Switzerland Most Spectacular Mountain Railways – Check Here

There is an abundance of resources available to the Swiss to construct a number of extraordinary mountain railways. Cable cars, rack railroads, elevators, funiculars, and steam locomotives… Our ambitious technologists are capable of conquering any summit.

This is quite advantageous because it enables me to introduce you to some of the most breathtaking mountain railways in the world.

Mountain Railway Wwitzerland:

1. Jungfraujoch in the Bernese Alps (3454 m)

Shall we commence with the first budget-killer? (Do not be concerned; additional candidates who are more cost-effective will be added in the future.)

Jungfraujoch, also known as “The Top of Europe,” is an exceedingly popular destination that appears to be on the priority list of every traveler. This summit, which is located at an elevation of 3454 meters, presents a breathtaking landscape of rocky cliffs, snow fields, and perpetual ice. Begin your journey to the Jungfraujoch in Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald.

The train from Interlaken to Grindelwald is the most popular and quickest method of ascent. Upon arrival at Grindelwald Terminal, transition to the contemporary Eiger Express, which features panoramic gondolas, and travel to Eigergletscher. From there, the cogwheel train will transport you through the Eiger mountain to Jungfraujoch.

During your journey through the Eiger, you will have the chance to momentarily disembark at the “Eismeer” station, which translates to “ice sea,” and observe the glacier in detail. The Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, is visible from Jungfraujoch, where visitors can enjoy the snow at any time of year.

• Travel time: 1 hour and 37 minutes (Interlaken – Grindelwald – Eigergletscher – Jungfraujoch)
• Plan a minimum of half a day for this excursion. I advise that you allocate 2-3 hours to the summit. If not, more. Stay for as long as your time budget permits, as this excursion is costly.
• Schedule: Continuously operational throughout the year
• Reservation of seats is strongly advised, particularly during peak seasons.
• The cost of a return ticket without a discount is greater than 200 CHF.
• Jungfrau Travel Pass: complimentary transportation to Eigergletscher, with seasonally fluctuating discounts for the final leg from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch.
• Berner Oberland Pass: complimentary transportation to Eigergletscher station, with a 50% discount from there to Jungfraujoch.
• Swiss Travel Pass: 25% discount from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen (free transportation between Interlaken and Grindelwald/Lauterbrunnen)
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail/Eurail: 25% discount
• SBB Day Passes: There is no discount available from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. However, there are complimentary transportation available between Interlaken and Grindelwald/Lauterbrunnen.
• I recommend hiking to Mönchsjochhütte during the summer. This walk, which is approximately 45 minutes in length, will transport you away from the large crowds at Jungfraujoch, where you will be rewarded with even more breathtaking sightlines. Do not be taken aback if you experience a throbbing sensation in your pharynx after two minutes. The human organism is affected by the high altitude.

Check Also: Explore Bern Switzerland – Complete Travel Guide

2. Gornergrat in Zermatt (3089 m)

I will now proceed to the next celebrity in the Swiss alpine ensemble. If you desire to observe the renowned Matterhorn from a close distance, there is no alternative to ascending to Gornergrat. At an elevation of 3089 meters, it is optimally situated to observe this iconic peak that has established itself on the Swiss-Italian frontier.

The half-hour journey on this exceedingly precipitous cogwheel railway from Zermatt is both memorable and thrilling. The Gornergrat Railway is Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel railway, with an elevation of 1469 meters. Try to secure a seat on the right-hand side of the train as you ascend for the most breathtaking vistas of the Matterhorn.

• Travel time: 38 minutes (Zermatt – Gornergrat)
• Recommended minimum time: 3 hours
• Schedule: Operating all year round
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: between 90 and 130 CHF (depending on the season)
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: If you have the opportunity, consider taking a trek to the Riffelsee mountain lake. It is accessible from the Riffelberg station. On a clear day, the Matterhorn is perfectly reflected in a lake that is accessible via a brief, straightforward hike.

3. Brienzer Rothorn in Brienz (2244 m)

Brienzer Rothorn is the highest point in the Canton of Lucerne and can be accessed from two directions. By the oldest steam-powered, open-air cogwheel train in Switzerland, the cable car from Sörenberg, and the option we will discuss. Isn’t that considerably more thrilling than the cable car?

This railway commences in Brienz and transports you from Lake Brienz to the summit in a single hour. The ascent from 566 meters to 2244 meters above sea level provides breathtaking vistas of Lake Brienz and numerous mountain summits. According to rumors, the summit of Brienzer Rothorn offers a view of 390 peaks on a clear, sunny day. Kindly inform me if your count differs from that figure.

You should anticipate experiencing a temporary tinnitus upon reaching the summit, as the carriage’s rattling noise is quite deafening. However, it is all a part of the experience, and you will not regret your decision.

• Travel time: 1 hour (Brienz – Brienzer Rothorn)
• Recommended minimum time: Plan at least 3-4 hours for the whole trip to allow yourself enough time for hiking and counting those 390 peaks.
• Schedule: Operating only in summer (June to October)
• Seat reservation: Not required, but very, very highly recommended as this trip is crazy popular and the capacity of the train isn’t huge. I recommend booking your ticket ahead of time to secure your spot. Especially in July and August.
• Price return ticket without discount: 96 CHF
• Berner Oberland Pass: free (not including seat reservation)
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: If you sit on the left when going up, you get a better view of Lake Brienz.

4. Mount Pilatus near Lucerne (2128 m)

You will be aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel train to ascend Mount Pilatus, which commences in Alpnachstad, near Lucerne. The steepest section of the track reaches a 48% incline, which is astonishing when one considers that it has been ascending and descending these tracks since 1889. Naturally, the trains have been upgraded in the interim. However, the degree of incline remains constant.

An additional method of accessing Mount Pilatus is by gondola from Kriens. The “Dragon Ride” is the next destination after the tiny panoramic cable car transports you to Fränkmüntegg. This opulent gondola accommodates 55 passengers and provides a panoramic view through its expansive windows that extend to the floor.

I suggest that you combine your options to optimize your travel to Mount Pilatus, as there are two distinct routes to consider. Ascend via cogwheel and descend via gondola, or conversely. The ticket is valid for both journeys.

If you desire, you may incorporate a picturesque boat journey across Lake Lucerne into the itinerary. “The Golden Round Trip” is the term used to describe this.

It is indeed magnificent!

The initial leg involves a ferry ride from Lucerne to Alpnachstad. From there, you will board the cogwheel train, which is the steepest in the world, and ascend to Mount Pilatus. After you have had your fill of the sights, take the gondolas back to Kriens and travel back to Lucerne by bus.

• Travel time: 50 minutes (Lucerne – Alpnachstad (cogwheel) – Pilatus Kulm), 70 minutes (Lucerne – Kriens (gondolas) – Pilatus Kulm).
• Minimum time recommended: Allocate a minimum of four hours for the entire journey to ensure that you have sufficient time to appreciate the view, explore the interactive Dragon World, and go on a hike. If you intend to participate in the Golden Round Trip, please allow for additional time, as the boat journey from Lucerne to Alpnachstad requires nearly an hour and a half. If feasible, consider extending the excursion to a full day.
• Schedule: The gondolas are operational year-round, with the exception of two brief revision sessions in the spring and autumn. The cogwheel train is operational exclusively from May to November. Therefore, the Golden Round Trip is exclusively accessible during that time.
• Reservation of seats is not feasible.
• The price of a return ticket without a discount is 78 CHF. The Golden Round Trip is priced at 114 CHF.
• Inform Pass that it is gratis.
• 50% discount on Swiss Travel Pass (In the event of a Golden Round Trip, transportation to Alpnachstad or Kriens is complimentary by boat, bus, or train).
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail/Eurail: 50% discount
• (In the event of a Golden Round Trip, it is free to travel to Alpnachstad or Kriens by ferry, bus, or train.) SBB Day Passes: No discount.
• My recommendation: If you have the opportunity, I strongly urge you to embark on the Golden Round Trip. This excursion provides the complete experience, including a scenic boat journey on Lake Lucerne, the world’s steepest cogwheel train, and two luxurious gondolas.

5. Stoos in the Canton of Schwyz (1300 m)

We have already experienced the steepest cogwheel railway; now, let us transition to the world’s steepest funicular.

I must admit that the Stoos funicular is one of my favorites. It is an unparalleled example of Swiss engineering. Granted, all of the other items on this list are, as well… However, this particular train has captured my attention with its futuristic, barrel-shaped coaches that rotate to ensure that passengers remain at a comfortable height as they ascend the precipitous incline to Stoos.

The incline is 110% or 47 degrees at its most extreme point. The carriages rotate in tandem with the incline to prevent everyone from feeling dizzy, thereby obviating the sensation of ascending this incredibly steep hill.

Upon reaching the summit, there are two additional chairlifts that will transport you to Klingenstock or Fronalpstock. An exceptionally beautiful and scenic burr hike connects these two mountain peaks. In the event that you are amenable to an excursion.

• Travel time: 7 minutes (Schwyz Stoosbahn – Stoos), 1:40 hours (Lucerne – Schwyz – Stoos)
• Recommended minimum time: This can be quite a short trip if you’re in the area. If you’re short on time, 1-2 two hours is fine.
• Schedule: Operating all year round
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 23.20 CHF
• Tell Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: free
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: free
• My tip for you: If you are not apprehensive about heights, I would highly recommend the burr hike from Klingenstock to Fronalpstock. It is an extraordinary walk that offers breathtaking vistas that enable one to neglect all else.

6. Schynige Platte in the Bernese Oberland (2076 m)

We should take a vacation from the most challenging, steepest, oldest, and craziest railways that we have currently encountered. Proceed to a small cogwheel train that is incredibly idyllic, adorable, and nostalgic, located near Interlaken.

The Schynige Platte is a picturesque mountain that provides a 360-degree view of the Bernese Alps, which includes the renowned Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Original Belle Époque carriages are still utilized by the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte, which imbues your voyage with a sense of nostalgia.

The journey from Wilderswil to the summit will take you through forests, alpine meadows, and colonies of grazing cows. The alpine herb garden, which is home to more than 700 native plant species, is one of the most notable features of Schynige Platte. The train ticket includes admission to the botanical garden.

• Travel time: 52 minutes (Wilderswil – Schynige Platte)
• Recommended minimum time: Allow at least half a day for this trip. The alpine garden and hiking trails are well worth a few hours of exploration.
• Schedule: Operating only in summer (June to October)
• Seat reservation: Not possible, but arriving early during peak season is advisable to secure a spot
• Price return ticket without discount: 64 CHF
• Jungfrau Travel Pass: free
• Berner Oberland Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: 25% discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: There is an extraordinary excursion that you can undertake from Schynige Platte to Grindelwald First. Approximately six hours are required to complete the process, which will quickly saturate your photo feed.

7. Rochers-de-Naye near Lake Geneva (2042 m)

Rochers-de-Naye, a mountain peak situated in close proximity to Montreux, provides a panoramic view of Lake Geneva and the adjacent region. Before the view opens up, the cogwheel railway from Montreux transports you through forests and neighborhoods in less than an hour.

An intriguing moment occurs during the voyage when Lake Geneva appears to “swim” from right to left and back to right as you traverse tunnels. You have the opportunity to observe rare flowers, visit the alpine garden, and investigate hiking trails at the summit of Rochers-de-Naye.

It is likely that you were unaware that Santa Claus resides on Rochers-de-Naye. Certainly. He has been residing there for more than two decades, which is why the area becomes quite crowded during the Christmas season.

• Travel time: 48 minutes (Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye)
• Recommended minimum time: 3 hours
• Schedule: Operating all year round
• Seat reservation: Not required
• Price return ticket without discount: 72.80 CHF
• Regional Pass “Léman-Alpes”: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount

8. Mount Rigi – Queen of the Mountains (1798 m)

Mount Rigi, which is frequently referred to as the “Queen of the Mountains,” is the site of Europe’s earliest cogwheel railway. The Vitznau-Rigi Kulm cogwheel railway has been in operation since 1871 and provides a scenic voyage from the shores of Lake Lucerne to the summit in a mere half hour.

The summit of Mount Rigi offers awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Up there, there are numerous hiking trails, restaurants, and photo opportunities, as well as a thermal retreat. Whatever your spirit desires.

There are truly numerous methods to ascend to the summit of the Queen. Cogwheel railways and cable cars are also operational from Arth-Goldau and Weggis, in addition to Vitznau. This renders the Rigi an ideal mountain peak for a round journey. For instance, beginning in Lucerne, one can travel by boat to Vitznau, then ascend via a cogwheel railway to the summit and descend via another cogwheel railway to Arth-Goldau, where a train will transport them back to Lucerne. I would like to suggest a few concepts.

• Travel time: 32 minutes (cogwheel Vitznau to Rigi Kulm), 44 minutes (cogwheel Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm), 27 minutes (cable car Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad)
• Recommended minimum time: You can easily spend a full day travelling to and visiting Rigi. Especially if you catch the boat across Lake Lucerne to get there. But if you’re short on time, half a day will do as well.
• Schedule: Operating all year round (cable cars are closed for revision twice a year)
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 78 CHF
• Tell Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: free
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: 50% discount
• SBB Day Passes: free
• My tip for you: Get your hands on an SBB Saver Day Pass and combine your trip to Mount Rigi with a scenic boat ride across Lake Lucerne. The boat and the Rigi railways are all included in this ticket.

9. Monte Generoso in Mendrisio (1704 m)

Monte Generoso is the destination for those seeking an exceptional mountain experience in the southern region of Switzerland. This “generous” peak provides a panoramic view of Lake Lugano and the adjacent region. The Monte Generoso steam train, the earliest of its kind in Switzerland, transports you to the summit.

The Fiore di Pietra structure, which translates to “stone flower,” is situated at the summit of Monte Generoso. This masterpiece was the brainchild of the internationally recognized architect Mario Botta, who was born in Mendrisio, a mere stone’s throw away. The expansive windows within the structure are reminiscent of paintings depicting the Monte Generoso panorama. Additionally, the atmosphere is characterized by the aroma of oak.

Additionally, the summit provides a variety of hiking paths, including a planetary walk and nature pathways. Observe for rare flowers and untamed horses (yes, wild horses!) as you travel.

• Travel time: 35 minutes (Capolago-Riva S. Vitale – Monte Generoso Vetta)
• Recommended minimum time: 2 hours (more if you want to go hiking or spend some time inside the Fiore di Pietra)
• Schedule: Operating (almost) all year round. Between November and March, trains only run on weekends and if the weather is good.
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 54 CHF
• Ticino Ticket: 30% discount
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: I suggest that you disembark at the Bellavista train station, as you are permitted to do so. The views are quite “Bella,” as the name implies, and it is the ideal location to commence your hike or to explore the cafeteria located within the small station.

10. Harder Kulm in Interlaken (1322 m)

I must be forthright in this instance. In my view, Harder Kulm is not as prominent as other major actors such as Jungfraujoch, Pilatus, or Stoos. This is the reason I have been torn between whether or not to include it in this document. However, I determined that Harder Kulm had earned its place on this list because it is immediately visible upon arrival in Interlaken, which is the destination of many visitors to Switzerland.

If you are in a hurry, do not wish to spend a fortune, or are simply seeking a stunning view of the Jungfrau Region, this viewpoint, also referred to as “Top of Interlaken,” is the ideal destination. The most accessible mountain peak in the Interlaken region is Harder Kulm, and the funicular journey to the viewpoint is a rather enjoyable experience.

The Interlaken Ost train station is conveniently situated just a brief stroll away from the funicular station. Panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakes are available from the summit. This encompasses the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, as well as Niesen, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and of course, Interlaken. The viewing platform is quite congested; however, it is worth waiting in line to capture the ideal shot.

• Travel time: 10 minutes (Interlaken Ost – Harder Kulm)
• Recommended minimum time: 1:30 hours
• Schedule: Not operating in winter (open from April to November)
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 38 CHF
• Jungfrau Travel Pass: free
• Berner Oberland Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: 50% discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: Harder Kulm is an exceptional starting point for one of my most beloved treks. Although it is lengthy, it is exceedingly valuable. You have the option of hiking to Augstmatthorn and return from this location. However, this will require the entirety of the day. However, the alpine panorama and the view of Lake Brienz are unparalleled. Naturally, it is unnecessary to trek to Augstmatthorn in its entirety. You are free to turn around at any time. Ensure that you are equipped with appropriate footwear prior to embarking on your journey.

11. Gelmerbahn in the Grimsel world (1860 m)

This is truly remarkable!

The Gelmerbahn will evoke the sensation of a sluggish, yet extremely steep rollercoaster. It is the sharpest open-air funicular in Europe, with an incline of 106%. Although the Gelmerbahn is not as steep as the Stoos funicular, the steepness is more apparent as the carriages do not rotate, as they do on the Stoos funicular.

The journey is a thrilling adventure that offers a panoramic view of the valley below. What was previously employed to convey construction materials is now a popular method of accessing the pristine Lake Gelmer. Subsequently, you may either ascend to the Gelmerhütte mountain hut or embark on a two-hour trek around the lake.

• Travel time: 12 minutes (Handegg – Lake Gelmer)
• Recommended minimum time: at least half a day (it takes 1:30 hours just to get to the funicular from Interlaken) 
• Schedule: Operating only in summer (June to October)
• Seat reservation: Recommended due to high demand (You can reserve your time slot when you book your Gelmerbahn ticket.
• Price return ticket without discount: 36 CHF
• Berner Oberland Pass: no discount
• Swiss Travel Pass: no discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: no discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount

12. Stanserhorn near Lucerne (1898 m)

Have you ever traversed a mountain peak from the upper level of a gondola? I had not either until I visited Stanserhorn. CabriO cable car, the world’s first double-decker open-top cable car, is peculiar to this mountain located near Lake Lucerne.

The valley station of the cable car is accessible via a historic funicular from Stans. Subsequently, you may anticipate an extraordinary and panoramic excursion aboard a gondola that has been operational since 2012. You have the option of remaining indoors or ascending the spiral staircase to the rooftop. I strongly urge you to take this action. You are treated to the most breathtaking view as you ascend to Stanserhorn in a seemingly effortless manner. The voyage was so enjoyable that, had I had the opportunity, I would have ascended and descended it once more.

A panoramic view of ten Swiss lakes and hundreds of alpine mountain summits is offered at Stanserhorn. Additionally, there is a brief hiking trail that leads to the summit of the mountain, a small marmot park, a diverse flora and fauna, and a rotating restaurant that serves the renowned Älplermagronen. If you have yet to sample this Swiss pasta dish that features potatoes, fried shallots, and an abundance of cheese, this is the ideal location to do so.

• Travel time: 24 minutes (Stans – Stanserhorn)
• Recommended minimum time: 3 hours
• Schedule: Operating only in summer (April to November)
• Seat reservation: Not necessary, but it’s possible to reserve a time slot for 2 CHF if it’s super busy and you want a guaranteed spot at a certain time.
• Price return ticket without discount: 82 CHF
• Tell Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: free
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: 30% discount
• SBB Day Passes: free
• My tip for you: Acquire an SBB Saver Day Pass and enjoy a picturesque boat excursion across Lake Lucerne in addition to your visit to Stanserhorn. This ticket encompasses the Stanserhorn railways and the ferry. Therefore, it is feasible to embark on a ferry in Lucerne, travel to Stansstad, board a train to Stans, and ascend the mountain from there.

13. Mount Titlis Rotair (3020 m)

The ascent to Mount Titlis is quite perplexing, as its name implies.

In a literal sense.

The world’s first revolving cable car is located in the center of Switzerland. The adjacent snow-covered landscapes are rendered in a 360-degree perspective. It is no longer necessary to attempt to determine the location with the most breathtaking view from the cable car with Rotair. The gondola rotates once during the five-minute journey, allowing you to observe the entire area. This is an excellent experience.

Two impressive attractions await you upon your arrival at Mount Titlis. The Titlis Cliff Walk is the highest suspension bridge in Europe, offering a 100-meter-long “catwalk” that traverses a 500-meter plunge. Walk through the glacier on a 150 m long and 10 m wide path in the Glacier Caves. An optimal location to calm down and inhale the refreshing icy air.

• Travel time: 21 minutes (Engelberg – Titlis)
• Recommended minimum time: 2:30 hours
• Schedule: Operating all year round
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 96 CHF
• Tell Pass: free
• Berner Oberland Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: 25% discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: While ascending Mount Titlis, you will encounter a location known as Trübsee. During the winter, the SnowXpark is a great place to enjoy the snow, go for a trek, or spend time by the lake.

14. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (3883 m)

If you are interested in visiting Switzerland, France, and Italy simultaneously, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is an unavoidable destination. Germany is visible on a clear day.

Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, and Gran Paradiso, Italy’s highest peak, can be observed from Europe’s highest cable car station. Additionally, as its name implies, the Matterhorn.

However, be advised. The Swiss icon will not be visible in its conventional form. From this vantage point, you will be able to capture images of it from a unique perspective. Therefore, you will not be the sole individual who fails to identify the Matterhorn immediately.

The voyage to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise commences in Zermatt. Starting from this point, you will utilize a variety of cable vehicles to reach your final destination. The “Crystal-ride” is one of them. These gondolas are adorned with sparkling Swarovski diamonds and feature a glass floor that miraculously reveals the surroundings below after being cloudy at the start of the journey.

• Travel time: 40 minutes (Zermatt – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise)
• Recommended minimum time: 3 hours
• Schedule: Operating all year round
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 95 CHF
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: no discount
• My tip for you: Did you realize that skiing is possible on Theodul Glacier every day of the year? There are 21 kilometers of slopes at Europe’s highest and largest summer ski resort, which are also accessible during the summer.

15. Niesenbahn – Swiss Pyramid by Lake Thun (2362 m)

Inquire of a child to illustrate a mountain, and they will demonstrate the appearance of Niesen.

The term “Swiss Pyramid” is not without justification. Its triangular, pyramidal structure is emblematic of the Bernese Oberland and is visible from a considerable distance. The vistas of Lake Thun and the Alps from the summit are truly breathtaking. If you are not prepared to endure the arduous hike to Niesen, you will be treated to a soaring journey on the funicular. It commences in Mülenen, which is situated near Spiez by Lake Thun.

At the summit, a panoramic restaurant and walking trails await, providing the ideal location to unwind and appreciate the scene at your feet. When the sun begins to recede behind the mountain in the afternoon, its triangular shadow obscures a significant portion of the landscape. It is quite fascinating to observe…

Purchase your Niesen “Swiss Pyramid” ticket here.

• Travel time: 30 minutes (Mülenen – Niesen)
• Recommended minimum time: 2 hours
• Schedule: Operating only in summer (April to November)
• Seat reservation: Not possible
• Price return ticket without discount: 59 CHF
• Berner Oberland Pass: free
• Swiss Travel Pass: 50% discount
• Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% discount
• Interrail / Eurail: no discount
• SBB Day Passes: 50% discount
• My tip for you: If you elect to ascend to Niesen in the afternoon, you will receive a favorable discount. Return tickets are priced at 29.50 CHF after 3:30 p.m. Ensure that you consult the schedule for the final descent. Additionally, you are entitled to complimentary transportation on the Niesenbahn on your birthday.

And here it is. My compilation of 15 breathtaking mountain railways in Switzerland. Naturally, this list does not encompass all of the mountain railways that exist. There is an abundance of additional information to be discovered. However, I am of the opinion that these candidates possess the potential to exceed the capacity of your bucket list.

Frequently Asked Questions: