I'm planning a trip that will take me through Switzerland, Germany, and Austria

After looking into the matter, I've decided against buying a rail pass and plan to by 2nd class train and bus tickets from point to point.

After research on the rail service websites of the three countries, I know which trains and buses I want to take and when.

Can I buy the tickets all at once in Zurich (where my plane lands), or must I and/or should I buy separately the tickets for each country?

The first ticket I buy will be from Zurich to St. Gallen; the last will be a night train from Salzburg to Zurich. Can I buy the night train ticket from Salzburg to Zurich in Zurich when I arrive, even though the trip originates in Austria? (If possible I want to make an early reservation on that one trip to be sure I get a sleeper on the night train.)

Bill in Connecticut

The railways use computer systems for bookings so, of course, you can book a sleeper from Salzburg to Zürich at the station in Zürich (or at any other Swiss station). As far as I can see, the night train leaves Salzburg at 0045 and gets to Zürich at 0620, so you won't get a full night's sleep for your money.

Hi Ion,

>Can I buy the tickets all at once in Zurich (where my plane lands), ...<

Usually, Yes.

You can definitely buy tickets that originate or terminate in Switzerland.

You might have difficulty buying tickets between Germany and Austria in Switzerland, but I don't think you will.

Have a nice visit.

I'm back from my trip. Had a great time

At the Swiss Rail travel agency in the Zurich airport, the agent advised me that it would be cheaper to buy my train tickets in the country where each trip originated, rather than buying all my tickets at one time from the Swiss office. Even a trip that terminated in Switzerland, but originated in Austria or Germany, was more expensive if bought in Switzerland, he told me.

good information! thanks for posting back for us. glad you had a great trip.