If you’re eyeing a trip through Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes, the Glacier Express often pops up as a must-do experience. This iconic train journey promises a slow-paced, panoramic adventure through the heart of the Swiss Alps, taking you from the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz to the picture-perfect Zermatt, home to the towering Matterhorn. While many travelers rave about the scenery, our review will help you understand what to expect to see if you decide to hop aboard.
Two things we genuinely like about this experience are the large panoramic windows that offer unrestricted views of the mountains, valleys, and bridges, and the convenience of skipping the hassle of navigating Swiss public transport yourself. On the flip side, a possible downside is that the journey can be quite long—lasting about 8 hours—and some find the scenery a bit underwhelming until the last third. This trip is best suited for those who love relaxed travel, stunning vistas, and don’t mind a slow pace to soak in the views.
Key Points
- Panoramic views from large windows make the journey visually memorable.
- The trip covers 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, showcasing impressive Swiss engineering.
- The full route offers a mix of urban, alpine, and canyon landscapes.
- Travel is in 2nd class coaches, offering good value for a comfortable, scenic ride.
- The journey’s length means you’ll want to plan for snacks and patience.
- Seat reservation is mandatory, so book early to secure your preferred spot.
- The experience is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly options.
- Many reviews mention the scenery varies—some find parts quite grey or unremarkable until the last stretch.
An In-Depth Look at the Glacier Express Journey
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What the Tour Includes
This 8-hour scenic train ride takes you through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes Switzerland offers. You’ll traverse Zermatt and St. Moritz, both famed for luxury and stunning scenery, but the real star is the route itself. As you sit comfortably in second class, you’ll enjoy large panoramic windows designed to maximize your view of the lush valleys, rugged peaks, and charming villages.
The route features an incredible over 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, highlighting both natural wonders and impressive Swiss engineering feats. You can expect to see the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon, with its dramatic cliffs and rushing river, as well as the Albula line and the Landwasser Viaduct, which many consider a highlight of the trip.
The Route and Its Highlights
Starting either in St. Moritz or Davos Platz (depending on your booking), you’ll begin your journey in a place known for its luxury and exclusivity. As you board the train, the sense of anticipation builds, and once moving, the vistas start to unfold.
The Rhine Gorge is a standout—its steep cliffs and turbulent river are breathtaking. Many travelers mention the scenery here as the most memorable part of the trip, especially in winter when snow adds extra drama. The Albula line offers a glimpse into Swiss railway engineering, with hairpin turns and scenic viaducts.
If you start in Davos, you’ll take the regional train across the Wiesen Viaduct to Filisur, where the Glacier Express waits. From there, the journey continues through the Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the route, reaching over 2,000 meters in elevation.
Scenery and Landscape
The reviews offer a mixed picture—while some travelers find the early parts of the journey quite grey or urban-looking, the scenery tends to improve as you approach the Alps. One traveler from Germany noted, “The train connection was wonderful. Very nice service! But the route disappointed me; the landscapes were quite dull, only the last third was snowy and mountain-like.” So, if you’re expecting a lush, green, mountain-filled scenery from start to finish, it might not be that consistent.
However, most agree that the final third of the trip, with snow-capped peaks and alpine landscapes, makes the journey worthwhile. The large windows are a real plus—they allow you to take in the mountain views without obstruction, and some reviews mention helpful narration that adds context about the locations.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience Onboard
Travelers often appreciate the comfort and value of second class, as it allows them to enjoy the scenery without paying the hefty price of first class. Keep in mind, seat reservations are essential; you’ll want to book early through their website since the train can fill up, especially in high season.
While the journey is generally smooth, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out the scenery is not drastically different from other scenic train routes. One Brazilian traveler said, “Not much difference from other trains on this route. The panoramic windows and the speed are the main features.” Still, if you love train travel and landscapes, this is a unique way to see parts of Switzerland that are less accessible by car.
How Does It Compare to Other Options?
One reviewer from the US mentioned that the narration helped her learn about the different locations, adding educational value to the scenic experience. The cost is considered reasonable, especially for those who opt for second class, but the price can seem high given that the journey lasts 8 hours. When factoring in the scenery and comfort, many find it worthwhile, but some say they expected more dramatic landscapes throughout.
Practical Considerations
- Timing: The journey lasts around 8 hours, so plan your day accordingly. Check availability and starting times before booking.
- Booking: The reservation is mandatory, and you can reserve via their website. The agency booking fee is included in the price.
- Accessibility: The train is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
- Price: The ticket includes a small booking fee of 4 CHF. The ticket’s cost, combined with reservation fees, is justified if you value panoramic scenery and Swiss engineering marvels.
What the Reviews Tell Us
A wide range of opinions exists. A German traveler appreciated the service and train itself but was disappointed with the scenery’s overall dullness at times, recommending the Bernina tour instead. Conversely, travelers from Mexico and others highlight the spectacular vistas and magnificent views, confirming that the scenery can be truly stunning, especially in the right weather.
One reviewer from Brazil mentioned that they couldn’t reserve the Glacier Express and didn’t make the trip, which underscores the importance of booking well in advance.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This journey is ideal for those who love relaxed, scenic train travel, and want a comfortable way to see different Swiss landscapes without the hassle of driving or changing trains multiple times. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate engineering marvels, panoramic views, and don’t mind a lengthy journey. If you’re after outstanding, continuous mountain scenery, be prepared for some variability, but the last part of the trip often delivers.
Final Thoughts
The Glacier Express between St. Moritz and Zermatt offers a leisurely, scenic overview of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. While some parts may appear less dramatic than expected, the train’s large panoramic windows, crossing of 291 bridges, and passage through 91 tunnels make it a remarkable way to experience the Swiss Alps.
It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine comfort with scenic beauty and don’t mind a full day of travel. The journey’s value increases if you book early and reserve your seats, ensuring a smooth experience.
This trip isn’t necessarily for those seeking intense mountain vistas from start to finish, but for those wanting an easy, comfortable, and visually pleasing overview of Switzerland’s varied terrains, it hits the right notes. Add in the opportunity to learn about the places you pass through, and you have a well-rounded experience that can be a highlight of your Swiss adventure.
Glacier Express: Scenic routes between St. Moritz & Zermatt
FAQ
Is seat reservation mandatory?
Yes, reserving your seat is required to board the Glacier Express. It’s best to book early through their website to secure your preferred time and seat.
How long does the journey take?
The trip lasts about 8 hours, covering a significant stretch of Switzerland’s landscapes.
Are there any accessible options?
The train is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.
What does the ticket price include?
The ticket includes a small agency fee of 4 CHF and covers the train journey. Seat reservation fees are separate.
Is the scenery consistent throughout the trip?
Not entirely. Some travelers find parts quite grey or subdued until the last third, which tends to be more mountainous and snowy.
Would this be good for families or children?
While not specifically tailored for children, the train’s comfort and panoramic windows make it a relaxing outing. Consider your kids’ attention span and interest in scenery for best results.
If you’re after a relaxed way to see Switzerland’s landscapes with the benefit of comfort and panoramic views, the Glacier Express offers a memorable, if lengthy, experience. Just plan ahead to make the most of it, and keep your expectations balanced—beautiful, yes, but not always dramatic from start to finish.
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