The Glacier Express in Switzerland: A Guide to the Legendary Train Journey Through the Heart of the Swiss Alps

Switzerland is no stranger to scenic train journeys, but the Glacier Express stands in a league of its own. Often hailed as the slowest express train in the world, this legendary ride is not about speed—it's about soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Running between Zermatt and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express offers a stunning experience that feels more like a cinematic tour than a commute.

What to Expect on the Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is not just a train ride; it’s a luxury sightseeing experience on rails. Panoramic windows stretch up to the ceiling, immersing you in sweeping views of gorges, peaks, forests, and valleys.

☀️ Bring your sunglasses! With panoramic windows and high-altitude sunshine, the views are dazzling—in every sense of the word.

Classes & Comfort

The Glacier Express offers a variety of comfort levels to suit every traveler:

• 2nd Class – Comfortable seating with large panoramic windows. Great value for a scenic experience.

• 1st Class – More spacious seating, quieter atmosphere, and larger windows.

• Excellence Class – The most exclusive way to ride. Includes guaranteed window seats, a multi-course gourmet menu with wine pairings, concierge service, and access to a private bar.

🛎️ Booking Tip: Excellence Class is always bookable, subject to availability.1st and 2nd Class can only be booked up to 90 days in advance.

The Route: A Journey in Two Acts

The Glacier Express runs 291 km, crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and reaches an altitude of 2,033 meters over the Oberalp Pass. The journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz is divided into two unforgettable sections:

Glacier Express Leg 1: Zermatt to Andermatt

🕒 3 hours 15 minutes

Your journey begins in Zermatt, car-free and perched beneath the Matterhorn. The train descends through the Mattertal Valley, past villages like Täsch, Randa, and St. Niklaus.

After Brig, the landscape opens before tightening again into the dramatic Goms region. From Oberwald, the train enters the Furka Base Tunnel, eventually reaching Andermatt, a historic alpine crossroads.

Glacier Express Leg 2: Andermatt to St. Moritz

🕒 4 hours 45 minutes

From Andermatt, the train climbs to the Oberalp Pass (2,033m), then descends into the lush Surselva Valley and Disentis/Mustér.

Next comes the Ruinaulta Gorge, the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” with white limestone cliffs and turquoise river views.

As you near Chur, the landscape softens, only to rise again through the Albula Line, a UNESCO World Heritage route. This section includes spiral tunnels and the Landwasser Viaduct, one of the most photographed rail bridges in the world.

Eventually, you arrive in St. Moritz, a glittering alpine destination known for elegance, sunshine, and ski history.

💡 Insider Tip: Most travelers agree: Andermatt to St. Moritz is the most scenic and diverse part of the Glacier Express journey.

Want to Experience It All

— and More?

Combine the iconic train with a supercar road trip on our Glacier Express Train & Drive Adventure. It’s the ultimate luxury experience for those who want both the thrill of the road and the beauty of the rails.

🚗 Drive from Zurich to St. Moritz via Switzerland’s most scenic roads (like the Julier and optional Stelvio Pass), in a luxury SUV, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, or similar.🚞 Then board the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Andermatt, the most stunning leg of the entire train route.

✔️ Pre-programmed GPS, luxury hotels, private transfers, and support are all included.

Starting from CHF 10,950 for two | March to October 👉 Explore the Glacier Express Train & Drive Adventure

Best Time to Go

Each season has its charm:

• Winter: Snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes.

• Spring: Blooming valleys and melting alpine waterfalls.

• Summer: Clear skies and lush greenery.

• Autumn: Golden forests and soft mountain light.

🛑 Seasonal Note: The Glacier Express does not operate from mid-October to early December due to annual maintenance. Be sure to plan around this period.

Tips for Travelers

• Reserve early, especially for Excellence Class—it fills up quickly.

• Use the Glacier Express app for live commentary and insights.

• Don’t forget your camera (or binoculars).

• Consider overnight stays in Zermatt, Andermatt, or St. Moritz to explore each region.

Final Thoughts

The Glacier Express isn’t just a train—it’s a journey across time, terrain, and tradition. From alpine passes to engineered marvels, every turn offers a new spectacle. Whether you're drawn by adventure, romance, or pure awe, this is a trip you'll remember for a lifetime.