What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on the Voralpen-Express?

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and comfort. In 1st class, you enjoy larger, more comfortable seats with more legroom and space for luggage . The seating arrangement is usually 2+1. In 2nd class, the seats are arranged 2+2 and offer slightly less space .

What are the special features of the Voralpen-Express compared to regional trains?

The Voralpen-Express combines the comfort of a panoramic train with the functionality of a regional train. It offers breathtaking views and runs every hour without the need for a seat reservation .

Where does the Voralpen-Express start and how do I get from the station to the hotel?

The Voralpen-Express runs from Lucerne to St. Gallen . In the booking process , the distance to the respective station is displayed when you choose a hotel. This allows you to choose nearby accommodation if required. Some hotels offer practical transfer services . For details about the transfer, please contact your hotel .

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 – Stunning Waters

This grand train tour of Switzerland begins in Lucerne on Lake Lucerne. After a good night's sleep, you take the Voralpen Express to St. Gallen the next day. Discover the historic old town and the famous abbey district, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Continuing along the water, this cultural visit brings you to the largest waterfall in Europe, the Rhine Falls, which awaits you in Schaffhausen as the crowning finale.

3 days / 2 nights

from CHF 380

Waterfall with castle in the background, surrounded by lush vegetation.

Aerial view of a cityscape with houses, trees, and a hill in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Aerial view of a city by a lake with mountains in the background and sun rays through clouds.

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Highlights

Journey on the Voralpen Express – with views of Mount Rigi and over the dam across the lake in Rapperswil
UNESCO World Heritage Site in St. Gallen
Lucerne on picturesque Lake Lucerne
Rhine Falls – the largest waterfall in Europe

Aerial view of a historic church with surrounding buildings and hills in the background.

A yellow-orange train travels through a green, hilly landscape with snow-capped mountains in the background.

4 Images

Travel itinerary

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters from Lucerne to St. Gallen

Day 1

Arrival in Lucerne

Daily Itinerary

You travel to Lucerne by public transport. Take the opportunity to explore the old town and other sights of the city.

Overnight stay in Lucerne

A boat with the Swiss flag sails on a river in a city with medieval architecture and a wooden bridge, surrounded by green hills.

Day 2

Ride on the Voralpen Express

Daily Itinerary

You travel on the Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen and enjoy the view. You have time in St. Gallen to discover the city.

Trip time: approx. 2h 15min

Overnight stay in St. Gallen

Train on a railway track through a green landscape with a village in the background.

Day 3

Return journey from St. Gallen via Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen

Daily Itinerary

Travel from St. Gallen via Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen, from where you start your return journey by public transport or extend your stay. In summer, you can also travel from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen by boat.

A wide view of the impressively roaring Rhine Falls amidst green landscape under a clear sky.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

January to December

Recommended travel period

March to October

High season

July to September

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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

A must-see
The Rhine Falls fascinate me every time. The water has both an incredible power and a calming effect.
Melanie

Tailor the trip to your needs.

3 days / 2 nights

from CHF 380

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