Pendelzug BDeh 4/4 82 of former Chemin de fer Bex-Villars-Bretaye at Bex station square

Bex Railway Station

Bex Railway Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide in Canton Vaud, Switzerland

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Bex Railway Station (Gare de Bex) stands as a vital transport hub in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland, connecting the serene town of Bex with prominent Swiss cities, historic sites, and breathtaking alpine landscapes. Serving both the Lausanne–Simplon mainline and the iconic narrow-gauge Bex–Villars–Bretaye (BVB) railway, the station not only enables smooth regional mobility but also offers a window into the region’s rich history and architectural charm. This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing, nearby attractions, travel tips, and more, equipping you for a memorable journey through Bex and its surroundings.

BDeh 4/4 82 vintage train at Bex station

Historical B 62 passenger car of former Chemin de fer Bex-Villars-Bretaye at Bex station square

Steuerwagen Bt 64 of the former Chemin de fer Bex-Villars-Bretaye train at Bex station square

Postal bus and narrow gauge regional train waiting outside Bex railway station

Introduction
Location & Accessibility
Station Opening Hours & Ticketing
Station Facilities & Services
Historical Background & Architectural Features
Key Attractions Near Bex Station
Outdoor & Seasonal Activities
Practical Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals & Media
Summary Table: Attractions at a Glance
Internal & External Links
Conclusion & Call to Action
Sources

Location & Accessibility

Bex Railway Station is centrally located at Avenue de la Gare 68, 1880 Bex, Switzerland. Its position on the Lausanne–Simplon mainline ensures direct connections to Lausanne, Geneva, Brig, and beyond. The station is a terminus for the BVB cog railway, providing access to alpine resorts such as Villars-sur-Ollon and Bretaye.

Access Options:

Train: Frequent Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF) services stop at Bex, linking to national and international routes.
Bus: Regional buses connect Bex with nearby villages and attractions.
Car: Easily reached via the A9 motorway (Swiss motorway vignette required).
Air: Geneva International Airport is approximately 110 km away; direct trains from the airport reach Bex in 1.5–2 hours.
Cycling: Bike paths and secure parking are available at the station (vaud-welcome.ch).

Station Opening Hours & Ticketing

Station Hours:
Open daily from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM. Ticket counters operate during standard business hours; ticket machines are accessible 24/7.

Ticketing Options:

At the Station: Purchase tickets for SBB/CFF, BVB, and regional buses at counters or machines.
Online/App: Use the SBB website or mobile app for real-time schedules and digital tickets (switzerlandinsider.com).
Travel Passes:
- Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited national travel on trains, buses, and boats, plus free/discounted museum entry.
- Mobilis Vaud Pass: Unlimited travel within the Canton of Vaud.
- Junior Card: Free travel for children 6–15 with an adult (CHF 30/year).
- Supersaver Tickets: Discounted off-peak fares via SBB app/website.

Ticket Inspection:
Always travel with a valid ticket, as fines apply for non-compliance.

Station Facilities & Services

Waiting Areas: Covered seating on platforms and inside.
Accessibility: Step-free access, ramps, and elevators for reduced mobility (vaud.ch).
Restrooms: Public toilets available.
Luggage Storage: Lockers and left-luggage service for short/long-term needs.
Wi-Fi: Free station Wi-Fi.
Parking: Short- and long-term parking, bike parking, and carsharing services.
Tourist Office: Maps, brochures, and local advice at Office du Tourisme de Bex (myswitzerland.com).

Historical Background & Architectural Features

Established in the late 19th century, Bex Railway Station played a pivotal role in the region’s transport and economic development (Lake Geneva Railways). The BVB cog railway, inaugurated between 1898 and 1913, enabled access to mountain resorts and required innovative rack railway engineering (Wikipedia: Bex–Villars–Bretaye railway).

The station blends classic Swiss railway design with historical tramway elements. Vintage rolling stock and the preserved BVB terminal add to its architectural allure, making it a favorite among rail enthusiasts and photographers.

Key Attractions Near Bex Station

Bex Salt Mines (Mines de Sel de Bex)

Distance: 3 km from station (bus, taxi, or 35-min walk)
Opening Hours: Generally 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (seasonal variation)
Tickets: ~CHF 15 (adult); discounts for children, seniors, groups
Features: Guided tours, miners’ train, salt tasting, museum exhibits
Accessibility: Not fully wheelchair accessible; some assistance available (Torpille)

Château d’Aigle

Distance: 7 km (10-min train ride)
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays
Tickets: ~CHF 10 (adult); free for under 16
Features: Medieval castle, Vine & Wine Museum, panoramic views (Torpille)

Les Plans-sur-Bex

Distance: 10 km (bus/car)
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing

Parcours Vita

Type: Outdoor fitness trail in a scenic setting; free access

Yvorne Vineyards

Activities: Wine tasting, vineyard walks

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Distance: 20–30 min by train
Highlights: Boat cruises, lakeside promenades, museums

Peak Walk Glacier 3000

Access: Train to Aigle, bus, then cable car
Activities: Suspension bridge, glacier walks, year-round snow sports

Outdoor & Seasonal Activities

Hiking & Cycling: Numerous trails of varying difficulty depart from Bex, offering alpine, riverside, and vineyard routes. Bicycles are allowed on most regional trains for a small fee (Newly Swissed).
Winter Sports: Skiing and snowboarding at Villars-Gryon and Leysin resorts, easily accessible by train.
Weekly Markets & Festivals: Local markets and seasonal festivals showcase regional products and traditions.

Practical Travel Tips

Weather: July averages 18–28°C with around 12 rainy days; pack layers and rain protection (globalhighlights.com).
Language: French is the main language; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF); credit cards accepted, but carry some cash (The World Pursuit).
Electricity: Type J outlets; bring a universal adapter.
Safety: Switzerland is very safe; standard precautions suffice.
Entry Requirements: From 2025, ETIAS authorization is required for visa-exempt travelers (switzerlandinsider.com).
Dining & Accommodation: Reserve ahead in peak seasons; options range from budget hotels to alpine lodges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Bex Railway Station’s opening hours?
A: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: At the station (counters/machines), via SBB Mobile app, or online.

Q: Is the station wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and assistance available.

Q: Are there luggage storage facilities?
A: Yes, lockers and left-luggage services are onsite.

Q: What are must-see attractions nearby?
A: Salt Mines of Bex, Château d’Aigle, alpine resorts, vineyards, and Lake Geneva.

Q: Are bicycles allowed on trains?
A: Yes, for a small fee.

Visuals & Media

Images:
- “Bex Railway Station entrance”
- “Interior of Bex Salt Mines tour”
- “View from Château d’Aigle overlooking vineyards”
- “BVB cog railway at Bex Station”
- “Vaud Alps panorama from BVB railway”
Maps: Interactive maps and virtual tours are available on the Transports Publics du Chablais website and at the Bex Tourist Office.

Summary Table: Attractions at a Glance

Attraction	Distance	Type	Highlights
Bex Salt Mines	3 km	Historical/Natural	Guided tours, salt tasting, museum
Château d’Aigle	7 km	Historical/Cultural	Castle, wine museum, vineyard views
Parcours Vita	In Bex	Outdoor Fitness	Nature trail, exercise stations
Les Plans-sur-Bex	10 km	Nature/Scenic	Hiking, wildflowers, wildlife
Villars-sur-Ollon	30 min	Alpine Resort	Skiing, hiking, family activities
Lake Geneva	20–30 min	Scenic/Cultural	Boat cruises, museums, promenades
Yvorne Vineyards	5 km	Gastronomy/Nature	Wine tasting, scenic walks
Peak Walk Glacier 3000	1.5 hr	Adventure/Scenic	Suspension bridge, glacier activities

Internal Links

[Travel Tips for the Vaud Region]
[Swiss Railway Travel Guide]
[Top Hiking Trails in the Chablais Alps]

Conclusion & Call to Action

Bex Railway Station is your portal to the Chablais Vaudois, offering seamless transport, historical intrigue, and access to some of Switzerland’s most captivating natural and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer alpine escape, the station’s facilities and strategic connections make your journey simple and rewarding.

Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, offline maps, and ticketing. For personalized assistance and the latest travel information, consult the SBB and Bex Tourist Office websites. Stay connected with us on social media for additional tips and inspiration as you explore Bex and beyond.