When most people think of riding the train they think of their daily commute on the subway. But once upon a time traveling by train was magical, luxurious, romantic even. While few trains offer such experiences these days, there are a few that still hold on to the glamour and nostalgia of the golden age of trains. Including the Glacier Express, the Swiss train offers a scenic ride through the alps with service from Zermatt to St. Moritz. The perfect way to take in the majestic Swiss countryside all from the comfort of a luxurious train.
The Glacier Express Experience
Passengers can take the full ride between Zermatt and St. Moritz or just join for part of the ride. On board there are 3 class levels to choose from, 2nd class, 1st class, or Excellence class.
Excellence class guarantees a window seat for every passenger, in their comfortable lounge seats. Excellence class passengers also enjoy a complimentary aperitif platter and glass of champagne to welcome them on board and a personalized concierge to help with luggage and to get you checked in. There is a 5-course menu with wine pairings offered and Excellence class passengers can enjoy cocktails at the exclusive Glacier Bar.
First class carriages have a slightly different configuration, there are 2 seats on one side and 1 seat on the other, so in each row 2 out of 3 passengers have a window seat. Passengers in first class can pre-order a 3-course menu or opt to order a la carte once on board.
Second class carriages have 2 seats on each side, so 2 out of 4 passengers in each row have a window seat. Even though these are less roomy that the first class or Excellence class carriages, passengers still enjoy comfortable seats and can pre-order or order a la carte on board.
All food is prepared fresh every day with regional and seasonal ingredients. There are vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and lactose free options available upon request. The Glacier Express does not accept cash, so make sure you have a credit card available for any on-board purchases.
How to book the Glacier Express
When you book, you will need to make a seat reservation and purchase a train ticket. These are two separate things. Seat reservations start at CHF 49 for 2nd and 1st class.
You can book your train ticket directly with Glacier Express at the time you book your seat reservation or you can book your train ticket separately. The cost of your train ticket will vary depending on when you board and when you get off. If you have a Swiss Train Pass or a Euro Rail Pass you can use it for the Glacier Express
Once you’ve booked your seat and have your train ticket you can pre-book meals if you’d like.
When to ride the Glacier Express
Depending on the time of year you plan to visit there will be very different views along the Glacier Express route. During winter expect snowy landscape and magical alpine scenes. In the summer expect lush meadows, wild flowers, and clear views of the mountains.
If you plan to ride all the way between Zermatt and St. Moritz we recommend taking the earliest train possible so you can get the most daylight. Be on the lookout for The Oberalp Pass, the Landwasser Viaduct, and the Rhine Gorge.
The Swiss Alps are magical from every angle. Booking a ride on the Glacier Express allows you to wind through the Alps taking them in from a luxurious train. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of panoramic alpine views, the elegance of Swiss hospitality, or the sheer novelty of an 8-hour luxury train journey through the heart of the Alps, the Glacier Express is more than just a scenic ride, it’s a travel experience you’ll never forget. With a little planning and the right expectations, it can be the highlight of your Swiss adventure. So book your seat, sit back, and let the slowest express train in the world carry you through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes.