Train Journeys in Switzerland
4 of the most beautiful train journeys in Switzerland
List of 4 beautiful train journeys in Switzerland
1. Bernina Express: from alps to palm trees
Route: Chur or St. Moritz – Tirano (Italy)
Duration: ± 4 hours
Characteristic: UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Bernina Express is one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world. You travel over 196 bridges and through 55 tunnels, reaching up to 2,253 metres at the Bernina Pass. Along the way, you’ll see the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, the Morteratsch Glacier, and turquoise mountain lakes. This panoramic train connects the high Alpine region with sunny Italy, ending among the palm trees in Tirano. The large panorama windows give you an unforgettable view. No matter the season, whether summer or snowy winter landscapes, every moment is breathtaking.
2. Glacier Express: the longest panoramic train ride
Route: Zermatt – St. Moritz (or vice versa)
Duration: ± 8 hours
Nickname: The Slowest Express Train in the World
The Glacier Express connects two of Switzerland’s most popular mountain destinations: Zermatt and St. Moritz. In about eight hours, you travel past deep gorges, high bridges, and over the impressive Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres. The entire route is a series of breathtaking landscapes, including Alpine meadows, rivers, glaciers, and charming villages.
4. Gotthard Panorama Express: history and nature
Route: Lucerne – Flüelen (boat) – Lugano (train)
Duration: ± 5.5 hours
The Gotthard Panorama Express combines a scenic boat trip with a historic train journey. From Lucerne, you can first sail across the beautiful Lake Lucerne to Flüelen. After that, you travel by panoramic train along the old Gotthard route, through mountain villages, tunnels, and past waterfalls. One of the highlights is the view of Wassen Church, which you can see from three different angles thanks to the famous spiral tunnels. This route follows the original Gotthard tunnel from 1882 and is full of Swiss history and natural beauty.
5. Lucerne–Interlaken Express – short, scenic and stunning
Route: Lucerne – Interlaken
Duration: ± 2 hours
The Lucerne–Interlaken Express is a short but impressive journey. You travel along the sparkling Lake Lucerne, climb over the Brünig Pass, and arrive in the heart of the Jungfrau region. Thanks to the large windows, you have continuous views of lakes, forests, and mountains. This train is perfect if you want to get a taste of Switzerland in just a few hours or as an addition to the GoldenPass or Gotthard Panorama Express.
Which train journey suits you?
Each panoramic train in Switzerland has its own charm. Looking for a long ride packed with highlights? Then choose the Glacier Express. Fancy contrasts between mountains and Italy? The Bernina Express is perfect. Want a shorter trip to enjoy Swiss nature? The Lucerne–Interlaken Express is ideal. Whichever you pick, you’re guaranteed a unique train experience.
We’ve taken all four of these train journeys ourselves during our big train adventure through Switzerland. It was an amazing experience full of variety, calm moments, and unforgettable views. Curious about our full route, tips, and experiences? Read more in our other blogs!