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

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort . In 1st class, the seats are larger and more comfortable , with more legroom and privacy space in tables of two and four . In 2nd class, the seats are arranged more densely in tables of four and offer slightly less space and legroom. Both classes have large 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.

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

On the Glacier Express and Bernina Express , you can specify your seat preferences during the booking process using the comments field . As the carriages can change direction, 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. If you would like to reserve seats on the Centovalli Railway in advance, you can do so directly online at Vigezzinacentovalli.com . There is a surcharge of CHF 1.50 for the panoramic carriages .

Can I eat 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 . Centovalli Railway: There are no catering options on board. We recommend that you stock up on snacks and drinks before the journey . Bernina Express: There is no dining car , but there is an at-seat trolley with a selection of snacks and drinks. You can also bring your own food and enjoy it during the journey.

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

The Glacier Express connects Chur with Zermatt . The Centovalli Railway runs between Domodossola and Locarno . The journey from Zermatt to Domodossola and from Locarno to Lugano is by regional train . The train route of the Bernina Express runs between Chur and Tirano . A bus runs from Tirano to Lugano . The itinerary can be done in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process , the distance to each 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.

Can I book my flight to Switzerland with you?

Yes , you can book your flight with us. While flights cannot be booked directly through our platform, you can submit an enquiry via the link below, specifying your desired holiday package . Our team will then get in touch to arrange the best flight option based on your preferences and travel itinerary. Your flights will be booked under our Package Booking Terms and Conditions and are fully protected by our ATOL license . A s ervice fee of £ 35 per person applies . Request an offer If you prefer to book your flight independently, we recommend you book directly with Swiss – our choice for flights to Switzerland.

Train Journey

Glacier, Bernina and Centovalli Express

This journey combines the two railway highlights – the Glacier Express and Bernina Express – with another exciting panoramic train in the south. The nostalgic Centovalli-Railway takes you through the valley of a hundred valleys to the Mediterranean city of Lugano.

5 days / 4 nights

from £ 1,000

Direction

A mountain city with a train crossing a bridge.

Book your flight with us

Our flight experts will be happy to advise you and book the most convenient flight for your trip.

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Highlights

Picturesque journey on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
Centovalli Railway – a romantic train ride through the "valley of a hundred valleys"
With breathtaking panoramic views over the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level
Zermatt - home to the iconic Matterhorn
The impressive Landwasser Viaduct – 65 metres high, 142 metres long and part of the Rhaetian Railway's UNESCO World Heritage Site

A red train travels on a viaduct through a green mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks.

A red Bernina Express train travels through an alpine landscape with snow-covered mountains in the background.

6 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Glacier, Bernina and Centovalli Express from Chur

Day 1

Arrival in Chur

Itinerary

Travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Chur.

Overnight stay in Chur

A charming old town alley with colorful buildings and a café under umbrellas.

Day 2

Journey on the Glacier Express

Itinerary

Travel from Chur to Zermatt on the Glacier Express. Enjoy the impressive scenery of the Swiss Alps along the way.

Journey time: approx. 6 hours

Overnight stay in Zermatt

A panoramic train with red accents winds through an alpine landscape with colorful wildflowers, with the Matterhorn in the background under a sunny sky.

Day 3

Ride on the Centovalli-railway

Itinerary

Take regional trains to Brig and then Centovalli-railway to Locarno and on to Lugano.

Journey time: approx. 5h 15min

Overnight stay in Lugano

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

Day 4

Journey on the Bernina Express

Itinerary

Take the Bernina Express bus from Lugano to Tirano. Then travel to Chur on the Bernina Express train.

Overnight stay in Chur

A red coach on a road overlooking a lake and a forested mountain; palm trees in the foreground.

Day 5

Return journey from Chur

Itinerary

Travel by public transport to the end point of your trip in Switzerland. Or extend your stay and discover even more.

A city in a valley surrounded by mountains with flowers in the foreground.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

February to October

Recommended travel period

June to October

High season

July to September

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Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

My highlight – the Oberalp Pass
I particularly liked the Oberalp Pass with its wide, breathtaking view of the valley.
Marie

Customise your trip.

5 days / 4 nights

from £ 1,000

Direction

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Choose your accommodation
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Additional activities
Add activities and mountain excursions to your trip
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Frequently asked questions

Have a question?

Ready to start planning your next trip? We are here for you.

Aika Idinova

[email protected]+44 207 420 4900

Monday to Friday
8 am – 5 pm (GMT)