Ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps on one of Europe’s most breathtaking train journeys. The Glacier Express connects the iconic mountain towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering panoramic views of snow-dusted peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque Alpine villages. Whether you’re a slow-travel enthusiast or a nature-loving explorer, here’s how to make the most of this unforgettable experience.
🚄 Glacier Express Quick Facts
- Route: Zermatt ↔ St. Moritz
- Duration: ~8 hours
- Bridges & Tunnels: 291 bridges, 91 tunnels
- Highest Point: Oberalp Pass (2,033 m / 6,670 ft)
- Panoramic Coaches: Yes
- Covered by Eurail?: Yes, but seat reservations required
- Dining Car: Onboard meals & drinks available
Check out Rail Europe which is great for U.S. travelers to book Glacier Express and other Swiss train passes through
1. Book in Advance
Seats fill up fast, especially in summer (June–September) and winter (December–February). Booking early through GlacierExpress.ch or Rail Europe ensures you get your preferred travel date and seat. If you’re using a Eurail Pass, remember that seat reservations are still mandatory and must be booked separately.
2. Choose the Right Class
You can choose from:
- 2nd Class – Comfortable with large windows
- 1st Class – More space, quieter cabins, and better views
- Excellence Class – Premium service with a multi-course meal, lounge seating, and a guaranteed window seat
If you’re splurging for the experience, Excellence Class offers the most luxurious ride—but 1st Class is a solid middle ground for comfort and scenery.
3. Sit on the Right Side (Zermatt → St. Moritz)
The right-hand side of the train (if traveling eastbound) often offers slightly better views especially near the Rhine Gorge, often called the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” and as you climb toward the Oberalp Pass.
4. Bring Snacks & Water
There is a dining car with hot meals, snacks, and drinks, but if you have dietary preferences or are traveling on a budget, bringing your own food is smart. A reusable water bottle is handy too. Tap water in Switzerland is safe and delicious.
5. Prepare for a Long, Relaxing Journey
The full Glacier Express ride lasts around 8 hours, so come ready to unwind. Bring a book, a travel journal, or download a podcast or offline show. There’s no onboard Wi-Fi, so it’s a perfect opportunity to unplug.
6. Dress in Layers
Even in summer, temperatures can dip at higher elevations like the Oberalp Pass (2,033 meters). Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers to stay warm without overheating.
7. Don’t Miss the Scenery
The huge panoramic windows make it easy to enjoy the views—but resist the urge to look through a screen the whole time. Take a few photos, then put your phone down and soak in the moment. You’re traveling through some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.
8. Listen to the Onboard Commentary
The Glacier Express offers multilingual audio commentary through a headset or app, sharing stories about the history, culture, and engineering marvels of the journey. It adds depth to what you’re seeing out the window.
9. Consider a Partial Route
Don’t have a full day? You can book shorter segments, like:
- Zermatt to Andermatt
- Chur to St. Moritz
- Brig to Chur (via the Rhine Gorge)
These shorter rides still deliver stunning scenery and may be easier to fit into your itinerary.
10. Explore Stops Along the Way
The Glacier Express stops at charming Alpine towns like:
- Brig – Home to Stockalper Palace
- Andermatt – A base for mountain adventures
- Chur – Switzerland’s oldest city
If you’re staying a few nights in the region, consider hopping off the train to explore these lesser-known gems.
🏔️ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re gliding past glaciers or weaving through rugged valleys, the Glacier Express is more than just a mode of transport, it’s a moving window into the soul of Switzerland. Slow down, look out the window, and let the rhythm of the rails carry you through some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth., and make sure to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views!
