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 a 2+1 seating arrangement, 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 comment field . Depending on availability, seat preferences cannot always be fulfilled. We will endeavor to assign 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 Gotthard Panorama Express?

The panorama train offers snacks and drinks , which are served directly at your seat, including regional specialties such as a cold platter. You can enjoy your lunch in the restaurant on the ship . 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 station to the hotel and vice versa?

The journey with the Gotthard Panorama Express starts in Lucerne with a boat trip from the station dock (5 minutes' walk from the station). In Flüelen, you board the Panorama train to Lugano . The itinerary can be started in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process you will be shown the distance to the respective train station when choosing a hotel. This allows you to choose nearby 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

Gotthard Panorama Express Classic

The Gotthard panorama express tour starts in Lucerne, where you will glide comfortably across Lake Lucerne on a steamboat and pass some of the most historic places from the beginning of Switzerland. You board the Gotthard Panorama Express in Flüelen, which takes you along the Gotthard mountain route to sunny Lugano.

3 days / 2 nights

from $ 750

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

Highlights

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

A tour guide shows travellers information on a map in the panorama carriage.

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

4 Images

Travel itinerary

Direction

Overview

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

Day 1

Arrival in Lucerne

Daily Itinerary

You travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Lucerne. Enjoy the journey and discover the surrounding area.

Overnight stay in Lucerne

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

Day 2

Ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Daily 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.

Trip time: approx. 5h

Overnight stay in Lugano

A couple sits on a train and enjoys the view of a mountain village from the panoramic window.

Day 3

Return journey from Lugano

Daily Itinerary

Travel by public transport from Lugano to the end point of your trip. 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

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

Learn the history of architecture
A projection about its construction history appears on the wall of the Gotthard Tunnel, which is also narrated by train loudspeakers. Impressive and exciting!
Robert

Tailor the trip to your needs.

3 days / 2 nights

from $ 750

Direction

Arrival and departure included
Travel from any starting point and back to any ending point in Switzerland
Choose your accommodation
Select hotel and room category
Additional activities
Add activities and mountain excursions directly to your trip
Customize the duration of your trip
Extend your stay, as preferred

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)