If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable trip through the Swiss Alps, there’s no better way to explore Switzerland than by train.
Picture yourself gliding through snow-capped mountains, passing shimmering lakes, and winding through charming villages, all from the comfort of your seat!
Switzerland’s train journeys are more than just a way to get from point A to B - they’re a key part of the adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a unique travel experience, these five train rides will take your breath away.
From the luxurious Glacier Express to the dramatic Bernina Express, each journey promises jaw-dropping scenery and unforgettable memories.
The GoldenPass Belle Epoque transports travellers on a vintage luxury train from Montreux to Zweisimmen, offering a unique journey through Swiss vineyards and alpine landscapes.
Known for its old-world charm, the train features Belle Epoque carriages with velvet seats and wooden finishes, evoking the elegance of early 20thcentury travel.
GoldenPass Belle Epoque Route: Montreux – Zweisimmen
Highlights of the Belle Epoque:
Panoramic views of Lake Geneva.
The scenic Simmental valley.
An authentic vintage travel experience.
Why is the Belle Epoque a bucket list journey:
This train combines luxury with some of the most scenic views in Switzerland, making it perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Is the Belle-Epoque included in the Swiss Pass?
Yes, the Belle-Epoque is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, allowing you to explore this route without purchasing additional tickets. You just need to pay to reserve your seats whether in first or second class.
For more information on timetables, pricing, routes and how to book, check out our in-depth blog on the Golden Pass Belle-Epoque train.
The GoldenPass Express offers one of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland, connecting Montreux with Interlaken via Zweisimmen. This journey is ideal for travellers who want to experience both lakes and mountain vistas in comfort.
The train features panoramic windows, allowing you to marvel at Switzerland’s varied landscapes, from the shores of Lake Geneva to the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
GoldenPass Express Route: Montreux – Zweisimmen – Interlaken
GoldenPass Express Highlights:
Majestic views of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps.
A smooth transition from French-speaking to German-speaking regions.
The newest train in this guide
Why is the GoldenPass Express a bucket list journey:
The GoldenPass Express combines lake and mountain scenery in one memorable ride, making it a must for those wanting to see the best of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes.
Is the GoldenPass Express included in the Swiss Pass?
Yes, the GoldenPass Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, allowing you to explore this route without purchasing additional tickets. You just need to pay to reserve your seats whether in first or second class.
For more information on timetables, pricing, routes and how to book, check out our in-depth blog on the Golden Pass Express train.
The Bernina Express is often hailed as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Running from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, the Bernina Express route offers a four-hour adventure through dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, viaducts, and tunnels.
The train reaches an altitude of over 2,253 meters (7,391 feet) at the Ospizio Bernina, making it one of the highest railways in the Alps.
The Bernina Express Route: Chur – Tirano
Highlights of the Bernina Express:
The stunning Landwasser Viaduct.
Views of the Morteratsch Glacier.
The crossing from Swiss to Italian landscapes.
Why the Bernina Express is a bucket list journey:
With its UNESCO World Heritage status and stunning alpine views, the Bernina Express offers a perfect blend of Swiss engineering and natural beauty.
Is the Bernina Express included in the Swiss Pass?
Yes, the Bernina Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, allowing you to explore this route without purchasing additional tickets. You just need to pay to reserve your seats whether in first or second class.
For more information on timetables, pricing, routes and how to book, check out our in-depth blog on the Bernina Express train.
The Glacier Express is a legendary journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz in a seven-and-a-half-hour ride. Often dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” this route gives you plenty of time to take in Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, from deep gorges to snow-covered peaks.
The Glacier Express Route:
Zermatt – St. Moritz
Highlights of the Glacier Express:
The Glacier Express route includes the Oberalp Pass, the highest point at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet).
Panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of the Alps.
Why the Glacier Express is a bucket list journey:
The Glacier Express is the ultimate luxury train offering a scenic journey through remote landscapes. The Glacier Express in winter is a magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes and frozen waterfalls.
Switzerland train Glacier Express tickets prices:
A second-class ticket for the Glacier Express 2nd
Class costs approximately CHF 152, while a first-class ticket is around CHF
268. Reservations are mandatory and cost an additional CHF 39 to CHF 49 depending on the season.
Can you your Swiss Pass on the Glacier Express?
Yes, the Swiss Pass covers the ticket price, however, you will still need to pay for a separate reservation fee for the seat.
Is the Glacier Express it better than the Bernina Express?
While both the Glacier Express and Bernina Express offer stunning views, the Bernina Express is considered more dramatic due to its higher altitude and varied landscapes. The Glacier Express is slower and more luxurious, making it a more leisurely experience.
The Jungfraujoch Railway takes you to the highest railway station in Europe, at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). Starting from Kleine Scheidegg, this journey offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, culminating in a visit to the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.
Jungfraujoch Route:
Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
How long is the Jungfraujoch train journey?
The train takes about two hours to reach the top, passing through tunnels inside the mountains and offering stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
How much time do you need at Jungfraujoch?
Plan for at least two to three hours at the summit to explore the glacier, ice palace, and observation platforms.
Winter Jungfraujoch experience:
Visiting in winter offers spectacular snow-covered vistas, and activities like snow tubing and ice hiking are available.
Is Jungfraujoch included in the Swiss Pass?
While the Swiss Travel Pass covers part of the journey, the final section from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch requires an additional fee, usually at a discounted rate.
Are trains in Switzerland expensive?
Switzerland’s trains can be expensive, but they offer a world class experience with stunning views. The cost varies depending on the route and class of travel. Using a Swiss Travel Pass or booking Switzerland train tickets in advance can help reduce costs.
In comparison to trains in the UK, we travelled on the Bernina Express for over 4 hours, taking in incredible views through panoramic windows and it still only cost £77 per person.
Again, the Belle-Epoque train is just £52 for the full journey of Montreux to Zweisimmen in a luxury vintage train. You are not just paying for the distance, but the experience itself, in my opinion.
How to pay for trains in Switzerland?
You can purchase train tickets online, at ticket machines, or at train stations. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on the Swiss rail network, making it an economical option for tourists. Personally, we quite often use the Trainline app, then purchase the seat reservation with the relevant railway.
Switzerland’s train journeys are like no other, giving you a front-row seat to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.
Whether you’re taking in the timeless charm of the GoldenPass Belle Epoque, climbing to the “Top of Europe” on the Jungfrau Railway, or enjoying the ultimate winter wonderland aboard the Glacier Express, there’s a train ride here for everyone!
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