Empey2826
Survival Guide for “Wren” (Renens VD) and the 350 CHF Panic
Just a small tip for future travelers to avoid the “Wren” trap (the station is actually Renens VD—the “s” is silent, but the sprint between platforms is legendary).
Before anyone spends 350 CHF out of panic next time:
Platform Change = SBB’s Responsibility: If you miss a connection because the SBB changed the platform last minute (especially in a construction bottleneck like Renens), your original ticket remains valid. There is no need to buy new tickets. Any conductor will see the delay/change in the system and allow you to board the next train for free—even with a “SuperSaver” ticket.
The 350 CHF “Donation”: Since you actually managed to catch your original EuroCity in Zurich, you officially arrived at your destination on time. This means the SBB’s new “Compensation” button in the app (v12.50) won’t help at all. It only compensates for lost time (60+ minutes), not for “panic purchases.”
Renens Construction: Always allow extra time there. It’s a massive construction site and moving heavy ski gear from platform 1 to 4 is a workout, not a stroll.
Keep those 350 CHF for some decent Weisswurst and Beer in Munich next time—it’s much better value than buying tickets you already owned!