Thanks for the update, quanmama!

Travelforbeer -- normally, yes, you're right; no reservations are necessary. On some specially marketed "scenic trains" like the Glacier Express, reservations are required. On some seats on the Golden Pass (the VIP seats), reservations are either required or highly recommended.

Have fun as you plan!

s

Thanks for letting us know, quanmama! I'm glad you enjoyed your trip.

Beer - yes seat reservations are optional on Swiss trains except those noted by swandav - in 2nd class on IC trains you may find them fairly full or even SRO at rush hours yet in first class you will rarely IME not see lots of empty seats.

Many thanks swandav2000 and PalenQ. I had forgotten about the seat reservation advice on the GE and GP routes since they are of no interest to me.