Switzerland, renowned for its majestic Alps, picturesque villages, and pristine lakes, offers one of the most scenic railway networks in the world. Traversing through snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and serene lakes, Switzerland’s railways provide an unparalleled way to experience the country’s natural beauty. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in this enchanting landscape, a well-planned train journey is a must. This guide explores the best train journeys in Switzerland, perfect for those considering a 5 days package tour Switzerland.
The Glacier Express: The Slowest Express Train in the World
The Glacier Express is perhaps the most famous of Switzerland’s scenic trains. Dubbed “the slowest express train in the world,” it connects the exclusive mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. The journey spans over 290 kilometers and takes approximately eight hours, offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, charming villages, and lush valleys. Passengers travel through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges, with highlights including the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.”
For travelers on a 5 days package tour Switzerland, the Glacier Express offers an excellent introduction to the country’s stunning landscapes. It’s advisable to book a seat in the panoramic carriages, which feature large windows extending up to the ceiling, ensuring that you don’t miss a single breathtaking view.
The Bernina Express: From Glaciers to Palm Trees
Another spectacular train journey is the Bernina Express, which connects Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. This route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its incredible scenery, which changes dramatically as the train descends from the high-altitude Alps to the temperate climate of the Italian border.
Starting in Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, the train ascends through the dramatic landscapes of the Albula Range, crossing the impressive Landwasser Viaduct and passing through the spiral tunnels. The highlight of the journey is the Bernina Pass, where the train reaches an elevation of 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) before descending towards Tirano. This journey offers a stark contrast in scenery, from snow-capped peaks to lush valleys and finally to the palm trees of Italy.
For those on a 5 days package tour Switzerland, the Bernina Express provides a unique opportunity to experience the dramatic changes in landscape and climate in just a few hours.
The GoldenPass Line: A Journey Through Swiss Splendor
The GoldenPass Line is a series of three connecting trains that take passengers from the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux to the alpine resort of Lucerne. This route is divided into three sections: Montreux to Zweisimmen, Zweisimmen to Interlaken, and Interlaken to Lucerne.
Each segment of the GoldenPass Line offers its own unique charm. The journey begins in Montreux, famous for its Jazz Festival and the stunning views of Lake Geneva. From here, the train climbs through vineyards and alpine meadows to Zweisimmen. The second segment takes passengers through the Simmental Valley, known for its traditional wooden chalets, and along the shores of Lake Thun before arriving in Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The final leg to Lucerne passes through the Brünig Pass and alongside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Lungern.
A trip on the GoldenPass Line is ideal for travelers seeking to experience a variety of Swiss landscapes in one journey. With its combination of lakes, mountains, and charming villages, it’s a highlight of any 5 days package tour Switzerland.
The Gotthard Panorama Express: Combining Boat and Train
For a journey that combines rail and water travel, the Gotthard Panorama Express is an excellent choice. This unique route begins with a boat trip across Lake Lucerne, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque villages. Upon reaching Flüelen, passengers transfer to a panoramic train that travels through the historic Gotthard route to Lugano in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland.
The train journey takes you through the heart of Switzerland, passing through the Gotthard Tunnel, which was once the longest tunnel in the world. Highlights of this route include the breathtaking Reuss Valley, the rugged Schöllenen Gorge, and the charming town of Bellinzona, known for its medieval castles.
The Gotthard Panorama Express offers a perfect blend of Switzerland’s natural beauty and historic engineering feats, making it an excellent addition to a 5 days package tour Switzerland.
The Voralpen Express: From Lake to Lake
The Voralpen Express is a lesser-known but equally stunning train journey that connects the city of St. Gallen in northeastern Switzerland with Lucerne in the central part of the country. This route traverses rolling hills, picturesque villages, and serene lakes, offering a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to some of the more famous routes.
One of the highlights of the Voralpen Express is the crossing of the Ricken Pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The journey also includes picturesque views of Lake Zurich and Lake Zug before arriving in Lucerne, a city known for its medieval architecture and beautiful lake.
For travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic train journey, the Voralpen Express is an excellent choice. It’s an ideal option for those on a 5 days package tour Switzerland, providing a serene and picturesque experience.
Practical Tips for Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland
To make the most of your scenic train journeys in Switzerland, consider the following tips:
- Book in Advance: Popular scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking your tickets in advance ensures you get a seat, preferably in the panoramic carriages.
- Travel Light: While Swiss trains offer ample luggage space, traveling light allows for a more comfortable experience, especially if you plan to explore destinations along the way.
- Check the Weather: The weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Check the weather forecast before your journey to ensure you get the best views.
- Consider a Swiss Travel Pass: If you plan to travel extensively by train, a Swiss Travel Pass can be a cost-effective option. It offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, including trains, buses, and boats.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s scenic railways offer a unique and captivating way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes. From the iconic Glacier Express and the dramatic Bernina Express to the charming GoldenPass Line and the serene Voralpen Express, each journey provides a window into Switzerland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. These train journeys not only showcase the breathtaking Alps, serene lakes, and picturesque villages but also highlight the country’s engineering marvels and commitment to preserving its pristine environment.
For travelers on a 5 days package tour Switzerland, these scenic train routes are a must. They offer a hassle-free and immersive experience, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the views while traveling between some of Switzerland’s most famous and beautiful destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Switzerland for the first time, these train journeys promise to create unforgettable memories and provide a deeper appreciation for the country’s diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes.
