Explore 5 Switzerland Train Trips With Stunning Scenery
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| Photo by Jacques Bopp on Unsplash |
Switzerland, a quintessential Alpine destination, is on many bucket lists. While it's known for snow sports and outdoor adventures, one of its best offerings is often overlooked: scenic train journeys.
These train trips showcase Switzerland's stunning landscapes, from towering mountains to serene rivers. With options ranging from two-hour excursions to full-day adventures, there's something for everyone.
Although some journeys may be pricey, they provide efficient and comfortable ways to explore the country's natural wonders. Traveling through tunnels, over mountain passes, and alongside crystal-clear rivers offers unparalleled views.
In this guide, we'll highlight the top train trips in Switzerland, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this picturesque country.
1. Glacier Express
Embark on the epic Glacier Express journey, covering 290 kilometers from Zermatt to St. Moritz, a commitment of over seven hours. Despite its title as the "world's slowest express train," this route offers unparalleled views of mountains, valleys, tunnels, and bridges.
Cruising at a leisurely 24 mph, the train navigates sharp curves and mountain passes, reaching heights of 2,044 meters. Despite its leisurely pace, the journey is packed with excitement and adventure, passing through deep gorges and crossing 291 bridges.
Meals are served on board, allowing passengers to indulge in delicious cuisine while gazing out through expansive panoramic windows, soaking in the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before them.
2. Bernina Express
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The Bernina Express offers an exceptional route between Switzerland and Italy, particularly from the southeast.
Traveling from Chur, Davos, and St. Moritz, it crosses the Bernina Pass at 2,253m before entering Italy.
This journey boasts 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, essential features of Swiss train rides.
During summer, the trip extends to Lugano in Ticino, where a bus takes over.
Like the Glacier Express, panoramic windows offer breathtaking views transitioning from glaciers to palm trees as you approach Italy.
The highlight is the Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towering 65 meters high along the Rhaetian Railway.
3. Golden Pass Line
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For those craving variety, the Golden Pass Line is the perfect Swiss train journey.
It showcases eight stunning blue lakes, traverses six cantons, crosses three impressive mountain passes, and spans two language regions.
The route spans from Lake Lucerne to Geneva's vineyards, offering a scenic option for Zurich-Geneva travelers with extra time.
While train changes are necessary, the experience is rewarding.
From Lucerne, the journey passes through Interlaken, Brünig Pass, and Giessbach waterfalls.
The second leg, from Interlaken to Zweisimmen, offers views of Lake Thun and leads to Montreux.
This part treats passengers to Swiss chalets nestled in valleys against a backdrop of majestic peaks.
Most Swiss train passes are valid on the Golden Pass Line, but reservations are recommended for certain trains and cars, ensuring a comfortable journey.
4. Jungfraujoch Top of Europe
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Ever wondered what it's like to be on top of the world?
Jungfraujoch gets you pretty close.
At 3,454m above sea level, it's Europe's highest station, earning the nickname "Top of Europe."
Situated near the mountain saddles connecting Jungfrau and Monch peaks, it's a breathtaking spot.
Trains to Jungfraujoch depart from Kleine Scheidegg, accessible from Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Murren, or Grindelwald.
The real magic begins after Kleine Scheidegg, over 2,000m high itself.
The train journeys through the impressive Eiger mountain, a feat of engineering completed in 1896 after 16 years.
The journey isn't all dark; there are stops at Eigerwand and Eismeer, where you can marvel at the Eiger North Face and endless snow and ice.
At Jungfraujoch, enjoy shops, chocolatiers, and a snow sports park, but the Ice Palace steals the show with modern ice sculptures.
5. Gotthard Panorama Express
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This five-hour journey offers a unique glimpse of the "original Switzerland".
The highlight is the Gotthard Panorama Express, a boat and train combo from Lucerne to Bellinzona.
Beginning with a steamboat ride across Lake Lucerne, it seamlessly connects to a scenic train journey from Fleulen.
Passing through the Reuss Valley and climbing the historic Gotthard railway tunnel, built in 1882, is a marvel of engineering.
Traversing Ticino, the train meanders through charming villages' en route to Bellinzona or Lugano.
Despite being a simple north-to-south journey, it surprises with breathtaking views and hidden gems.
A significant part of Swiss history, the Gotthard Panorama Express is a must-try experience.
Have a wonderful day !!!
