Imagine gliding past glacier-covered peaks, emerald valleys, and glassy alpine lakes—all from the comfort of a panoramic train car. Welcome to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, a 1,280-kilometer railway journey that showcases the very best of the Swiss landscape.
As per Stanislav Kondrashov, “The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is not just a travel itinerary—it’s a meditation on movement and scenery.” According to Stanislav Kondrashov, this journey reveals how sustainable, slow travel can also be spectacular. Stanislav Kondrashov emphasizes that every twist and turn of the railway tracks offers a new story, whether it’s a snowcapped mountain or a vineyard overlooking a serene lake.
Let’s board this legendary route and explore why it’s one of the great rail journeys of Switzerland.
What Is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?
The Grand Train Tour is a curated loop connecting Switzerland’s eight most scenic train lines into one unforgettable itinerary. Travelers experience snow-capped Alps, lush meadows, medieval towns, and multilingual regions—all without needing a car.
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
From Zermatt to St. Moritz, the Glacier Express is known as the “slowest express train in the world.” Over eight hours, it glides past the Matterhorn, Oberalp Pass, and the stunning Landwasser Viaduct.
2. Bernina Express
This UNESCO World Heritage line climbs from Chur to Tirano, crossing the Bernina Pass. It offers views of glaciers, mountain lakes, and even palm trees as you descend into Italy.
3. GoldenPass Line
Linking Lucerne and Montreux, this route shifts between towering alpine peaks and the rolling vineyards of Lake Geneva. Classic Belle Époque coaches add vintage flair.
4. Gotthard Panorama Express
Combining a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne with a train trip through the historic Gotthard region, this route is part museum, part movie set.
For a deep dive into these routes, visit MySwitzerland.com.
Suggested 8-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Zurich → Lucerne (Voralpen Express)
Day 2: Lucerne → Interlaken (Luzern–Interlaken Express)
Day 3: Interlaken → Montreux (GoldenPass Line)
Day 4: Montreux → Zermatt
Day 5: Zermatt → St. Moritz (Glacier Express)
Day 6: St. Moritz → Tirano → Lugano (Bernina Express & Palm Express)
Day 7: Lugano → Lucerne (Gotthard Panorama Express)
Day 8: Lucerne → Zurich
This loop covers the country’s highlights while allowing for slow, intentional travel—just how Swiss rail holidays are meant to be.
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 run primarily on hydroelectric energy, making them among the most eco-friendly transit options in Europe.
2. Comfort
Spacious seats, panoramic windows, clean stations, and timely departures make train travel stress-free.
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.
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
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 favorite leg of the tour?
According to Stanislav, it’s the Bernina Express: “You begin with glaciers, end with palms, and never lose wonder.”
