5 best scenic train rides in Switzerland

Switzerland is famous for its mountains, lakes, and chocolate. But one of the best ways to experience its beauty is by train. The country has some of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, with panoramic coaches that bring the views right to your seat.

Here are the 5 best scenic train rides in Switzerland—with routes, times, highlights, and booking tips.

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1. Glacier express – the classic alpine journey

• Route: Zermatt ↔ St. Moritz (or Chur)
• Time: about 7½ to 8 hours one way
• Reservation: yes, required
• Highlight: 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, Oberalp Pass

This is the most famous panoramic train in Switzerland. Known as the slowest express train in the world, it gives you a full day of alpine views: snowy peaks, deep valleys, and charming villages.

If you want to see how tickets work and how to get the best deals for the Glacier Express, have a look at my post on Glacier Express tickets.

Tip: If you want luxury, choose Excellence Class with a gourmet menu and extra service.

2. Bernina Express – a UNESCO heritage ride

• Route: Chur or St. Moritz ↔ Tirano (Italy)
• Time: about 4 hours
• Reservation: yes, required
• Highlight: Landwasser Viaduct, Brusio spiral, glaciers

The Bernina Express connects the high Alps with sunny Italy. The ride is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and engineering. In just a few hours you see glaciers, mountain lakes, and then arrive in Tirano, where palm trees grow.

Tip: Continue from Tirano to Lugano by bus for a north-to-south Alpine adventure.

3. Gotthard Panorama Express – lake boat and mountain train

• Route: Lucerne → Flüelen (boat) → Lugano (train)
• Time: about 5½ hours
• Season: mid-April to mid-October
• Highlight: Lake Lucerne cruise + Gotthard railway

This journey is special because it combines a boat and a train. First, you take a paddle steamer across Lake Lucerne, with views of mountains and small villages. Then you board the Gotthard Panorama train, passing spiral loops and tunnels before reaching Ticino.

Tip: Sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views heading south.

4. Goldenpass Express – from vineyards to mountains

• Route: Montreux ↔ Interlaken
• Time: around 3 hours
• Reservation: recommended (required for Prestige Class)
• Highlight: vineyards, alpine meadows, mountain peaks

This train starts on Lake Geneva, climbs through vineyard-covered hills, and then takes you to the alpine resort of Interlaken. In Prestige Class, the seats swivel towards the window and even heat up in winter.

Tip: Pair this ride with wine tasting in Montreux or hiking around Interlaken.

5. Jungfraujoch – the top of Europe

• Route: Interlaken → Lauterbrunnen/Grindelwald → Kleine Scheidegg → Jungfraujoch
• Time:
  • About 90 minutes via traditional Kleine Scheidegg route
  • About 50 minutes with the Eiger Express gondola
• Altitude: 3,454 meters (highest station in Europe)

This is less a scenic train ride and more an alpine adventure. You climb up to the Top of Europe, where there is snow and ice all year round. The views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks are breathtaking.

Still don’t know about which train you should take ?
If you want to compare all Swiss scenic trains to find the best one for your trip, see my full comparison guide here.

Useful tips for travelers

• Make use of the Swiss Travel Pass

This pass is a great choice if you plan to travel a lot by train, bus, or boat. It includes most scenic routes, but keep in mind that seat reservations are extra for premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express.

Book here : Swiss Travel Pass

For more detail on what the Travel Pass includes, check out my article about the Swiss Travel Pass.

• Reserve your seat in advance

Seats on the famous trains are very popular, especially in summer and during holidays. Try to reserve as early as possible so you can travel at the time you want.

• Ask for the best side of the train

On many routes, one side of the train has better views than the other. For example, on the Gotthard Panorama Express heading south, the right side is best. Don’t hesitate to ask staff or check travel forums before booking.

• Choose the season that suits you best

Both summer and winter offer incredible scenery. In summer you’ll see green valleys, flowers, and sparkling lakes. In winter everything is covered in snow, which makes the journey feel magical. There’s really no wrong choice.

• Stay flexible if panoramic seats are sold out

If the panoramic coaches are full, don’t worry. Regular Swiss trains often run on the exact same tracks. The windows may be smaller, but the views are just as impressive — and you’ll usually find a seat more easily.

FAQ about scenic trains in Switzerland