What Are Best Swiss Mountain Railways in Switzerland : Guide

One of the most iconic journeys takes you to the Jungfraujoch, famously known as the “Top of Europe.” The railway climbs through tunnels carved inside the Eiger and Mönch mountains before reaching the highest train station in Europe at 3,454 meters. Along the way, passengers can stop at viewing windows inside the mountain wall, offering surreal glimpses of glaciers and valleys.

If the Jungfrau offers altitude, the Gornergrat offers drama. This cogwheel railway departs from Zermatt and climbs steadily to over 3,000 meters, delivering jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn at every turn. What makes the Gornergrat special is the combination of forested lower slopes, alpine meadows dotted with sheep, and finally, the stark, snow-covered ridges of the Pennine Alps.

Close to Lucerne, Pilatus Railway holds the title of the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. With gradients reaching up to 48%, it’s a thrilling ride that leaves you wondering how the train manages to stay on track. The journey starts at Alpnachstad, winding through forests and meadows, before breaking into rocky landscapes that lead to Pilatus Kulm.

Mount Rigi, often called the “Queen of the Mountains,” is home to Europe’s first mountain railway, inaugurated in 1871. This historic line remains as enchanting today as it was more than a century ago. Departing from Vitznau or Arth-Goldau, the trains climb towards Rigi Kulm, where views extend over Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz.

For those who love vintage experiences, the Schynige Platte Railway is a must. Using historic wooden carriages and engines from the 19th century, this narrow-gauge line takes travelers from Wilderswil up to Schynige Platte. The ride itself feels like stepping back in time, with gentle climbs and picture-perfect stops.

While not a cogwheel railway, the Glacier Express deserves a spot on any list of iconic mountain rail journeys. Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, it’s famous for being the “world’s slowest express train.” Taking about eight hours, the route is packed with highlights: the Oberalp Pass at 2,000 meters, the Rhine Gorge often dubbed the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” and countless viaducts and tunnels.

Another scenic legend is the Bernina Express, connecting Chur in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. This route crosses the Bernina Pass, climbing to 2,253 meters without the use of a cogwheel an impressive feat of engineering. Highlights include the famous Landwasser Viaduct and the UNESCO-listed Albula Line.

If you want a blend of Swiss landscapes, the GoldenPass Line delivers it all. Running from Lucerne to Montreux, it takes you through three language regions of Switzerland, rolling past lakes, vineyards, and mountains. One highlight is the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, where the train descends dramatically towards Lake Geneva with vineyards on either side.