Ascend from city to summit on these 5 Swiss train rides

From glaciers to gorges to snow-capped peaks, you can discover Switzerland’s dramatic scenery by train. Switzerland is famous for its dense, reliable rail system, which connects every town with accessible public transportation. That means enjoying the country’s spectacular natural sights is as easy as hopping on board.   

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 of which are considered among the most scenic in the world.   

The Bernina Express

Surround yourself with a stunning panorama as you cross the Swiss Engadin Alps, travelling from St. Moritz and Chur in 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.   

Along the route, the train ascends the picturesque Ospizio Bernina, reaching about 2,353 metres above sea level, the highest crossing of any train in the Alps without a tunnel. At the Diavolezza stop, hop off to ride the gondola to a beautiful pass overlooking the Bernina valley, where you can ski to your heart’s content. This popular Switzerland journey is considered one of the best ways to traverse the Alps.    

The Glacier Express

Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express is a grand excuse to relax and appreciate the sights. The railway weaves through the Swiss Alps from the foot of the Matterhorn Mountain in the magical resort town of Zermatt—which boasts year-round snow—to the cosmopolitan mountain village of St. Moritz. The journey also features the mighty rock walls of 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, with its towering arches stretching 142 metres across a rocky river.  

This route can also link up to the Bernina Express for five days on two of the world's most stunning train tours. 

Jungfrau Railway

For those who love skiing down fresh powder and reaching new heights, the historic Jungfrau Railway takes visitors to Jungfraujoch, the “top of Europe.” Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest railway station at 3,453 metres above sea level. It can be reached from Interlaken via two routes that ascend different sides of the mountain range.   

Discover a world of ice, snow and rocks cradled between the Mönch, Eiger and Jungfrau Mountains and keep your eyes peeled for stunning waterfalls or packs of huskies as you ascend. Highlights of this trek include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch, home to the longest glacier in the Alps, the Ice Palace sculpture gallery, and year-round snowy activities. Depending on your train route, visit quaint villages such as Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen.    

Mount Pilatus Cogwheel Railway

Journey to the top of Switzerland's Mount Pilatus on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world, with a gradient of up to 48 per cent. 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.   

Your short journey brings you up the mountain, providing sweeping views of jagged rock formations and alpine meadows. Once you reach Pilatus Kulm at the top, explore a historic hotel where you can grab lunch and discover nearby hiking trails. According to legend, a magical dragon with healing powers lives in the mountain. 

The Cogwheel Railway operates between May and November, but its destination can be reached by cable car and gondola at other times of the year.   

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, along with other surrounding peaks like Liskamm, Castor and Pollux. 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 down, with more opportunities to enjoy Switzerland’s cuisine in local eateries at the bottom.   

Explore Switzerland’s magical scenery by train 

On board yet? Reserve 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 five days or longer, plus 24/7 Member care.