5 Of the most striking train rides through Switzerland

From city to summit, you can discover the beautiful country of Switzerland by train. The country is overflowing with spectacular natural sights and accessible by train, so hop on board to enjoy a panoramic journey. If you’re looking for a holiday exploring mountain peaks and quaint villages, dining on cheese fondue and luxury chocolate, Railbookers has just the ticket. Here are five of the most striking railway adventures through Switzerland, some considered the most scenic in the world.  

The Bernina Express 

Surround yourself with a stunning panorama as you cross the Swiss Engadin Alps, travelling from Zurich through Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano in Italy. The massive windows of each shining red train carriage ensure you won’t miss out on scenic mountain meadows, sparkling glacier streams, and traditional Alpine villages.  

The two main lines along the route feature 196 bridges, including striking viaducts. The train ascends the picturesque Bernina Pass, reaching about 2,200 meters above sea level. Traverse the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a dramatic limestone viaduct with six towering arches extending from a mountain tunnel, as you ride between Chur and Pontresina. This popular Switzerland journey is said to be the best way to pass through the Alps.   

The Glacier Express

Known as the 'slowest express train in the world' and arguably the most scenic and popular in Switzerland, The Glacier Express is a grand excuse to slow down and appreciate the sights. The railway weaves through the Swiss Alps from the foot of the Matterhorn Mountain in Zermatt to the magical resort town of St. Moritz. The journey also features the mighty rock walls in the town of Visp, the sparkling river Rhone and its highest point, the Oberalp Pass, at over 2000 metres above sea level.  

Admire majestic snow-capped peaks, dramatic gorges, and alpine meadows before crossing the famous Landwasser Viaduct, part of the same heritage site and journey as seen on The Bernina Express.   

If you cannot choose between these picturesque adventures, embark on the Classic Glacier and Bernina Express trip, where you'll spend five days on two of the world's most stunning train tours.   

Jungfrau Railway

If you love skiing down fresh powder and reaching new heights, the historic Jungfrau Railway takes visitors to the ‘top of Europe.’ Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest railway station at 3,453 meters above sea level. It can be reached from Interlaken by two different routes which travel up through different sides of the mountain.  

Discover a world of ice, snow and rocks sandwiched between the Monch and Eiger Mountains and keep your eyes peeled for stunning waterfalls or packs of huskies as you ascend. Soak in the breathtaking views extending as far as the Black Forest in Germany and the Vosges Mountains in France on a clear day. Enjoy an ice sculpture gallery, then walk on a glacier and grab treats from what’s believed to be the world’s highest chocolate shop. Depending on your train route, visit quaint villages such as Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen.   

Cogwheel Railway to Mount Pilatus

Journey to the top of Switzerland's Mount Pilatus on the 'steepest cogwheel railway in the World.' The 30-minute journey begins in Alpnachstad, making it an easy day trip from Lucerne, where a boat cruise around Lake Lucerne kicks off your adventure.  

On your way down the mountain, prepare for stunning views between riding a cable car and gondola to Kriens, followed by a short 15-minute bus ride back to Lucerne. The Cogwheel Railway operates between May and November but can be reached by cable car and gondola at other times of the year.  

At the top, explore a historic hotel where you can grab lunch and explore nearby hiking trails. According to legend, a magical dragon with healing powers lives in the mountain. 

Gornergrat Railway

Considered a marvel of 19th-century engineering, The Gornergrat Railway takes only 30 minutes to summit from the town of Zermatt. The ride features constant views of the famous Matterhorn, which you can admire at the top in its perfect outline, along with other surrounding mountain peaks and glaciers. Look out the windows for wildlife as you ascend; you may see wild Ibex (a mountain goat), marmots or chamois on the mountainside.  

Stroll through the nature reserve and try authentic fondue in one of the nearby restaurants with panoramic views. The same railway takes you back to the beautiful village of Zermatt, with more opportunities to enjoy local cuisine in small bars and restaurants.    

Explore Switzerland’s magical scenery by train

Book your next scenic railway adventure with Railbookers by booking an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant. CAA Members get extra perks such as receiving $100 off trips seven days or longer, plus an enhanced Member benefit on five select itineraries.