SBB FreeSurf

SBB FreeSurf

Free Internet

36 ratings
59 reviews
Free

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • December 8, 2020
  • November 17, 2025

Features

SBB FreeSurf screenshot #1 for iPhone
SBB FreeSurf screenshot #2 for iPhone
SBB FreeSurf screenshot #3 for iPhone
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About

Access free internet on SBB long-distance trains. This app leverages strong mobile coverage for a faster connection than traditional train Wi-Fi. It's available for customers with specific Swiss mobile contracts and international travelers with participating SIM cards.

✓Free internet access on SBB trains
✓Faster and smoother connection
✓Utilizes mobile phone coverage
✓Automatic recognition via beacon
✓SMS confirmation for registration
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What's New in SBB FreeSurf

1.3.7

November 17, 2025

Bug fixes and general improvements

User reviews

Only European rail without WiFi

We’ve been traveling by train for over a month in 10 European countries and this is the only train system without a wifi network to connect to. This app approach also doesn’t work; the software for Swiss rail has been fairly poor compared to the other countries. At least the trains do run on time though.
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Only for SWISS phone number

Just like others have said, you have to have a SWISS phone number, doesn’t work with French phone number

Traveler from Abroad

Agree with review from over a year ago- forcing purchase of prepaid eSIM is crazy - I thought the Swiss were more efficient; shouldn’t be that hard - wifi, connect and access that’s it - just like the rest of the world. I’d still need to charge them add as option in SBB app.

Don’t

Don’t waste your time and your phone battery , doesn’t work unless is Swiss phone number

Leider unbrauchbar

Bei praktisch jedem anderen europäischen Anbieter sind überregionale Verbindungen mit WLAN ausgestattet. In meinem EU-Vertrag ist ein Datenvolumen für Drittstaaten inkludiert. Hier ernsthaft von Kund:innen zu erwarten explizit für den Internetzugang auf einem der für Konsumenten teuersten Zugnetze einen Datenvertrag zu erwerben ist mMn eine ziemliche Frechheit. Wäre schön wenn man in einem IR nach Olten den gleichen 🛜 Service genießen könnte wie in einem ICE…
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Response from developer

SBB FreeSurf ist die leistungsfähigere, technologieunabhängigere und kostengünstigere Lösung als ein WiFi. Reisende aus dem Ausland können mit einer SIM Karte eines beteiligten Providers im Zug kostenlos surfen. Dank eSIM und DUAL-SIM geht das vergleichsweise einfach. Alle Informationen zu SBB FreeSurf, Gratis-Internet im Zug mit der App SBB FreeSurf, erhalten Sie unter www.sbb.ch/freesurf.

Developer apps

FAQ

What is SBB FreeSurf?

SBB FreeSurf is an application that provides free internet access to passengers on SBB long-distance trains. It utilizes the strong mobile phone coverage along the rail routes to offer a faster and smoother connection compared to conventional train Wi-Fi.

Who can use SBB FreeSurf?

Customers with a digitec, Quickline, Salt, Sunrise, or Swisscom mobile phone contract can use the app for free internet. International passengers with a SIM card (including eSIM) from a participating mobile provider can also benefit from this service.

How do I activate SBB FreeSurf?

When you board a train marked with 'FS' in the timetable, open the SBB FreeSurf app. The app uses a beacon for automatic recognition. After successful registration, you will receive an SMS confirming your free internet access via your mobile provider.

Is SBB FreeSurf available on all trains?

SBB FreeSurf is available on SBB long-distance trains, specifically IC and IR types. Trains offering this free internet connection are marked with ‘FS’ (for FreeSurf) in the online timetable.

Does SBB FreeSurf cost anything?

The SBB FreeSurf app itself is free to download and use. The service provides free internet access, but you will need a mobile phone number from a participating provider to register and utilize the service.