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Switzerland by Rail: A Scenic Journey Through the Heart of the Alps

8 May 2025
Traditional alpine village of Zermatt with the iconic snow-dusted Matterhorn peak in the background.

Why Switzerland by Rail is the Ultimate Scenic Adventure

Switzerland is home to some of the most spectacular train journeys in the world, offering a seamless blend of luxury, efficiency, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Whether you’re traveling through snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, or charming alpine villages, Switzerland’s world-renowned rail network ensures a journey that is as scenic as it is comfortable.

From the Glacier Express to the Bernina Express, each route showcases Switzerland’s stunning geography, making this the perfect adventure for train enthusiasts, nature lovers, and luxury travellers alike.

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The Best Rail Routes in Switzerland

1. Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz

Dubbed the “Slowest Express Train in the World”, the Glacier Express is a 7.5-hour journey through Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes, featuring:

  • The Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the route at 2,033m
  • The Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO-listed engineering marvel
  • Panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of the Swiss Alps

2. Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano

A UNESCO World Heritage journey, the Bernina Express connects Switzerland to Italy, featuring:

  • The Alp Grüm & Morteratsch Glacier, showcasing breathtaking glacial landscapes
  • The famous Brusio Circular Viaduct, a stunning architectural feat
  • Stunning descents into the palm-lined valleys of Italy

🔗 Related: Bernina Express: The Perfect Day Trip

3. GoldenPass Line: Lucerne to Montreux

This picturesque journey takes travelers from Central Switzerland to Lake Geneva, passing through:

  • The rolling Emmental region, famous for Swiss cheese production
  • Gstaad, a luxurious ski resort town frequented by celebrities
  • The vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage wine region

🔗 Related: GoldenPass Line: Switzerland’s Most Diverse Rail Journey

4. Gotthard Panorama Express: Lucerne to Lugano

Combining rail and boat travel, this journey offers:

  • A scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountain peaks
  • Travel through the historic Gotthard Tunnel, connecting Northern and Southern Switzerland
  • A shift from alpine landscapes to the Mediterranean charm of Lugano

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Luxury & Comfort Onboard

1. Panoramic Coaches & First-Class Seating

Switzerland’s scenic trains feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plush seating, and VIP services to ensure maximum comfort.

2. Onboard Dining & Regional Cuisine

Savor Swiss delicacies such as fondue, rösti, and artisan chocolates while admiring breathtaking views.

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3. Multi-Day Rail Passes for Ultimate Flexibility

The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train, boat, and bus travel, providing exceptional value for those looking to explore Switzerland at their own pace.

🔗 Related: Swiss Travel Pass: Is It Worth It?

Who Should Take This Journey?

Switzerland by Rail is perfect for: ✔ Luxury travellers seeking high-end, first-class rail experiences
Train enthusiasts eager to explore the world’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 Train Journeys to Consider

If you love Switzerland by Rail, you might also enjoy these premium rail experiences with APT:

  • Trans-Canada Rail Adventure – A breathtaking journey from Vancouver to Toronto, showcasing Canada’s diverse 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 vast Nullarbor Plain

🔗Key Takeaways

  • Switzerland by Rail offers a seamless way to explore the country’s most iconic landscapes.
  • Must-do train journeys 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 exploration easy and cost-effective.
  •  A must-do journey for luxury travellers, train enthusiasts, and nature lovers looking for a scenic and unforgettable experience.

 Ready to Experience Switzerland by Rail?

If you’re looking for a 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 Switzerland by Rail adventure today and discover the magic of the Swiss Alps in style!