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

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort . The seats are larger and more comfortable in 1st class, with more legroom and privacy space , as well as a 2+1 arrangement that offers additional comfort . The seats are arranged more closely in 2nd class with 2+2 seating, 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 no class division on the bus – all passengers travel in the same standard . The Excellence Class on the Glacier Express also offers exclusive gourmet meals , more spacious seats, and personal concierge service . If you would like to change 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 comment field . As the carriages can change direction, it is not guaranteed that your seat preferences will always be met. We will do our best 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 where you sit.

Which 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 directly when booking . Bernina Express: There is no dining car , but there is a minibar moving between the cars 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 station to the hotel and vice versa?

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 route can be started in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process , the distance to the respective train 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

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 coach 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 $ 1,240

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 rides on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
A touch of elegance in the mountains of St. Moritz
Bus ride through the idyllic Valtellina Valley in Italy
"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

Travel 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

Daily Itinerary

You 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

Ride on the Glacier Express

Daily Itinerary

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

Trip time: approx. 8h

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

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

Day 3

Ride on the Bernina Express

Daily 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 Valley to Lugano.

Trip 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

Daily 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 on the panoramic train
On this trip, I was able to enjoy two of the most beautiful routes in Switzerland. All through the large windows of the panoramic trains.
Rahel