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 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 bus – all passengers travel in the same type of seat . The journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express is included in 1st class . There you benefit from more comfort, additional legroom and tables of two and four , which offer more space .

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?

Bernina Express: There is no dining car , but there is an at-seat trolley with snacks and drinks. You can also bring your own food and enjoy it during the journey. Gotthard Panorama Express: The Panorama Train offers snacks and drinks that 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 do the panoramic routes start and how do I get from the railway station to the hotel and back?

The train route of the Bernina Express runs between St. Moritz and Tirano . A bus runs from Tirano to Lugano . 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.

Train Journey

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Glaciers and Palm Trees

Immerse yourself in the diversity of Switzerland: fresh mountain air in the heights of St. Moritz and warm rays of sunshine in Ticino. Highlights of this journey include the boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, the 1st class panoramic carriage on the Gotthard Panorama Express and the world-famous route on the Bernina Express over the Bernina Pass.

4 days / 3 nights

from CHF 740

Direction

A city view at sunrise with mountains, a church tower, and a mountain railway.

A red locomotive on a viaduct in front of a mountain landscape.

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

4 Images

Highlights

Travel in the 1st class panoramic coach on the historic Gotthard mountain route
Picturesque boat trip on Lake Lucerne
"Dolce Vita" in Lugano
Panoramic trip on the Bernina Express through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway

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

A ship with a Swiss flag is sailing on a lake surrounded by mountains.

4 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Glaciers and Palm Trees from St. Moritz to Lucerne

Day 1

Arrival in St. Moritz

Itinerary

Travel to St. Moritz by public transport. Enjoy the journey and take the opportunity to discover St. Moritz on arrival.

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

A serene mountain landscape with a lake in the foreground and a village on the slopes under a clear, blue sky.

Day 2

Journey on the Bernina Express

Itinerary

Travel on the Bernina Express to Tirano in the panoramic carriage. The journey then continues on the Bernina Express bus through the Italian Alps to Lugano.

Journey time: approx. 5h 40min

Overnight stay in Lugano

A red train is crossing a stone bridge in an alpine landscape with mountains and trees.

Day 3

Journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express

Itinerary

Travel to Flüelen in the 1st class panoramic coach of the Gotthard Panorama Express. You then cross Lake Lucerne on the historic paddle steamer to Lucerne.

Journey time: approx. 5h 30min

Overnight stay in Lucerne

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

Day 4

Return journey from Lucerne

Itinerary

Start your return journey from Lucerne by public transport. Alternatively, you can also extend your stay.

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

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

June to October

High season

July to September

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