Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass: the guide to Switzerland's panoramic trains, their routes, fares and tips for booking.
Switzerland's panoramic trains are among the finest rail experiences in the world. Carriages with large picture windows, dizzying viaducts, Alpine passes and shimmering lakes: travelling by train here is an attraction in its own right. Here are the flagship routes, their highlights and our tips for booking.
The great panoramic trains at a glance
- Glacier Express: Zermatt – St. Moritz, the "slowest express train in the world", about 8 hours.
- Bernina Express: Chur – Tirano, a UNESCO World Heritage route, up to 2,253 m altitude.
- GoldenPass Line: Lucerne – Interlaken – Montreux, from the Alps to Lake Geneva.
- Gotthard Panorama Express: Lucerne – Lugano, combining boat and train into Ticino.
- Jungfrau Railway: the ascent to the Jungfraujoch, the highest station in Europe.
The Glacier Express
Linking two legendary resorts, Zermatt (at the foot of the Matterhorn) and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express crosses 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 m. The journey takes about 8 hours through pristine Alpine scenery. Seat reservation is compulsory; a lunch served at your seat is available.
The Bernina Express
The Bernina Express crosses the Alps without a summit tunnel, through spectacular UNESCO-listed landscapes (Albula/Bernina). It climbs to the Bernina Pass (2,253 m) then descends to Tirano in Italy, passing the famous Brusio spiral viaduct. It is one of the most photogenic rail journeys in Europe.
The GoldenPass Line
From Lucerne to Montreux via Interlaken, the GoldenPass links central Switzerland to Lake Geneva. The new variable-gauge train now allows a direct journey between Interlaken and Montreux without changing. The route crosses the Bernese Oberland, the Pays-d'Enhaut and the vineyards above Lake Geneva.
How to book and pay less?
- Panoramic trains require a supplement and seat reservation, on top of the ticket.
- The Swiss Travel Pass covers most routes (excluding the supplement).
- Book early in high season (summer, holidays): the panoramic cars fill up fast.
- You can also ride only a section of the route to reduce cost and time.
When to go?
Summer reveals green Alpine pastures; winter offers fairy-tale snowy landscapes. Autumn, with its colours, is superb and less crowded. Each season transforms the experience.
Go further with TOP SUISSE
Combine your train journey with the discovery of the cities and our most beautiful lakes. To eat well along the way, see the dining category, book via the Reservation page, and browse all the categories and our guides.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful panoramic train in Switzerland?
The Glacier Express (Zermatt – St. Moritz) and the Bernina Express (Chur – Tirano) are the most famous. The Bernina (UNESCO) is often judged the most spectacular; the Glacier Express the most complete.
Do you need to reserve for the Glacier Express and Bernina Express?
Yes. A seat reservation and a supplement are compulsory on top of the ticket or pass. Book in advance in high season, as the panoramic seats sell out quickly.
Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover the panoramic trains?
The Swiss Travel Pass covers the basic journey of most panoramic trains, but the seat reservation supplement must be paid separately.
How long does the Glacier Express take?
The full journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz takes about 8 hours. You can also ride only a section, for example Chur – Zermatt, for a shorter day.
