The Glacier Express: The Best Way to See the Swiss Alps
Last Updated on May 19, 2023
One of the highlights of our Switzerland itinerary was taking the Glacier Express. Lauded as one of the best rail journeys in the world, the Glacier Express brought us from the eastern corner to the western half of the Swiss Alps, through landscapes of epic proportions.
Starting our train journey in St Moritz, we wound past flowing rapids, ice-covered lakes, acres of prairies covered in sparkling white snow, ski slopes peppered with snowboarders, and countless alpine towns before reaching our final destination of Zermatt. Through the open-roof windows of the panoramic trains on the Glacier Express, we drank in the views of the Swiss backcountry and snapped away with our cameras.
Besides the view, the journey itself was one epic adventure: it brought us through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, countless viaducts and passes, as we climbed up to a lofty altitude of 2,033 m (6,670 ft). The entire journey only took eight hours, but the changing backdrop and diverse landscapes made it feel as though we’d journeyed through so many different terrain and landscapes.
But despite its name, it’s barely an ‘express’ train – in fact it’s been dubbed the slowest express train in the world. There were so many highlights on the trip: the spectacular Rhine Gorge, the wineries surrounding Visp, and the summit of the Oberalp Pass – it’s hard to say which was the best part of the train journey.
The Glacier Express: A Visual Journey
Here’s a look at the photos that Alberto snapped along the way — we’ll let you be the judge. If you’re wondering how to book the trip and get your Eurail pass, check out this detailed Eurail Pass guide.
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On our way to St Moritz to board the Glacier Express
A View of the Alps
All on board the shiny red Glacier Express
Beautiful glass panorama cabins open up to stunning views
One of the many alpine towns we passed
Skiiers and snowboarders are often seen at the stations
A lonesome skiier looks out into the distance
A pair of skiiers stops for a snap
This was the highest point of the train journey: the Oberalpass at 2,033m of altitude
Crossing a viaduct
Beneath our feet sprawls yet another alpine town
Our train pulling in at the Chur station
Essential Information:
The Eurail Pass includes a 25% discount on the Glacier Express, be sure to book your tickets in advance on the Glacier Express website. The train runs on a different schedule in winter, be sure to check it online beforehand. Here’s a look at its itnerary on the Eurail map:
READ MORE: The Jungfrau Railway to the Top of Europe
Disclaimer: Our trip was made possible by Eurail.com, but all opinions expressed are our own.
The Comments
Fida
Glad you enjoyed the ride on the Glacier Express. I grew up in the Canton Graubünden. And even tough I am a traveller at heart, I always love coming home :)
loca 4 motion
Stunning photos Alberto! Looks like an awesome train ride with such huge, clean windows to see the views!
Jeremy Branham
It's been a long time since I've been to Switzerland. The photos of it in winter are beautiful. I loved hiking there a few years ago in late May. So peaceful and scenic! I love the mountains (although not a big fan in winter).
Lucie
Beautiful! So how long does the journey take?
Nellie
LucieThe entire journey only takes 7.5 hours, but you can stop and get back onto the train to make it a long one.
Nomad Travellers
Switzerland is amazing, we have been working there last summer as Camp Counsellors, and the mountains are just breathtaking. The only problem is…the cost! A bus ticket in Zurich it's something like 4€ :)
Kori
I have lived in Europe for some time and this is definetly on my list of top things to do. The pictures you took are simply amazing. Was it expensive?
Paul Padilla
The way you’ve captured the experience of the Glacier Express is truly engaging! I loved how you highlighted the breathtaking scenery and the unique aspects of the journey. Your tips on making the most of the trip, from choosing the best seats to what to expect onboard, are incredibly useful. The vivid descriptions make it easy to picture the stunning landscapes passing by. This post is both informative and inspiring, perfect for anyone considering this iconic train ride. Well done!