Switzerland is a country renowned for its towering alpine peaks, quaint villages, picturesque lakes, and efficient public transportation. While there are many ways to experience Switzerland’s idyllic landscapes, one of the best is by train. Gliding past majestic mountain vistas, rolling green valleys, and glistening lakes aboard Switzerland’s rail network is an unforgettable way to soak in the beauty of this Alpine nation.

If you’re looking to be awestruck by Switzerland’s scenic splendor, these top train routes should be on your itinerary. Be sure to read to the end for a money saving tip on your Swiss train adventure.

The Bernina Express

The Bernina Express is one of Switzerland’s most scenic train rides, whisking you from Chur through the towering Bernina Pass and into northern Italy. This railway journey takes you along one of the steepest tracks in the world, reaching altitudes above 7,000 feet. Be ready to be amazed by dramatic, glacier-capped peaks and the glacial blue Morteratsch Lake as you wind through tightly curled tracks. Going from an Alpine landscape to a Mediterranean one, this is one train ride you won’t forget.

The Glacier Express

Living up to its name, the Glacier Express offers non-stop views of Alpine wonder. Traversing some of Switzerland’s most dramatic landscapes, this bright red train links Zermatt and St. Moritz. It is know as “Europe’s slowest express” because the 180-mile takes 7.5 scenic hours. Enjoy being surrounded by picture-perfect mountain panoramas, snow-dusted peaks, quaint villages, and lush valleys from your panoramic windows aboard this route. Crossing 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, the Glacier Express takes you through a highlight reel of Switzerland’s natural beauty.

The GoldenPass Line

If dazzling lakeshores and mountain vistas are what you’re after, the GoldenPass Line should be on your radar. Connecting central Switzerland with Lake Geneva, this train route packs in plenty of jaw-dropping moments. Along with intermittent views of Switzerland’s largest lake, you’ll get front-row access to the Bernese Alps’ majestic peaks. Passing through the stylish towns of Montreux, Gstaad, and Interlaken, the GoldenPass Line blends breathtaking nature with Swiss culture.

The Gotthard Panorama Express

For a journey through the heart of Switzerland, consider the Gotthard Panorama Express. Travelling between the idyllic cities of Lucerne and Lugano, this route immerses you in central Switzerland’s landscape. Watch Alpine meadows give way to Lake Lucerne as you depart Lucerne, before entering rural valleys punctuated by gushing streams and waterfalls. Further south, you’ll cross the historic Devil’s Bridge and journey into sun-kissed Ticino, offering a taste of Mediterranean flair.

The Chocolate Train

Satisfy your sweet tooth while feasting your eyes on Switzerland’s beauty aboard the Chocolate Train. Departing from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva, this first-class trip takes you through Swiss wine country to the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory. Learn about Switzerland’s chocolate-making heritage through tastings en route, before going behind the scenes at the factory. With GoldenPass panoramic trains and a dessert to finish, this is a delightful way to experience Swiss confections against a scenic backdrop.

The Wilhelm Tell Express

Retrace Swiss legend Wilhelm Tell’s journey through central Switzerland on this express. Beginning in Lucerne, board a historic paddle steamer to cross the lake and enjoy lunch in the ship’s restaurant. Transfer to the Gotthard railway to continue past bucolic farmland and crystal clear lakes, cross the 1,000-meter high Gotthard Pass, and finish up in sunny southern Ticino. With its quintessential Swiss vistas from both water and rails, this route provides a memorable Swiss encounter.

Save with the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is an invaluable purchase for travelers looking to explore Switzerland by train. This pass allows unlimited travel on consecutive days throughout the extensive Swiss rail network, including scenic panoramic routes, mountain trains, buses, and boats. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can conveniently hop on and off trains as much as you like, avoiding the hassle of buying individual tickets. It also provides discounts on mountain excursions and free entry to over 500 museums and attractions. Given Switzerland’s high transportation and attraction costs, the Swiss Travel Pass often pays for itself in just a few journeys. With unlimited train travel, discounts, and free entries, the Swiss Travel Pass is the perfect way to unlock the very best of Switzerland with ease and affordability. Travel Maestro tip: Children 6 – 15 (under 16) can travel free on the complimentary Swiss Family Card when accompanied by one adult holding a Swiss Travel System ticket. Children under six are always free.

Switzerland’s trains offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in dramatic landscapes, without having to worry about driving or navigation. Sit back, relax, and let Switzerland’s awe-inspiring beauty unfold before you. Whether you’re focusing on Switzerland’s stunning scenery, charming villages, or world-class cities, there’s a Swiss rail journey perfect for you. So contact Covington to book your tickets, pick a sublime Swiss panorama, and let your Alpine train adventure begin!