8 Days Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of ticking off some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking scenery without the hassle of planning each leg yourself, then the 8 Days Grand Train Tour of Switzerland might just be what you’re looking for. This carefully curated itinerary promises to take you through some of Europe’s most iconic rail routes, with plenty of opportunities to admire lush valleys, towering mountains, and shimmering lakes from the comfort of panoramic carriages.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the thrill of scenic train journeys with comfortable, well-located overnight stays. Plus, the inclusion of a Half Fare Card means you’ll save on regional travel costs, making it feel like a more manageable adventure financially. On the flip side, the price tag is on the higher side, and it’s worth considering if you’re after a more flexible or independent experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love train travel and want a streamlined way to see Switzerland’s highlights in just over a week. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer guided group experiences with a set itinerary, especially if the idea of traveling on some of the world’s most famous rail lines excites you.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Routes: The itinerary covers some of the most famous trains in Switzerland, offering panoramic views that are hard to beat.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Overnight stays in charming towns like Montreux, Zermatt, and Lugano add a nice touch of Swiss hospitality.
• All-Inclusive Rail Travel: Your ticket covers multiple iconic train lines, including Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Designed to maximize scenic views and sightseeing, with manageable travel times and clear stops.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep things intimate but still social.
• Price Point: At over $5,300 per person, the experience is premium, reflecting its quality but worth considering if it fits your budget.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Lucerne to Interlaken

Your Swiss adventure begins with a journey from Lucerne to Interlaken via the Luzern-Interlaken Express. This route is known for its easy charm, taking you through picturesque towns and along scenic lakeshores. Because you start in Lucerne, which is itself a delight with its medieval architecture and iconic Kapellbrücke bridge, it’s an ideal launch point.

The actual travel here is about 2 hours, and while there’s no fee for the train ride itself, it sets the tone for the leisurely, visually stunning trip ahead. It’s a good chance to settle into the rhythm of Swiss train travel and soak in the landscape.

Day 2: Montreux on the GoldenPass Line

The next day involves heading to Montreux on the famed GoldenPass Line. The route through towns like Zweisimmen is particularly scenic, with sparkling lakes and rolling hills. Montreux itself is a highlight—a charming lakeside town famous for its jazz festival and beautiful lakeside promenade.

Overnight here offers a restful spot with plenty of lakeside cafes and a relaxed vibe. The journey takes about 3 hours, giving you time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Day 3: Into the Alps at Zermatt

Traveling south to Zermatt is a real highlight. The ascent toward this traffic-free mountain village is where Switzerland’s mountain scenery really shines. Zermatt’s charm lies in its car-free streets and the towering presence of the Matterhorn.

You’ll have the day free to explore or just relax, taking in the views of this iconic peak. The train ride itself is around 3 hours, and since Zermatt is a car-free zone, the town’s atmosphere is uniquely peaceful.

Day 4: The Glacier Express to St. Moritz

This day is all about one of the most famous train journeys in the world—the Glacier Express. It’s often called the “slowest express train,” but in reality, it’s a fast-moving showcase of Swiss mountain scenery. Over approximately 8 hours, you’ll traverse lush valleys, jagged mountain passes, and the spectacular Rhine Gorge.

The train features large panoramic windows, and the experience is as much about the scenery as the comfort of the train itself. As one reviewer said, “The views are spellbinding,” and it’s easy to agree. Just be prepared for a full day of travel, but it’s worth every minute.

Day 5: Bernina Express and Lugano

Next, the Bernina Express takes you from St. Moritz into Italy, ending in Tirano after roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes. This route is known for its incredible scenery: mountain vistas, lush valleys, and the famous Bernina Range.

In Tirano, you switch to a bus that then takes you through Italy toward Lugano. You get to experience a taste of Italy within Switzerland, with the chance to explore this lively lakeside city. Spending the night here means you’ll enjoy a different cultural vibe, along with more scenic views.

Day 6: Scenic Ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Traveling north from Lugano, you’ll board the Gotthard Panorama Express in a special panoramic carriage. The route takes you through the historic Gotthard route—another scenic highlight—before arriving in Flüelen.

In Flüelen, a historic paddle steamer awaits, offering a relaxed cruise across Lake Lucerne. This mix of train and boat travel gives a slower, more detailed look at Switzerland’s landscape.

Day 7: North-East to St. Gallen

From Lucerne, a shorter trip on the Voralpen-Express takes you to St. Gallen. Known for its beautiful abbey and lively city center, St. Gallen offers a different slice of Swiss life—more rugged and less touristy.

This day capably rounds out your scenic journey with a mix of mountains and city charm, perfect for those who appreciate variety.

Day 8: Departure or Continue Your Journey

The tour concludes here, leaving you free to continue exploring or head home. The flexibility means you can tailor your next steps based on how much you’ve enjoyed Switzerland’s railways and sights.

What’s the Experience Really Like?

This tour combines effortless travel with some of Switzerland’s most renowned scenic routes. We love how the train journeys are the star of the show—each one offers expansive panoramic windows, making scenery the main event. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are particularly memorable, with reviews praising the views as “spellbinding” and “beautiful lakes, mountains, and valleys.”

The accommodations are well-placed in charming Swiss towns, allowing for easy exploration and relaxation. The inclusion of a Half Fare Card is a thoughtful touch, giving you flexibility in other regional travels and making the overall value better.

However, the cost is significant, and some might wonder whether paying over five thousand dollars per person is justified. The answer depends on how much you value scenic rail journeys; if you’re train-obsessed or craving a curated, hassle-free way to see Switzerland, it’s a good investment.

The Pros

• Unbeatable scenic train routes with panoramic views
• Convenient, organized itinerary that covers major highlights
• Comfortable overnight stays in key locations
• The chance to see diverse regions—from lakeside towns to mountain villages
• The unique experience of combining train and boat travel

The Cons

• The price point is high, which might be a deal-breaker for some
• Long travel days, like on the Glacier Express, may be tiring for some travelers
• Limited flexibility—if you prefer exploring at your own pace, this might feel restrictive

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a lover of trains and scenic landscapes, this tour is likely to tick many boxes. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to see Switzerland without the hassle of planning every detail. The group size is small, which fosters a more intimate experience, and the route covers a diverse set of landscapes and cultures.

It’s probably less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel, as the overall cost reflects the convenience and quality of the experience. Also, if you’re not comfortable with long train journeys or prefer more flexible schedules, you might prefer designing your own trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for travelers who dislike long train rides?
While most days involve scenic train journeys of several hours, the routes are comfortable with panoramic windows. If you’re okay with some long travel days, you’ll find the scenery makes up for it.

Does the tour include all travel costs?
Yes, all rail travel as per the itinerary is included, along with overnight stays, breakfast, and key reservations like seat bookings on the Glacier Express.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes overnight stays in well-located hotels, in charming towns like Montreux, Zermatt, and Lugano.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves train journeys to scenic locations, but it’s not specifically designed for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

Is this a family-friendly tour?
The information doesn’t specify family restrictions, so it’s probably more suitable for adult travelers or older children comfortable with long train rides.

When can I book this tour?
Booking is open year-round, with travel periods from mid-April to mid-October, depending on the year.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, making it a manageable group for a more personal experience.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

The 8 Days Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers a thoughtfully designed way to see some of Switzerland’s most stunning sights without the stress of planning each detail yourself. The combination of legendary train routes, comfortable lodging, and small group size makes for a memorable adventure, especially if scenic train rides are your thing.

While the price might seem steep, the experience of gliding past mountains, lakes, and valleys in panoramic comfort is something many travelers find worth it. This tour suits those who want a hassle-free, immersive journey through Switzerland’s diverse landscapes and are happy to pay a premium for convenience and quality.

If you’re looking for a way to see Switzerland that emphasizes jaw-dropping views and effortless travel, this tour could be a perfect match. Just be prepared for the long days of scenic train travel—think of it as a moving window into the country’s most beautiful corners.