Switzerland’s Glacier Express: Luxury Rail with Alpine Views

Switzerland does rail better than just about anywhere, blending precision, comfort and breathtaking scenery into journeys that feel as much like a luxury holiday as they do a mode of transport. With its seamless service and remarkable engineering, travelling by train here is an experience to be savoured, not rushed.

If you are dreaming of a trip that is as relaxing as it is spectacular, the Glacier Express is the classic choice. This world-famous panoramic train links two of the country’s most glamorous mountain resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering a front-row seat to some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes. 

The route winds through river valleys, crosses high alpine passes and glides past storybook villages, each moment more photogenic than the last. As a centrepiece for a Swiss holiday planned by Entire Travel Group, it pairs beautifully with boutique hotel stays, mountain excursions and other scenic journeys featured in our itineraries, ensuring your rail adventure is as rich in experiences as it is in views.

Why the Glacier Express Stands Out

Often called the world’s slowest express train, the Glacier Express is designed for savouring the views rather than racing from A to B. The full run takes roughly eight hours between Zermatt and St. Moritz, crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. This unhurried pace gives you ample time to settle in, sip a glass of Swiss wine and watch the Alps roll by.

Every carriage features panoramic windows for uninterrupted views of peaks, meadows, villages and glittering lakes. A dedicated onboard kitchen prepares Swiss specialities fresh to order, served to your seat like you’re in a moving brasserie with a front-row view of the Alps.

The Route: From Glaciers to Glamour

Many travellers begin their journey in Zermatt, a car-free village at the foot of the Matterhorn. Known for its hiking, skiing, and alpine charm, it’s the perfect place to soak up Swiss mountain life before boarding the train. Entire Travel Group can arrange handpicked hotels here, close to cosy cafés and the mountain railways.

From Zermatt, the Glacier Express meanders along the Rhône Valley, climbs to the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level and offers spectacular views of the turquoise Oberalpsee. The train then descends through tunnels and spirals before entering the Rhine Gorge, Switzerland’s own Grand Canyon.

As you approach St. Moritz, the landscape softens into the Engadin Valley, dotted with lakes and framed by golden larch forests in autumn. Whether you travel from Zermatt or St. Moritz, allow time at each end to explore. Our packages often include nights in both, with optional excursions such as the Gornergrat railway in Zermatt or Muottas Muragl in St. Moritz.

The Best Time to Travel

The Glacier Express offers a different kind of magic in each season:

• Winter (Dec–Mar): Snow blankets valleys and forests, villages glow after dark and the Rhine Gorge looks particularly crisp under winter light. Pair the journey with skiing or alpine wellness experiences.

• Spring (Apr–May): Meadows return to green, waterfalls are in full flow and the peaks still wear a dusting of snow. A quieter time with more hotel availability.

• Summer (Jun–Sep): Long days, wildflowers and sparkling lakes make this prime for hikers and families. Combine with other scenic lines like the Bernina Express or GoldenPass.

• Autumn (Oct–Nov): The Engadin glows with golden larch forests and crystal-clear skies. Some services reduce frequency, so careful planning ensures you see it at its best.

Onboard Experience and Classes

No matter which class you choose, panoramic windows, reserved seating and warm Swiss hospitality are a given. You can pre-order meals, plug in devices at seat-side power points and follow the journey through the multilingual audio guide.

First Class offers more spacious seating and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for couples and photography enthusiasts. For a true splurge, Excellence Class includes a guaranteed window seat, lounge-style seating, concierge service and a multi-course menu paired with fine Swiss wines. The exclusive Glacier Bar makes it feel like a boutique hotel on rails. Seats are limited, so advance booking is essential.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way

• Matterhorn Country: Zermatt’s car-free streets and postcard-perfect peaks make it a must for photographers.

• The Oberalp Pass: The highest point on the route, with sweeping alpine views and a sparkling mountain lake.

• The Rhine Gorge: Sheer cliffs, turquoise waters and forested slopes create one of Switzerland’s most striking natural sights.

• Albula Engineering Marvels: Spiral tunnels and graceful viaducts that are as impressive as the scenery itself.

• St. Moritz Lakes and Lifestyle: Chic boutiques, gourmet dining and alpine adventures await at this glamorous resort.

Pairing the Glacier Express with Zermatt or St. Moritz

Zermatt Add-Ons

Stay at least two nights to fully enjoy the area. Ride the Gornergrat railway for Matterhorn views, wander alpine trails or spend a leisurely afternoon in a village spa. We’ll find you a hotel that’s perfectly positioned for both the village and mountain lifts.

St Moritz Add-Ons

Enjoy lakeside strolls, panoramic restaurants and the funicular to Muottas Muragl. In winter, take in world-class sporting events; in summer, make the most of walking trails and cycling routes. Entire Travel Group can arrange your St. Moritz luxury stay, from grand heritage hotels to contemporary alpine retreats.

Extend the Rail Journey

The Glacier Express is a natural fit in a larger Swiss rail itinerary. Pair it with the Bernina Express to Tirano for glacier-to-palm-tree views, the GoldenPass from Montreux to Lucerne, or the Gotthard Panorama Express for a rail-and-lake cruise combo. 

Tips for a Smooth and Memorable Journey

• Reserve Early: Particularly for Excellence Class, as seats are in high demand.

• Journey Length: The full trip takes around eight hours, so make dining part of the experience.

• Pack Smart: Alpine weather can change quickly, so bring layers, sunglasses and a scarf.

• Tickets and Passes: Combine your seat booking with a Swiss Travel Pass for added flexibility.

• Photography Tips: Hold your camera close to the glass to avoid reflections. Top shots include the Rhine Gorge, Oberalp Pass and Albula spirals.

Bring Your Glacier Express Journey to Life

Entire Travel Group combines insider knowledge with premium service to create truly unforgettable holidays. Whether you’re after leisurely village time, scenic hikes or a curated mix of both, we’ll design your luxury rail Switzerland escape to match your travel style.

From carefully chosen hotels in Zermatt and St. Moritz to seamless rail connections and unforgettable alpine experiences, we take care of every detail, so you can simply sit back, relax and soak up one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys.