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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

On the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, panoramic trains take you to all the highlights and sights in Switzerland, year-round. Get in, lean back and enjoy – wherever you like.  

• 1,280 kilometer
• 11 large lakes
• 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• 4 official languages

Alternative section: St. Moritz – Lugano (by bus)

Switch to the bus and road

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

A panoramic ride between two worlds.

Lugano – Flüelen – Luzern

The panoramic journey by train and boat.

Luzern – St. Gallen

Over gentle hills with a view of the Alps.

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Up the valley to the “mountain of mountains”.

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The “maritime” side of Switzerland.

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From glaciers to palm trees.

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in the world.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

From lake to lake, from city to city.

Explore the sections

From glaciers to lakes and from mountains to cities: each section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland has a unique character.

Find your perfect itinerary

Discover the top travel suggestions for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Everything you need for your journey

Tickets, reservations & timetables, mygrandtraintour booklet, grand train tour reiseführer, train lines of the grand train tour, bernina express.

From St. Moritz to Lugano

Glacier Express

From Zermatt to St. Moritz

GoldenPass Panoramic

From Interlaken to Montreux

Gotthard Panorama Express

From Lugano to Lucerne

Luzern–Interlaken Express

From Lucerne to Interlaken

Thurbo Seelinie

From St. Gallen to Schaffhausen

Treno Gottardo

From Locarno to Lucerne

Vigezzina - Centovalli Railway

Voralpen-express.

From Lucerne to St. Gallen

Destinations along the Grand Train Tour

Schaffhausen, book a grand train tour package.

All panoramic trains in one trip.

Barrier Free Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Touring magazine, arrival by train, accommodation along the grand train tour of switzerland, your trip experiences.

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Explore the Alps in First Class Rail via the Legendary Mountain Railways of Switzerland.

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Testimonials

We just completed the Alps by Rail Tour and everything about the trip exceeded our already-high expectations. We had incredibly fabulous guides who gladly went the extra mile for our group with many suggestions for free time throughout the trip. Their knowledge of the country, especially the rail system and the Alps themselves, made it quite easy to enjoy each day and simply sponge in everything that scenic Switzerland has to offer. What a country !!! The trip was perfectly balanced between pace-and-tempo, regarding scheduled and free time. THANKS to Alpenwild for a fabulous trip and we simply cannot recommend the Alps by Rail Tour enough. - A.G - Kentucky

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The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Imagine the spectacular alpine scenery through the panoramic "vista" windows that run from your elbow to the ceiling while you sit comfortably in your first-class Swiss rail seat. Your eyes gazing effortlessly on the beautiful Swiss Alp peaks, the sparkling lakes, lush flowered meadows, historic castles, the iconic profile of the Matterhorn, deep-cut glacial valleys, vineyards, gushing white water streams, magic mountains flanked by enormous glaciers. You'll enjoy this all in first class comfort. We will cap out with 14-15 guests on each tour. Be sure to check out our Scenic Alps by Rail FAQ  which also includes the activity level expected for this tour.   

Europe's Finest Rail System

The legendary trains of Switzerland are among the finest in the world and the Swiss have perfected making mountains accessible. Their ingenious network of trains, rack railways, trams, and funiculars easily puts you in the midst of the most spectacular glaciers in the Alps and the highest peaks in Europe.

Mountaintop Excursions

You will also get to ascend the Gornergrat above Zermatt to arrive at an alpine panorama, where you are surrounded by more 4,000-meter peaks than anywhere else in the Alps. Then you will get to ride through a tunnel in the Eiger to arrive at the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.

All in First-Class Comfort

Enjoy the Swiss Alps in the comfort of your first-class rail car, and in the company of Swiss rail experts. You'll discover the scenery, history, and engineering that have made Switzerland's rail system the finest and most popular in the world. We do our best to book 1st class seat reservations but please note that at times due to availabilty it is possible to ride in 2nd class.

Glacier Express and Other Scenic Journeys

You'll ride on the most legendary of alpine railway journeys— The Glacier Express —and discover the charms of other scenic routes such as the Bernina Express and the GoldenPass Line.

Trip Videos

Overview Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Lucerne -- Mt. Pilatus

Day 2 – Through the Historic Heart of Switzerland on the Gotthard Route

Day 3 – Bernina Route - Lugano past northern Lake Como to St Moritz

Day 4 – Beautiful Swiss Alps, Lakes and Vistas

Day 5 – Mountains, Meadows, and Breathtaking Scenery on the Glacier Express

Day 6 – The Matterhorn and The Surrounding Majestic Highest Peaks in Europe -- Gornergrat Cogwheel train

Day 7 – Lake Geneva and the manicured Préalps - GoldenPass Rail

Day 8 – Picture-postcard Swiss Alps scenery on the GoldenPass Rail

Day 9 – Magnificent Mountains with Aletsch Glacier Experience -- Jungfraujoch

Day 10 – Depart Zurich for onward travel

$6,295 USD per person, double occupancy

$995 single supplement

Reserve your place on this tour with a $500 per person deposit

30 May 2024 - 08 June 2024 Sold Out

06 June 2024 - 15 June 2024 Sold Out

20 June 2024 - 29 June 2024 Sold Out

04 July 2024 - 13 July 2024

18 July 2024 - 27 July 2024 Sold Out

01 August 2024 - 10 August 2024 Sold Out

22 August 2024 - 31 August 2024 Sold Out

05 September 2024 - 14 September 2024 Sold Out

12 September 2024 - 21 September 2024 Sold Out

26 September 2024 - 05 October 2024 Sold Out

29 May 2025 - 07 June 2025

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03 July 2025 - 12 July 2025

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31 July 2025 - 10 August 2025 Sold Out

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04 September 2025 - 13 September 2025

11 September 2025 - 20 September 2025

18 September 2025 - 27 September 2025

25 September 2025 - 04 October 2025

Or, book a private departure

Trip Highlights

• Ride the most legendary alpine railway journeys such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, the GoldenPass Line, and along the Gotthard route
• Travel in first-class comfort in panoramic cars that are air-cushioned and air-conditioned, and on all of Switzerland top scenic rail journeys
• Experience the legendary Glacier Express as it crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels on an unforgettable journey from St. Moritz to Zermatt
• Ascend snowy Jungfrau by cog railway to Europe’s highest railway station and overlooking the Alps’ longest glacier

You May Also Enjoy

Most Scenic Trains in Europe.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

FAQ - Scenic Alps by Rail Tour

Train Travel in Switzerland

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Swiss Voyages

Switzerland Destination Management Company

7 Nights / 8 Days

Swiss rail packages : 7 nights / 8 days, visit world famous sights, exciting modern architecture & museum with swissvoyages.

Swiss Premium Tour

Itinerary    Day 1: Arrival in Lucerne Arrival in Lucerne by train 2nd class from the Swiss border or airport. A stunning setting, world-famous sights, exciting modern architecture, renowned museums and much more make Lucerne a thrilling city to visit....

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland

Itinerary    Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken Arrival in Interlaken by train 2nd class from the Swiss border or airport. Overnight in Interlaken.   Day 2: Jungfraujoch (4h) Enjoy a journey to the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe, the highest railway...

Rail Adventure

Itinerary    Day 1: Arrival in Lucerne Arrival in Lucerne by train 2nd class from the Swiss border or airport. Overnight in Lucerne.   Day 2: Lucerne to Lugano (2h10) Train journey from Lucerne to Lugano. Experience the new Gotthard...

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Bookable with luggage transport

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - The Classic

7 days / 6 nights.

Take in the very best of Switzerland on this exciting 7-day itinerary. Travelling by rail throughout, marvel at the diversity of bustling cities and shimmering lakes; from snow-capped mountain peaks to palm-tree lined streets. With panoramic carriages, these trains and destinations truly offer something for everyone.

• Lucerne - Lugano
• Lucerne - Interlaken

• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Bernina Express
• Glacier Express
• Zermatt with the Matterhorn
• GoldenPass Express
• Lucerne-Interlaken Express

«Discovering Switzerland on a scenic train is an unforgettable experience.»

Your itinerary.

• Lucerne on Lake Lucerne
• Freddie Mercury Statue - Montreux

From your starting point in Switzerland, take public transport to Lucerne. Overnight stay in Lucerne.

Highlights: Lucerne Old Town, Chapel Bridge, Lake Lucerne, Musegg Wall

Lucerne - Lugano / approx. 5h 30

Today you cross Lake Lucerne on the historic paddle steamer to Flüelen and travel in the 1st class panoramic carriage of the Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano. Overnight stay in Lugano.

Highlights: Gotthard Panorama Express, Lugano, Gotthard Tunnel

Lugano - Tirano / ca. 3h 20

Tirano - St. Moritz / ca. 2h 20

Travel by Bernina Express bus through the Italian Alps to Tirano. Continue with the Bernina Express in the panorama coach to St. Moritz. Overnight stay in St. Moritz.

Highlights: Tirano, Lago Bianco, Bernina Express, St. Moritz

St. Moritz - Zermatt / approx. 8h

Today, the world-famous Glacier Express takes you from St. Moritz to Zermatt in eight hours on an exciting panorama train ride. Overnight stay in Zermatt.

Highlights: St. Moritz, Landwasser Viaduct, Rhine gorge, Oberalp pass, Matterhorn

Zermatt - Montreux / approx. 2h 30

Today you travel towards Montreux. The rest of the day is at your leisure to discover the Swiss Riviera. Overnight stay in Montreux.

Highlights: Montreux Riviera, Lake Geneva, Lavaux vineyards, Chillon Castle  

Montreux - Interlaken / approx. 3h

From Montreux, the GoldenPass Express takes you directly to Interlaken. Golden vineyards, alpine pastures and picturesque villages accompany you along the way. Overnight stay in Interlaken.

Highlights: Gstaad, GoldenPass Express, Interlaken

Travel with the Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Lucerne. From Lucerne, take public transport back or to your next destination.

Highlights: Lucerne Old Town, Chapel Bridge, Lake Lucerne, Musegg Wall.

• Rail journey from your starting point in Switzerland and back
• Overnight stay with breakfast in Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Montreux and Interlaken
• Seat reservation on the Gotthard Panorama Express, Bernina Express, Glacier Express and GoldenPass Express
• Upgrade on board the Gotthard Panorama Express to 1st class
• From price applies per person in a 3-star double room, 2nd class, basic half-fare card
• Booking period: all year round
• Travel period: 15.04. - 09.10.2024
• Price example calculated on 01.09.2023 for 01.05.2024

Good to know

• Travel documents are sent by email if possible, in exceptional cases by post.
• The trip can also be booked in reverse
• Additional overnight stays in all destinations bookable
• The route in the Bernina Express from Tirano to Lugano takes place in 2nd class bus.
• Table reservations on the boat can be made directly via +41 41 367 67 67 or online at www.lakelucerne.ch .
• The journey on the Bernina Express from Lugano to Tirano is in coach 2nd class
• Here you can find the current timetables .
• The SBB luggage transport from hotel to hotel can be added in the booking process
• Benefit from over 100 2 for 1 offer and save up to CHF 4,500 with the Swiss Coupon Pass .
• Would you like to make someone happy? Give the trip away as a voucher .
• Download the  app  for the Grand Train tour of Switzerland now and playfully collect points for great offers while discovering the "must see" spots.
• You can find more inspiration for your trip at our partner MySwitzerland.com/classictour

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13 Day Tour | Switzerland by Train with Flights

Zurich - Lucerne - Flüelen - St. Moritz - Zermatt - Montreux - Wilderswil

Inclusive of Return International Economy Class airfares from Australia

Tour through the wonders of Switzerland with its world-famous trains

Experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station

Explore the cosmopolitan city of Zurich and the charming Swiss villages and resorts of  Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Montreux and Interlaken!

From $6,999 Typically $8,499 pp twin share

Description, switzerland's beauty is a captivating tapestry of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, lush meadows, and charming villages, all framed by an enchanting alpine landscape..

Traveling through Switzerland on its trains is an extraordinary experience that offers a seamless blend of efficiency, comfort, and breathtaking scenic beauty. Renowned for its world-class rail network, Switzerland boasts a punctual and reliable system that connects even the most remote regions of the country. Whether you're traversing the majestic Swiss Alps or exploring picturesque lakeside towns, the panoramic views from the train windows provide a constant source of awe and inspiration. The Swiss trains are known for their spacious, clean, and well-maintained carriages, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing journey. With an extensive network of routes, travelers can effortlessly access major cities, charming villages, and iconic landmarks, making it an ideal mode of transport for exploring the diverse and enchanting landscapes that Switzerland has to offer.

One of the most compelling reasons to travel through Switzerland on its trains is the sheer convenience it offers. The Swiss Rail system is intricately designed, enabling smooth transfers between trains, buses, and boats, allowing travelers to effortlessly plan multi-modal journeys without the stress of coordinating different transportation modes.  Along the way, passengers can relish delicious Swiss cuisine, served right on board, including delectable chocolates and world-famous cheeses, further enhancing the overall travel experience. With its focus on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives, Switzerland's train travel also appeals to environmentally-conscious travelers, offering guilt-free exploration of this Alpine wonderland. Whether for leisure or adventure, the Swiss train journey promises an unforgettable and enriching experience that captures the essence of Switzerland's natural beauty and unparalleled efficiency.

Itinerary Downloadable Itinerary

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13

Australia Zurich, Switzerland

Today depart your home city for Zurich.

Meals: Inflight Menu

Welcome to Switzerland. After your arrival at the airport, make your own way to the hotel and enjoy your first day at leisure.  Start with the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings and enjoy a short city stroll.

Meals:  None

Accommodation: Hotel Bristol or Similar

Wake up to a delicious Swiss breakfast, then take a stroll along the famous Bahnhofstrasse. A quick detour will lead you to the narrower cobbled streets of Zurich's Old Town and its smaller, independent artisan shops.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:  Hotel Bristol or Similar

Zurich Lucerne

After breakfast, transfer by rail to Lucerne in Central Switzerland, situated in an enviable location surrounded by a stunning lake and mountain panorama. The historic town of Lucerne attracts visitors globally with its well-preserved old town, countless shops and restaurants.

Meals:  Breakfast

Accommodation:  Des Alpes or Similar

Lucerne   Flüelen    Lugano

This morning, the Gotthard Panorama Express takes you from the heart of Switzerland, with a journey through Lake Lucerne on a paddle steamer boat. From Flüelen, travel by first-class panoramic train to Lugano, a picturesque lakeside town in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region.

Accommodation:  Delfino Lugano or Similar

Lugano Tirano   St. Moritz

Board the Bernina Express bus after breakfast, and enjoy a scenic drive to Italy-based Tirano where you join the Bernina Express panoramic train across the border back to Switzerland. You will travel over circular viaducts and pass through winding tunnels, with highlights including the Brusio Circular Viaduct and a photo stop at Alp Grüm. 

Arrive in St. Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley, and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation:  Hotel Soldanella or similar

  St. Moritz

A full day awaits to explore St. Moritz, where guests from all over the world appreciate the modern Alpine lifestyle.

St. Moritz   Zermatt

Ride the world‐famous Glacier Express to Zermatt today, a village near the Italian border. Along the deep Rhone valley, the Glacier Express travels through an incredibly fascinating part of the Alps. The route famously takes you through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, offering unrivalled views. Make sure to have your camera handy! Optionally, you may wish to dine at your seat with a delicious 3-course meal served on your table (additional charges apply). 

Accommodation:  Hotel Excelsior or similar 

Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. This car‐free resort offers guests an abundance of activities such as visits to the local mountains of Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It is also home to the highest open-air cog railway in Europe. 

Accommodation:  Hotel Excelsior or similar

Zermatt  Montreux

Continue by train to Montreux, nestled between steep hills and the lakeside of Lake Geneva. The town's promenade is lined with flowers, sculptures, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque buildings. Nearby attractions include the medieval island castle, Chateau de Chillon and the vineyards of the Lavaux region.

Accommodation:  J5 Hotel Helvetie or Similar

Montreux   Wilderswil

Your journey continues by train on the GoldenPass Express through the wild and romantic Pays d'Enhaut, complete with scenic villages and crystal-clear lakes at every corner. 

Interlaken presides over by three mighty mountains, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It makes a great base from which to explore the Bernese Oberland. Unprecedented views of the Swiss Alps give an impression of how spectacular Switzerland is.

Accommodation:  Bären or Similar

Wilderswil Jungfraujoch Wilderswil

This morning you will embark on a self-guided excursion to the Jungfraujoch, also known as the highest railway station in Europe. You may choose to go via Grindelwald Terminal on the technical marvel that is Eiger Express cable car, or take the traditional route by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg. Highlights include the world’s highest Lindt Chocolate Shop and the Ice Palace with its impressive ice sculptures.

Wilderswil Zurich

This marks the end of your tour through Switzerland. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your trip. Your train ticket includes the rail transfer from Wilderswil to Zurich airport, allowing you the flexibility to select a suitable connection for your departure flight. Trains via Lucerne typically depart every hour. Check in for your flight home to Australia.

Meals:  Breakfast and Inflight Menu

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Return International Economy Class airfares form All Australian Capital Caitites to Zurich
• 11 nights in 3.5 star hotels, standard room twin share.
• Breakfast daily
• Scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express
• Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains
• Self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Meals & drinks not mentioned
• Any additional requests

Single Supplement:  Solo supplement is $1999 for this program. 

Travel Insurance:  We recommend Covermore travel insurance. To quote and book, please click  HERE.

Travelling on your own? Why not join the  Traveldream Solo Travellers Facebook group  where you can interact with other travellers.

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Scenic Switzerland Train Tour with Glacier Express, Daily Departure

• Self-Guided
• Personalized
• Christmas & New Year

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• Introduction
• Day 1 Individual Arrival in Zurich; One-hour Train Journey to Lucerne
• Day 2 The Golden Round Trip in Mt. Pilatus
• Day 3 Scenic Rail Adventure to Interlaken via the Iconic Golden Pass Line
• Day 4 Excursion to Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe; Visit Grindelwald on the Return
• Day 5 Train Trip from Interlaken to the Mountain Resort - Zermatt
• Day 6 Adventure to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Day 7 Hop on the Famous Glacier Express Train Crossing the Swiss Alps to St. Moritz
• Day 8 Individual Departure from St. Moritz to Zurich

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Agate Travel 4.9
• Chung · 5th January 2024 The planning was great and easy to follow. We had great time. I do hope I could get the itinerary earlier so we can... Show more
• William · 27th September 2023 Beautiful scenery. Hotel proximity to train stations was generally good. 3 star rooms varied greatly, from very good... Show more
• Lacey · 6th September 2023 In our spare time, the tour guide was warm to tell us some free scenic spots worth visiting. She was also very kind... Show more Review collected by Agate Travel

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15 FAQs about train travel in Switzerland answered Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

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Are you planning to see scenic Switzerland by train? In this episode, Carolyn answers 15 of the most frequently asked questions by travellers who plan to travel Switzerland by train.  If you’ve ever wondered if there are weight limits for luggage on Swiss trains, or have asked ‘do Swiss trains have toilets?’, these questions and many more will be answered in this episode. Listen now to learn: Why you should use trains instead of renting a carAre there fast trains in Switzerland?Do Swiss trains run on time?What are the best rail passes or Swiss train tickets for tourists?What trains are not covered with the Swiss Travel Pass?Are there discounts for children on Swiss trains?First class and second class differencesAre seat reservations required on Swiss trains?Do Swiss trains operate on Sundays and public holidays? These questions and more are answered in this episode to help you plan your vacation by train around Switzerland with confidence. 👉 Show notes - Episode 97 🚆 Get 'The Essential Guide to Travelling by Train in Switzerland' Discount code: PODCAST for 30% off until 31 May, 2024. Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration: On our websiteSubscribe to our newsletterJoin our private Facebook group 🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts. If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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Immerse Yourself in the Swiss Alps on an Express Train That Takes Its Time

For instance, guests can splurge on a multi-course meal or opt for a la carte items like regional cheese plates and chicken tikka masala. As of a 2020 renovation to celebrate the train line’s 90th anniversary, Wi-Fi and power sockets are also available to every passenger for free. Meanwhile, the seats themselves are comfortable, while the cars are spacious and relaxing to be in. Trust us when we say that if you haven’t yet sipped a crisp white from a tilted glass while traversing the Alps , it’s unclear if you’ve even lived. So, ready to climb aboard one of the most scenic train rides in the world ? Here’s what you need to know to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

How to book your trip on the Glacier Express

An individual ticket ranges from 73 Swiss francs to 268 Swiss francs depending on how far you go and whether you’re cool with second class or want to get fancy in first class . (That’s about $83 and $306, respectively.) The seat reservation fee ranges from 29 Swiss francs to 420 Swiss francs. The cheaper end is for a first or second-class seat during the low season (December to May) going a shorter distance, while the more expensive fees are for those living it up in the so-called “excellence class” during the high season (May to October)—for the full eight-hour trip, of course.

Whatever type of ticket you choose, the journey is mostly about the view, and you can get that anywhere on the train. It should go without saying that snagging a window seat is the way to go, so you don’t have to lean over a stranger to snap your pics. But don’t worry too much about what side of the train you’re on—if you’re going the full route, the train actually reverses directions going into and out of Chur. It is wise, however, to go for a spot in the middle of the coach, so you’ll be guaranteed a wider view regardless of which way you’re traveling.

Where to start and stop on the Glacier Express

One of the Glacier Express’ termini, St. Moritz has twice hosted the winter Olympics. That means it’s heaven for anyone into skiing or snowboarding, though it’s hard to imagine not having a good time there. It’s a place to hike, mountain bike, or even slide down a famous bobsled run at breakneck speeds. And for those who aren’t into the outdoors at all, St. Moritz has a range of swanky shops, grand hotels, and really everything you need to relax without worrying you might also fall on your face.

While the Glacier Express only runs between St. Moritz and Zermatt, you’re not required to start your journey at those specific stops. For many passengers, the town of Chur makes a great starting point. It’s often called the oldest town in Switzerland, and is still host to millennia-old archeological finds. The quaint, car-free Old Town is well-preserved and a great place for a stress-free stroll. Chur also has the highest concentration of restaurants and bars in the country. Not only that, it’s the largest shopping center between Zurich and Milan.

Notable sights along the way

Rhine gorge.

They call it the “ Grand Canyon of Switzerland,” and it was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in June 2002 for good reason. This place is a serious beaut. It’s largely inaccessible by road, so enjoy the opportunity to sit back and see the results of a prehistoric rockslide. Today, it’s where the Rhine River winds through massive geological formations, resulting in a picturesque ravine.

Albula Line

The Albula Line, a twisting section of the railway located between Filisur and St. Moritz, is where you’ll traverse many of those viaducts and tunnels that make the Glacier Express so incredible—including the famous Landwasser Viaduct. Anyone interested in railway engineering—or stunning scenery—is sure to be impressed. It is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.

Landwasser Viaduct

Did someone say viaducts? The Landwasser Viaduct is the most famous along the Glacier Express route, standing at 65 meters (or a little over 213 feet high) and stretching 142 meters (or around 466 feet long) before disappearing into a tunnel. Since it comes up just outside of the village of Filisur, it’s a good reason to make sure your chosen itinerary includes the railway’s eastern section. You’ll be able to see—and enjoy—the marvel’s highly pronounced curve from fairly far away.

Oberalp Pass

Cindy Brzostowski  is a contributor for Thrillist.

Kori Perten  is a senior travel editor at Thrillist.

Allie Conti  is a senior travel editor at Thrillist.