Switzerland, known for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful mountains, and charming villages, is a paradise for train enthusiasts. The country boasts an extensive railway network that connects major cities, towns, and even remote alpine regions. What makes train travel in Switzerland truly special are the unique and scenic routes operated by special trains. These trains offer passengers an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.
One of the most famous special trains in switzerland is the Glacier Express. This iconic train takes passengers on a breathtaking journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz or vice versa. The seven-and-a-half-hour ride covers 291 kilometers and crosses 291 bridges and goes through 91 tunnels. The train passes through the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages. The Glacier Express is known for its luxurious interiors, large panoramic windows, and impeccable service, making it a must-do experience for anyone visiting Switzerland.
Another popular special train in Switzerland is the Bernina Express. This train travels from Chur to Tirano in Italy, crossing the stunning Bernina Pass along the way. The journey takes passengers through the Swiss Engadin Alps, offering spectacular views of glaciers, mountain lakes, and charming Swiss villages. One of the highlights of the Bernina Express is the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a curved stone bridge that is a marvel of engineering. The train also passes through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Albula/Bernina railway line, which is known for its impressive spiral tunnels and viaducts.
For those looking for a unique and luxurious train journey, the GoldenPass Line is the perfect choice. This special train takes passengers from Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva to Lucerne, passing through the Bernese Oberland region. The train offers three different classes of service, including the VIP Excellence Class with private compartments, gourmet meals, and personalized service. The GoldenPass Line takes passengers through stunning landscapes, including vineyards, mountains, and charming Swiss villages. The highlight of the journey is the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Riviera.
If you’re a fan of steam trains, Switzerland has something special for you as well. The Brienz Rothorn Railway is a historic steam train that takes passengers from Brienz to the summit of the Rothorn mountain. The journey offers stunning views of Lake Brienz, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. The highlight of the ride is the ascent to the summit, where passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Bernese Alps and the surrounding countryside. The Brienz Rothorn Railway is a nostalgic journey back in time and a must-do experience for train enthusiasts.
Switzerland is also home to the Jungfrau Railway, which takes passengers to the highest railway station in Europe. The journey starts in Interlaken and goes through the Eiger and Mönch mountains before reaching the Jungfraujoch station at an altitude of 3,454 meters. The train passes through tunnels carved into the mountains and offers stunning views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. The Jungfrau Railway is an engineering marvel and a unique experience that combines breathtaking scenery with high-altitude adventure.
In addition to these special trains, Switzerland offers a variety of scenic train routes that are perfect for exploring the country’s natural beauty. The Gotthard Panorama Express takes passengers on a journey from Lucerne to Lugano, crossing the Gotthard Pass and the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. The journey offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, charming villages, and picturesque lakes. The Bernese Oberland Railway takes passengers through the heart of the Bernese Oberland region, offering views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking to explore the natural beauty of Switzerland, special trains in switzerland offer a unique and unforgettable experience. From iconic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to historic steam trains like the Brienz Rothorn Railway, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So hop on board and embark on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world with special trains in switzerland.