Billets de train Glacier Express

Booking advisory

Due to flood damage to the railroad system, the line between Brig and Andermatt will remain closed until further notice. Because of this, Glacier Express trains are currently only operating between Chur and St. Moritz. For travellers wishing to journey between St. Moritz and Zermatt, an alternative bus transportation plan is available.

Discover

NEW IN 2023: The panoramic Glacier Express train has arrived!

The legendary Glacier Express is a composed of luxurious observation carriages with both panoramic and sky light windows for the best views of the Alps’ most prized landscapes. A narrow-gauge train, it hugs the mountains and valleys for an immersive experience of the pristine Swiss countryside. With an average speed of 38 km per hour (24 mph), it is known affectionately as the slowest express train in the world. It is a unique rail experience not to be missed.

Journey details

Service starts in Zermatt or in St Moritz . The 291 km journey on the iconic red-and-white Glacier Express takes about 8 hours in total. Trains operate year-round, and you can choose to travel the whole route of just part of it.

You’ll pass through Alpine landscapes at the foot of the Matterhorn in the Valais region, go up to the Oberalp Pass (the route's highest point at 2345 metres above sea level), and get a glimpse of the Rhine Gorge, Switzerland's Grand Canyon. In the summer, see lush green hills and valleys. In the winter, it's a fairy tale ride over the snow-covered landscape.

The Rhaetian Railway also operates a regular local service on this route. Be advised that most local trains are not express, don’t have the same amenities, and are not fit with panoramic windows.

How it works

Boarding

Board any time before the train’s departure. Staff is on hand to guide you to your seat and check on your lunch reservation (if you've made one).

🗸 West to east: Board in winter sports paradise Zermatt or past the midway point in Chur . You're welcome to do the entire journey or just the parts you have time for. Certain stops are boarding only or de-boarding only, so make sure to check the train schedule. Excellence class is not available on all trains.

🗸 E ast to west: Board in spa resort town St Moritz or past the midway point in Chur . You're welcome to do the entire journey or just the parts you have time for. Certain stops are boarding only or de-boarding only, so make sure to check the train schedule. Excellence class is not available on all trains.

On board

The classic Glacier Express train has been running since the 1930. The route hasn't changed, but the fleet is updated regularly and fit with amenities for modern travellers.

Glacier Express carriages...

⚬ are comfortable

⚬ are air-conditioned

⚬ are equipped with luggage racks

⚬ have panoramic windows and sky lights, ensuring great views from every seat

Food and beverage Staff come by with a trolley of snacks and drinks available for purchase.

The Glacier Express is also equipped with a Panorama Bar, open all day, except during lunch service. Choose from a selection of beers, juices, and spirits. You can also order snacks and sandwiches and have them served at your seat.

If you'd like a freshly-prepared meal and served at your seat, make sure to reserve in advance. Choose from a three-course meal or the dish of the day.

Booking tips

Glacier Express journeys... ⚬ can be booked up to 90 days in advance.

⚬ are included with a Swiss Travel Pass . But the Passholder must make a seat reservation.

⚬ can only be taken with seat reservations.

Classes of service

The Glacier Express offers standard class and first class, like most trains. But there is also an exclusive high-end option: excellence class.

Glacier Express Excellence Class

Travel in excellence class is a luxury experience unique to the Glacier Express. Limited to 20 passengers, the excellence carriage is equipped with an exclusive bar and a concierge. The layout is 1x1 (seats facing each other on either side of a table), so you're guaranteed a window seat with superb panoramic views. Excellence class also includes a seven-course gourmet meal and a complimentary drink at the carriage-exclusive bar.

Glacier Express First Class

First class carriages on the Glacier Express have a very spacious and airy feel, with more legroom than in standard class. There is plenty of staff on hand to answer any questions you may have. The layout is 1x1 on one side and 2x2 on the other (seats facing each other on either side of a table).

Glacier Express Standard Class

Standard Class seating on the Glacier Express is 2x2 on both sides of a central aisle (seats facing each other on either side of a table). Luggage can be stored behind your seat or at the end of the carriage. Onboard commentary about key sites is available in six languages via an in-seat audio system.

Featured journeys

• Zermatt to Saint-Moritz from 58,27 €