What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on the panoramic trains?

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort . The seats are larger and more comfortable in 1st class, with more legroom and privacy and a 2+1 arrangement that offers additional comfort . In 2nd class, the seats are arranged more closely with 2+2 seating and offer slightly less space and legroom. Both classes have large panoramic windows . The Prestige class in the GoldenPass Express takes comfort to a new level: heated leather seats , a raised seating position (by 40 cm) for an even better view, and guaranteed seat facing the direction of travel . In addition, the seats are particularly large, which guarantees an exclusive travel experience . If you would like to adjust your booking to the Prestige class or require further information , please contact our travel experts – they will be happy to help you. 1st class is included in the journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express. There you benefit from more comfort, additional legroom, and a 2+1 seating arrangement, which offers more space .

What are the special features of the Centovalli Railway?

The Centovalli Railway combines the comfort of a panoramic train with the functionality of a regional train. A surcharge of CHF 1.50 is levied for the panoramic train cars .

Can I choose my seat on the panoramic trains in advance?

You can specify your seat preferences on the panoramic trains during the booking process using the comment field . As the train cars can change direction, it is not guaranteed that your seat preferences will always be met. We will do our best to allocate you the best available seat and will inform you if a window seat is not available. The view is always impressive, regardless of where you sit. If you would like to reserve seats on the Centovalli Railway in advance, you can do so directly online at Vigezzinacentovalli.com .

What dining options are available on board the panoramic trains?

GoldenPass Express: On board, you can choose from various appetizer platters , combined with mineral water, wine, or beer. The selection is made during the booking and the food is served directly at your seat . Centovalli Railway: There are no catering options on board the Centovalli Railway. We recommend that you stock up on snacks and drinks before your journey. Gotthard Panorama Express: The Panorama Train offers snacks and drinks, which are served directly at your seat, including regional specialties such as a cold platter. You can enjoy your lunch in the restaurant on the ship. A table reservation is recommended and can be made by phone at +41 41 367 67 67 or online at Lakelucerne.ch .

Where do the panoramic routes start and how do I get from the station to the hotel and vice versa?

The Lucerne-Interlaken Express connects Lucerne and Interlaken . The GoldenPass Express runs between Interlaken East/West and Montreux . The Centovalli Railway runs between Domodossola and Locarno . The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express starts on the Panorama Train from Bellinzona and takes you to Flüelen . From there, continue by boat to Lucerne . In the booking process , you will be shown the distance to the respective train station when choosing a hotel. This allows you to choose accommodation nearby if required. Some hotels offer practical transfer services . Please contact your hotel for details on the transfer .

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend that you book early . Demand is particularly high for the main season (see above). You can book your package deal conveniently online or with our travel experts .

Is the trip accessible for the handicapped?

For accessible travel, we recommend that you contact us directly . This way, we can check the best options together and ensure that your travel needs are optimally met . Feel free to contact us by email or phone – the contact details can be found below .

Train journey

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Alpine Rivieras

You will experience five unique train routes in five days – past glittering lakes and through spectacular Alpine landscapes. From the Swiss Riviera in Montreux to the mountains around Zermatt and sunny Ticino: look forward to the perfect mix of nature, culture, and charming places!

5 days / 4 nights

from CHF 930

An idyllic mountain landscape with a train passing by a lake.

A train travels through vineyards with a view of a lake and mountains in the background.

Mountain landscape with lake, train, and ship in the foreground.

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Highlights

Centovalli Railway – a romantic train ride through the "Valley of a Hundred Valleys"
Impressive fortresses and Mediterranean flair in Ticino
Famous mountains such as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau or the Matterhorn
Unique combination of boat and train trips with the Gotthard Panorama Express
Montreux – the pearl on Lake Geneva

View of an alpine valley with a town, surrounded by green mountains and a prominent mountain peak in the background.

Train on a bridge over a gorge with a river in a mountainous landscape.

5 Images

Travel itinerary

Overview

Map of Switzerland showing the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itinerary – Alpine Rivieras from Interlaken to Lucerne

Day 1

Journey to Interlaken

Daily Itinerary

You travel to Lucerne by public transport. Continue with the Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Interlaken.

Travel time: approx. 1h 50min

Overnight stay in Interlaken

City view with river, boats, and surrounding mountains in the background.

Day 2

Ride on the GoldenPass Express

Daily Itinerary

You travel in the panoramic coach of the GoldenPass Express to Montreux on Lake Geneva.

Trip time: approx. 3h 15min

Overnight stay in Montreux

Train passes through green hills in front of a mountainous landscape.

Day 3

Stay in Zermatt

Daily Itinerary

You travel by train from Montreux to Zermatt. Here you have time to discover the beautiful village at the foot of the Matterhorn.

Trip time: approx. 2h 30min

Overnight stay in Zermatt

Day 4

Ride on the Centovalli Railway

Daily Itinerary

Today you travel on the Centovalli Railway via Domodossola in Italy to Locarno and enjoy the beautiful route past numerous side valleys.

Trip time: approx. 5h

Overnight stay in Locarno

A train is crossing a bridge surrounded by green leaves, with a church steeple and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Day 5

Ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Daily Itinerary

You travel by train to Bellinzona and then with the Gotthard Panorama Express in 1st class to Flüelen. Continue with the historic steam paddle boat to Lucerne. From there, you can either extend your stay or start your return journey to your final destination in Switzerland.

Trip time: approx. 5 hours

A couple sits on a train and enjoys the view of a mountain village from the panoramic window.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

May to September

High season

July, August

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Included in your booking

Your Digital Swiss Coupon Pass

With every package holiday booking in 2026, we'll give you a Digital Swiss Coupon Pass – your key to over 100 exclusive 2-for-1 experiences throughout Switzerland. Discover more, enjoy more and save up to CHF 4,500.

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Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Perfectly combined
This trip combines a variety of panoramic routes with the country's most beautiful destinations. For me, it is the perfect tour through Switzerland.
Annette

Tailor the trip to your needs.

5 days / 4 nights

from CHF 930

Arrival and departure included
Travel from any starting point and back to any ending point in Switzerland
Choose your accommodation
Select hotel and room category
Additional activities
Add activities and mountain excursions directly to your trip
Customize the duration of your trip
Extend your stay, as preferred