Switzerland has a landmass of approximately 41,000 square kilometers, which is very manageable, despite its narrow dimensions of 220 by 348 kilometers. That is only half the extent of Lake Superior in the United States and Canada. Or two and a half times the magnitude of Beijing.
However, the totality of all railway tracks that traverse the nation will exceed 5,200 kilometers. That is the distance between Vancouver and Halifax. Alternatively, from São Paulo to Ushuaia. Alternatively, from Sydney to Cairns. Please return! You comprehend the concept. The Swiss have a strong affinity for trains.
It is therefore unsurprising that a few of the 5,200-odd kilometers in this region are quite visually appealing, given that it is frequently associated with breathtaking scenery. Regardless of whether you intend to embark on a grand train voyage or a road vacation.
I will provide you with an overview of the five most picturesque and exceptional train journeys in Switzerland in this post. Excluded are mountain railways. (If you are interested, a distinct post contains a selection of breathtaking mountain railways in Switzerland.)
Switzerland Scenic Train:
1. The Golden Pass Line
Connecting the heart of Switzerland to the coasts of Lake Geneva is the Golden Pass Line. This extraordinary voyage traverses three mountain passes, travels through six distinct cantons (the Swiss equivalent of states), and establishes a connection between two language regions. It also passes by eight lakes.
Additionally, it provides approximately one billion photo opportunities.
- Duration: 6 hours 4 minutes
- Distance: 191 kilometres (119 miles)
- Transfers: Interlaken and (depending on the connection) Zweisimmen
- Schedule: Trains run eight times a day, all year round.
- Accepted travel passes: The Eurail, Interrail, Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) and the SBB Saver Day Pass are fully accepted on the Golden Pass Line.
Seat reservation:
A reservation is not required to utilize the Golden Pass trains if you are traveling in first or second class. Nevertheless, it is advisable to make a seat reservation during peak periods to ensure that you secure a seat. Particularly between Interlaken and Montreux.
A reservation is necessary for travel in the Prestige Class between Interlaken and Montreux. In just a few steps, you can reserve your seat for the Golden Pass Line on Swiss Activities.
Getting off along the way:
It is effortless to interrupt your voyage between Lucerne and Montreux in order to investigate the region in between. Probably the most suitable locations for a stopover are Interlaken or Brienz. If you do not have a reservation for the entire voyage, you are free to disembark as frequently as you wish.
Good to know:
Two distinct trains comprise the Golden Pass line. One travels from Lucerne to Interlaken, while the other travels from Interlaken to Montreux.
Book your Golden Pass Package
#1: Golden Pass Tickets and Reservations
- one-way tickets for the segment you have chosen
- Reservations for seats in the first, second, and prestige classes
- Cancellation policy: 24 hours
Purchase your ticket or reservation with just a few keystrokes.
#2: Golden Pass Tour
- Three nights and four days (hotel included)
- Reservations for Golden Pass seats are included.
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Discover more Golden Pass Packages
- Magical trains and winter wonderlands
- Roundtrip Panorama
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
GOLDEN PASS LINE HIGHLIGHTS:
Lucerne
The majority of individuals commence their Golden Pass excursion in Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke, a timber footbridge that spans the River Reuss, is the most well-known attraction in this picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne, as well as the renowned Lion’s Monument and the Glacier Garden. If you are seeking an exciting activity prior to embarking on your scenic train journey to Montreux, there are numerous options available in Lucerne.
Lake Lungern and Brünig Pass:
While traveling from Lucerne to Interlaken, you will see Lake Lungern. Sitting on the right side of the lake, which is situated in a valley, provides the most picturesque view. The most breathtaking vistas of Lake Lungern are located on the left when approaching from Interlaken.
The train commences its ascent to Brünig Pass, which is situated at an elevation of 1.008 meters (3.307 feet) above sea level, after past the lake. As you descend to Interlaken from the pass, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of Lake Brienz and the Bernese Alps.
As you travel from Brienz to Interlaken, you will pass by Lake Brienz, which is one of my favorite Swiss lakes. The Giessbach waterfalls, which are renowned for their 14 cascades, are visible with a careful examination.
Interlaken:
Interlaken is the starting point for numerous adventures, and the majority of visitors to Switzerland travel through it at some stage. There is an abundance of activities to engage in in Interlaken.
Activities include a boat ride on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, a trip to the villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, an adrenaline-packed session of skydiving, paragliding, or canyoning, or a leisurely hike in the presence of the renowned Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountain trio. Additionally, a very expensive cruise up the Jungfrau (Top of Europe) is available. In Interlaken East, you will be required to transfer to a different train.
Lake Thun and Spiez:
People are frequently taken aback by Lake Thun. While en route to Spiez, you may comprehend the affection that everyone has for this lake by gazing out the window. For optimal views, secure a location on the right side.
Spiez, a delightful village, is situated on the borders of Lake Thun. An optional one-hour stopover provides ample opportunity to explore the picturesque town with its vineyards, visit the castle, or take a brief plunge in the beautiful Lake Thun.
Bernese Oberland:
The Bernese Oberland is traversed by a significant portion of the Golden Pass Line. This region is a paradise for mountain enthusiasts and encapsulates the essence of Switzerland. Lakes, mountains, glaciers, verdant meadows with grazing cows, numerous hiking trails, stunning landscapes, and charming small villages.
The region becomes a refuge for the snow-seeking population during the winter. Gstaad, the Bernese Alps’ counterpart to St. Moritz, is of particular popularity. Relish the view by peering out the window…
Montreux:
Montreux signifies the conclusion or commencement of the Golden Pass Line. The gateway to numerous attractions in the region is this stunning city situated by Lake Geneva.
There is an abundance of activities to engage in in Montreux, whether you are visiting the Château de Chillon, the city of Vevey, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lavaux vineyards, or simply sitting next to the Freddie Mercury statue.
Numerous music, comedy, and arts festivals are conducted annually. The most renowned festival is the Montreux Jazz Festival.
2. Glacier Express:
The Glacier Express, also referred to as the world’s slowest express train, is likely the most well-known scenic train journey in Switzerland. It establishes a connection between the two renowned mountain resorts of St. Moritz and Zermatt.
The breathtaking vistas that are present throughout the entire voyage are what render it so unforgettable. The train traverses 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, three cantons, and two language regions.
- Duration: 8 hours 3 minutes
- Distance: 291 kilometres (181 miles)
- Transfers: none
Schedule:
During the winter, trains operate once daily, while they operate four times daily during the summer. However, only two of the four summer trains complete the entire voyage from St. Moritz to Zermatt. The other begins or concludes in Brig or Chur. Departure dates are currently available at this location.
Travel passes: The Eurail, Interrail, Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) and the SBB Saver Day Pass are fully accepted on the Glacier Express.
Reservation:
It is mandatory to make a reservation for the Glacier Express. Prices fluctuate according to the season.
You have the option to travel in the first, second, or the highly exclusive Excellence Class. Swiss Activities allows you to purchase your seat reservation with just a few keystrokes.
Penny-pincher version:
Traveling between St. Moritz and Zermatt is feasible without incurring a reservation fee. In order to accomplish this, it will be necessary to degrade from the luxurious Glacier Express trains and utilize conventional trains.
Embark in St. Moritz and transfer to Reichenau-Tamins, Disentis/Mustér, Andermatt, and Visp. Despite the fact that you will be transferring trains frequently, it will only take you an additional 20 minutes to reach your destination. You would be astonished. To create your schedule, visit the SBB website.
The route of these standard trains is identical to that of the Glacier Express. The only amenities that you will be deprived of are the panoramic windows, the upscale lunch options, and the opulent couches. In all other respects, it is nearly identical.
In addition to saving you the reservation fee, this option also allows you to travel more flexibly due to the increased frequency of train service.
Getting off along the way:
I advise against interrupting your Glacier Express journey, as it necessitates a reservation. Nevertheless, it is imperative that you make the necessary arrangements to ensure that you are able to make a stopover. Alternately, reserve a multi-day program to allow for a comprehensive exploration of the entire route.
The penny-pincher version allows you to disembark as frequently and for as long as you desire.
Book your Glacier Express Package:
#1: Glacier Express Tickets and Reservations
- a single-way ticket for your day excursion
- Reservation of seats (1st Class, 2nd Class, Excellence)
- Cancellation policy: 24 hours
Buy your ticket or reservation in just a few clicks
#2: Glacier Express Classic
- 3 days and 2 nights (hotel included)
- Seat reservations for the Glacier Express are included.
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Glacier Express Excellence Class
- 3 days and 2 nights (hotel included)
- Reservation of a space in the Glacier Express Excellence Class
- Wine is included in the six-course menu.
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Discover more Glacier Express Packages
- Winter Dream on the Glacier Express
- Chur – Zermatt Glacier Express
- St. Moritz – Brig Glacier Express
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
GLACIER EXPRESS HIGHLIGHTS:
St. Moritz:
St. Moritz, a mountain village, is a favored vacation spot throughout the year. The region is characterized by its proximity to Lake St. Moritz and Lake Silvaplana, as well as its towering mountains, which provide a diverse range of attractions. You will discover your heart’s desire, whether you are interested in biking, hiking, stand-up paddling, swimming, windsurfing, skiing, sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, or simply appreciating the vistas.
Albula Line (UNESCO):
Once you depart from St. Moritz, you will be traveling along a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Albula Line, which spans from Preda to Bergün, is awe-inspiring. The train descends spiralingly across six viaducts and through three loop tunnels in this segment, as it experiences significant altitude loss. The train will alter the side of the valley on multiple occasions, provided that you are attentive.
Landwasser Viaduct:
The Landwasser Viaduct, which you will be traversing shortly after Bergün, is nothing short of a masterpiece. This remarkable structure is 65 meters (213 feet) in height and 142 meters (466 feet) in length. The viaduct’s direct connection to a tunnel is what renders it so distinctive.
Before you cross this viaduct, the train’s informative and pleasant voice will provide you with the necessary information. I suggest that you simply appreciate the journey and gaze out the window, rather than attempting to capture the perfect photograph. In my opinion, the experience surpasses an endeavor to capture a photograph that fails to capture the experience, as it is challenging to capture a high-quality image while on the viaduct. However, that is solely my perspective.
Chur:
The capital of the Canton of Grisons, Chur, is the subsequent destination where individuals can board and disembark. It is relatively diminutive in size, but it boasts an abundance of attractions and an exceptional old town. Additionally, it serves as the starting point for numerous excursions in the vicinity, including the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and the crystal-clear Lake Gauma.
Rhine Gorge:
Also known as the „Swiss Grand Canyon“, the Rhine Gorge was formed during a massive landslide around 10.000 years ago. Carved out by the river over many centuries, the Rhine Gorge is now a popular destination for hikers, bikers and river-rafters. Coming from St. Moritz, you’ll get the best views of the canyon if you sit on the left.
Oberalp Pass:
Disentis/Mustér in the Canton of Grisons and Andermatt in the Canton of Uri are connected by the Oberalp Pass, which is situated at an elevation of 2.033 meters (6.670 feet) above sea level. The Glacier Express’s highest point is this pass. The train will make a brief halt in Disentis to allow for the transition to a new train personnel. This allows you to take in the picturesque dwellings of Disentis and gaze out the window before continuing uphill.
Andermatt:
You will be traveling down serpentine lines toward Andermatt, another popular holiday destination during the summer and winter, after passing the Oberalp Pass. It is probable that you will obtain your supper at this location, contingent upon the time of day.
Zermatt:
From Andermatt, you make a brief halt before continuing through the Canton of Valais to Brig and ultimately reaching Zermatt, where the voyage concludes. Or commences, contingent upon the direction you elect to take.
The Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most renowned mountain, is situated directly in front of the village of Zermatt.
The possibilities for hiking, bicycling, and taking photographs in this region are seemingly limitless. Riding the Gornergrat, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers, will leave you thoroughly impressed. Randa, the starting site for trekking across the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, is located only 15 minutes from Zermatt.
For additional insider suggestions on what to do in Zermatt, refer to the interview I conducted with my local acquaintance Gabriela or visit this page for additional inspiration.
3. Bernina Express
They say the most spectacular way to cross the Alps is on board the Bernina Express.
And “they” might just be right.
This train takes you from either Chur or from St. Moritz across the Alps and all the way into sunny Italy. Between Chur and St. Moritz, the Bernina Express covers the exact same route as the Glacier Express.
After St. Moritz, it starts climbing up to glistening glaciers before heading down to the palms of Italy. It passes through 55 tunnels and crosses 196 bridges along the way.
The train ends in the Italian city of Tirano. From there, the Bernina Express Bus takes passengers through the famous Valtellina wine region past Lake Como and back into Switzerland.
Duration:
4 hours 13 minutes (train from Chur to Tirano) or 2 hours 35 minutes (train from St. Moritz to Tirano) and 3 hours 10 minutes (bus from Tirano to Lugano)
Distance: 156 kilometres (97 miles) on the train, 90 kilometres ( 56 miles) on the bus
Transfers: Tirano
Schedule:
The Bernina Express operates between St. Moritz and Tirano from May to November. It operates year-round from Chur to Tirano. Regrettably, it is impossible to articulate their schedule. Kindly consult their most recent timetable to finalize your itinerary.
Travel passes: The Eurail, Interrail, Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) and the SBB Saver Day Pass are fully accepted on the Bernina Express.
Reservation:
A seat reservation is necessary for travel on the Bernina Express. Depending on the season of travel, the expense of reserving a seat ranges from 20 CHF to 26 CHF. In just a few steps, you can purchase your seat reservation for the Bernina Express on Swiss Activities.
Penny-pincher version:
The Bernina Express operates under the same principle as the Glacier Express. The reservation fee can be avoided by utilizing regular trains. Travel to Tirano by boarding in Chur or St. Moritz. This also allows for the flexibility to disembark as frequently as desired, as trains operate on an hourly basis.
Getting off along the way:
I do not suggest that you interrupt your Bernina Express voyage, as you must make a reservation for this excursion. Particularly when the train operates only once daily, as it does during the winter. I advise against traveling on the Bernina Express train if you truly wish to make a stopover. Instead, take advantage of the regular trains that operate frequently between Chur, St. Moritz, and Tirano.
Book your Bernina Express Package:
#1: Bernina Express Tickets and Reservations
- a one-way or return ticket for your day excursion
- Reservations for seats in the first and second classes
- Cancellation policy: 24 hours
Buy your ticket or reservation in just a few clicks
#2: Bernina Express Classic (St. Moritz – Lugano)
- 3 days and 2 nights (hotel included)
- Seat reservations for the Bernina Express train and shuttle are included.
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Discover more Bernina Express Packages
- Bernina Express train itineraries
- Glacier and Bernina Express Combination
- A 5% discount is available when the code “AFFLIS” is used.
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
BERNINA EXPRESS HIGHLIGHTS:
Chur, Albula & St. Moritz:
From Chur to St. Moritz, the Bernina Express follows the same route as the Glacier Express. Chur, the Rhine Gorge, the Albula Line, the Landwasser Viaduct, and St. Moritz are further described in the aforementioned section.
Please be advised that the Bernina Express is available in two configurations. One commences in Chur, while the other commences in St. Moritz. To travel this segment along the Albula Line, it is imperative that you arrange a journey on the Bernina Express, which commences in Chur.
Ospizio Bernina:
After St. Moritz, the Bernina Express undertakes an alternative route than the Glacier Express.
Ospizio Bernina is the highest point on the Bernina Line, standing at 2.535 meters (8.317 feet) above sea level. This is the location where the language frontier between the Engadine, which is spoken in Romansh, and the Poschiavo Valley, which is spoken in Italian, is crossed.
Valposchiavo:
The Poschiavo Valley, located in the southern Alps, is an exceptional destination for hiking or leisurely strolls along the lake. It is the point at which the Bernina Express crosses the Swiss-Italian border and transports you to Tirano, from where you can transition to the Bernina Express Bus to Lugano. However, before that occurs, you must pass one more highligh.
Brusio Circular Viaduct:
Another remarkable structure on the Bernina Line is the circular viaduct in Brusio. The train must execute a 360-degree turn in order to surmount the altitude in the confined Poschiavo Valley. You will cross the border and arrive in Tirano, Italy, shortly after passing this work of art.
After spending some time in the city, you have the option of returning to St. Moritz on the next train or continuing on to Lugano via the Bernina Express Bus.
Valtellina and Lake Como:
Valtellina is a beautiful wine region that you will traverse while traveling from Tirano to Lugano. You will be passing by Lake Como, the location where George Clooney and numerous other celebrities were married, before crossing the border back into Switzerland.
Lugano:
The Bernina Express commences or concludes at Lugano. This metropolis is the largest in the Canton of Ticino and the third largest financial center in Switzerland, following Zurich and Geneva. This city is well worth a visit due to its Mediterranean appeal, the flowery parks, and the breathtaking vistas from one of the numerous surrounding mountains.
The Swissminiatur outdoor museum, located in the municipality of Mendrisio, is a miniature version of Switzerland. I used to enjoy visiting that location as a child… I suppose that location is the source of the majority of my knowledge of Swiss geography.
4. Voralpen Express:
The Voralpen Express, which is directly translated as the “pre-Alpine Express,” operates between Lucerne and St. Gallen. The Voralpen Express is the least touristic of the train excursions featured in this post.
It is not equipped with sophisticated panorama windows, and there is no friendly voice that indicates the viaduct you have just traversed. Nevertheless, this does not diminish the value of the ride.
- Duration: 2 hours 16 minutes
- Distance: 125 kilometres (78 miles)
- Transfers: none
- Schedule: The Voralpen Express leaves St. Gallen and Lucerne every hour, all year round.
- Travel passes: The Eurail, Interrail, Swiss Travel Pass (Flex), the SBB Saver Day Pass and the Voralpen Express Ticket are fully accepted.
- Reservation: You don’t need a reservation for the Voralpen Express.
Getting off along the way:
The Voralpen Express is not a panoramic tourist train, and as a result, reservations are not required. Consequently, passengers are permitted to disembark at any point, for any duration, during their journey. Rapperswil is the location that I would suggest visiting for an extended period. Outside of Lucerne and St. Gallen, of course.
Book your Voralpen Express Package:
#1: Voralpen Express Ticket
- a single-way ticket for your day excursion
- Connect and disconnect at your discretion
- Cancellation policy: 24 hours
Buy your ticket or reservation in just a few clicks
#2: Voralpen Express and Centovalli Train
- 4 days / 3 nights (hotel included)
- Itinerary: St. Gallen – Lucerne – Locarno – Domodossola – Montreux
- 5% discount with the code “AFFLIS”
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Discover more Voralpen Express Packages
- Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Original
- Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters
- 5% discount with the code “AFFLIS”
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
VORALPEN EXPRESS HIGHLIGHTS:
St. Gallen:
The Voralpen Express commences or concludes in St. Gallen. I am fortunate to reside in this city, which has a plethora of amenities. The Abbey District, a UNESCO-listed site, the Drei Weieren recreational area, and the free wildlife park of Peter & Paul all provide opportunities to spend a few hours in this city. Visit a more comprehensive guide to the activities available in St. Gallen.
Appenzell & Toggenburg:
The Voralpen Express traverses the picturesque regions of Appenzell and Toggenburg after departing St. Gallen. The Toggenburg is situated between the Alpstein and the Churfirsten, two majestic mountain ranges. This region of Switzerland is incredibly picturesque and may induce the sensation of entering a fairy tale. When I took my Australian acquaintance on the Voralpen Express, she described it as such.
The train will traverse the Appenzell and Toggenburg region in its pursuit of Lake Zurich, passing by traditional farmers’ residences and verdant, undulating hills.
Rapperswil:
Rapperswil will be reached shortly after you have traversed the second tunnel on this voyage. One of my preferred destinations in Switzerland is this diminutive village situated by Lake Zurich. While pursuing urban planning with Gabriela, Andrea, Tobi, and Yannic, I resided here for three years.
I suggest that you spend an hour disembarking from the train and exploring the picturesque “City of Roses” if you have the opportunity. Rapperswil Castle, Switzerland’s longest wooden bridge, the attractive promenade, and numerous picturesque locations with breathtaking vistas will render your visit worthwhile.
Rothenthurmer Moor:
The Voralpen Express will shortly traverse the Rothenthurmer Moor region after ascending the highlands behind Lake Zurich. The first moor in Switzerland to be designated as a protected area, this marshy landscape spans 10 kilometers (6 miles) between Biberbrugg and Rothenthurm.
The moorland trail between Biberbrugg and Rothenthurm is a straightforward and leisurely walk that requires just over two hours to complete. An additional opportunity to fragment the Voralpen Express journey…
Lakes Zurich, Zug and Lucerne:
Between St. Gallen and Lucerne, the Voralpen Express passes by three Swiss lakes: Lake Zurich, Lake Zug and Lake Lucerne. Enjoy the view!
Lucerne:
People traveling on the Voralpen Express either commence or conclude their journey in Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke, a timber footbridge that spans the River Reuss, is the most well-known attraction in this lively city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne, as well as the Swiss Museum of Transport, the Lion’s Monument, and the Glacier Garden.
5. Gotthard Panorama Express:
If you subscribe to the principle that “the journey is the reward,” you will derive pleasure from traveling the historic Gotthard Line from Lucerne to Lugano.
The initial leg of your journey involves a steamboat ride across Lake Lucerne from Lucerne to Flüelen. In Flüelen, the Gotthard Panorama Express train transports you along the historic Gotthard route to the pleasant southern region of Switzerland.
The normal method of transportation to the Canton of Ticino by train was to traverse this route through the Gotthard massif prior to the opening of the world’s longest tunnel in 2016. Currently, the Gotthard Basistunnel, which spans 57 kilometers (35 miles), expedites the journey of commuters through the Alps in less than 20 minutes. Reserving the historic and scenic route for individuals who appreciate leisurely travel and scenic vistas.
- Duration: 2 hours 43 minutes (boat from Lucerne to Flüelen), 2 hours 28 minutes (train from Flüelen to Lugano)
- Distance: 38 kilometres (24 miles) on the steamboat, 183 kilometres (114 miles) on the train.
- Transfers: Flüelen
Schedule:
The Gotthard Panorama Express operates on a daily basis from Tuesday to Sunday. Their season commences in April and concludes in October. Please consult their most recent schedule by clicking here, as the dates are subject to change annually.
Travel passes:
The SBB Saver Day Pass and the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) are both completely accepted on the Gotthard Panorama Express.
A Eurail and Interrail Pass provides a 50% discount on the ferry journey from Lucerne to Flüelen. The train journey from Flüelen to Lugano is included.
Please be advised that a first-class ticket is required for this voyage. Therefore, if your travel pass is classified as 2nd class, you will require a “Class Upgrade,” which can be reserved directly through Swiss Activities.
Reservation:
You need a seat reservation for the train part of this trip. You can board the ship without a reservation. The reservation fee for the panoramic train costs 24 CHF. Seat reservations will become available. As soon as they do, I will post the link for you here.
Penny-pincher version:
By utilizing conventional trains, it is possible to traverse the Gotthard Panorama Line without a reservation. Despite the fact that the historical Gotthard line is no longer the principal connection between the Ticino and the rest of Switzerland, it is still in use.
Throughout the year, trains operate hourly between Erstfeld and Bellinzona. To create your own itinerary, refer to the SBB timetable and input the route from Lucerne to Flüelen and Lugano.
Getting off along the way:
I advise against interrupting your Gotthard Panorama Express journey, as it necessitates a reservation and can only be completed in one sitting.
Nevertheless, it is imperative that you make the necessary arrangements to ensure that you are able to make a stopover. An overnight stay is available for booking this excursion.
The penny-pincher version allows you to disembark as frequently and for as long as you desire.
Book your Gotthard Panorama Express Package:
#1: Gotthard Panorama Express Tickets and Reservations
- one-way ticket for your daytrip
- Seat reservations for the panoramic train
- 24 hour cancellation policy
Buy your ticket or reservation in just a few clicks
#2: Gotthard Panorama Express Classic
- 3 days / 2 nights (hotel included)
- Gotthard Panorama Express Train seat reservations included
- 5% discount with the code “AFFLIS”
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
#3: Discover more Gotthard Panorama Express Packages
- Scenic Rail Adventure
- Combine four top scenic train rides
- 5% discount with the code “AFFLIS”
Use the code “AFFLIS” for a 5% discount
GOTTHARD PANORAMA EXPRESS HIGHLIGHTS:
Lucerne:
People traveling on the Gotthart Panorama Express either commence or conclude their journey in Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke, a wooden footbridge constructed in 1356, is the most well-known attraction in this picturesque city located on the coasts of Lake Lucerne. This bridge offers breathtaking views of Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne, as well as the Lion’s Monument and the Glacier Garden.
Lake Lucerne:
Along the journey across the breathtaking Lake Lucerne, you will encounter numerous historical sites that are significant to Switzerland. Switzerland’s purported founding site, the Rütliwiese, and the Tell’s Chapel will be visible. William Tell, our national hero, is said to have evaded the canines of his adversary by leaping off his boat in this location, according to legend. This article provides additional information regarding William Tell and the legend surrounding his life.
Baroque church of Wassen:
The Gotthard Panoramic train will be waiting for you upon your arrival in Flüelen. You acquire and depart.
You will pass by a unique edifice prior to entering the tunnel. The “Chileli vo Wasse” is a diminutive chapel that is emblematic of the Gotthard line.
The small church in the village of Wassen, which is also known as “Chileli vo Wasse,” is situated on a hill and can be observed from three distinct perspectives as you ascend to the former Gotthard tunnel. The Chileli is a well-known location due to the fact that the train traverses two turning circles in this area, causing it to pass by from various angles.
Bellinzona:
It will not be long before you reach Bellinzona after exiting the Gotthard tunnel. The capital of the Ticino is this city. It is primarily recognized for its three stunning fortresses, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, which are included in the Swiss UNESCO World Heritage locations. They were constructed in the 15th century and provide an impressive, knightly experience.
If you desire, you may return to this location from Lugano after completion of your panoramic voyage. The distance from Lugano is only a brief train journey.
Lugano:
Lugano is the largest metropolis in the Canton of Ticino and the third largest financial center in Switzerland, immediately following Zurich and Geneva. This city is well worth a visit due to its Mediterranean appeal, the flowery parks, and the breathtaking vistas from one of the numerous surrounding mountains.
Swiss High-Speed Train:
While Switzerland is better known for scenic and efficient rail travel than extreme high-speed trains, its network is among the most punctual and well-connected in the world. The fastest trains in Switzerland, such as the InterCity (IC) and InterCity Tilting (ICN) services, can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph).
Switzerland doesn’t operate high-speed rail like France’s TGV or Germany’s ICE, but it integrates seamlessly with them. You can take a TGV from Paris to Geneva or Lausanne, or an ICE train from Germany to Zurich—all linking into the Swiss domestic system.
Schweiz Zug Tour:
A Zug Tour durch die Schweiz (Train tour through Switzerland) is one of the best ways to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes and iconic destinations. With your Swiss Travel Pass, you can hop on and off most trains, buses, and boats—making it perfect for flexible sightseeing.
Panoramic Train Switzerland:
Switzerland’s panoramic trains offer some of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world, with wide glass windows designed to maximize views of Alpine peaks, valleys, lakes, and glaciers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need seat reservations for scenic trains?
Yes, for most panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, seat reservations are mandatory and should be booked in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
How long is the Glacier Express journey?
The Glacier Express runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz, taking around 8 hours. It’s often called the “slowest express train in the world” because it travels leisurely through spectacular alpine scenery.
Why is Switzerland famous for scenic train rides?
Switzerland offers some of the world’s most stunning landscapes—majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, charming villages, and dramatic viaducts. Swiss trains are renowned for comfort, punctuality, and panoramic carriages that let you soak in the breathtaking views.
