The Glacier Express is often called “the slowest express train in the world” — and that’s exactly the point. Stretching from Zermatt to St. Moritz, this legendary scenic train crosses deep valleys, dramatic gorges, and high alpine passes.
But here’s the thing many travellers don’t realise:
👉 You don’t have to ride the full 8-hour route to enjoy it.
Below are three carefully weekend trips around the Glacier Express, each including a Glacier Express leg, ideal for short stays, first-time visitors, or travelers who want balance between trains and experiences.
By combining partial Glacier Express segments with Alpine towns and outdoor activities, you can experience Switzerland’s most scenic train without rushing — or sitting all day on a train.
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Table of Contents
Where to start the Glacier Express: Zermatt, St. Moritz, Chur or Brig?
Before choosing an itinerary, here’s how most travelers decide where to board:
- Zermatt – Best for Matterhorn views and alpine activities
- St. Moritz – Best for lakes, glamour and easy onward travel
- Brig – Ideal for a shorter Glacier Express experience
- Chur – Great for partial scenic rides and budget travellers
💡 Tip: You don’t need to ride the full route when planning weekend trips around the Glacier Express. Partial segments often offer the best scenery per hour.
Itinerary 1: Zermatt → Andermatt
Best for: First-time visitors & Matterhorn lovers
Glacier Express segment: Zermatt → Andermatt (~4.5 hours)
Day 1: Zermatt (Matterhorn & Alpine views)
Start your weekend trip around the Glacier Express in Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain villages in Europe.
Things to do in Zermatt:
- Walk through the car-free village center (car-free streets, wooden chalets)
- Take the Gornergrat Railway for Matterhorn views
- Ride the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car
- Sunset views of the Matterhorn
- Enjoy raclette or fondue in a traditional Valais restaurant
Overnight: Zermatt
Secret tip: Early evening light is best for Matterhorn photos — clouds often lift after 5 pm.
Day 2: Glacier Express (Zermatt → Andermatt)
Board the Glacier Express in Zermatt and ride the most dramatic first half of the route.
Highlights on this segment:
- Gornergrat
- Oberalp Pass (2,033 m)
- Deep gorges and remote mountain villages
Travel time: ~4 hours
Disembark in Andermatt, a strategic Alpine hub.
What to do in Andermatt (short stop or extended):
- Walk the village and Reuss River
- Cable car to Gemsstock (summer hikes / winter skiing)
- Coffee or lunch before continuing
From Andermatt, continue by regular train via the Gotthard route to Lucerne.
Itinerary 2: Chur → St. Moritz (Scenic + Luxury)
Best for: Short stays, photographers, budget-minded travelers
Glacier Express segment: Chur → St. Moritz (~4 hours)
Day 1: Chur
Things to do in Chur
- Dinner in a historic alpine restaurant
- Explore the Old Town and cathedral
- Ride the Chur–Arosa line (optional add-on)
- Visit local museums and cafés
- Short evening walk up to Mittenberg
- Shopping at the famous Landquart outlet (8 min with the train from Chur)
Overnight : Chur
Day 2 – Glacier Express (Chur → St. Moritz)
Morning Glacier Express from Chur to St. Moritz
Highlights:
- Rhine Gorge (“Swiss Grand Canyon”)
- Albula Line (UNESCO heritage)
- Spiral tunnels & viaducts
Afternoon in St. Moritz:
- Walk around Lake St. Moritz
- Funicular to Muottas Muragl
- Visit nearby villages like Pontresina
Itinerary 3: Brig → Chur
Best for: Scenic train fans, flexible planners, fewer crowds
Glacier Express segment: Brig → Chur (~4.5 hours)
Brig is an underrated Alpine hub.
Day 1 – Brig
- Visit Stockalper Palace
- Short walk through historic center
- Walk along the Rhône Valley
- Overnight in Brig (often cheaper than Zermatt)
Day 2 – Glacier Express (Brig → Chur)
- Board Glacier Express in Brig
- Highlights:
- Rhône Valley
- Oberalp Pass
- Rhine Gorge (the “Swiss Grand Canyon”)
Tips most tourists miss
- You don’t always need the panoramic train
Regular regional trains run on the same tracks, often: cheaper, less reflective for photos, more flexible.
My advice would take the panoramic train to enjoy the comfort and experience and take regional trains to continue your journey to your next destination.
- Partial segments save time & money
The scenery doesn’t suddenly “start” or “stop” — some of the best views are between Andermatt, Brig, and Chur.
You do not need to ride the full route to enjoy the experience
I would recommend to combine one scenic train leg + one activity-focused day for balance
- You don’t always have to start in Zermatt or St Moritz when doing your weekend trip around the Glacier Express
Consider Brig instead of Zermatt for budget trips.
The Glacier Express isn’t just a train ride — it’s a flexible scenic experience that can be adapted to your pace, budget, and travel style.
FAQ – Weekend trips around the Glacier Express
Is the Glacier Express worth it for just a weekend?
Yes — if you choose the right segment.
Partial routes are ideal for 2-day trips and enable to combine train ride and activities.
Where should I start the Glacier Express?
Most popular: Zermatt, Brig, Chur, St. Moritz.
Best for weekends: Zermatt → Andermatt or Brig → Chur.
Can I hop on and off the Glacier Express?
Not on the same reservation — but you can split your journey across days using different segments.
What if I only have 1 full day?
Pick Andermatt → Chur or Zermatt → Brig.
Is food included on board?
The meal is included for the Excellence class. For the 1st and 2nd class, the meal costs extra but you have also the possibility to bring your own lunch.
