Glacier Express on world-famous Landwasser viaduct.

Self-Guided Scenic Alps by Rail

Ride the legendary Glacier Express train and cross over the world-famous Landwasser viaduct.

Credit : Glacier Express

We rate this trip as easy, but ACTIVE. You should be capable of walking about one to two miles per day. You should also be able to handle your own luggage to get to the trains and to/from your hotels. On two days, you will take a mountain railway excursion to an elevation of over 10,000 feet and you should be able to handle staying at this elevation for a couple of hours.

Walking: in addition to walking on flat surfaces, you also need to walk on uphills, uneven terrain, and cobblestones. You'll likely not walk this amount all at once, but you need to be able to get to/from train stations, hotels, and excursions. We can accommodate slow walkers, but you must still be able to walk the distance.
Stairs: at train stations when we have to change platforms; most of the station platforms only have stairs or ramps -- not elevators. Some train connections are tight and the group may need to walk quickly to catch the next train.
Getting on and off trains: be aware that many trains have a few steep steps to negotiate to get on or off. You need to be confident that you can get on and off the trains.
Standing time: you need to be able to stand on your feet for at least 10-15 minutes as benches at train stations are not in good supply.
Luggage: You need to be able to get your own bags on and off the trains and to/from each hotel.

Book This Trip Now

Recent Blog Posts

Switzerland Train Travel Tips

Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel to Lucerne -- Mt. Pilatus Mountain Excursion

Typically, you will arrive on a morning flight at the Zurich airport and then travel by train to Lucerne (1 hr). In the afternoon, take a local train to Alpnachstad, where you'll board the world’s steepest cogwheel railway for an exhilarating ascent to the 7,000-foot summit of Mount Pilatus. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of the Central Swiss Alps and the sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne below. When ready, descend in a cozy 4-person gondola, gliding down to Kriens for a scenic and peaceful ride. From there, a short walk downhill will take you to the main road, where you can catch a bus back to Lucerne. Overnight in Lucerne.

Day 2 – Gotthard route in the Historic Heart of Switzerland

Lucerne--Flüelen --Gothard Route -- Lugano

Embark on a boat journey along the Wilhelm Tell Express route to the charming town of Flüelen on Lake Lucerne. From there, transfer to a train bound for Lugano, traveling through the heart of Switzerland's history. Along the way, you'll pass the Rütli meadow, the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation in 1291, and traverse the 15-kilometer Gotthard Tunnel, which opened in 1882. This 13th-century Gotthard Pass became the shortest north-south route through Europe, playing a key role in Switzerland's economic success. Upon arriving in Lugano, you’ll be welcomed by the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, home to 10% of Switzerland's population. Overnight in Lugano.

Day 3 – Bernina Route: Journey from Lugano, alongside northern Lake Como, to St. Moritz.

Lugano -- Bernina Express Bus and Train -- St. Moritz

Start your day with a morning bus ride along the picturesque shores of Lake Lugano, crossing into Italy and tracing the northern edge of Lake Como. Continue through the lush Valtellina vineyards to the Italian border town of Tirano. From there, board the Bernina Express and embark on a breathtaking journey along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bernina Railway. As the train climbs from 1,200 feet to the 7,300-foot Bernina Pass, you'll be surrounded by the towering 12,900-foot Bernina mountain range. The alpine scenery shifts dramatically as the train navigates its 122 km (76-mile) route, winding through 55 tunnels and crossing over 196 bridges and viaducts. Overnight in St. Moritz.

Day 4 – Spectacular Swiss Alps, Lakes and Panorama Views

All Day in St. Moritz to relax, discover, and enjoy

Marvel at the majestic Bernina Mountain peaks, while also admiring the chic, high-end fashion displayed in the stylish store windows—a testament to the luxurious "champagne climate" that defines St. Moritz. Your hotel should provide you with an Engadine card, granting access to all local transportation and cable cars, allowing you to ascend to the summits of Piz Nair, Piz Corvatsch, or Diavolezza. In this unique region, you may even hear Romansh, a language spoken by just 1% of Switzerland's population, adding to the cultural richness of your experience. Overnight in St. Moritz.

Day 5 – Glacier Express Train -- Alpine Peaks, Green Pastures, and Magnificent Scenery

St. Moritz -- Glacier Express -- Zermatt

While there are faster ways to travel from St. Moritz to Zermatt, none can match the beauty and significance of the Glacier Express, offering an unforgettable journey through the stunning Swiss Alps. Alongside the breathtaking views, you'll enjoy narration in English, providing insights into the landscapes you're passing. The engineering marvel of this rail route is truly impressive, as it crosses 291 bridges and navigates 91 tunnels while ascending and descending 500 meters (1,660 feet) through diverse and changing mountain valleys. Throughout the trip, there's ample space to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. Keep in mind that lunch is served at your seat if you preordered one from the catering company, as there is no separate dining car. You can also bring your own lunch on the train with you. Overnight in Zermatt.

Day 6 – Gornergrat Cogwheel train -- Best Views of the Matterhorn and Surrounding Highest Peaks in Europe

All day in Zermatt to discover and enjoy!

The Gornergrat cogwheel train is a must-see attraction, taking you to an altitude of 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) for the best panoramic views of the iconic Matterhorn and the surrounding 4,000-meter (13,000-foot) peaks, the highest in Europe. Immerse yourself in breathtaking alpine and glacier vistas, with snow-covered summits stretching across the horizon. For those wishing to extend their Matterhorn experience, easy hiking trails wind through charming alpine hamlets perfect for photography. In the afternoon, explore Zermatt with a stroll through its historic old town or visit the Matterhorn Museum. You'll be in the German-speaking region of Switzerland. Overnight in Zermatt

Day 7 – Montreux Riviera -- Vineyards, Mountain Peaks and Lake Geneva

Zermatt – Montreux -- Chillon Castle -- Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Today, travel by train to Montreux, a charming town with a Mediterranean vibe, often referred to as part of the Swiss Riviera. As you approach the region, you’ll be treated to views of the terraced Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arriving in Montreux, take your time enjoying a leisurely 45-minute stroll along the scenic lakeshore promenade, leading to the 12th-century Chillon Castle, perched on a rock along the shores of Lake Geneva. This well-preserved fortress, famously immortalized by Lord Byron during his imprisonment there, is Switzerland's most popular castle. In the afternoon, you may opt for a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva, the largest lake shared between Switzerland and France. Montreux is located in the French-speaking region of Switzerland. Overnight in Montreux

Day 8 – Legendary GoldenPass Rail on your way to the Jungfrau Region

You'll board the GoldenPass train, which winds through stunning alpine valleys, rolling hills, and lush green pastures dotted with grazing cows. As you pass by charming wooden chalets and picturesque villages, the journey takes you to Interlaken and onward to Grindelwald, one of Switzerland's oldest and most beloved resorts in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfrau region. Overnight in Grindelwald.

Day 9 – Jungfraujoch Cogwheel train --Highest Railway Station in Europe

The tour concludes with an unforgettable journey to the Top of Europe as you ascend to the 3,400-meter (11,371-foot) Jungfraujoch. This historic complex, built in 1914, is nestled between the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. At the summit, you'll find yourself on the vast Aletsch Glacier, the largest in Europe, surrounded by stunning views of alpine peaks, snow, and ice stretching to the horizon. You can take a walk on the hard-packed snow of the glacier or explore the Ice Palace, home to intricate ice sculptures. Once you're ready, you'll board your final train to Zurich for the last night of your tour. Overnight at the Zurich airport hotel

Day 10 – Depart Zurich for onward travel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for onward destinations.

Activity Level

Walking: in addition to walking on flat surfaces, you also need to walk on uphills, uneven terrain, and cobblestones. You'll likely not walk this amount all at once, but you need to be able to get to/from train stations, hotels, and excursions. We can accommodate slow walkers, but you must still be able to walk the distance.
Stairs: at train stations when we have to change platforms; most of the station platforms only have stairs or ramps -- not elevators. Some train connections are tight and the group may need to walk quickly to catch the next train.
Getting on and off trains: be aware that many trains have a few steep steps to negotiate to get on or off. You need to be confident that you can get on and off the trains.
Standing time: you need to be able to stand on your feet for at least 10-15 minutes as benches at train stations are not in good supply.
Luggage: You need to be able to get your own bags on and off the trains and to/from each hotel.