The Glacier Express is an unforgettable scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps. Connecting two of Switzerland's largest cities – Zermatt and St. Mortiz - you can take in the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of your seat.

The special train cars have large panorama windows making it easier to enjoy the views and take pictures. In winter, this is a great way to remain warm and comfortable indoors but still enjoy the beauty of the Swiss mountains.

WHY CHOOSE GLACIER EXPRESS

We suggest the Glacier Express for travelers that want a beautiful, leisurely train journey through the Swiss alps, rather than an efficient connection between destinations. This serves as your activity for the day, rather than hurrying to your next city and doing something there.

The Glacier Express is a good option for people traveling between these destinations: Zermatt - St Moritz (full Glacier Express route) Zermatt - Zurich (start or end Glacier Express in Chur, regular train Chur-Zurich) Zermatt - Lucerne (start or end Glacier Express in Andermatt, regular train Andermatt-Lucerne)

For example, if you are traveling from Zermatt to Zurich, most people take the route that connects through Visp, total travel time 3h23. This route uses tunnels through the mountains and connects through Bern, not a particularly scenic route. But it runs hourly, all day, very convenient. Plus you don't need a seat reservation.

If you want a beautiful activity for the whole day, you can instead take the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Chur, a very scenic route that travels over mountain passes. Once in Chur, you transfer to a regular train to Zurich, about a 1h15 journey.

ROUTE

The full Glacier Express route is from Zermatt to St Moritz. But you don't have to do the full route. If you are connecting with Lucerne, you'll want to change in Andermatt. If you are connecting with Zurich, you'll want to start/end in Chur.

SCHEDULE

This scenic train only runs a couple times a day in each direction. Here are some sample times from winter 2023. Check the current timetables.

Zermatt - Andermatt - Chur - St Moritz 7:52 - 10:46 - 13:25 - 15:37 8:52 - 11:46 - 14:25 - 16:37

St Moritz - Chur - Andermatt - Zermatt 8:51 - 10:56 - 13:52 - 17:10 9:42 - 11:55 - 14:52 - 18:10

If you get off the train at one of the intermediate stops, you can transfer to a regular train to your final destination. Check the regular timetables on SBB.ch

SEAT RESERVATION

You need a train ticket for the journey plus a seat reservation. You can book them at the same time or separately.

It's most important to book the seat reservation in advance, as it does sell out. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a window seat.

The reservation costs CHF 49 for any seat in 1st or 2nd class, including children. Small children who do not need a seat (like babies and toddlers who sit on your lap) do not need a reservation. But because it's such a long journey, they highly recommend you reserve a seat for them.

Book Glacier Express seat here.

TRAIN TICKETS

In addition to the seat reservation, you need a train ticket. The train ticket price varies depending on how far are you are riding the train. For example, one way from Zermatt to Chur costs CHF 124 for 2nd class / CHF 212 for 1st class. See current prices.

You can book the train ticket when you buy the seat reservation, the easiest option. Or you can book it separately on SBB.ch or SBB Mobile app. All regular train discounts apply to the train ticket, like the SBB Half-fare card and Junior Card.

You don't need a train ticket if you are traveling on the Swiss Travel Pass, GA, or 1-Day Travel Passes. In this case, you only need a seat reservation.

FOOD

There's a restaurant on board, serving regional dishes - best to make a reservation if you want a meal during your journey. See menu.

EXCELLENCE CLASS

The Glacier Express offers a deluxe experience with its Excellence Class, which includes many benefits like a guaranteed window seat, exclusive bar access, concierge host, secured luggage transport, and more. It also includes a starter plate with champagne, five-course meal with a glass of wine, afternoon tea service, etc. It requires a 1st class ticket plus a reservation fee of CHF 470. So this is more than most people can afford. But if you love train travel and are ready to splurge, this might be the place to do it.

OVERNIGHT PACKAGES

When you search for Glacier Express info, many websites offer multi-day packages, that include the Glacier Express as part of the itinerary. If you feel stressed about booking all the individual elements, these tours can be an easy and efficient way to see a lot of Switzerland. Switzerland Travel Centre is popular option for booking packages like this.