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

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort . The seats in 1st class are larger and more comfortable , with more legroom and privacy and a 2+1 arrangement that offers additional comfort . The seats in 2nd class are arranged more closely with 2+2 seating and offer slightly less space and legroom. Both classes have large panoramic windows . The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express is included in 1st class . There you benefit from more comfort, additional legroom, and a seating arrangement of 2+1, which offers more space .

What are the special features of the Centovalli Railway?

The Centovalli Railway combines the comfort of a panoramic train with the functionality of a regional train. A surcharge of CHF 1.50 is levied for the panoramic train cars .

Can I choose my seat on the panoramic trains 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 try to assign you the best available seat and inform you if a window seat is not available. The view is always impressive, regardless of where you sit. If you would like to reserve seats on the Centovalli train in advance, you can do so directly online at Vigezzinacentovalli.com .

Which dining options are available on board the panoramic trains?

Gotthard Panorama Express: The Panorama Train offers snacks and drinks that 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 . Centovalli Railway: There are no catering facilities on board the Centovalli Railway. We recommend that you stock up on snacks and drinks before the journey .

Where do the panoramic routes start and how do I get from the station to the hotel and vice versa?

The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express begins on the Panorama Train from Bellinzona and takes you to Flüelen . From there, continue by boat to Lucerne . The Centovalli Railway runs between Domodossola and Locarno . The Lucerne-Interlaken Express connects Lucerne and Interlaken . The route can be started in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process , the distance to the respective 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 on transfers, 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

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Hidden Treasures

Real insider tips on a short trip along the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland to its hidden gems: off the beaten track, there is a short detour to Italy, where you can travel on to Locarno on the Centovalli-Railway. Traveling in 1st class on the Gotthard Panorama Express lets you learn more about the history of Switzerland on the outward or return journey to Lucerne.

3 days / 2 nights

$ 810

Direction

A train is crossing a bridge surrounded by green leaves, with a church steeple and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Aerial view of a village with historic buildings and a tall church tower.

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

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Highlights

Unique combination of boat and train journey with the Gotthard Panorama Express
Lucerne and Interlaken – Swiss highlights between lakes and mountains
Breathtaking views on the Lötschberg mountain route with BLS
Sunbathe in Locarno on Lake Maggiore
Centovalli Railway – a romantic train ride through the "valley of a hundred valleys"

A ferry on a lake, with a church and houses in a green mountain landscape in the background.

Train passing through green hills beside a lake under a cloudy sky.

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Travel itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Hidden Treasures from Lucerne to Locarno

Day 1

Travel to Lucerne and journey on the Lucerne-Interlaken Express

Daily Itinerary

You travel to Lucerne by public transport. Continue with the Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Interlaken.

Travel time: approx. 1h 50min

Overnight stay in Interlaken

A boat with the Swiss flag sails on a river in a city with medieval architecture and a wooden bridge, surrounded by green hills.

Day 2

Ride on the Centovalli Railway

Daily Itinerary

You travel from Interlaken to Valais on the BLS Lötschberg railway. From there, continue through the Simplon Tunnel to Domodossola and then take the Centovalli-Railway to Locarno.

Trip time: approx. 4 hours

Overnight stay in Locarno

A railway bridge spans a gorge in a green, mountainous landscape under a clear, blue sky.

Day 3

Ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express and return journey from Lucerne

Daily Itinerary

You travel by train to Bellinzona and then with the Gotthard Panorama Express in 1st class to Flüelen. Continue with the historic steam paddle wheeler to Lucerne.

Journey time: approx. 5 hours

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

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

May to October

High season

July to September

Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Well-kept insider tips
This tour shows some well-kept secrets. The ride through the romantic Centovalli and Valle Vigezzo is particularly beautiful.
Heidi