Is the SBB seat reservation mandatory on long‑distance trains?

No. The SBB seat reservation is optional and sits on top of your usual ticket. It costs CHF 5 per seat, per trip segment, on most long‑distance services. Italy and Germany routes are planned next. You can still board without reserving, but a seat is not guaranteed at busy times.

How do I book and pay the CHF 5 seat fee?

You can book the SBB seat reservation in the SBB app, on the website, or at staffed counters. The CHF 5 seat fee is added during checkout and processed with your normal payment method. Keep your reservation confirmation handy in case on‑board staff request it during ticket checks.

Will ticket prices change because of seat reservations?

Based on current reports, the CHF 5 seat fee is an add‑on and separate from base fares. The SBB seat reservation provides guaranteed seating without changing the underlying ticket type. Watch for future SBB updates for any pricing adjustments or bundled offers that combine tickets and reservations.

What should investors and operators watch next?

Focus on adoption rates for the SBB seat reservation, customer satisfaction trends, and on‑time performance during peak periods. Also track international rollout to Italy and Germany, app conversion, and any new bundles or loyalty tie‑ins that could lift ancillary revenue and payment transaction volumes.

Global Market Insights

March 22: SBB Expands CHF5 Seat Reservations Across Most Long-haul Trains

ByHuzaifa Zahoor March 22, 2026March 22, 2026

SBB seat reservation is expanding across most Swiss long‑distance trains for a CHF 5 seat fee. From March 22, travelers can secure seats on many domestic routes, with Italy and Germany services to follow. This change streamlines Swiss rail bookings, adds comfort on busy routes, and supports better capacity planning. For investors, the move signals rising ancillary revenue and potential payment volume gains tied to long-distance train reservation demand. We explain what changed, why it matters, and what indicators to watch next.