Switzerland is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on earth, and what better way to experience them than by taking the best train rides in Switzerland?
Each of these journeys shows off a different side of the country’s beauty, from majestic mountains to serene lakes and charming little villages.
With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can easily explore iconic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, or GoldenPass Express.
While the pass covers regular trains along these routes, keep in mind that for these famous best train rides in Switzerland, you’ll still need to book a seat reservation to enjoy the full experience. Trust me, every moment is worth it!
These are my top three favorites that you absolutely need to add to your bucket list!
- Glacier Express – From Zermatt to St. Moritz
- GoldenPass Line – From Lucerne to Montreux
- Bernina Express – From St. Moritz to Tirano
- The Glacier Express: Switzerland’s Most Famous Train Ride
Known as The Slowest Fast Train in the World, the Glacier Express may not break speed records, but it offers something even more valuable: the chance to soak in every breathtaking view over a leisurely 7.5-hour journey.
Covering 291 km from Zermatt to St. Moritz, the train travels through the heart of Switzerland’s mountainous wonderland. The Glacier Express is renowned as one of the best train rides in Switzerland.
The Glacier Express takes you on an epic journey through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges.
One of the highlights is the historic Oberalp Pass, where the train climbs over 2,000 meters above sea level, giving you sweeping views of glaciers, forests, and alpine meadows.
With panoramic windows in both first and second class, every seat offers a front-row experience to the jaw-dropping scenery.
You can relax in plush seats while sipping on a glass of drink or enjoying a delicious pre-booked meal served right at your seat.
Between Thusis and St. Moritz, you’ll pass through the UNESCO-listed Albula Line, a masterpiece of Swiss engineering. Be sure to have your camera ready for the Landwasser Viaduct, one of the most iconic sights along the way.
Bonus Tip for the Glacier Express
If you’re planning to complete the journey in one go, consider packing a few snacks to save some money.
Every day of travel requires a reservation fee, so sticking to one day can help keep costs down. For those with more time, breaking up the journey with an overnight stay at one of the scenic towns along the way is an excellent way to explore even more.
- The Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is a breathtaking rail route that takes you from the lakeside town of St. Moritz up and over the Alps to the Italian town of Tirano.
Along the way, you’ll pass by turquoise lakes, towering snow-capped mountains, and massive glaciers.
Covering a distance of 156 kilometers by train and an additional 90 kilometers by bus, the Bernina Express is not only a train ride but also offers a continuation to Lugano, giving you a complete journey through Switzerland and into Italy.
One of the most unforgettable sights along the Bernina Express route is the Brusio Spiral Viaduct. For the best views of this engineering marvel, sit on the right side of the train when traveling from north to south.
Bonus Tip for the Bernina Express
Looking to save on reservation fees? Regular regional trains run along the same line and offer the same stunning views, without the need for additional fees. This is a great alternative if you’re on a budget.
Snack and Refresh on the Way
During your journey, hosts offer snacks and drinks right at your seat.
Make sure to try the exclusive Bernina Express iced tea made from local herbs, and don’t miss out on the Lindt chocolate hearts—perfect for a little sweet treat or a souvenir.
- The GoldenPass Express
The GoldenPass Express offers a picturesque route that connects Lucerne to Montreux, with stops in Interlaken and Zweisimmen.
Covering a distance of 191 kilometers in just over 5 hours, this train takes you through some of Switzerland’s most beautiful regions.
Starting in Lucerne, the journey gives you sweeping views of Lake Thun and the famous pyramid-shaped Mount Niesen.
As the train heads inland after Spiez, you’ll pass through narrow mountain gorges and picturesque villages like Gstaad, known for its chic mountain charm.
The journey reaches its highest point at Saanenmöser before offering breathtaking views of Lake Geneva as you descend into Montreux. This route is a perfect example of why Switzerland is famed for having the best train rides in Switzerland.
One insider tip for the GoldenPass Line is to stop in Interlaken. Known for its adventure sports and stunning lake views, Interlaken is the perfect place to break up your journey and explore more of what Switzerland has to offer.
Interlaken – Switzerland’s beauty at its finest!
The GoldenPass Express offers a new level of luxury with its Prestige Class, where seats are raised 40 cm higher than the rest, giving you an unparalleled view of the landscape.
For an extra touch of luxury, these seats are heated, making them perfect for those chilly Swiss winters.
The GoldenPass Belle Epoque is an additional experience you can enjoy on this route. These beautifully restored 1930s carriages transport you back in time, letting you relive the golden age of rail travel in style.
Each of these routes offers a unique experience. The Glacier Express is perfect for those who want to take in the views at a leisurely pace.
The Bernina Express delivers a dramatic journey through ever-changing landscapes, while the GoldenPass Express combines modern comfort with historic charm.
Best Seasons for Scenic Train Rides
Whether you want to see snow-capped peaks in winter or lush, green valleys in summer, Switzerland’s scenic rail journeys are beautiful year-round.
Insider Tips for Booking Your Swiss Train
Maximize your scenic train journey with tips on booking the best seats, traveling during off-peak hours for fewer crowds, and getting the most out of your adventure.
What to Pack for Your Scenic Rail Journey
From comfortable clothes to camera gear, here’s a helpful packing list to make your trip more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland’s scenic train rides are so much more than just getting from one place to another—they’re all about making unforgettable memories while soaking in some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see.
Whether it’s the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, or the GoldenPass Express, each journey will leave you completely amazed by Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and incredible engineering.
