Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes and world-class rail network combine to create some of the most spectacular train journeys on Earth. From snow-capped peaks to lush valleys, these scenic routes offer travellers a unique perspective on the country’s natural beauty and engineering prowess. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable way to explore the Swiss Alps, these train rides promise to deliver awe-inspiring views and unforgettable experiences.
Glacier express: st. moritz to zermatt panoramic journey
The Glacier Express, often referred to as the “slowest express train in the world,” is a marvel of Swiss engineering and tourism. This iconic journey connects two of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts, St. Moritz and Zermatt, traversing 291 kilometres of stunning Alpine scenery over the course of 8 hours. The train’s panoramic windows offer unobstructed views of the ever-changing landscape, from deep gorges to pristine mountain lakes.
Albula railway UNESCO world heritage route
A highlight of the Glacier Express journey is the Albula Railway section, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This remarkable feat of engineering includes 55 bridges and 39 tunnels, showcasing the ingenuity required to build a railway through such challenging terrain. The route’s spiral tunnels and viaducts are a testament to the skill of 19th-century railway engineers, allowing the train to gain altitude gradually through the mountains.
Landwasser viaduct: engineering marvel
One of the most photographed sections of the journey is the Landwasser Viaduct. This impressive structure spans 65 metres high and 136 metres long, curving dramatically into the mountainside. As the train crosses the viaduct, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Landwasser River valley below. The sight of the Glacier Express traversing this architectural wonder has become an iconic image of Swiss railway travel.
Oberalp pass: highest point at 2,033 metres
The journey reaches its literal high point at the Oberalp Pass, situated at 2,033 metres above sea level. Here, travellers can marvel at the alpine panorama, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. The pass marks the watershed between the Rhine and Rhône rivers, offering a unique geographical perspective on Switzerland’s diverse landscapes.
Rhône valley vineyards panorama
As the Glacier Express descends towards Zermatt, it passes through the sun-drenched Rhône Valley, home to some of Switzerland’s finest vineyards. The contrast between the lush, green slopes and the distant snow-covered peaks creates a striking visual tableau. This section of the journey showcases Switzerland’s agricultural heritage alongside its natural beauty, reminding travellers of the country’s diverse ecosystems and economic activities.
The Glacier Express is not merely a train journey; it’s a moveable feast for the eyes, offering an unparalleled showcase of Switzerland’s geographical and cultural diversity.
Bernina express: alpine crossings and cultural diversity
The Bernina Express offers a unique cross-border experience, connecting Chur in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage route is renowned for its ability to showcase dramatic changes in landscape and climate over a relatively short distance. The journey takes passengers from the icy glaciers of the Swiss Alps to the sunny Mediterranean-like climate of northern Italy, all within the span of four hours.
Chur to tirano: Swiss-Italian border crossing
Starting in Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, the Bernina Express climbs steadily through the Albula Valley. As the train ascends, passengers witness the transition from lush Alpine meadows to stark, rocky landscapes. The journey reaches its apex at the Bernina Pass, where the train travels alongside pristine mountain lakes before beginning its descent into Italy. This cross-border route offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region.
Brusio circular viaduct: 360-degree experience
One of the most unique features of the Bernina Express route is the Brusio Circular Viaduct. This architectural marvel allows the train to gain altitude quickly by completing a 360-degree turn. As the train spirals around the viaduct, passengers are treated to ever-changing views of the surrounding landscape. The experience is both thrilling and mesmerizing, showcasing the ingenuity required to build railways in such challenging terrain.
Bernina pass: glaciers and alpine lakes
The journey over the Bernina Pass is undoubtedly one of the highlights of this route. At 2,253 metres above sea level, it’s the highest railway crossing in Europe. Here, the train passes by the Bernina Glacier and several Alpine lakes, including the strikingly beautiful Lago Bianco. The stark, treeless landscape at this altitude creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere, with the railway seeming to float above the rugged terrain.
Poschiavo valley: Swiss-Italian cultural blend
As the Bernina Express descends into the Poschiavo Valley, travellers witness a dramatic shift in both landscape and culture. The architecture takes on a distinctly Italian flair, while the vegetation becomes increasingly Mediterranean. This section of the journey offers a fascinating glimpse into the blending of Swiss and Italian cultures, with charming villages and historic churches dotting the landscape.
Goldenpass line: lakes and mountain panoramas
The GoldenPass Line offers a diverse journey through some of Switzerland’s most picturesque regions, connecting Montreux on Lake Geneva with Lucerne in central Switzerland. This route is actually composed of three different railway lines, each with its own distinct character and scenery. The journey can be completed in either direction, with each offering unique perspectives on the Swiss landscape.
Montreux riviera to interlaken route
Beginning in Montreux, known for its mild climate and palm-lined promenades, the train climbs into the hills above Lake Geneva. Passengers are treated to sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding vineyards of the Lavaux region, another UNESCO World Heritage site. As the train continues its ascent, the landscape transforms into classic Swiss Alpine scenery, with snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys.
Gstaad: luxury resort town passage
The journey includes a stop in the famous resort town of Gstaad, known for its luxury hotels and high-end shops. This section of the route offers a glimpse into the glamorous side of Swiss mountain life, with traditional chalet-style architecture set against a backdrop of pristine Alpine peaks. The contrast between the sophisticated town and the rugged mountain scenery is particularly striking.
Simmental valley: traditional swiss architecture
Passing through the Simmental Valley, travellers are treated to views of some of Switzerland’s most picturesque rural landscapes. This region is renowned for its traditional Swiss farmhouses, with their distinctive wide roofs and intricate wooden detailing. The valley’s lush green pastures, dotted with grazing cattle, offer a quintessential image of Swiss rural life.
Lake thun: castles and alpine reflections
As the train approaches Interlaken, it skirts the shores of Lake Thun. This stunning body of water is framed by towering Alpine peaks, their reflections shimmering on the lake’s surface. The journey along the lakeshore offers views of several medieval castles, including the iconic Spiez Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop above the water.
The GoldenPass Line is a journey through the very essence of Switzerland, showcasing everything from Mediterranean-like riviera to high Alpine passes, and from luxury resorts to traditional rural landscapes.
Gotthard panorama express: historic swiss engineering
The Gotthard Panorama Express combines a scenic boat trip on Lake Lucerne with a historic train journey through the heart of Switzerland. This route follows the original Gotthard railway line, opened in 1882, which was a crucial link connecting northern and southern Europe. The journey offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels, showcasing Switzerland’s role as a pioneer in Alpine railway construction.
The train journey begins in Flüelen, following the shores of Lake Uri before climbing into the Reuss Valley. As the train ascends, it passes through a series of spiral tunnels and over numerous bridges, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The highlight of this route is the passage through the historic Gotthard Tunnel, a 15-kilometre marvel of 19th-century engineering.
Emerging on the southern side of the Alps, the landscape transforms dramatically. The Mediterranean influence becomes evident as the train descends into Ticino, Switzerland’s Italian-speaking canton. Passengers are treated to views of palm trees, vineyards, and charming villages with distinctly Italian architecture, all set against the backdrop of the southern Alps.
Jungfrau railway: europe’s highest alpine station
The Jungfrau Railway is a feat of engineering that takes passengers on an unforgettable journey to the “Top of Europe.” This cogwheel railway climbs to an altitude of 3,454 metres, terminating at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. The journey begins in Interlaken, with connections via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, offering two distinct routes to the summit.
As the train ascends, passengers witness the dramatic transformation of the landscape from lush green valleys to stark, snow-covered peaks. The final leg of the journey travels through a tunnel carved into the Eiger and Mönch mountains, with two stops at panoramic windows offering stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.
At the summit station, visitors can explore the Ice Palace, carved into the heart of the glacier, or step out onto the Sphinx Observation Deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding Alpine peaks. The Jungfrau Railway not only offers unparalleled views but also serves as a testament to human ingenuity and determination in conquering the harsh Alpine environment.
Chocolate train: culinary journey through gruyères
For those seeking to combine scenic views with gastronomic delights, the Chocolate Train offers a unique Swiss experience. Operating during the summer months, this special service takes passengers on a journey through the picturesque countryside of western Switzerland, with stops at two of the country’s most famous culinary destinations.
The journey begins in Montreux, travelling in either vintage 1915 Pullman cars or modern panoramic coaches. The first stop is the village of Gruyères, renowned for its cheese production. Here, visitors can tour a traditional cheese factory and explore the medieval town, crowned by its stunning hilltop castle.
The train then continues to Broc, home of the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory. Passengers can indulge in a tour of the facility, learning about the history and production of Swiss chocolate, followed by a tasting session featuring some of Switzerland’s finest confections. The return journey to Montreux offers further opportunities to soak in the beautiful landscapes of the region, from rolling hills to pristine lakes.
This culinary-themed train ride not only showcases the natural beauty of Switzerland but also celebrates its gastronomic heritage, offering a delightful combination of scenic vistas and delectable flavours.
Switzerland’s scenic train rides offer more than just transportation; they are immersive experiences that showcase the country’s natural beauty, engineering prowess, and cultural diversity in unparalleled style.
Each of these scenic train rides in Switzerland offers a unique perspective on the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From glacial peaks to sun-drenched valleys, from historic mountain passes to cutting-edge engineering marvels, these journeys provide travellers with unforgettable experiences and a deep appreciation for Switzerland’s natural and man-made wonders. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique way to explore this beautiful country, Switzerland’s scenic train rides promise adventures that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return.