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Ah, Switzerland. A small country, but naturally blessed with breathtaking landscapes. All this in the heart of Europe, and therefore accessible from almost anywhere. But there’s no need to take the car to discover its treasures. The train allows you to admire its majestic panoramas from the comfort of your seat. With over 5,000 kilometres of track and nearly 1,500 trains running daily, the Swiss rail network is one of the densest in the world. We had to choose the best: here are four unique and picturesque train lines in Switzerland.
The Glacier Express rail route
Of all the train journeys you can take in Switzerland, this one is truly spectacular! The Glacier Express takes you on an epic 290-kilometre trip between the renowned Alpine resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. Considered the slowest express train in the world, it allows you to fully immerse yourself in breathtaking panoramas. From the very start, the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s iconic mountain, rises majestically against the sky, heralding the adventure that awaits.
The Glacier Express winds its way through verdant valleys, breathtaking gorges, and (sometimes) snow-capped peaks, offering spectacular views at every turn. The carriages of this panoramic train in Switzerland, equipped with large picture windows, are specially designed to allow you to admire these exceptional landscapes without interruption. Among the highlights of the journey, crossing the Landwasser Viaduct is a particular highlight, while the passage over the Oberalp Pass, reaching an altitude of over 2,000 meters, offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains.
The Bernina Express to discover the beauty of the Alps
The Bernina Express is a true odyssey through the Alps, linking Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, to Tirano in Italy over a distance of 122 kilometres. This exceptional journey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a celebration of human ingenuity and the wild beauty of the mountains. The train crosses breathtaking mountain passes, such as the Albula and Bernina Passes, offering stunning views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and larch forests.
Aboard the Bernina Express, the landscapes unfold one after another, revealing natural wonders such as the Morteratsch Glacier and the Bernina massif, which rises to over 2,300 meters. The train passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, including the spectacular Brusio circular viaduct, an architectural marvel that perfectly follows the contours of the mountain.
The picturesque villages along the Bermina Express route, such as Poschiavo and Le Prese, offer an authentic glimpse into life in the Alps.
Discover Switzerland with the Gotthard Panorama Express
The Gotthard Panorama Express is a unique rail experience that connects Lucerne to Lugano, traversing the heart of Switzerland over 182 kilometres. This scenic journey reveals a great diversity of landscapes, from majestic mountains and sparkling lakes to verdant valleys and charming villages.
The journey begins with a steamboat cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering breathtaking views of the forested shores and surrounding mountains. After docking in Flüelen, you’ll board the train to continue your journey through the legendary Gotthard Base Tunnel. This 15-kilometer-long engineering masterpiece (referring to the old tunnel, not the new one) has left its mark on European railway history and stands as a testament to human ingenuity in the face of nature’s challenges.
Travelling along the Gotthard line, you will pass through magnificent landscapes, including the Reuss Valley, the Gotthard Massif, and Lake Geneva. Each stage of the journey invites you to discover a new facet of Switzerland, a land rich in contrasts and natural beauty.
The Grand Train Tour to admire picturesque landscapes
The Grand Train Tour is the ultimate experience for lovers of the country; it’s a nearly 1,280-kilometre journey that combines several of the most beautiful railway routes in Switzerland. This panoramic train tour takes you through spectacular landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Jungfrau to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, passing by the tranquil lakes of the Bernese Oberland and the verdant valleys of Valais.
Highlights of the Grand Train Tour include crossing the Oberalp Pass on the Glacier Express, ascending the Bernina Pass on the Bernina Express, and exploring the shores of Lake Geneva on the Train des Vignes. The journey will also take you through historic towns and picturesque villages, such as Montreux, Interlaken, and Zermatt, offering a fascinating glimpse into Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage.
In conclusion, trains are an exceptional way to explore the beauty and diversity of Switzerland. Whether you choose the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express, the Gotthard Panorama Express, or the Grand Train Tour, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments. So don’t hesitate any longer and hop aboard one of these trains for a unique journey through the wonders of Switzerland.