Swiss Panoramic trains have arrived
Check out the newest addition to our catalogue. Spectacular scenic trains are now just a click away!
Of all the train journeys you can take in Europe, these might be some of the most spectacular. These narrow-gauge trains cut through the Swiss Alps and bring you up close to nature in ways that most trains can’t. Take a step back in time as you board one of the signature red carriages and embark on a train through the clouds (reaching altitudes of up to 2,253 meters above sea level), past glaciers, over ravines, and into a Swiss fairy tale. The best part? Journeys are included with your Swiss Travel Pass. Just book your seat reservation! Read on for a roundup of our favourite panoramic trains and get your unique adventure under way.
2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the world-famous bright red Bernina Express, and its popularity has only grown with time. The scenic train travels from Chur or St Moritz, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy (and vice versa) with plenty of enchanting stops along the way. Get off the train mid-route and explore on foot (another Bernina will pick you up in a few hours) or watch out the extra-large panoramic windows from the comfort of your seat. Highlights of the trip include Lago Bianco (The White Lake) at the Ospizio Railway station (the highest point on the journey), the Bernina glaciers, and the Brusio Circular Viaduct, the route’s signature man-made landmark.
It is a great option if your time is limited: travel through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges in just over four hours! It’s the only train of its kind that allows you to see highlights of northern and southern Europe in such a condensed timeframe. The route was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, further cementing its place in history as both a choice tourist attraction and an achievement of human engineering. It has opened up previously inaccessible areas of the Swiss and Italian countryside, enriching the lives of both locals and travellers alike.
If you’re still hungry for more after your arrival in Tirano, you’re in luck! In the summer, continue your journey on a Bernina Express Bus from Tirano to Lugano along Lake Como. Bellisimo!
Important seasonal information: The train runs year-round, but stops and timetables vary depending on the season, so check what’s on offer before your holiday. There are more daily departures in the summer season, which this year is from 13 May to 22 October 2023.
🚅 Departs from: Chur or St Moritz, Switzerland (north to south) // Tirano, Italy (south to north)
⏱️ Journey time: 4 hours, 144 km journey
✔️ Average number of trains per day: ten in the summer, four in the winter
The gold standard of luxury train travel, nothing quite compares to a journey on the Glacier Express. Like the Bernina, this panoramic train takes you on a fairy tale voyage through the majestic Swiss countryside. Unlike the Bernina, it’s been nicknamed “the slowest express train in the world.” The entire journey takes a leisurely eight hours, making it the epitome of slow travel and giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery. The Glacier Express offers first, second, and excellence classes, so you’ll be plenty comfortable for the long journey ahead.
All passengers can enjoy an infot(r)ainement system with commentary about the journey’s highlights and entertainment options in eight languages. See the Rhine Gorge (also known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland), pass the charming alpine village of Andermatt, and go over the oft-photographed Landwasser Valley Viaduct, which rises up 65 metres into the air. You can get a glimpse of Oberalp Pass, even in the winter, when it’s closed to other traffic due to snowfall and ice.
If an eight-hour journey doesn’t fit into your schedule, start your journey in Chur for an abbreviated version. If you’re doing the entire route, opt for gourmet meal service at your seat to round out the experience.
🚅 Departs from: Zermatt, Switzerland (west to east) // St. Moritz, Switzerland (east to west)
⏱️ Journey time: 8 hours, 291 km journey
✔️ Number of trains per day: 8 in the summer, 4 in the winter
Nicknamed la Voie Royal pour le Mont Blanc (the Royal Road to Mont Blanc), this scenic 3 hour 30 minute journey (including stopover) passes through 12 tunnels, taking you from the charming vineyards of Martigny, Switzerland to the towering peaks of the French Alps. The first leg of the French route has been operating since 1901, and it was linked to Switzerland in 1908. With average speeds of just 24 km per hour, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy views of Europe’s highest mountain from the panoramic windows.
Trains run both in summer and in winter, so nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors year-round. In the colder months, marvel at snow-covered landscapes and glaciers. And of course, take advantage of world-class skiing at legendary resorts like Chamonix, La Poya, and Balme. As temperatures rise and flowers bloom, head to nature reserves like the Aiguilles Rouges for great trekking, stunning waterfalls, and a friendly local wildlife (mountain goats and more!). It is truly a magical place at any time of year.
The journey has two legs: from Martigy, Switzerland to Chamonix, France and from Chamonix to Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France. Two countries in just a few hours can’t be beat. It’s worth doing both if you can!
🚅 Departs from: Martigny, Chamonix, or Saint-Gervais des Bains
⏱️ Journey time: About 3 hours, 30 minutes (including stopover time Vallorcine) for the full route
✔️ Number of trains per day: About one train per hour (see timetables for more details)
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