Panoramic Rail Journeys

Discover the Scenic Wonders of Switzerland: A Journey Through Panoramic Trains Switzerland is a land where breathtaking landscapes unfold at every turn, a place where mountains touch the sky, and crystal-clear lakes mirror the heavens. The best way to experience this beauty is by embarking on the country's iconic panoramic train journeys. With a Swiss Travel Pass in hand, you can seamlessly explore these scenic routes, making your way through majestic mountains, serene valleys, and picturesque towns. Let's dive into four of the most spectacular train journeys Switzerland has to offer: the Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Gornergrat Railway, and the Top of the World Pass.

The Bernina Express: From Chur to Tirano Starting your adventure with the Bernina Express is like stepping into a living postcard. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed route runs between Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, and Tirano, Italy. The journey takes you through a kaleidoscope of landscapes—from the icy grandeur of the Bernina Range to the palm-lined streets of Tirano.

The train’s panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views as you ascend to the Bernina Pass, peaking at 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) above sea level. The journey is an engineering marvel, with spirals and viaducts that blend harmoniously into the surrounding nature. Highlights include the Landwasser Viaduct, an iconic six-arched bridge that seemingly floats in the air, and the breathtaking Lago Bianco, a glacial lake that appears as a surreal blue mirror.

With your Swiss Travel Pass, you can hop on the Bernina Express without worrying about additional costs, though seat reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

The Glacier Express: The Slowest Express Train in the World Dubbed the "slowest express train in the world," the Glacier Express connects the glamorous resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz. This eight-hour journey is a leisurely exploration of the Swiss Alps, covering 291 kilometers (181 miles) of some of the most stunning scenery imaginable.

As the Glacier Express winds its way through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, you'll be treated to panoramic views of deep gorges, idyllic mountain villages, and dramatic alpine landscapes. The Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), is a highlight, offering a snow-clad wonderland in winter and lush green pastures in summer. The Rhine Gorge, known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon," is another breathtaking sight that leaves travelers in awe.

Your Swiss Travel Pass covers the basic fare of the Glacier Express, but remember to book your seat in advance and pay a small supplement for this unparalleled experience.

The Gornergrat Railway: Closer to the Matterhorn For an unforgettable close-up of the Matterhorn, the Gornergrat Railway is your best bet. Departing from Zermatt, this cogwheel railway climbs to the summit of the Gornergrat, 3,089 meters (10,135 feet) above sea level. The 33-minute journey is a visual feast, with views of the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze, and the Gorner Glacier—one of the largest glaciers in the Alps.

Once you reach the top, the panorama is simply breathtaking. The Gornergrat Kulm Hotel, the highest hotel in the Alps, is a great spot to enjoy a meal or a hot drink while taking in the view. The area is also a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading to even more stunning vistas.

The Gornergrat Railway is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, making it an excellent value for those looking to explore the high-altitude beauty of Switzerland.

The Top of Europe: Jungfraujoch via the Top of the World Pass No trip to Switzerland is complete without visiting the Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe." The journey begins in Interlaken, where you board a cogwheel train that climbs through picturesque mountain landscapes to reach the Jungfraujoch, situated at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level.

The Top of the World Pass, which is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, takes you through Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg. From here, the final leg of the journey is an exhilarating ascent through the Eiger and Mönch mountains, with a brief stop at the Eigerwand station, where you can glimpse the north face of the Eiger.

At the top, you’ll find the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and an ice palace carved from the glacier itself. The Sphinx Observatory offers unparalleled views, and on a clear day, you can see as far as France and Germany.

Making the Most of Your Swiss Travel Pass The Swiss Travel Pass is your golden ticket to exploring these panoramic train journeys. It offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, including trains, buses, and boats, along with free or discounted entry to over 500 museums and attractions. With seamless connections and the freedom to hop on and off as you please, the Swiss Travel Pass ensures you get the most value out of your scenic Swiss adventure.

Embark on these unforgettable journeys, and let Switzerland's natural beauty leave an indelible mark on your heart.