What is the difference between the travel classes on the panoramic trains?

The main difference between the classes lies in the seating and comfort . The seating is arranged in tables of two and four in 1st class and only tables of four in 2nd class. All travel classes have the same panoramic windows. Please note that the route from Tirano to Lugano is by bus . There is only one class on the bus – all passengers travel in the same type of seat . The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express is included in 1st class . There you benefit from more comfort, additional legroom and tables of two and four , which offer more space . The Excellence Class on the Glacier Express also offers exclusive gourmet meals, more spacious seats and personalised concierge service . If you would like to upgrade your booking to Excellence Class or require further information on this, please contact our travel experts – they will be happy to help you.

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

On the panoramic trains, you can specify your seat preferences during the booking process using the comments field . As the carriages can change direction of travel, it is not guaranteed that your seat preferences will always be met. We will endeavour 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 your seat.

What dining options are available on board the panoramic trains?

Glacier Express: You can choose between a menu of the day and a la carte dishes . The options will be displayed during the booking process and the choice is not included in the price of the seat reservation. We recommend that you specify your order at the time of booking . Bernina Express: There is no dining car , but there is an at-seat trolley with snacks and drinks. You can also bring your own food and enjoy it during the journey. Gotthard Panorama Express: The Panorama Train offers snacks and drinks , which are served directly at your seat, including regional specialities such as a cold platter. On the boat you can enjoy your lunch in the restaurant . A table reservation is recommended and can be made by telephone on +41 41 367 67 67 or online at Lakelucerne.ch .

Where do the panoramic routes start and how do I get from the railway station to the hotel and back?

The Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz . The train route of the Bernina Express runs between St. Moritz and Tirano . A bus runs from Tirano to Lugano . The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express starts in Lucerne with a boat trip from the station quay (5 minutes' walk from the station). In Flüelen , you board the Panorama Train to Lugano . The itinerary can be done in both directions - the choice is yours. In the booking process , the distance to the each train station is displayed when you select your hotel. This allows you to choose nearby accommodation as required. Some hotels offer practical transfer services . For details about the transfer, please contact your hotel directly .

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Demand is particularly high for the high season (see above). You can book your package online at the touch of a button or via our travel experts .

Is the journey accessible?

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

Train Journey

Scenic Rail Adventure

This journey combines the most famous panoramic routes by train, bus and boat. From Zermatt via St. Moritz via Lugano to Lucerne – past icy glaciers, Mediterranean palm trees and deep blue mountain lakes. Embark on this exciting adventure on board the Glacier, Bernina and Gotthard Panorama Express.

5 days / 4 nights

CHF 1,080

Direction

A red locomotive pulls a train through a green mountain landscape.

A person sitting in a train, looking out the window at a mountainous landscape with clouds and a lake.

A tree with red leaves by the shore of a lake, behind it a house with a red roof and a landscape with mountains.

4 Images

Highlights

Exciting journey along three unique panoramic routes
Picturesque boat trip on Lake Lucerne
"Dolce Vita" in Lugano
A touch of elegance in the mountains of St. Moritz
Zermatt – the home of the iconic Matterhorn

A steamship station on a lake with mountains in the background and two people walking along the shore.

Sunset over a city by a lake with mountains in the background.

4 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Scenic Rail Adventure from Zermatt to Lucerne

Day 1

Travelling to Zermatt

Itinerary

You travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Zermatt. Enjoy the journey and the view of the Alps.

Overnight stay in Zermatt

A mountain landscape with a cluster of houses in the valley and a tall, snow-covered peak in the background.

Day 2

Journey on the Glacier Express

Itinerary

Travel on the Glacier Express on a varied panoramic journey through the mountains from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

Journey time: approx. 8 hours

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

A red train is traveling over a viaduct through a mountainous landscape.

Day 3

Journey on the Bernina Express

Itinerary

Travel on the Bernina Express to Tirano in the panoramic carriage. Then take the Bernina Express bus through the Italian Alps to Lugano.

Journey time: approx. 5h 40min

Overnight stay in Lugano

A red train is crossing a stone bridge in an alpine landscape with mountains and trees.

Day 4

Journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Itinerary

Travel to Flüelen in the 1st class panoramic carriage of the Gotthard Panorama Express. Then take the boat across the length of Lake Lucerne.

Journey time: approx. 5h 30min

Overnight stay in Lucerne

A couple sits on a train, looking out the window and holding travel guides in their hands.

Day 5

Return journey from Lucerne

Itinerary

Travel by public transport from Lucerne to your destination in Switzerland. Or extend your stay.

An old wooden bridge with a tower in the water at sunset.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

June to September

High season

July to September

Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Three routes filled with highlights
These three panoramic routes each have their own individual charm and many highlights. I can't decide which one I like the best.
Daniela