case of delays.

Step 4: Prepare the necessary documents

To travel abroad with the new connections, you must have with you: - Identity card or passport: Valid for entry into Italy, France, Germany and Austria. - Train ticket: Printed or saved on your phone. - Additional travel documents: If you are traveling with bulky luggage or pets, you must check the conditions of carriage.

For cross-border commuters travelling to Italy, it is important to remember that: - You do not need the Green Pass to travel on trains. - You can take petrol for private use up to 20 litres with you, without having to go through customs. - For journeys longer than 7 days, it is advisable to declare any purchases of goods subject to duty.

Step 5: Arrange your return trip

When planning a trip abroad, it's easy to forget to make your return arrangements as well. Here are some tips: - Book your return ticket at the same time as your outbound ticket, to ensure availability. - Check the timetables of the return trains, especially if you are using night connections. - Take into account time zones: Italy and France are one hour ahead of Switzerland, while Austria and Germany are in line.

If you plan to return late in the evening, it is advisable to book a taxi or a private transport service to reach your home, especially if you live in a location that is not well served by public transport in Ticino.

Step 6: Take advantage of local offers

The new train routes are not only used to reach the final destinations, but also to discover intermediate destinations. For example: - Avignon: In addition to the city itself, you can visit the vineyards of the Rhône Valley or the beaches of the Camargue. - Rimini: The cities of Romagna, such as Riccione and Cattolica, can be reached in a few minutes by bus or regional train. - Bremen: The German city offers a unique combination of medieval history and modern culture, with quaint museums and neighborhoods.

Before leaving, it is useful to consult the local tourist guides or the websites of the chambers of commerce of the destinations, to find out about events and special offers.

What happens if you miss your train?

If, despite all the precautions, you miss your train due to a delay or cancellation, here's what to do: - Contact the FFS customer service: By calling 0848 44 66 88 (from abroad: +41 51 220 48 48) or by sending an email to [email protected]. - Request a partial refund: If the delay exceeds 30 minutes, you can request a refund of 25% of your ticket. If the delay exceeds 60 minutes, the percentage rises to 50%. - Use assistance services: In case of need, the railway stations are equipped with assistance desks and heated waiting rooms.

An opportunity not to be missed

The new FFS railway sections represent a unique opportunity for Ticino cross-border commuters to reduce travel times and costs related to travel abroad. However, their effectiveness will depend on the ability to guarantee a reliable and punctual service, especially in a summer characterized by construction sites and maintenance work.

To make the most of these changes, it is essential to plan ahead, check schedules and take into account possible delays. Only in this way will it be possible to fully enjoy the advantages offered by the new routes, without running into unpleasant surprises.

💡 Practical tip: If you plan to use the new connections often, it is useful to download the FFS app and activate notifications to receive real-time updates. This way, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are always informed of any changes to the route or arrival times.

Source: rsi.ch

First day as a cross-border worker? Our practical guide walks you from cantonal registration to your first paycheck.