Glacier Express Switzerland: Complete Scenic Train Route; Booking Guide

The Glacier Express, Switzerland, is the most iconic scenic train, connecting Zermatt to St. Moritz through the Swiss Alps. This 8-hour panoramic railway journey covers 290 kilometres, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels while reaching elevations of 2,033 meters at Oberalp Pass. Whether you’re planning a luxury Switzerland tour or maximising your Swiss Travel Pass benefits, this complete guide covers Glacier Express tickets, reservations, route highlights, and expert travel tips for 2026.

Quick Facts About the Glacier Express in Switzerland

• Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz (or reverse)
• Distance: 290 km
• Duration: 8 hours
• Maximum Elevation: 2,033m (Oberalp Pass)
• Engineering: 291 bridges, 91 tunnels
• Reservation: Mandatory for all passengers
• Classes: 2nd Class, 1st Class, Excellence Class

Why the Glacier Express is Switzerland’s Must-Experience Scenic Train

The Glacier Express offers Switzerland’s most spectacular Alpine railway experience, featuring floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and UNESCO World Heritage railway sections. Unlike regular Swiss trains, this premium scenic route prioritises sightseeing over speed, making it ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Key Benefits:

• Access to exclusive panoramic carriages
• Onboard dining with Swiss cuisine
• Views of Matterhorn, Rhine Gorge, and Landwasser Viaduct
• Comfort-focused journey through Swiss mountain passes

Know more about: Swiss travel guide

Glacier Express Route in Switzerland 2026: Stations & Highlights

Complete Station Guide

Station	Elevation	Key Attractions
Zermatt	1,604m	Matterhorn views, alpine village
Visp	658m	Valley transit hub
Brig	678m	Historic town, Simplon route
Andermatt	678m	Alpine village, mountain theatre
Oberalp Pass	1,447m	Highest point, glacier views
Disentis/Mustér	2,033m	The Rhine Gorge begins
Chur	585m	Oldest Swiss city
St. Moritz	1,775m	Luxury resort, Engadin lakes

Top 5 Photo Spots on the Glacier Express in Switzerland

• Landwasser Viaduct (km 82): Six-arch limestone bridge
• Oberalp Pass (km 112): Glacier and snowfield panoramas
• Rhine Gorge (km 95): “Swiss Grand Canyon”
• Matterhorn View (10 min from Zermatt): Left side window
• Engadin Valley (approaching St. Moritz): Alpine lakes

Glacier Express Tickets & Pricing Switzerland 2026

Ticket Types & Costs

Ticket Type	2nd Class	1st Class	Excellence Class
One-Way	CHF 152	CHF 268	CHF 458
Round-Trip	CHF 304	CHF 536	CHF 916
Mandatory Reservation	CHF 49	CHF 49	Included

Swiss Travel Pass Requirements

The Swiss Travel Pass covers the base fare, but seat reservations are mandatory (CHF 49 per journey). The Swiss Half Fare Card reduces ticket prices by 50% but reservations still apply.

Important: Eurail and Interrail pass holders must also pay the CHF 49 reservation fee.

How to Book Glacier Express Tickets: Step-by-Step

Booking Timeline

• Peak Season (June-September): Book 2-3 months ahead
• Shoulder Season (April-May, October): Book 4-6 weeks ahead
• Winter (December-March): Reduced schedule, book 3-4 weeks ahead

Booking Process

• Select travel date and direction on GlacierExpress.ch
• Choose class (2nd, 1st, or Excellence)
• Reserve a specific seat (window seats recommended)
• Add Swiss Travel Pass details if applicable
• Pay via credit card (CHF accepted)
• Save the digital and printed confirmation

Pro Tip: Book left-side seats for Zermatt→St. Moritz to capture the Landwasser Viaduct and the Rhine Gorge.

Best Time to Travel on the Glacier Express in Switzerland

Season	Advantages	Considerations
Summer (June-Aug)	Full schedule, clear views	Peak crowds, book early
Spring (April-May)	Snow-capped peaks, fewer tourists	Variable weather
Autumn (Sept-Oct)	Golden foliage, moderate crowds	Shorter daylight
Winter (Dec-Mar)	Snow landscapes, reduced schedule	Limited departures

Photographer’s Choice: May-June for snow + green valleys contrast

What to Pack for Your Glacier Express Journey

Essential Items

• Camera Equipment: Polarising filter for window reflections
• Layers: Temperature varies 15°C between the valley and the passes
• Snacks: Dining available but optional (CHF 25-45 per meal)
• Sunglasses: High-altitude sun exposure
• Power Bank: Limited charging points in 2nd Class

Glacier Express Classes Compared: Excellence vs 1st vs 2nd Class

Excellence Class (CHF 458)

• Five-course gourmet meal included
• Champagne and wine service
• Exclusive lounge access
• Premium leather seats
• Concierge service

1st Class (CHF 268)

• Wider seats, more legroom
• À la carte dining (paid separately)
• Less crowded carriages
• Power outlets

2nd Class (CHF 152)

• Panoramic windows (same views)
• Standard seating comfort
• Paid dining service
• Best value option

Note: 2nd Class offers identical views at 43% lower cost.

Practical Travel Information for Glacier Express Passengers

Luggage & Amenities

• Large luggage racks at carriage ends
• Maximum 2 bags per passenger
• Small pets allowed (CHF 15)
• Bikes require advance booking (CHF 25)

Accessibility

• Wheelchair-accessible carriages available
• Advance notice required (48 hours)
• Station assistance at major stops
• Accessible toilets in all classes

Weather Considerations

Oberalp Pass can experience delays during heavy snow (December-March). Check SBB.ch/en for real-time updates.

Bottom Line: Why the Glacier Express is a Swiss Alps Must-Do

The Glacier Express in Switzerland offers a premier Alpine railway experience, combining engineering marvels with breathtaking mountain scenery. With proper planning, booking 2-3 months ahead, securing window seats, and understanding Swiss Travel Pass requirements, this 290-kilometre journey becomes the highlight of any Switzerland itinerary. Whether choosing budget-friendly 2nd Class or premium Excellence Class, the panoramic windows ensure every passenger experiences the Matterhorn, Rhine Gorge, and Oberalp Pass in comfort. Plan your next trip with Pickyourtrail’s best Switzerland tour packages for a hassle-free experience in 2026. 

FAQs

1. Do I need a reservation with a Swiss Travel Pass?

A: Yes. The Swiss Travel Pass covers the base fare, but seat reservations are mandatory (CHF 49). Book reservations at GlacierExpress.ch using your pass number.

2. Which side has the best views on the Glacier Express?

A: For Zermatt→St. Moritz: Sit on the left side to see the Landwasser Viaduct and the Rhine Gorge. For St. Moritz→Zermatt: choose the right side for Matterhorn views.

3. Is food included in Glacier Express tickets?

A: No. Only the Excellence Class includes meals. 1st and 2nd Class passengers can purchase food from the onboard menu (CHF 18-45 per meal). Outside food is permitted.

4. Can I break the journey at intermediate stations?

A: Yes. You can stop at Brig, Andermatt, or Chur with appropriate ticket segments. However, each segment requires a separate CHF 49 reservation.

5. How far in advance should I book Glacier Express?

A: Book 2-3 months ahead for summer travel (June-September). Shoulder seasons (April-May, October) require 4-6 weeks’ notice. Window seats sell out fastest.