What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on the Gotthard Panorama Express?

As mentioned above, our package deal includes travel on the Gotthard Panorama Express in 1st class . There you benefit from more comfort, additional legroom and seating in groups of two and four , which offers more space .

Can I choose my seat on the Gotthard Panorama Express in advance?

On the Gotthard Panorama Express, you can specify your seat preferences during the booking process using the comments field . Depending on availability, seat preferences cannot always be fulfilled. We will endeavour to allocate you the best available seat and 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 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 does the Gotthard Panorama Express start and how do I get from the railway station to the hotel and back?

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 you will be shown the distance to each train station when choosing a 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

Gotthard Panorama Express Classic

This short tour starts in Lucerne, where you will glide comfortably across Lake Lucerne on a steamboat and pass some of the most historic places in primeval Switzerland. In Flüelen, you board the Gotthard Panorama Express, which takes you along the Gotthard mountain route to sunny Lugano.

5 days / 4 nights

from £ 770

Direction

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

View from a train window of an alpine landscape with a village and mountains in the background.

Expansive mountain landscape with snow-covered peaks and a tranquil lake in the foreground.

4 Images

Book your flight with us

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

Request an offer

Highlights

Travel in the 1st class panoramic coach along the historic Gotthard mountain route
Lucerne at the foot of Mount Pilatus
Fascinating audio and visual presentations on board the Gotthard Panorama Express
Boat cruise on Lake Lucerne
"Dolce Vita" in Lugano

A train conductor points to something inside a modern train car with panoramic windows.

An old wooden bridge with flowers, next to a water tower in the evening sun.

4 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Gotthard Panorama Express Classic from Lucerne to Lugano

Day 1

Arrival in Lucerne

Itinerary

You travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Lucerne.

Overnight stay in Lucerne

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

Day 2

Stay in Lucerne

Itinerary

You have a day at your leisure in Lucerne. Discover the city and the surrounding mountains.

Overnight stay in Lucerne

A city view by the water with historic buildings and a hill in the background.

Day 3

Journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Itinerary

You travel by boat across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen. You then travel on the Gotthard Panorama Express train to Lugano. There you have time to discover the city.

Journey time: approx. 5 hours

Overnight stay in Lugano

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

Day 4

Stay in Lugano

Itinerary

Spend a day in Lugano. Stroll along the lakeside promenade and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Lugano

A beautiful lakeside landscape with houses on the slope and a mountain in the background.

Day 5

Return journey from Lugano

Itinerary

Travel by public transport from Lugano to the end point of your journey. Or extend your stay at a location of your choice.

A city by the lake, surrounded by mountains in sunlight.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

May to October

High season

July, August

Digital Swiss Coupon Pass with gift icon.

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.

Learn more

Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Get to know the construction history
A projection about the construction history appears on the wall of the Gotthard tunnel, which is also narrated by loudspeakers on the train. Impressive and exciting!
Robert