Grand Train Tour of Switzerland: A Scenic Round Trip from Zurich to Zurich

Why the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a Must-Do Experience

For travellers who want to explore Switzerland’s diverse landscapes, historic cities, and world-famous train routes, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the perfect way to see it all. Covering 1,280 km in a round-trip from Zurich, this tour links Switzerland’s most spectacular railway lines, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line, and Gotthard Panorama Express.

This journey is ideal for rail enthusiasts, luxury travellers, and nature lovers who want to experience Switzerland’s best train routes in one seamless itinerary.

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The Route: Zurich to Zurich (Via Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, St. Moritz & Lugano)

1. Zurich to Lucerne – Start of the Adventure

Begin your journey in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, before heading to Lucerne, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains. Highlights include:

• Chapel Bridge & Water Tower, the most photographed landmark in Lucerne
• A scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne

🔗 Related: Things to Do in Lucerne Before Your Rail Journey

2. GoldenPass Line: Lucerne to Interlaken

Travel through the rolling hills and alpine meadows of Central Switzerland on the GoldenPass Line, a classic scenic route. Key stops include:

• The charming resort town of Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
• Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” accessible via the Jungfrau Railway

🔗 Related: Exploring Interlaken by Train

3. Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz

Known as the “Slowest Express Train in the World,” the Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz in an eight-hour panoramic journey through:

• The Matterhorn region, home to Switzerland’s most famous mountain
• The Oberalp Pass, reaching 2,033 meters above sea level
• The Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO-listed railway bridge

🔗 Related: Glacier Express: What to Expect

4. Bernina Express: St. Moritz to Tirano (Italy) & Lugano

The Bernina Express is a UNESCO-listed train journey that links St. Moritz to Tirano (Italy) before connecting to Lugano. Highlights include:

• The stunning Morteratsch Glacier and Alp Grüm
• The breathtaking Brusio Circular Viaduct, an architectural masterpiece
• A taste of Italian culture in Tirano, followed by a bus journey to Lugano

🔗 Related: Bernina Express: The Most Beautiful Train Journey in Europe

5. Gotthard Panorama Express: Lugano to Lucerne

From Lugano, the Gotthard Panorama Express combines boat and train travel, featuring:

• A scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering views of medieval Swiss villages
• A historic rail journey through the Gotthard Tunnel, one of Switzerland’s greatest engineering feats

🔗 Related: Gotthard Panorama Express: A Perfect Blend of Land & Water

6. Return to Zurich – Completing the Circle

The final leg of the journey takes you back to Zurich, concluding the ultimate Swiss rail adventure.

Luxury and Comfort Onboard

1. Panoramic Coaches & First-Class Seating

Switzerland’s scenic trains feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plush seating, and VIP services for the ultimate experience.

2. Gourmet Dining & Regional Cuisine

Enjoy Swiss specialties like cheese fondue, rösti, and artisan chocolates while soaking in the stunning scenery.

🔗 Related: What to Eat on Switzerland’s Scenic Trains

3. Swiss Travel Pass for Unlimited Flexibility

The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train, boat, and bus travel, making it an excellent option for travellers who want flexibility.

🔗 Related: Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

Who Should Take This Journey?

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is perfect for: ✔ Luxury travellers seeking high-end, first-class rail experiences
✔ Train enthusiasts eager to explore Switzerland’s most scenic routes
✔ Nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the Alps
✔ Culture seekers wanting to visit Switzerland’s historic cities and charming villages

Other Great APT Train Journeys to Consider

If you love the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, you might also enjoy these premium rail experiences with APT:

• Switzerland by Rail – Explore Switzerland’s best scenic train routes in an expertly curated itinerary
• Trans-Canada Rail Adventure – A breathtaking journey from Vancouver to Toronto, showcasing Canada’s vast landscapes
• The Ghan (Australia) – A legendary rail trip from Darwin to Adelaide, traversing the Australian Outback
• Indian Pacific (Australia) – A transcontinental journey from Sydney to Perth, crossing the Nullarbor Plain

🔗 Related: Top APT Train Journeys Around the World

Key Takeaways

• The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland covers 1,280 km in a seamless round-trip from Zurich, linking the country’s most famous scenic trains.
• Must-do rail routes include the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line, and Gotthard Panorama Express.
• Swiss trains feature panoramic coaches, gourmet dining, and luxurious first-class seating.
• The Swiss Travel Pass allows unlimited travel across trains, boats, and buses, making it a cost-effective and convenient choice.
• A must-do journey for luxury travellers, train enthusiasts, and nature lovers looking for a scenic and unforgettable experience.

Ready to Experience the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?

If you’re looking for the most breathtaking way to explore Switzerland, this rail adventure is the perfect combination of luxury, convenience, and stunning scenery. Whether you want to traverse snow-covered peaks, charming lakeside towns, or UNESCO-listed landscapes, this journey has something for everyone.

Book your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland today and discover the magic of the Swiss Alps in style!