SBB

SBB, or Swiss Federal Railways, is the national railway company of Switzerland. In German, French, and Italian its name reflects the three official languages: Schweizerische Bundesbahnen (SBB), Chemins de fer fédéraux suisses (CFF), and Ferroviaria Federale Svizzera (FFS). The company is owned by the Swiss Confederation and headquartered in Bern. It operates an integrated rail network that serves passenger and freight traffic across the country and coordinates with cantonal and private railways.

History and role: SBB was established in 1902 through the nationalization of several private railways to form a single national operator. Since its creation, it has been a key instrument in shaping Switzerland’s compact, highly interconnected transport system, known for dense timetables, high punctuality, and a high share of electrified lines.

Operations: The company runs long-distance and regional passenger services as well as freight operations. Its passenger services include InterCity and EuroCity trains, as well as regional services such as RegioExpress and city-based networks. SBB also operates cross-border services in cooperation with neighboring railways, including the Lyria joint venture with SNCF to Paris and other routes. It provides digital travel information, ticketing products such as the Swiss Travel Pass, and oversees freight logistics within the national logistics framework.

Network and equipment: SBB relies on an extensive electrified rail network and uses a mix of locomotives and electric multiple units to serve high-speed, intercity, and regional services. Major passenger hubs include Zürich Hauptbahnhof, Basel SBB, and Genève-Cornavin. The company collaborates with private operators to maintain integrated timetables and Fare systems across Switzerland.