[$4 OFF] Switzerland Train: Scenic Rides & Map, Swiss Travel Pass

Learn more about Switzerland train travel with scenic rides, detailed Switzerland train route maps, and the USD4 OFF Switzerland train pass.

About Switzerland Train

Switzerland train system is a fast, reliable, and scenic way to travel between cities and through the Alps.

It connects major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, while also offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and valleys on famous routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.

With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can enjoy unlimited trips on trains, buses, and boats, making it ideal for tourists exploring Switzerland.

Top 5 Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland (with Route Map)

When traveling through Switzerland, the best way to soak in the scenery is by hopping on a train. Here are my top 5 scenic Switzerland train routes.

For most regular trains in Switzerland, no seat reservations are required with the Swiss Travel Pass.

However, for scenic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express, reservations are mandatory due to high demand, especially in the summer months. Reservation fees typically range from CHF 10 to CHF 43, depending on the train and the class.

1. Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz (Most Popular)

If you want to take your time and enjoy the Swiss Alps, the Glacier Express is perfect. The Glacier Express is a leisurely 7.5-hour journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz, two of Switzerland's most popular mountain resorts. Known as the "slowest express train in the world," this route takes you across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels.

The highlight is the crossing of the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey at 2,033 meters. Panoramic windows provide sweeping views of the Swiss Alps, including the Rhine Gorge, often called the "Swiss Grand Canyon."

The seat reservation fees range from CHF 23 to CHF 43, depending on the season.

2. Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano

This route is a feast for the eyes, starting in Chur and winding through the Alps down into Italy. The train crosses the stunning Landwasser Viaduct, which seems to come out of nowhere.

My personal highlight is the descent from the snow-covered Bernina Pass into the sunny streets of Tirano, Italy. In about 4 hours, you descend to the Italian border, where the climate becomes noticeably warmer.

Seat reservations cost between CHF 10 and CHF 16, depending on your class of travel and season.

3. GoldenPass Line: Lucerne to Montreux

The GoldenPass Line is a 3-hour 15-minute journey that starts in Lucerne, crosses Interlaken and Zweisimmen, before reaching Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva.

You’ll travel through rolling hills, alpine lakes, and the stunning Swiss Riviera. The section between Zweisimmen and Montreux offers panoramic views and optional VIP seats at the front of the train, giving you a driver’s view.

Seat reservations are recommended, especially in the peak tourist season, though not mandatory for all sections. The reservation fee for the panoramic cars is around CHF 15.

4. Gotthard Panorama Express: Lucerne to Lugano

The GoldenPass Line is a 3-hour 15-minute journey that starts in Lucerne, crosses Interlaken and Zweisimmen, before reaching Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva. You’ll travel through rolling hills, alpine lakes, and the stunning Swiss Riviera. The section between Zweisimmen and Montreux offers panoramic views and optional VIP seats at the front of the train, giving you a driver’s view. Seat reservations are recommended, especially in the peak tourist season, though not mandatory for all sections. The reservation fee for the panoramic cars is around CHF 15.

5. VorAlpen Express: Lucerne to St. Gallen

A bit more off the beaten track, the VorAlpen Express takes you through Switzerland’s heartland. From Lucerne, the train travels through quiet towns, green pastures, and around Lake Zurich before arriving in St. Gallen. The views over the Appenzell region are particularly lovely, with rolling hills and scattered villages. It’s a peaceful ride, and perfect if you’re looking for something more relaxed and local.

【USD4 OFF】Switzerland Train Pass: Swiss Travel Pass

What is the Swiss Travel Pass?

The Swiss Travel Pass is the ultimate ticket for travelers wanting to explore Switzerland by train, bus, or boat. It provides unlimited access to the entire Swiss public transportation network, including trains, buses, trams, and even ferries on Switzerland's stunning lakes. The Swiss Travel Pass covers the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) and premium scenic routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express. It also includes public transportation in over 90 Swiss towns and cities.

In addition to transportation, the Swiss Travel Pass gives you free entry to over 500 museums and discounts on mountain excursions, including 50% off cable cars to attractions like Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Titlis, and the Schilthorn. You can even get 25% off the trip to Jungfraujoch. For more adventurous travelers, this pass is perfect for exploring Switzerland’s famous mountain peaks, scenic lakes, and cultural attractions without worrying about separate tickets.

Types of Swiss Travel Pass

• Consecutive Type: The pass is valid for consecutive days of travel (e.g., 3 days in a row).
• Flexible Type: The pass allows you to choose your travel days within a one-month period (e.g., any 3 days within 30 days).
• Age Groups: Adult: 26 years and above. Senior: 60 years and above. Youth: 16 to 25 years.

Switzerland Train Pass Price (October, 2024)

For other duration options like 4, 6, or 8 days, or to get the latest prices and discounts, you can check Trip.com where up to $4 off discounts are available.

【3% OFF】Popular Europe Train Routes

*The price varies depending on the exchange rate and date.

Switzerland Train Facilities

Wi-Fi

While most regular Swiss trains do not have onboard Wi-Fi, free Wi-Fi is available at over 80 major Swiss train stations, such as Zurich, Geneva, and Interlaken. You only need to register once and can use the service for 12 months at all participating stations. On some premium international and scenic trains (like the Glacier Express), Wi-Fi might be available on certain sections of the route

Power Outlets

Swiss trains, especially newer models, are equipped with power outlets at most seats. These outlets are typically Type J (230V, 50Hz), the standard Swiss plug type. It’s a good idea to bring a Type J adapter if you're traveling from a country that uses a different power standard​

Dining Options

Many long-distance and scenic trains has dining cars or bistro services. For example, the Glacier Express offers a restaurant car where you can enjoy local dishes and beverages during your journey. Other trains, such as the Gotthard Panorama Express and Bernina Express, provide onboard snack services and occasional hot meals​

Source from SBB

Luggage Storage

All Swiss trains provide ample luggage storage areas, including overhead compartments for smaller bags and larger racks for suitcases near the doors. Travelers can feel assured that their luggage is safe and secure throughout the journey

Switzerland Train Seat Types: First Class vs. Second Class

When traveling by train in Switzerland, you can choose between first class and second class, each offering different levels of comfort and services.

Switzerland Train | First Class

Offers wider seats, more legroom, and a quieter, less crowded environment. The seating is typically arranged with two seats on one side of the aisle and one on the other, allowing for more privacy. First-class passengers also benefit from additional features like power outlets at every seat, business zones, and better access to panoramic windows on scenic trains like the Glacier Express. It's ideal for travelers looking for more comfort, especially on long journeys.

Switzerland Train | Second Class

More affordable and still very comfortable, second class offers standard seating with two seats on each side of the aisle. While it may be more crowded than first class, second class still provides good legroom and access to onboard services like food and drink. Second-class carriages tend to be busier, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays.