Embark on a captivating journey through Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes with our scenic rail adventures. Glide past crystal-clear lakes, towering snow-capped peaks, and charming alpine villages as you travel on world-renowned routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express. Whether you’re crossing iconic bridges or winding through lush valleys, each train ride offers a unique window into Switzerland’s natural beauty. Perfect for both seasoned explorers and first-time visitors, these unforgettable rail journeys combine comfort, luxury, and breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Switzerland is renowned for its scenic train journeys, especially the panoramic trains that offer breathtaking views of the Alps, lakes, and charming villages. Here are some of the most popular panoramic trains in Switzerland:
1. Glacier Express
- Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Highlights: Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express covers the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps, including 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and the famous Oberalp Pass.
- Best Views: Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s Grand Canyon), Matterhorn, and the Engadin Valley.
- Features: Panoramic windows, gourmet meals served at your seat, and audio guides.
2. Bernina Express
- Route: Chur/Davos to Tirano (Italy)
- Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage route, this journey offers spectacular views as it climbs the Bernina Range, passes through the spiral viaduct at Brusio, and crosses the stunning Bernina Pass.
- Best Views: Lago Bianco, Morteratsch Glacier, and the Poschiavo Valley.
- Features: Panoramic windows, open-air cars (in summer), and photo stops.
3. GoldenPass Line
- Route: Lucerne to Montreux (via Interlaken)
- Highlights: The journey connects central Switzerland to the shores of Lake Geneva, offering diverse landscapes, from lakes to rolling hills and vineyards.
- Best Views: Lake Thun, Brünig Pass, and the picturesque villages of the Bernese Oberland.
- Features: Classic Belle Époque carriages (on select trains), panoramic windows, and gourmet snacks.
4. Gotthard Panorama Express
- Route: Lucerne to Lugano (via boat and train)
- Highlights: The journey begins with a scenic boat ride across Lake Lucerne before transitioning to a panoramic train that passes through the historic Gotthard route, showcasing the engineering marvel of the Gotthard Tunnel.
- Best Views: Lake Lucerne, Reuss Valley, and the dramatic southern slopes of the Alps.
- Features: Commentary on board, first-class panoramic coaches, and a combination of boat and train travel.
5. Voralpen Express
- Route: St. Gallen to Lucerne
- Highlights: This lesser-known panoramic train offers beautiful views of the pre-Alpine landscape, charming small towns, and peaceful lakes.
- Best Views: Lake Zurich, rolling hills near Rapperswil, and the Toggenburg region.
- Features: Comfortable panoramic coaches with large windows and easy access to major cities.
6. Luzern-Interlaken Express
- Route: Lucerne to Interlaken
- Highlights: Part of the GoldenPass Line, this journey offers stunning lake views and majestic mountain panoramas as you travel between two of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations.
- Best Views: Lake Lungern, Brünig Pass, and the peaks of the Bernese Alps.
- Features: Panoramic windows, family-friendly compartments, and convenient connections to further destinations.
These trains are designed for immersive sightseeing, making them ideal for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of Switzerland.
