Best Train Journeys in Switzerland: Glacier Express Tips

Switzerland is famous for its efficient public transport and stunning alpine scenery, but combining the two often comes with a hefty price tag. The Glacier Express, often called the “slowest express train in the world,” connects Zermatt and St. Moritz and is the crown jewel of Swiss rail travel. While a standard ticket can be expensive, there are specific strategies to experience this eight-hour journey through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges without ruining your travel budget.

Understanding the Glacier Express Route

The journey spans roughly 180 miles (290 km) across the southern Swiss Alps. It is not just a train ride; it is a full-day sightseeing tour. The train climbs over the Oberalp Pass at 6,670 feet (2,033 meters) and winds through the Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.”

To ride the official Glacier Express, you need two things:

  1. A Valid Ticket: This covers the actual transportation from point A to point B.
  2. A Seat Reservation: This is mandatory for the branded Glacier Express trains and costs extra.

If you buy a standard point-to-point ticket for the full route in second class, it currently costs approximately 152 CHF (Swiss Francs). First class pushes that price to around 268 CHF. This does not include the reservation fee, which ranges from 39 CHF to 49 CHF depending on the season. However, you rarely need to pay this full price if you plan ahead.

The "Saver Day Pass" Strategy

The single most effective way to lower the cost of the ticket portion is the Saver Day Pass. This is a special pass offered by SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) that provides unlimited travel on the Swiss transport network for one day.

  • How it works: Prices are dynamic, similar to airline tickets. The earlier you book, the cheaper it is.
  • Booking Window: Tickets go on sale 60 days in advance.
  • The Savings: If you book exactly 60 days out, you can often snag a Saver Day Pass for as low as 52 CHF (with a Half Fare Card) or roughly 88 CHF to 119 CHF (without any discount card). This is significantly cheaper than the standard 152 CHF fare.
  • Availability: These sell out quickly for popular dates, so set a calendar reminder for two months before your trip.

The Local Train Loophole

Here is the secret that most tourists miss: You do not have to take the branded “Glacier Express” train to see the views. The scenery belongs to everyone, and regular regional trains run on the exact same tracks.

By taking regional trains operated by the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn and Rhaetian Railway, you enjoy several distinct advantages:

  • No Reservation Fees: You save the 49 CHF reservation cost immediately.
  • Open Windows: The Glacier Express has panoramic sealed windows. Regional trains often have windows that pull down, which is far superior for glare-free photography.
  • Flexibility: You can hop off at Andermatt or Disentis to stretch your legs or grab lunch, then catch the next train.

The Trade-off: The regional option requires switching trains. A typical regional itinerary looks like this: Zermatt to Visp, Visp to Andermatt, Andermatt to Disentis/Mustér, and finally Disentis/Mustér to St. Moritz. While it requires more logistics, the view is identical, and the cost is lower.

Seat Reservations and Excellence Class

If you decide to stick with the official Glacier Express for the luxury experience, you must secure your seat early. Reservations open up to 93 days in advance. For travel during high season (July, August, and December), window seats sell out within days of becoming available.

Choosing Your Class:

  • 2nd Class: Offers comfortable seating in a 2-2 configuration (two seats on each side of the aisle). The panoramic windows extend to the ceiling, offering great views.
  • 1st Class: Offers more space in a 2-1 configuration.
  • Excellence Class: This is the premium tier costing an additional 470 CHF purely for the reservation. It guarantees a window seat, a seven-course meal with wine pairing, and access to the Glacier Bar. While luxurious, it is unnecessary for simply enjoying the view.

Practical Tips for the Journey

Food and Drink Dining on the Glacier Express is convenient but pricey. The “Dish of the Day” usually costs around 34 CHF, and a 3-course meal is roughly 47 CHF. To save money, visit a Coop or Migros supermarket in Zermatt or St. Moritz before boarding. You can bring your own picnic, wine, and snacks on board without restriction.

The Best Views If you are traveling from Zermatt to St. Moritz:

  • Sit on the right side of the train for the best view of the Landwasser Viaduct, the iconic curved stone bridge.
  • Sit on the left side for the best views of the Rhine Gorge.

Luggage There is ample space for luggage at the end of each carriage. You do not need to pay for luggage transport unless you use a door-to-door shipping service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover the Glacier Express? Yes. The Swiss Travel Pass covers 100% of the ticket cost. However, it does not cover the seat reservation fee. You must still pay the roughly 39-49 CHF fee to book your specific seat.

Is the Glacier Express worth it in winter? Absolutely. The landscape transforms into a white wonderland. However, the days are shorter. If traveling in December or January, try to catch the earliest train (usually departing Zermatt around 8:52 AM) to ensure you cross the Oberalp Pass and Landwasser Viaduct during daylight hours.

Can I ride just part of the route? Yes. A popular shorter segment is from Andermatt to St. Moritz, or Chur to Zermatt. This takes about 4 to 5 hours instead of 8, saving you time while still showcasing the high alpine passes and the Rhine Gorge.

Do the windows open on the Glacier Express? No. The panoramic windows are sealed for climate control. If photography is your main priority, consider the regional trains mentioned above where windows can often be opened.