Riding the Glacier Express in Switzerland

Embark on an unforgettable eight-hour journey through the majestic Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express. Traveling from Zermatt to St. Moritz, this iconic train winds through 290 km of breathtaking scenery, crossing 291 bridges and traversing 91 tunnels. Experience luxurious comfort, panoramic views, and a seven-course meal while discovering landmarks like the Landwasser Viaduct and the Oberalp Pass. Reserve your seat today and begin your Swiss adventure!

Important information

• The Glacier Express is a scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps, traveling between Zermatt and St. Moritz.
• The trip takes approximately eight hours and covers a distance of 290 km, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
• Seat reservations are mandatory for all passengers, regardless of holding a Swiss Travel Pass or Saver Day Pass.
• Panoramic windows, onboard dining, and multilingual audio guides enhance the travel experience.
• The train operates year-round, with two daily departures in winter and increased frequency during summer.

The Unique Journey of the Glacier Express in Switzerland

The Glacier Express offers a unique view of the Swiss Alps during its famously slow, scenic journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz. The route winds through stunning mountains, revealing breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable experience. Before you travel, make sure you have the necessary visa or permits. Check the latest entry requirements here.

What Makes the Glacier Express Famous?

Experience an unforgettable journey through the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express. This iconic train travels across a stunning landscape of majestic mountains, deep valleys, and charming villages, offering panoramic views throughout your trip. The train’s relaxed pace allows you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery, including landmarks like the impressive Landwasser Viaduct and the Rhine Gorge, known as Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon”. The Glacier Express also provides a luxurious travel experience, with comfortable seating and onboard dining options for a truly memorable adventure.

A Historic Ride: Since 1930

Launched in June 1930, the Glacier Express began a legacy of scenic rail journeys. For over nine decades, this breathtaking passage has wound through the Swiss Alps.

Exploring the Route of the Glacier Express

The Glacier Express offers a scenic journey from Zermatt, near the Matterhorn, to the glamorous St. Moritz. This 290 km route winds through the Swiss Alps, traversing 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, showcasing diverse landscapes. Passengers enjoy incredible views of iconic Swiss mountains, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages. The train’s leisurely pace allows ample time to soak in the scenery, including the many tunnels and viaducts. Among these, the six-arched Landwasser Viaduct stands out, offering breathtaking views as the train dramatically curves onto it. Reaching its highest point at the 2,033-meter Oberalp Pass, the Glacier Express reveals stunning mountain vistas.

From Zermatt to St. Moritz: The Main Route

Experience an unforgettable eight-hour journey through the majestic Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express. This scenic train connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, covering 290 km of breathtaking alpine landscapes.

Scenic Highlights: Swiss Mountains, Bridges, and Tunnels

Landmarks: Landwasser Viaduct and Oberalp Pass

Understanding the Train Journey Experience

Embark on an unforgettable eight-hour, 290-km journey through the heart of Switzerland on the Glacier Express. Panoramic windows offer breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, making it a photographer’s dream. Indulge in a seven-course meal paired with fine wines as you traverse stunning landscapes. Enhance your experience with multi-lingual audio guides, providing insights into the passing scenery. Some Glacier Express trains even feature an observation car for unparalleled views. Arrive early to explore the charming departure point before embarking on your adventure. If traveling in winter, prepare to be captivated by the magical snowy landscapes. The train also makes scenic stops, allowing you to capture the perfect photos of this unforgettable journey.

Duration and Distance: An Eight-Hour Adventure Across 290 km

Experience a breathtaking eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express. This scenic train connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, covering 291 km and offering stunning views of picturesque valleys and majestic mountains. Passengers can relax and enjoy this unforgettable experience as the train slowly winds through Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes.

Panoramic Views: Enjoy the Swiss Landscape

Experience the Glacier Express through panoramic windows offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Swiss Alps. Comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere enhance your journey through picturesque valleys and lakes. Witness a unique winter wonderland as snow transforms the landscape. Informative audio guides in multiple languages provide insights into the regions you travel through.

Dining Onboard: Seven-Course Meal and Wine

Experience a seven-course culinary adventure aboard the Glacier Express. Enjoy gourmet meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and savor regional specialties. Complement your meal with fine wines, all served comfortably at your seat.

Ticket Classes and Reservation Information

Experience the Glacier Express in two distinct classes:

A seat reservation is mandatory for all passengers, regardless of class or travel pass. While a Swiss Travel Pass covers your train fare, the seat reservation fee still applies. The Saver Day Pass is also valid on the Glacier Express, but similarly requires a seat reservation.

First Class vs. Second Class: Comfort and Cost

Experience premium travel in our spacious 2+1 seating arrangement, complete with stunning panoramic views. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and personalized attendant service, with food and beverages served directly to your seat. Fares are subject to change based on the season and route. For budget-conscious travelers, our second class offers comfortable 2+2 seating, also featuring panoramic windows. Please note that a seat reservation fee applies to both classes.

Seat Reservation Fee: Required for All Passengers

Secure your seat reservation on the Glacier Express today to guarantee a comfortable spot for your scenic journey.

Ticket Reservation and Travel Passes: Swiss Travel Pass and Saver Day Pass

Travel through Switzerland with ease using the Swiss Travel Pass, which grants you unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats. This pass covers scenic routes such as the Glacier Express and other breathtaking mountain excursions. Remember to reserve your seat on the Glacier Express. For shorter journeys, consider the Saver Day Pass. It offers unrestricted travel on specific days, providing a budget-friendly alternative. Seat reservations are required for the Glacier Express with this pass as well.

Seasonal Experiences Aboard the Glacier Express

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps year-round aboard the Glacier Express. From December to March, witness stunning snow-capped peaks with two daily departures. The Glacier Express also operates from May to October, revealing vibrant green meadows. Continuous service is offered throughout the year, with only brief closures for maintenance.

Winter Wonderland: Two Daily Services in Winter

Experience the snow-capped Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express. There are two daily departures throughout the winter season, from December to March.

Summer Meadows: Year-Round Operations Except for Maintenance

Experience the Glacier Express, a breathtaking journey through stunning summer meadows, operating year-round with a short annual maintenance closure.

Travel Tips for Riding the Glacier Express

Planning your Glacier Express journey requires understanding the costs and logistics. First, reserve your seat in first or second class. With a Swiss Travel Pass, you only pay for the seat reservation. Otherwise, a Saver Day Pass can offer substantial discounts.

Cost Considerations: Understanding Train Fares

Planning a Glacier Express journey requires understanding the fare system. Your total cost depends on the class of travel (first or second) and whether you have a Swiss Travel Pass. A seat reservation is always mandatory and comes at an additional cost.

For a potential discount, consider a Saver Day Pass for a reduced fare. Even with the Saver Day Pass, the seat reservation is still required.

Train Timetable: Planning Your Journey

Planning your Glacier Express adventure is easy. Consult the timetable on the official Glacier Express or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) websites for departure and arrival times. This includes major destinations like Zermatt and St. Moritz. This information is crucial for coordinating connections with other lines, such as the Rhätische Bahn (RhB) and Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB). To secure your place, especially during peak season, book your tickets and reserve your seats in advance.

Public Transportation Connections: Rhätische Bahn (RhB) and Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB)

The Glacier Express connects two major Swiss railway systems: the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) and the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB), providing access to a wide range of destinations. The RhB network includes popular locations such as Chur, St. Moritz, and Davos. The MGB line reaches Zermatt, Brig, and Andermatt. These extensive connections make the Glacier Express more than just a scenic train ride; it’s a gateway to exploring Switzerland.