Glacier Express, Switzerland

The 8-hour panoramic train from Zermatt to St. Moritz over the Oberalp Pass and the Landwasser Viaduct; 2nd class from CHF 213 with seat reservation.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express is one of the most famous panoramic train journeys in the world and a true highlight for travelers in Switzerland. Often called “the world’s slowest express train”, it offers an unforgettable way to experience the Swiss Alps in comfort and style.

Route and Destinations

The Glacier Express connects the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz, crossing the heart of the Swiss Alps on a 291-kilometre narrow-gauge line with 91 tunnels and 291 bridges. The journey takes about 8 hours and passes through spectacular landscapes, including:

  • Deep alpine valleys
  • Snow-covered peaks and glaciers
  • Picturesque mountain villages
  • Impressive landmarks such as the Landwasser Viaduct and the Oberalp Pass (2,033 m)
  • The Rhine Gorge and the UNESCO-listed Albula line between Thusis and St. Moritz

Panoramic Experience

The train is famous for its large panoramic windows, which extend into the roof, offering uninterrupted views of the scenery. As the train moves slowly through the mountains, passengers can fully enjoy the changing landscapes and take stunning photos.

Lunch is cooked fresh in the on-board kitchen and served at your seat. In the Excellence Class carriage every guest has a window seat, a multi-course menu and a personal concierge.

Ticket Prices

Every journey needs a ticket plus a mandatory seat reservation. For the whole route between Zermatt and St. Moritz, the 2026 prices are:

  • 2nd class: CHF 159 ticket + CHF 54 reservation = CHF 213
  • 1st class: CHF 272 ticket + CHF 54 reservation = CHF 326
  • Excellence Class: 1st class ticket + CHF 540 supplement

The Swiss Travel Pass and other Swiss travel cards cover the ticket, but not the seat reservation. The train takes a break in late autumn: in 2026 it does not run from 11 October to 4 December.

Weather in location: Glacier Express, Switzerland

14° Overcast, feels 11°
  • Today -1°…16°
  • Wind 2 km/h NW
  • No precipitation now
Fri 3°…18° ☔ 0%
Sat 4°…14° ☔ 19%
Sun 6°…9° ☔ 47%

Average by month

Jan -11°…-3° 18 days 13 days
Feb -8°…0° 18 days 11 days
Mar -7°…2° 19 days 12 days
Apr -3°…5° 18 days 12 days
May 1°…9° 16 days 15 days
Jun 6°…15° 15 days 15 days
Jul 8°…18° 16 days 14 days
Aug 8°…18° 16 days 15 days
Sep 4°…13° 19 days 11 days
Oct 1°…9° 20 days 12 days
Nov -5°…3° 18 days 12 days
Dec -8°…0° 20 days 11 days

Monthly averages and dry days (no measurable rain) from ERA5, last 10 years.

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