12 most scenic train rides in Switzerland 

In my opinion, travelling by train through Switzerland is the best way to experience the country’s breathtaking beauty. The most scenic train rides in Switzerland take you past snow-dusted mountain peaks, over vast viaducts and through charming Swiss towns and villages. 

From short train rides between towns to lengthy expeditions across the country, I love that there are countless opportunities to soak up the stunning landscapes of Switzerland from the comfort of a train. And comfy they are – I always find Swiss trains to be clean, comfortable and efficient. 

Some of the best train journeys in Switzerland are the panoramic trains, where large glass windows provide uninterrupted views of the epic scenery.

Witness majestic mountain vistas, rolling green hills and vivid blue lakes as you journey through the country.

I’ve visited Switzerland numerous times over the years and have been lucky to experience some of the most epic train journeys in the country.

In my guide to the most scenic train rides in Switzerland, I’ll share my pick of the best panoramic train journeys and most beautiful railway routes, along with the best ticket options and key points of interest on each train ride. 

1. Glacier Express

Route: Zermatt – St Moritz

Distance: 291km

Time: 7.5 hours

Stops: Zermatt, Brig, Andermatt, Disentis Mustér, Chur, Tiefencastel, Filisur, Samedan, St Moritz

Tickets: Book here (seat reservation also needed)

Definitely up there as one of my all-time favourites, the Glacier Express is one of the most famous scenic train rides in Switzerland.

It is known as the “slowest express train in the world” because of its leisurely pace. This allows you to enjoy the stunning views of the Swiss Alps without whizzing along at lightning speed.

The route runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz, covering a distance of 291km in just under eight hours.

On the journey, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys and picturesque villages.

I love that panoramic windows provide unobstructed views of the scenery. Some of the windows even open so you can get photos and videos without that annoying window glare. 

If you’re able to then I’d really recommend treating yourself to Excellence Class. This is truly a bucket list experience with a guaranteed window seat, five-course regional menu and exclusive use of the Glacier bar.

Key points of interest on the Glacier Express include:

• The Matterhorn: The train passes by the iconic Matterhorn mountain, which is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Switzerland.
• Oberalp Pass: The train reaches its highest point at Oberalp Pass, which is 2,033 metres above sea level. Here, passengers can see the Rhine River’s source and enjoy gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.
• Landwasser Viaduct: The Glacier Express passes over the Landwasser Viaduct, which is one of the most famous landmarks on the Glacier Express route. The viaduct is 65 metres high and 136 metres long, offering stunning views of the valley below.

Insider travel tip: You need to book both a ticket and a seat reservation. If you already have the Swiss Travel Pass (which I’d highly recommend as it gives you unlimited travel on trains, buses and boats across Switzerland), then you’ll just need to pay for your seat reservation.

Remember that you don’t need to join for the entire route; personally, I travelled from Chur to Brig.

Discover my pick of the best hotels in Zermatt, my review of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof near St Moritz, or read my guide to visiting Chur.

Watch my vlog and honest experience of riding the Glacier Express:

2. Bernina Express

Route: Chur – Tirano

Distance: 122km

Time: 4 hours

Stops: Chur, Filisur, St Moritz, Poschiavo, Tirano

Tickets: Book here (seat reservation also needed)

The Bernina Express is another world-famous scenic train ride that takes passengers through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. The train route starts in Chur and ends in Tirano, Italy – and vice versa.

The journey takes approximately four hours and covers a distance of 122 km. It passes through 55 tunnels and crosses 196 bridges, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct.

Like the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express is known for its panoramic windows, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding beauty.

I was pleased to discover that the Bernina Express is actually a bit cheaper than the Glacier Express (presumably as it takes half the time).

It is still breathtakingly beautiful and one of the most stunning train rides in Switzerland – if not the world. 

During the journey, you’ll pass through the Engadine Valley, which is known for its picturesque villages and sparkling lakes.

The train also climbs up to the Bernina Pass, which is the highest point on the journey at 2,253 metres above sea level.

Key points of interest on the Bernina Express journey include:

• The Landwasser Viaduct: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most photographed landmarks in Switzerland (and I can see why!).
• The Morteratsch Glacier: See the largest glacier in the Bernina Range from the train.
• The Brusio Circular Viaduct: A spiral viaduct that allows the train to descend safely down the mountain.

Insider travel tip: As with the Glacier Express, you need to book both a ticket (unless covered by Swiss Travel Pass or Eurail Pass) and a seat reservation.

Bear in mind that the Bernina Express doesn’t have the at-seat restaurant service that you get on the Glacier Express, but a trolley service offering refreshments is available.

I’d recommend bringing your own lunch and even a cheeky bottle of wine!

3. Golden Pass Line

Route: Montreux – Zweisimmen – Interlaken – Lucerne

Distance: 191km

Time: 5.5 hours

Stops: Montreux, Zweisimmen, Interlaken, Lucerne

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass (seat reservations not needed, apart from on the Belle Epoque train during peak times)

Another of my favourite train rides in Switzerland, the Golden Pass connects Lucerne and Montreux.

This scenic train ride takes passengers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Switzerland, including the Bernese Oberland, the Simmen Valley, and the Pays d’Enhaut.

The Golden Pass comprises three sections:

• Lucerne to Interlaken
• Interlaken to Zweisimmen
• Zweisimmen to Montreux

As part of the Golden Pass Line, I’d recommend taking the Chocolate Train from Montreux to Broc-Chocolat on the Belle Epoque train.

Discover how chocolate is made in Broc and visit the cheese factory in Gruyères. It’s a slight detour but absolutely worth it!

Key points of interest along the Golden Pass Line include:

• Lucerne: This picturesque city is located on the shores of Lake Lucerne and is known for its mediaeval architecture and stunning views of the Alps. Read my one-day Lucerne itinerary.
• Interlaken: This resort town is situated between two lakes and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding. Discover my pick of the best things to do in Interlaken and the top hotels in Interlaken.
• Gstaad: This luxury ski resort town brings high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as its stunning mountain views.
• Montreux: This charming town is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and is known for its mild climate, beautiful gardens, and historic Château de Chillon. Discover more of the best things to do in Montreux with my guide.

Insider travel tip: For the Zweisimmen to Montreux leg of the Golden Pass route, you can take the specialised Belle Epoque train.

The interiors offer similar vibes to the iconic Orient Express trains with their grand interiors. There are two Belle Epoque trains per day and I’d advise reserving a seat if travelling in peak season.

4. Gotthard Panorama Express

Route:

• Lugano / Bellinzona – Flüelen by train
• Flüelen – Lucerne by steamboat

Distance: 182km

Time: 5.5 hours

Stops: Montreux, Zweisimmen, Interlaken, Lucerne

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass (seat reservations also needed)

The Gotthard Panorama Express is a scenic train ride that takes you through the heart of Switzerland’s Alpine region.

Along the way, you will be greeted with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and lush green valleys. 

The train route begins (or ends) in Lucerne, where you board a steamboat that takes you across Lake Lucerne to the town of Flüelen.

From there, you board the Gotthard Panorama Express train for the rest of the journey – or vice versa.

The train ride takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Switzerland, including the famous Gotthard Tunnel. The tunnel is the longest railway tunnel in the world and offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy a variety of amenities, including comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and a dining car that serves delicious Swiss cuisine.

I love that the train also features audio guides which provide you with information about the history and culture of the region.

Key points of interest along the Gotthard Panorama Express include:

• Gotthard Tunnel: The longest railway tunnel in the world at 57km. 
• Wassen Church: Passengers pass the famous church three times on the Gotthard train, as a result of the spiralling tunnels on the route. 
• Mount Rigi: Affectionately known as the ‘Queen of the Mountains’, located just south of Lake Lucerne.

Insider travel tip: You need to purchase seat reservations as well as a ticket or travel pass. Note that the Gotthard Panorama Express train only offers 1st class on the route between Flüelen and Lugano.

So if you have a 2nd class ticket (i.e. through the Swiss Travel Pass or Eurail Pass), then you’ll need to purchase a class upgrade for this route.

5. Jungfrau Railway

Route: Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch

Distance: 9km

Time: 35 minutes

Stops: Kleine Scheidegg, Eismeer Station, Jungfraujoch

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass (seat reservations needed in peak season)

The Jungfrau Railway is a cogwheel train that takes passengers to the highest railway station in Europe: the Jungfraujoch. It’s located at a dizzying altitude of 3,454 metres above sea level and known as the “top of Europe”.

The journey starts from the Kleine Scheidegg station in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland and takes just 35 minutes. If travelling from Interlaken, the journey takes about two hours.

As the train winds its way up through the Swiss Alps, you’ll be immersed in stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and quaint alpine villages.

One of the highlights of the journey is the Eiger North Face, which is one of the most challenging and dangerous mountain faces in the world for climbers. 

At the top, there are a variety of things to do, including: 

• Sphinx Observatory: One of the highest astronomical observatories in the world. The observation deck is open to the public and is the second-highest in the world.
• Ice Palace: I’d recommend exploring the impressive ice sculptures and learning more about the glacier’s history. 
• Snow Fun Park: Here you can go skiing, snowboarding, sledging and even ziplining. It’s open from mid-May to mid-October but can be closed due to bad weather.

Good to know: The train stops at Eismeer Station on the way up, allowing you to take in the views from the observation deck.

6. Gornergrat Railway

Route: Zermatt – Gornergrat

Distance: 9km

Time: 33 minutes

Stops: Zermatt, Findelbach, Riffelalp, Riffelboden, Riffelberg, Rotenboden, Gornergrat

Tickets: Book here

The Gornergrat Railway is a cogwheel train that takes passengers from Zermatt to the Gornergrat summit, which is at an altitude of 3,089 metres.

It is one of the highest open-air railway lines in Europe and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the Matterhorn.

The train ride takes approximately 33 minutes and covers a distance of just over 9km. It’s a real must when staying in Zermatt and it also serves as the main way for skiers and snowboarders to get to the slopes.

I loved getting this gorgeous train everyday when I stayed in Zermatt.

Key points of interest along the Gornergrat Railway include:

• The Matterhorn: The train offers some of the best views of the Matterhorn, the iconic “Toblerone” mountain.
• Riffelalp Resort: The train stops at Riffelalp, where you can find the historic luxury Riffelalp Hotel located at an altitude of 2,222 metres. Discover more of my favourite luxury hotels in Zermatt. 
• ZOOOM Matterhorn: A multi-media experience complete with periscopes, immersive 3D cinema and virtual paraglider flights. 

Good to know: The Swiss Travel Pass doesn’t cover lift systems or the Gornergrat but it does get you a 50% discount on the Gornergrat Railway. 

7. Cogwheel Railway to Mount Pilatus

Route: Alpnachstad – Pilatus Kulm

Distance: 5km

Time: 30 minutes for ascent, 40 minutes for descent

Stops: Alpnachstad, Pilatus Kulm

Tickets: Book here

Another of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland is the cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus.

The train starts its journey from Alpnachstad and takes passengers to the top of Mount Pilatus, which is over 2,000 metres above sea level.

What makes this train ride unique is that it’s the steepest cogwheel railway in the world, with a gradient of up to 48%. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers epic views of the surrounding landscape.

Passing through lush green forests, mountain streams, and rocky terrain, believe me when I say that the view from the train is breathtaking. You can even see the beautiful Lake Lucerne from above.

At the top of Mount Pilatus, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are several hiking trails, restaurants, and souvenir shops at the top.

Good to know: The cogwheel railway is easily accessible from Lucerne by public transport. You can get the train from Lucerne or a lake steamer that takes about an hour.

If you prefer, I’d recommend getting the cable car on the descent from Mount Pilatus, which takes you back to Lucerne (or vice versa).

8. Wengernalpbahn Railway

Route:

• Kleine Scheidegg – Grindelwald
• Kleine Scheidegg – Wengen – Lauterbrunnen

Distance: 19km

Time: 

• Kleine Scheidegg – Grindelwald: 24 minutes
• Kleine Scheidegg – Lauterbrunnen: 42 minutes
• Wengen – Lauterbrunnen: 12 minutes

Stops: Grindelwald, Grindelwald-Grund, Alpiglen, Kleine Scheidegg, Wengernalp, Allmend, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass (the Wengernalpbahn railway is included)

The Wengernalpbahn is a cog railway that runs from Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen via Kleine Scheidegg, passing through the picturesque village of Wengen along the way.

The journey offers unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.

It’s also the world’s longest cogwheel railway, which I think makes it an unmissable train ride in Switzerland. 

Key points of interest along the Wengernalpbahn railway include:

• Wengen: The car-free village of Wengen can only be reached by train or foot. It offers extraordinary views of the Lauterbrunnen valley and is a popular destination for hikers and skiers.
• Grindelwald: The town of Grindelwald is known for its skiing and outdoor activities. It is also home to the famous Eiger mountain, which can be seen from the train.
• Kleine Scheidegg station: Located at the foot of the Eiger, it is also the starting point for the Jungfraujoch railway. As mentioned above, this railway takes visitors to the “Top of Europe” at 3,454 metres above sea level.

Good to know: There is no direct service between Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen, as you need to change at Kleine Scheidegg.

9. Voralpen Express

Route: St Gallen – Lucerne

Distance: 125km

Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Stops: St Gallen, Wattwil, Rapperswil, Arth Goldau, Lucerne

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass 

The Voralpen Express is a scenic train ride that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Switzerland. It starts in St. Gallen and ends in Lucerne via a number of mesmerising sights. 

Rather than the dramatic landscapes seen on the Glacier and Bernina Express trains, the scenery here is more subtle in its beauty. Think rolling hills, pretty meadows and quaint villages. 

Key points of interest along the Voralpen Express include:

• Abbey of St. Gallen: The train passes through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Abbey of St. Gallen, which is known for its stunning Baroque architecture.
• Sitter Viaduct: A masterpiece of engineering that was constructed over 100 years ago. The highest railway bridge in Switzerland, I’m sure its impressive height will take your breath away. 
• Lake Lucerne: As the train makes its way towards its end destination, it passes through the picturesque Lake Lucerne region, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The Voralpen Express is an ideal way to get from Eastern Switzerland to Central Switzerland and trains run hourly.

It has comfortable seating and a dining car, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the scenic views.

Good to know: The Voralpen Express is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass and the Eurail Pass. No seat reservation is necessary. 

10. Luzern-Interlaken Express

Route: Lucerne – Interlaken

Time: 2 hours 

Stops: Lucerne, Interlaken

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass (seat reservation recommended)

The Luzern-Interlaken Express is a panoramic train ride that connects two of the most popular destinations in Switzerland.

Bound to be yet another unforgettable travel experience, passengers are treated to spectacular scenery. 

From the greens of the pastures to the blues of the lakes, I found myself constantly gasping on this train journey. Pass by sparkling streams, towering peaks and thundering waterfalls. 

The train is equipped with panoramic windows for uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys.

As with all Swiss trains, the seats are comfortable and there is ample legroom. Passengers can also enjoy free Wi-Fi on board.

Key points of interest along the Luzern-Interlaken Express include:

• The Brünig Pass: The train passes through the Brünig Pass, which is located at an altitude of 1,008 metres and offers breathtaking views.
• Lake Brienz: Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, you can see the lake from the panoramic windows of the train.
• The Bernese Alps: Some of the most beautiful and iconic mountains in Switzerland. You can see the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks from the train.

Insider travel tip: For the best views, I’d advise sitting on the right hand side if you’re travelling from Lucerne to Interlaken.

11. Mont Blanc Express

Route: Martigny – Chamonix

Distance: 38km

Time: 90 minutes

Stops: Martigny, Vernayaz, Salvan, Marécottes, Le Trétien, Finhaut, Le Châtelard, Chamonix

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass 

The Mont Blanc Express takes passengers through the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps and into the popular resort of Chamonix in France.

This scenic train ride in Switzerland is known for its breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc mountain range and the beautiful landscapes that surround it.

The Mont Blanc Express begins its journey in Martigny, Switzerland, and travels through the picturesque towns of Salvan, Les Marécottes, and Finhaut before reaching its final destination in Chamonix, France.

On the Mont Blanc Express you can expect to see some of the most gorgeous scenery in Switzerland, including snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green forests. 

Key points of interest along the Mont Blanc Express include:

• Vernayaz: For access to the picturesque Trient gorges and the Pissevache waterfall.
• Marécottes: You can find the highest zoo in Europe here! Plus, reach the La Creusaz ski area. 
• Finhaut: The village of Finhaut is perched on the hills of the Trient valley. It’s a popular spot with hikers and cyclists, with its open and unspoiled spaces.

Good to know: Travel from Martigny to Chamonix is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, but not beyond Chamonix in France. As it’s a regional train, seat reservations are not possible. 

12. Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Route: Martigny – Chamonix

Distance: 38km

Time: 90 minutes

Stops: Martigny, Vernayaz, Salvan, Marécottes, Le Trétien, Finhaut, Le Châtelard, Chamonix

Tickets: Swiss Travel Pass 

For the ultimate experience of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland, the Grand Train Tour covers all the best train journeys in the country.

It’s a 1,280 km train journey that takes you through some of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland, including many of those mentioned above.

This train tour covers such a vast area that you’ll encounter four official languages, five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 11 large lakes – which I think sounds pretty spectacular!

The tour can be completed in four to eight days, depending on how much time you have and how much you want to see.

Highlights of the tour include:

• The Glacier Express: This iconic train ride takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges. The journey starts in Zermatt and ends in St. Moritz, taking around eight hours to complete.
• The Bernina Express: This breathtaking train journey takes you from Chur to Tirano, passing through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway. The journey takes around four hours and offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, including the Morteratsch Glacier and the Bernina Pass.
• The Golden Pass Line: Travel from Montreux to Lucerne, passing through the scenic Swiss countryside. The journey takes around five hours and offers beautiful panoramas of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains.
• The Gotthard Panorama Express: This train ride takes you from Lucerne to Lugano, passing through the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the longest railway tunnel in the world. The journey takes around five hours.

Good to know: There is no set route or direction – you can simply hop and hop off the different routes as you please.

The best way to do so is via the Swiss Travel Pass, which gives you access to the entire Grand Tour of Switzerland. You’ll just need to book seat reservations on the trains which need it.

Do let me know in the comments if you have any questions about the most scenic train rides in Switzerland!

Planning a trip to this beautiful country? Read my guide to the most beautiful towns in Switzerland to visit, seek out the best Swiss spa hotels, or discover my guides to Grindelwald, Gruyères and Zermatt. 

For more train travel inspiration this winter, unearth the best ski resorts by train from the UK – written by two experts in skiing and train travel.

Save on Pinterest for later!