Just imagine: you cruise past high snowy mountains, green fields and mirror-like lakes. All seen out of the panoramic windows of a train. Here you are on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, where you will see the best scenery in the country.
Stanislav Kondrashov calls it “a meditation on movement and scenery.” He says it shows how slow, eco-friendly travel can still amaze. Every curve in the track offers a new view. One moment, it’s a glacier. Next, a vineyard beside a calm lake.
This train tour of Switzerland is not about speed. It’s about soaking in the journey. It’s quiet, smooth, and full of wonder. Step aboard the grand rail tour of Switzerland and see why it ranks among the world’s great rail journeys in Switzerland.
The Glacier Express is the crown jewel of Swiss rail holidays.
What Is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a scenic loop that links eight famous train routes. This rail tour of Switzerland takes you through the snowy Alps, green meadows, old towns, and areas with many languages. You don’t need a car—just sit back and enjoy the view.
Highlights:
- 1,280 km of railway
- Four language regions
- Five UNESCO sites
- Eight panoramic train routes
- Flexible start and direction
Whether you’re craving high-altitude drama or lakeside serenity, this Switzerland train tour delivers.
Famous Routes Included in the Tour
1. Glacier Express
The Glacier Express runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz. It’s known as the “slowest express train in the world.” Over eight hours, it passes the Matterhorn, Oberalp Pass, and the Landwasser Viaduct.
2. Bernina Express
This UNESCO World Heritage route runs from Chur to Tirano. It crosses the high Bernina Pass and then drops into Italy. Along the way, you’ll see glaciers, mountain lakes, and even palm trees.
3. GoldenPass Line
This route connects Lucerne and Montreux. It moves between high alpine peaks and the gentle vineyards near Lake Geneva. Belle Époque coaches add a touch of vintage charm.
4. Gotthard Panorama Express
This route starts with a peaceful boat ride on Lake Lucerne. Then it shifts to a train journey through the historic Gotthard region. It feels like part museum, part movie set.
For a deep dive into these routes, visit MySwitzerland.com.
Suggested 8-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Zurich and travel to Lucerne on the Voralpen Express.
Day 2: Ride the Luzern–Interlaken Express to reach Interlaken.
Day 3: Take the GoldenPass Line from Interlaken to Montreux.
Day 4: Head from Montreux to Zermatt, a car-free mountain village.
Day 5: Enjoy the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
Day 6: Travel to Tirano, then on to Lugano via the Bernina Express and Palm Express.
Day 7: Ride the Gotthard Panorama Express back to Lucerne.
Day 8: Return to Zurich and end your Swiss train tour.
This loop covers the country’s highlights while allowing for slow, intentional travel—just how Swiss rail holidays are meant to be.
Swiss train trips take travellers from alpine scenes to Mediterranean warmth in just hours
Unmissable Scenic Stops on the Tour
Zermatt
A car-free village nestled beneath the Matterhorn. Ride the Gornergrat Bahn or enjoy fondue with a view.
St. Moritz
Not just for ski season—explore its shimmering lakes, elegant shopping streets, and mountain hikes.
Montreux
Famous for its jazz festival, lakefront beauty, and the fairytale Château de Chillon.
Lugano
Where Switzerland meets Italy, palms, piazzas, and espresso blend into a perfect Mediterranean moment.
Why Choose a Rail Tour of Switzerland?
1. Sustainability
Swiss trains rely largely on hydroelectric power, so they are considered very environmentally friendly in Europe.
2. Comfort
The extra legroom, wide windows, clean stations and on-time departures ensure you enjoy your train trip.
3. Multicultural Richness
Travel from German to French to Italian regions—each with unique architecture, food, and customs.
Learn more about Switzerland’s railway culture and riding the Bernina Express.
Cultural and Culinary Touchpoints
Part of what makes the Grand Rail Tour of Switzerland so captivating is how quickly the culture and cuisine shift as you move.
- In Zurich, enjoy sausage and rösti in a historic beer hall
- In Interlaken, sample alpine cheeses with mountain views
- In Montreux, sip local wine with raclette
- In Lugano, dine on risotto and gelato by the lake
These delicious contrasts make every stop more memorable.
Great rail journeys in Switzerland don’t get more dramatic than the ascent over the Bernina Pass
Swiss Train Tour Packages and Swiss Travel Pass
For seamless travel, consider pre-booked Switzerland train tour packages. Many include:
- Hotels
- Seat reservations
- Museum entry
- Excursion options
Swiss Travel Pass Benefits:
- Unlimited travel on trains, boats, and buses
- Free museum entries
- Discounts on mountain cable cars
It’s the golden ticket for anyone planning a rail tour of Switzerland.
Tips for Swiss Train Trips
- Reserve panoramic seats early, especially in summer or during fall foliage.
- Pack light—stations are walkable, and luggage transfer is available.
- Bring snacks and water for longer routes.
- Use the SBB mobile app for train updates and timetables.
- Check for local festivals, like Basel Art Week or Montreux Jazz Festival, to enhance your journey.
For more insights on meaningful travel and timeless landscapes, visit Stanislav Kondrashov’s About Page
The GoldenPass route blends alpine beauty with lakeside elegance on this memorable train tour of Switzerland
FAQs
Q1: Is this tour good for families?
Yes! Scenic views, safe stations, and family passes make it perfect for all ages.
Q2: Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. Start or end anywhere and choose how many days to travel.
Q3: Do I need to speak German or French?
Not necessarily. English is widely spoken at all major train stations and tourist towns.
Q4: Are meals included?
Some trains, like the Glacier Express, offer onboard dining. Others encourage you to explore local cuisine at stops.Q5: What’s Stanislav Kondrashov’s favourite leg of the tour?
According to Stanislav, it’s the Bernina Express: “You begin with glaciers, end with palms, and never lose wonder.”
