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

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort . The seating is arranged in tables of two and four in 1st class, offering more space 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 coach . There is only one class on the coach – all passengers travel in the same type of seat . The Excellence Class on the Glacier Express also offers exclusive gourmet meals , more spacious seats and personalised concierge service . If you would like to adjust your booking to Excellence Class or require further information , please contact our travel experts – they will be happy to help.

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 daily menu or à la carte dishes . The options are displayed when you book. The meal is not included in the price of the seat reservation. We recommend that you make your choice at the time of booking. Bernina Express: There is no dining car , but there is a trolley service with 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 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 itinerary can be done in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process , the distance to 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 .

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

Glacier and Bernina Express Classic

Travel the full route on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express panoramic trains from Zermatt to Tirano in Italy. The Bernina Express bus takes you through the idyllic Valtellina, past Lake Como to Lugano. A unique journey between the Swiss Alps and Italian palm trees.

4 days / 3 nights

from CHF 840

Direction

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

A forested mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks in the background under a clear sky.

View of a picturesque valley with a river, medieval tower, and a church, surrounded by mountains and forests.

4 Images

Highlights

Zermatt – home of the iconic Matterhorn
Picturesque journeys on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
A touch of elegance in the mountains of St. Moritz
Bus ride through the idyllic Valtellina
"Dolce Vita" in Lugano

View of a mountain village with traditional houses; in the background, the Matterhorn at dusk.

Red train crossing a high stone bridge in a mountain landscape.

5 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Glacier and Bernina Express Classic from Zermatt to St. Moritz

Day 1

Arrival and stay in Zermatt

Itinerary

Travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Zermatt. Enjoy the journey through the impressive Alpine landscape.

Overnight stay in Zermatt

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

Day 2

Journey on the Glacier Express

Itinerary

You travel on the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. Spend the night there and explore the surrounding area.

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

You travel on the Bernina Express train from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy. You then travel on the Bernina Express bus through the Valtellina to Lugano.

Journey time: approx. 8 hours

Overnight stay in Lugano

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

Day 4

Return journey from Lugano

Itinerary

On the last day of your trip, public transport will take you to your destination in Switzerland. Or extend your stay at a location of your choice.

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

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

February to October

Recommended travel period

June to October

High season

July to September

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.

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Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Two dream routes by panoramic train
On this journey I was able to enjoy two of the most beautiful routes in Switzerland. All through the large windows of the panoramic trains.
Rahel