Switzerland’s legendary rail network offers one of the world’s most spectacular travel experiences. Gliding through snow-capped mountains, alongside crystal-clear lakes, and past charming villages, a Switzerland train tour delivers postcard-perfect views from the comfort of panoramic carriages. Whether planning your first Swiss adventure or returning to explore more of this alpine wonderland, this guide will help you navigate the country’s most breathtaking rail journeys, provide practical planning advice, and reveal lesser-known treasures along the tracks.
5 Iconic Swiss Scenic Train Routes
Switzerland’s rail network features several world-famous panoramic routes that showcase the country’s diverse landscapes. These engineering marvels take you through impossible terrain, offering unparalleled views and unforgettable experiences.
1. Glacier Express: The World’s Slowest Express Train
Route includes scenic Switzerland through majestic mountains. St. Moritz to Zermatt (or reverse)
Duration: This journey aboard the scenic train can vary based on your itinerary. 8 hours
Distance: 291 km (181 miles)
Key Stops: Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way. Chur, Andermatt, Brig
Often called the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express winds through the heart of the Swiss Alps, crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. The journey takes you through the Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon”), over the 2,033-meter Oberalp Pass, and past the iconic Matterhorn mountain. The train’s panoramic windows extend to the ceiling, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the spectacular scenery.
Unique Features of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: Gourmet dining service, audio guide, and special photography windows that can be opened.
2. Bernina Express: Highest Railway Crossing in Europe
Route: Chur/St. Moritz to Tirano, Italy (or reverse)
Duration: 4 hours: Ideal for a quick excursion to a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Distance: 144 km (90 miles)
Key Stops: Pontresina, Alp Grüm, Poschiavo
The Bernina Express is an engineering marvel that connects northern and southern Europe through the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway. It’s the highest railway crossing in Europe, climbing to 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) at the Bernina Pass. The train journey offers dramatic contrasts as you travel from glaciers to palm trees in a single day, passing the stunning Morteratsch Glacier and spiraling viaducts.
Unique features of this journey include a focus on the best Switzerland has to offer. Open-air observation cars in summer, multilingual audio guide, and the spectacular Brusio Circular Viaduct.
3. GoldenPass Line: Three Alpine Passes in One Journey
Route: Lucerne to Montreux (or reverse)
Duration: 5.5 hours
Distance: 191 km (118 miles)
Key Stops: Interlaken, Zweisimmen, Gstaad
The GoldenPass Line connects central Switzerland with Lake Geneva, taking you through three distinct regions with different landscapes and cultures. Starting in German-speaking Lucerne, you’ll pass by Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters, travel through the Simmental Valley’s rolling hills, and finish among the vineyards of French-speaking Montreux on Lake Geneva.
Unique Features: Belle Époque carriages available on select departures, VIP seats at the front with driver’s view, and the new GoldenPass Express with innovative gauge-changing technology.
4. Jungfrau Railway: Journey to the Top of Europe
Route: Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch
Duration: 35 minutes (one way)
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Key Stops: Eigerwand, Eismeer
The Jungfrau Railway is an engineering masterpiece that takes you to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). The cogwheel train climbs through tunnels carved inside the Eiger and Mönch mountains, with two stops at panoramic windows before reaching the “Top of Europe.” At the summit, you’ll find an ice palace, observation decks, and views of the 23-km-long Aletsch Glacier.
Unique Features: Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace with ice sculptures, and Alpine Sensation exhibition about the railway’s construction.
5. Gotthard Panorama Express: Historical Route Through the Alps
Route: Lucerne to Lugano/Bellinzona (or reverse)
Duration: 5.5 hours (including boat ride)
Distance: 182 km (113 miles)
Key Stops: Flüelen, Göschenen, Airolo, Bellinzona
The Gotthard Panorama Express combines a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne with a train journey through the historic Gotthard route. The railway section features remarkable engineering with spiral tunnels and loops that allow the train to gain elevation in limited space. You’ll experience a fascinating transition from German-speaking central Switzerland to the Italian-influenced Ticino region.
Unique Features: First-class panoramic carriages, a historic paddle steamer on Lake Lucerne, and on-board commentary about the route’s historical significance.
Practical Tips for Your Switzerland Train Tour
Planning a train journey through Switzerland requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here are essential tips to help you make the most of your Swiss rail adventure.
Best Swiss Rail Passes
- Swiss Travel Pass: A must-have for your journey aboard the scenic trains of Switzerland. The most comprehensive option, offering unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats for 3, 4, 8, or 15 consecutive days. Also includes free entry to over 500 museums and up to 50% discount on most mountain railways as part of your Switzerland tours.
- Swiss Half Fare Card: Valid for one month, this card gives you 50% off all train, bus, and boat tickets. Cost-effective if you’re staying longer but taking fewer trips.
- Swiss Travel Pass Flex: Similar to the regular Swiss Travel Pass but valid for any 3, 4, 8, or 15 days within a one-month period, offering more flexibility.
- Regional Passes: If you’re focusing on a specific area, consider regional options like the Berner Oberland Pass or Tell Pass.
Ready to Explore Switzerland by Train?
Check current prices and purchase your Swiss Travel Pass online to save time and ensure availability.Booking Strategies
- Book Panoramic Trains in Advance: Scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express require seat reservations (additional to your rail pass). Book these 2-3 months ahead, especially in summer and winter peak seasons.
- Consider Direction and Time: Morning journeys often offer better lighting for photography. For routes like the Bernina Express, the north-to-south direction puts the sun behind you for better views.
- First Class vs. Second Class: Second class is perfectly comfortable on Swiss trains, but first class offers more space and often less crowded panoramic windows on scenic routes.
- Use the SBB Mobile App: Download the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) app for real-time schedules, platform information, and mobile tickets.
- Luggage Forward Service: Consider using the door-to-door luggage service if you have heavy bags, allowing you to travel light between destinations.
Seasonal Recommendations
| Season | Advantages | Challenges: Navigating the alpine lakes can be a unique challenge during your Switzerland vacation. | Best Routes |
| Spring (April-June) | Blooming meadows, fewer crowds, moderate temperatures | Some high-altitude routes may still be closed due, unpredictable weather | GoldenPass Line, Gotthard Panorama Express |
| Summer (July-August) | All routes operational, longest daylight hours, clear visibility | Peak tourist season, advance bookings essential, higher prices | Bernina Express, Jungfrau Railway, all high-altitude routes |
| Fall (September-October) | Stunning foliage colors, fewer tourists, pleasant temperatures | Shorter days, some mountain facilities begin closing in October | Glacier Express, Centovalli Railway |
| Winter (November-March) offers a unique experience of Switzerland’s majestic mountains. | Snow-covered landscapes, Christmas markets, winter sports | Shorter daylight hours, possible weather delays, reduced schedules | Glacier Express Winter Route, Bernina Express (year-round) |
3 Hidden Gems Along Swiss Train Routes
While the major destinations along Switzerland’s train routes are undoubtedly spectacular, some of the most authentic and memorable experiences can be found in lesser-known stops. Here are three hidden gems worth adding to your Switzerland train tour itinerary.
1. Soglio: The “Gateway to Paradise”
How to Get There on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: Take the Bernina Express to St. Moritz, then connect via regional train and PostBus to Soglio, a highlight of your tour of Switzerland.
Nestled in the Bregaglia Valley near the Italian border, this tiny village was described by painter Giovanni Segantini as the “gateway to paradise.” With its stone houses, cobblestone streets, and spectacular views of the Sciora mountains, Soglio feels frozen in time. The village is car-free, and its 300 residents maintain traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Don’t Miss: The terraced gardens of Palazzo Salis, the 13th-century Church of San Lorenzo, and the local chestnut festival in October.
2. Mürren: Traffic-Free Alpine Village
How to Get There: From Interlaken, take the train to Lauterbrunnen, then a cable car and mountain railway.
Perched on a mountain terrace 1,650 meters above sea level, Mürren is a traffic-free village accessible only by cable car or mountain railway. Unlike its more famous neighbor Wengen, Mürren retains an authentic charm with fewer tourists, making it one of the charming towns to experience in Switzerland. The village offers spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains and serves as a perfect base for hiking in summer or skiing in winter.
Don’t Miss: The Thrill Walk at Birg station, the Inferno ski race in January (the world’s longest amateur downhill race), and the traditional Alpine Cheese Festival in summer are all part of the best Switzerland experience. Romantic Switzerland Honeymoon: Mürren is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a tranquil and picturesque getaway amidst the Swiss Alps.
3. Guarda: Fairytale Village in the Engadine
How to Get There: Take the Rhaetian Railway to Guarda station, then a short PostBus ride or 15-minute walk uphill to explore charming towns.
In the Lower Engadine Valley, the perfectly preserved village of Guarda looks like it stepped out of a storybook. Famous as the setting for the children’s story “Schellenursli,” the village features beautifully decorated houses with traditional sgraffiti (decorative scratched plasterwork), adding to the beauty of Switzerland. Guarda has received the “Wakker Prize” for maintaining its architectural heritage and offers a glimpse into traditional Engadine culture.
Don’t Miss: The Schellenursli Path (a themed trail based on the famous children’s book), the annual Chalandamarz festival on March 1st, and local artisan workshops where you can see traditional crafts.
Local Tip: Hidden Gem Train Experiences
For a truly unique experience, consider these lesser-known train journeys:
- Centovalli Railway (“Hundred Valleys”) between Locarno and Domodossola – a narrow-gauge railway through wild, romantic landscapes, perfect for an escorted tour.
- Furka Steam Railway – a heritage railway operating steam locomotives on the original mountain route between Realp and Oberwald
- Monte Generoso Railway – a cogwheel train to the summit of Monte Generoso offering views of both the Swiss and Italian Alps
7-Day Switzerland Train Tour Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
This carefully crafted week-long itinerary combines Switzerland’s most spectacular train journeys with enough time to explore key destinations, creating the perfect introduction to Swiss rail travel.
- Day 1: Zurich to Lucerne Morning: Begin your day with a scenic train trip through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Arrive in Zurich and take a direct train to Lucerne (1 hour). Experience Switzerland in the afternoon. Explore Lucerne’s Old Town, Chapel Bridge, and Lion Monument. Evening: Relax and enjoy the majestic views after a day of exploration. Enjoy dinner overlooking Lake Lucerne.
- Day 2: Lucerne – Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip Morning: Take a boat across Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad. Midday: Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus. Afternoon: Descend via cable car to Kriens and return to Lucerne by bus, enjoying the majestic views along the way.
- Day 3: Lucerne to Interlaken on the Luzern–Interlaken Express Morning: Board the Luzern–Interlaken Express panoramic train (2 hours). Afternoon: Arrive in Interlaken and explore the town between two lakes. Evening: Optional boat cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.
- Day 4: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Morning: Take the train from Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. Midday: Board the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch (3,454m). Afternoon: Explore the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and Alpine Sensation exhibition before returning to Interlaken.
- Day 5: Interlaken to Zermatt via the GoldenPass Line Morning: Take the GoldenPass Line from Interlaken to Zweisimmen. Midday: Change trains and continue to Visp, then connect to Zermatt. Evening: Arrive in car-free Zermatt and enjoy views of the Matterhorn.
- Day 6: Zermatt and Gornergrat Morning: Take the Gornergrat cogwheel railway to 3,089m for spectacular Matterhorn views. Afternoon: Optional hike down from Gornergrat to Riffelberg or return to Zermatt to explore the village. Evening: Enjoy Swiss cuisine at a traditional restaurant in Zermatt.
- Day 7: Glacier Express to St. Moritz/Chur Morning: Board the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz (8 hours) or Chur (5.5 hours). All Day: Enjoy the full-day panoramic journey through the Alps, including lunch on board. Evening: Arrive in St. Moritz or Chur. Connect to Zurich if flying out the next day.
Money-Saving Tips for Your Switzerland Train Tour
Switzerland’s reputation as an expensive destination is well-earned, but with some strategic planning, you can experience the country’s magnificent rail journeys without breaking the bank.
Smart Savings Strategies
- Book Super Saver tickets on SBB.ch up to 60 days in advance for discounts up to 70%
- Travel during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for lower prices
- Consider the Swiss Half Fare Card for longer stays with fewer train journeys
- Pack lunches for scenic train rides instead of dining on board
- Stay in smaller towns near major destinations (e.g., Spiez instead of Interlaken)
- Look for “Good Morning/Good Evening” discounted tickets for early or late departures
- Use the SBB app to find “supersaver” fares with limited availability for your tour packages.
Common Budget Mistakes
- Buying individual tickets instead of a pass for multiple journeys
- Not making seat reservations for panoramic trains in advance can hinder your experience on tours in Switzerland.
- Overlooking regional passes that might be more economical for your itinerary can enhance your experience in Switzerland and Italy.
- Missing the 7:30 PM cutoff for “Saver Day Passes” (must be purchased day before travel)
- Forgetting that children under 16 travel free with a parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass
- Not validating your Swiss Travel Pass Flex on the first day of use
- Paying for mountain excursions covered by your pass (check discounts first)
What to Pack for Your Switzerland Train Tour
Packing appropriately for Switzerland’s varied climate and terrain will enhance your train journey experience. Here’s what to bring for comfort and convenience on Swiss rails.
Essential Items
- Layered Clothing: Weather in the Alps can change rapidly, even in summer, so be prepared for your journey aboard. Bring lightweight layers you can add or remove.
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential for enjoying the scenic Switzerland by train tour. Many train stations require walking between platforms, and you’ll want to explore destinations on foot.
- Small daypack is recommended for your scenic Switzerland by train tour. For carrying essentials during day trips and excursions from the train on your escorted tours.
- Water Bottle: Swiss tap water is excellent, and you can refill at fountains throughout the country.
- Camera with Extra Batteries: Essential for capturing the breathtaking sights during your Switzerland travel. You’ll want to capture the spectacular views, and charging opportunities may be limited.
- Power Adapter: Switzerland uses Type J plugs (three round pins).
- Rail Pass and Reservations: Keep these accessible but secure throughout your journey aboard.
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer (June-August): Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, light rain jacket, and insect repellent.
- Fall (September-November): Warm sweater, light gloves, scarf, and waterproof jacket.
- Winter (December-February): Warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, thermal layers, and waterproof boots.
- Spring (March-May): Rain jacket, light sweater, and versatile layers for changing temperatures.
Capturing the Perfect Switzerland Train Tour Photos
Switzerland’s scenic railways offer endless photography opportunities. Here are some tips from your tour director to help you capture stunning images of your journey through the Swiss Alps.
- Research Photography Windows: On the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, some windows can be opened slightly for glare-free photos, enhancing your experience of Switzerland’s iconic trains. Ask the conductor which ones.
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: On the Bernina Express, sit on the right when traveling north to south. On the Glacier Express, the right side is better from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
- Golden Hours: Early morning and late afternoon provide the most dramatic lighting for mountain photography.
- Reduce Reflections: Use tips from your tour manager to enhance your photography. Hold your camera close to the window or use a polarizing filter to minimize reflections.
- Capture Motion: Use a slightly slower shutter speed (1/30 – 1/60) to convey the sense of movement while keeping the landscape sharp.
- Include the Train: Some of the most iconic shots include part of the train (like the red carriages) curving through the landscape.
- Be Ready: Research key photo spots in advance (like the Landwasser Viaduct on the Bernina Express) so you’re prepared when they appear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switzerland Train Tours
Is a Switzerland train tour worth it?
Absolutely. A Switzerland train tour offers unparalleled value for travelers seeking to experience the country’s stunning landscapes with maximum comfort and minimal hassle. While Swiss rail travel isn’t inexpensive, the engineering marvels of the railway system, panoramic views that are inaccessible by road, and the convenience of reaching remote alpine villages make it worth every franc.
The trains themselves are attractions, with their precision timing, impeccable cleanliness, and world-class panoramic carriages designed specifically for sightseeing on your Switzerland vacation. Additionally, a rail tour eliminates the stress of driving on mountain roads, finding parking, or navigating between destinations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery.
For photographers, nature lovers, and engineering enthusiasts alike, Switzerland’s train network offers experiences that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere in the world.
What is the most beautiful train ride in Switzerland?
This is subjective and depends on your preferences, but the Bernina Express is often cited as the most beautiful train ride in Switzerland. Its UNESCO World Heritage status recognizes not only the engineering achievement but also the harmonious way the railway blends with the spectacular landscape.
What makes the Bernina Express particularly special is the dramatic range of scenery it covers in just four hours—from the alpine glaciers at the Bernina Pass (2,253m) to the Mediterranean-like atmosphere of Tirano, Italy. The journey includes the spectacular spiral viaduct at Brusio, crystal-clear mountain lakes that reflect the surrounding peaks, and panoramic views that extend for miles.
That said, the Glacier Express offers a longer, more comprehensive Swiss experience, while the GoldenPass provides more diverse cultural transitions. The Jungfrau Railway journey to Europe’s highest station delivers the most dramatic high-altitude experience. Each route has its unique appeal, and ideally, a comprehensive Switzerland train tour would include several of these iconic journeys.
How much does a Switzerland train tour cost?
The cost of a Switzerland train tour varies widely depending on your travel style, the specific routes you choose, and whether you opt for guided tours in Switzerland or independent travel. Here’s a general breakdown of the best options for your tour of Switzerland:
- Budget: A 7-day self-guided tour using a Swiss Travel Pass (2nd class, currently around $430) and staying in budget accommodations could cost approximately $1,500-2,000 per person, including modest meals and some mountain excursions.
- Mid-range: The same itinerary with 1st class train travel (Swiss Travel Pass 1st class, currently around $680), better located hotels, and more mountain excursions would cost approximately $2,500-3,500 per person.
- Luxury: A guided tour with premium accommodations, 1st class panoramic trains, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences typically ranges from $4,000-9,000+ per person for a week.
Additional costs to consider include seat reservations for panoramic trains (approximately $30-50 per train), mountain railway excursions not fully covered by passes (some offer 50% discounts), and meals (which are relatively expensive in Switzerland).
While Switzerland is undeniably a premium destination, the exceptional quality of the experience, the precision of the transport system, and the breathtaking scenery provide excellent value for the investment.
Do I need to speak German, French, or Italian for a Switzerland train tour?
No, you don’t need to speak the local languages to enjoy a Switzerland train tour. English is widely spoken throughout the Swiss railway system and tourist areas. All major train stations have English signage, and announcements on panoramic trains are typically made in multiple languages, including English.
Train conductors, tourist information staff, and hotel personnel generally speak excellent English. The Swiss Federal Railways website and app are fully available in English, making it easy to check schedules and book tickets.
That said, learning a few basic phrases in the local language of each region (German in the north and east, French in the west, Italian in the south) is always appreciated and can enhance your cultural experience.
Embark on Your Switzerland Train Tour Adventure
A Switzerland train tour offers one of the world’s most spectacular travel experiences, combining engineering marvels with breathtaking natural beauty. From the glacier-covered peaks of the Bernina Pass to the Mediterranean charm of Lake Geneva, Swiss trains connect diverse landscapes and cultures with comfort, precision, and panoramic views that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Whether you’re planning your first visit to Switzerland or returning to explore more of this alpine wonderland, the country’s exceptional rail network provides the perfect way to experience the heart of Europe. Pack your camera, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed by the unforgettable journey that awaits on Switzerland’s iconic trains and majestic mountains.
Start Planning Your Swiss Rail Adventure
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