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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

On the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, panoramic trains take you to all the highlights and sights in Switzerland, year-round. Get in, lean back and enjoy – wherever you like.  

• 1,280 kilometer
• 11 large lakes
• 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• 4 official languages

Alternative section: St. Moritz – Lugano (by bus)

Switch to the bus and road

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

A panoramic ride between two worlds.

Lugano – Flüelen – Luzern

The panoramic journey by train and boat.

Luzern – St. Gallen

Over gentle hills with a view of the Alps.

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Up the valley to the “mountain of mountains”.

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The “maritime” side of Switzerland.

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From glaciers to palm trees.

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in the world.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

From lake to lake, from city to city.

Explore the sections

From glaciers to lakes and from mountains to cities: each section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland has a unique character.

Find your perfect itinerary

Discover the top travel suggestions for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Everything you need for your journey

Tickets, reservations & timetables, mygrandtraintour booklet, train lines of the grand train tour, bernina express.

From St. Moritz to Lugano

Glacier Express

From Zermatt to St. Moritz

GoldenPass Panoramic

From Interlaken to Montreux

Gotthard Panorama Express

From Lugano to Lucerne

Luzern–Interlaken Express

From Lucerne to Interlaken

Thurbo Seelinie

From St. Gallen to Schaffhausen

Treno Gottardo

From Locarno to Lucerne

Vigezzina - Centovalli Railway

Voralpen-express.

From Lucerne to St. Gallen

Destinations along the Grand Train Tour

Schaffhausen, book a grand train tour package.

All panoramic trains in one trip.

Barrier Free Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Touring magazine, arrival by train, accommodation along the grand train tour of switzerland, your trip experiences.

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Switzerland Train Tours

Find your switzerland train tours.

3, 5, 8 & 12 Days | From $2,448 | Guided & Semi-Guided | Small Group & Private

Embark on a journey a lifetime with our four Switzerland Train Tours.

Travel 1st class through some of the most stunning regions of Switzerland. On board celebrated Swiss Trains such as Glacier Express and GoldenPass Line. Experience the comfort of escorted rail tours with guided assistance and luggage transfer. 

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: 12 Days

Scenic railways on this tour:

• Glacier Express
• Bernina Express
• Gornergrat-Matterhorn cogwheel train
• Furka steam cogwheel train
• GoldenPass line
• Voralpen Express
• Gotthard Express
• Jungfrau Bahn
• Wengernalp Railway
• Rigi and Pilatus cogwheel trains

Your benefits:

• Small group size (max 16 people)
• Fully guided tour with a local English-speaking guide
• Dedicated luggage transfers
• 1st Class Swiss Pass
• Two-night stays in 3 and 4-star hotels
• 3-course dinners and Swiss breakfast buffets daily
• Options for additional easy hikes and activities

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: 10 Days

• Detailed itinerary sent 1 month in advance
• Flexible schedules tailored to your needs
• Guided trip to Mt. Rigi and Mt. Pilatus
• Guided trip to Gornergrat and a hike around Zermatt
• Extensive breakfast buffets daily
• A dedicated helpline available daily from 9 am to 6 pm

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: 8 Days

• Jungfrau railways
• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Fully Guided Tour with a local English-speaking Guide

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: 5 Days

• Regional trains
• Private Tour
• Meet & Greet at the Airport
• Full Day Guided Tour in St. Moritz and Zermatt
• Personalized and flexible schedule
• 2 nights in St. Moritz, 2 nights in Zermatt
• 4* wellness hotel in Zermatt

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: 3 Days

• 2 nights in 4* wellness hotel in Zermatt

Customer Testimonials

Why travel with ECHO Rails?

ECHO Rails is a local Swiss and US-based tour operator with over 15 years of experience. We specialize in creating Switzerland rail tours, hiking tours, and day trips that focus on an authentic Swiss experience. 

Group tours for enhanced experience.

We believe that guided group tours can be a fantastic way to explore new places, meet people, and have a great time. We love seeing strangers becoming friends as they explore the beauty of Switzerland together. Having a knowledgeable guide (or two) at your side also helps you navigate the country more smoothly. Our small group Switzerland train tours (max 16 participants) are a perfect blend of personalized tours focused on the authentic Swiss experience and the comforts provided by an organized tour.

We aim for creating a 100% comfortable experience.

Swiss public transport redefines comfortable commutes. Our Switzerland train tours go further, offering first-class journeys on world-famous scenic trains equipped with all amenities. Additionally, we provide dedicated luggage transfer so that you can travel light and never mind the changes.

Nobody likes packing: two nights in each location save you the trouble of packing every day. Comfortable hotels close to train stations (always with great views) reduce further hassle. 

Sustainability strategy.

Environment is important to us. That’s why in our trips we use only public transport. But that’s not all. We also collaborate with sustainable businesses, hotels, and restaurants that reduce their environmental impact in more than one way. Whether its using locally sourced produce, abandoning single-use plastic, or reducing water waste, our collaborators are 100% Earth-conscious. 

Our Switzerland train tours are designed to create unforgettable experiences at the lowest possible impact. 

Get in touch for a free quotation

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Switzerland office, +41 (0) 77 991 87 99.

• ECHO Rails & Trails
• Untergütschstrasse 33
• 6003, Lucerne, Switzerland
• Swiss Commercial Register: CHE-443.905.414

USA Contact

+1 707-881-8454.

• Andrea Caspani
• 1177 Branham Ln #1012
• San Jose, CA 95118
• United States

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Bookable with luggage transport

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - The Original

8 days / 7 nights.

Discover Switzerland on the 8-day “Grand Train Tour of Switzerland” in Europe’s most exciting panoramic trains. Marvel at the spectacular landscape during your trip and experience the cultural differences in this country with its 4 language regions.

• Lucerne - Interlaken
• St. Gallen - Lucerne

• GoldenPass Express
• Glacier Express 
• Zermatt with the world-famous Matterhorn
• Bernina Express
• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Voralpen-Express

«The reliability of Switzerland's public transport makes this journey possible in the first place.»

Your itinerary.

• Gornergrat Zermatt
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland
• Goldenpass Express

Lucerne - Interlaken / approx. 2h

Your tour begins as you make your way from your starting point in Switzerland to Lucerne, by public transport. From here, you then take the famous Luzern-Interlaken Express to Interlaken in the very heart of Switzerland. You spend tonight in Interlaken.

Highlights: Chapel bridge, panoramic train, Interlaken, view of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau

Interlaken - Montreux / approx. 3h

A highlight of your journey awaits today, as you travel on the celebrated GoldenPass Line to Montreux on sparkling Lake Geneva. Overnight stay in this charming lakeside town.

Highlights: Zweisimmen, GoldenPass Express, Gstaad, Montreux, Lake Geneva

Montreux - Zermatt / approx. 3h

Today’s journey takes you southwards into the Alps as you make the ascent to lively Zermatt. Enjoy a day at leisure in this charming traffic-free village, set at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. Enjoy an overnight stay here.

Highlights:  Montreux, Zermatt, Matterhorn

Zermatt - St. Moritz / approx. 8h

Today you join The Glacier Express – one of the world’s most famous trains – for the incredible journey through lush valleys, mountain passes and the magnificent Rhine Gorge. Make the most of the spellbinding views from the train’s large panoramic windows as you make your way to the elegant resort of St Moritz, where you spend tonight.

Highlights: Panorama window, lunch, Oberalp pass, Rhine gorge, Corvatsch, Diavolezza

St. Moritz - Tirano / approx. 2h 20

Tirano - Lugano / approx. 3h 20

Enjoy a journey on the Bernina Express, which takes you from St Moritz to Switzerland’s Italian-speaking region, Ticino. In the panoramic carriages, be sure to admire the magnificent scenery of the Engadine Valley – from towering palm trees to foaming waterfalls. On arrival in Tirano (Italy), you continue your journey on the Bernina Express bus through Italy and on to the Swiss city of Lugano. Take the time to discover this lively city as you spend the night here.

Highlights: Lago Bianco, Brusio circular viaduct, Poschiavo, Alp Grüm, Lugano

Lugano - Luzern / approx. 5h 30

Travel northwards from Lugano to Flüelen via Bellinzona today, as you take the marvellous Gotthard Panorama Express, in a panorama car to maximise the stunning views. In Flüelen you board the historic paddle steamer and take to the waters of Lake Lucerne for the atmospheric crossing to Lucerne, for an overnight stay.

Highlights: Swiss history in the Gotthard tunnel, Lake Lucerne, paddle steamer, Chapel bridge in Lucerne

Lucerne - St. Gallen / approx. 2h20

Discover the rugged beauty of north-eastern Switzerland as you take the charming Voralpen-Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen. You then spend the night in this attractive city.

Highlights: High moorland near Rothenthurm, Rapperswil, Lake Zurich, Appenzellerland, St. Gallen

Today the itinerary concludes as you make your way to your onward destination in Switzerland by public transport. Alternatively, perhaps extend your stay in St. Gallen.

Highlights: St. Gallen Old Town, Abbey Library, History

• Rail journey from your starting point in Switzerland and back
• Overnight stays with breakfast in Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lugano, Lucerne and St. Gallen
• Seat reservation for the GoldenPass Express, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express 
• From price applies per person in a 3-star double room, 2nd class, basic half-fare card
• Booking period: all year round
• Travel period: 15.04. - 15.10.2024
• Price example calculated on 01.09.2023 for 01.05.2024

Good to know

• Travel documents are sent by email if possible, in exceptional cases by post.
• Trip can also be booked vice versa
• Additional overnight stays possible in all destinations
• The route in the Bernina Express from Tirano to Lugano takes place in 2nd class bus.
• Table reservations on board the Gotthard Panorama Express can be made directly via +41 41 367 67 67 or online at  www.lakelucerne.ch .
• Here you can find the current timetables
• The SBB luggage transport from hotel to hotel can be added in the booking process
• Benefit from over 100 2 for 1 offers and save up to CHF 4,500 with the Swiss Coupon Pass .
• Would you like to make someone happy? Why not offer them the trip as a gift ?
• Download the  new app  for the Grand Train tour of Switzerland now and playfully collect points for great offers while discovering the "must see" spots.
• You can find more inspiration for your trip at our partner  MySwitzerland.com/originaltour

Could also be of interest to you

Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: A Detailed Guide

Dreaming of exploring Switzerland by train? So am I, which is precisely why I prepared this detailed guide to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland!

One travel pass gives you access to all the country’s trains, including those panoramic trains with massive windows that pass through surreally beautiful sceneries. The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a bucket-list travel experience that covers 1,280 kilometers of the country on an epic 11-day journey, and here’s everything else you need to know about it!

Table of Contents

8 Sections of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is divided into eight sections, according to the specific routes that are operated by panoramic trains. We’ll tell you about all the different sections and trains right here, so you can create your own personal Grand Train Tour of the Alpine country!

And if you want to check out the map before you start, I have added it below for easy reference.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

Zürich is usually the starting point for traveling through the country because it’s got the largest and busiest international airport in Switzerland. Most travelers who fly to the country arrive at this airport, so it makes perfect sense to begin your journey in this beautiful city.

The first leg of the journey takes you to three cities, and four lakes, and treats you to some fantastic scenery during the train journey. At Luzern, you board a panoramic train to Interlaken, and that ride is easily the highlight of this entire journey. The Luzern-Interlaken express train passes through beautiful mountain landscapes, featuring waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and mesmerizing scenery before it arrives at Interlaken, the beautiful town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Distance: 131 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

The second section of the train journey through Switzerland takes you from the beautiful town of Interlaken to Zweisimmen, where you can ride trains on the panoramic GoldenPass line to Montreux. The train passes next to castles, through pastures, and hills, for a wonderfully scenic journey full of marvelous sights.

You can choose to ride one of the two Golden Pass trains – the Panoramic or the Belle Epoque. The Panoramic train is the better option if you want to admire the scenery during the ride because it features huge windows, with windows on the roof in 1st class. The Belle Epoque train is decorated in Belle Epoque style and it feels like traveling back in time, and it’s great for travelers who want to discover a unique way to travel in Switzerland.

Distance: 120 kilometers

Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

When you’re done exploring the beautiful city on the shore of Lake Geneva, board a train to Visp. The train journey through southern Switzerland passes through several valleys, and it is incredibly scenic. Visp is one of the sunniest places in Switzerland, and after a quick exploration of the town, you can board the train to Zermatt.

The car-free village of Zermatt is a popular ski resort, but also just a magical Swiss destination overall. During the train ride, you’re treated to beautiful views of the Rhone River valley along the way, and when you can see the iconic Matterhorn, you’ll know that you’re getting pretty close to Zermatt.

The village is also popular among mountain climbers who wish to conquer this peak, and there’s even a museum in town dedicated to ascents on the Matterhorn.

Distance: 148 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in Switzerland takes you from the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt to cosmopolitan St. Moritz. You’ll ride the Glacier Express , a panoramic train that crosses over 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels.

The entire journey is around 8 hours long, and it’s by far the longest train journey of the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Time flies on the train if you keep your eyes peeled on the magical scenery, making the long journey easily enjoyable.

Chur is an optional stop along this route. The beautiful town is about halfway between Zermatt and St. Moritz, and it’s worth checking out if you have enough time in Switzerland.

Distance: 291 kilometers

Time: 7 hours 45 minutes

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From the glacial landscapes of St. Moritz to palm trees in Lugano – the Bernina Express panoramic train takes passengers on a ride through southern Switzerland and northern Italy, in an epic 7-hour journey.

The panoramic train takes you from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy, allowing you to discover some truly magical landscapes along the way. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountain passes, tall peaks, and mesmerizing lakes are just some of the highlights you’ll get to see during the journey.

At Tirano, you can board the Bernina Express Bus towards Lugano via Como. Situated on the shore of Lake Lugano, the beautiful city offers a plethora of fun and exciting things to do to its visitors, from decadent restaurants to fabulous hiking trails.

Distance: 154 kilometers

Time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Lugano – Bellinzona – Flüelen – Luzern

The Lugano-Luzern section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the main reason why you should plan to do this tour in the summer months if you want to experience all the highlights of the journey. The Gotthard Panorama Express operates only between April and October, and it’s another panoramic train that offers stunning views during the journey.

The panoramic train will take you from Lugano to Flüelen, where you board a boat that transports you across Lake Lucerne to the city. It’s an amazing experience and without a doubt one of the highlights of the entire tour, so it’s worth it to plan your trip around it.

Treno Gottardo is an alternative for travelers who can’t make the trip between April and October. It transports passengers between Lugano and Lucerne on the Gotthard route, and the train is in operation year-round. This train is also two hours quicker than the panoramic route, but the views along the way aren’t quite as amazing.

Distance: 182 kilometers

Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Luzern – St. Gallen

Board the Voralpen Express train from Luzern to St. Gallen to experience one of the most beautiful railway lines in Switzerland. During the two-hour train journey, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks, the Rapperswil damn and its castle, and the highest railway bridge in the country, the Sitter Viaduct.

And that’s all before you arrive at St. Gallen, the beautiful town near Lake Constance. The attractions in the town include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, an excellent museum, and breathtaking nature in the city’s immediate surroundings.

Distance: 125 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The final leg of this epic journey has travelers returning to Zürich from St. Gallen. The train ride offers travelers a glimpse of maritime Switzerland because the train travels next to a body of water for the majority of the ride. First, you’ll ride along the shore of Lake Constance for about 40 kilometers, and then the train follows the Rhine river downstream.

Schaffhausen is an optional stop along this route and is entirely worth it if you want to see the largest cascades in Europe. The Rhine Falls are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a quick detour on the final leg of your Switzerland tour.

Board the train back to Zürich at Schaffhausen and you can be in the financial metropolis in 30-50 minutes. Use the time you have left in Switzerland to explore the city – walk along Bahnhofstrasse, see Lake Zurich, and climb the Karlsturm tower at Grossmünster for fabulous panoramic views before it’s time to head to the airport.

Length: 133 kilometers

Grand Train Tour Suggested Itineraries

If the idea of traveling by train for more than 1,000 kilometers is a bit overwhelming, consider doing one of the suggested itineraries. These cover certain parts of the Grand Train Tour, so they’re shorter and more affordable than doing the entire journey. Also, you can book pre-arranged packages for each of these itineraries, which will include train tickets, accommodation, meals, and even tickets to select tourist attractions!

Original Tour

The Original Tour allows you to discover most highlights of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland during one week of traveling. Your journey starts in Lucerne and ends in St. Gallen, so it differs from the full-length tour in that it bypasses Zurich entirely.

The cities you will visit during the 8 days of the Original Tour are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and St. Gallen, and you get to ride on all the panoramic trains.

Existing packages for this itinerary start at CHF 1280, and they include accommodation with breakfast in all the cities and seat reservations for the panoramic trains.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Classic Tour

The Classic Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a 7-day itinerary that allows passengers to discover 7 different cities in the country. Your journey begins and ends in Lucerne, and during the week of traveling, you get to discover most highlights of southern Switzerland.

Zurich and St. Gallen aren’t included in this itinerary, but all the other places visited on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland are. You’ll travel to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and back to Lucerne, all the while riding on the country’s iconic panoramic trains.

The prices for pre-arranged Classic Tour packages start at CHF 1140, which includes train travel, seat reservations, accommodation with breakfast, and even a 1st class upgrade on the Gotthard Panorama Express train.

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights

Top Attractions Tour

If you can’t spare the two weeks necessary to complete the full Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, consider doing a shorter version of it. That’s exactly what the Top Attractions Tour itinerary is, which takes you to five different cities in just five days.

Your journey begins in Lucerne and it includes access to two panoramic trains – the Golden Pass train and the Glacier Express. The places visited during this five-day itinerary are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, and Chur, so you can experience all the most famous attractions in southern Switzerland.

Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 650, which includes accommodation with breakfast, seat reservations, and public transport to a place of your choosing from Chur.

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Glacier & Palm Trees Tour

The Glacier & Palm Trees Tour is the best itinerary for people who just want to ride on the panoramic trains. This four-day adventure includes two of the best panoramic trains in Switzerland – the Bernina Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express.

The itinerary begins with an overnight stay in St. Moritz, the cosmopolitan village known for luxury and glamour. On day two, you ride the Bernina Express train to Tirano and then the Bernina Express bus to Lugano, and enjoy views of beautiful lakes and palm trees.

On day three, passengers will board the Gotthard Panorama Express train to Lucerne, where they will spend the rest of their time in Switzerland. Packages with accommodation, breakfast, and seat reservations for this quick Swiss excursion start at CHF 660.

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Stunning Waters Tour

The Stunning Water Tour is a short and affordable itinerary that beings in Zurich. You’re only traveling for three days and two nights, discovering the cities on the shores of Switzerland’s most impressive lakes.

Zurich, Lucerne, and St. Gallen are included in this short itinerary. Packages for this route start at just CHF 300, and they include overnight stays in Zurich and St. Gallen. This itinerary includes a ride on the panoramic Voralpen Express train, which allows you to discover spectacular scenery and UNESCO World Heritage Sites from the comfort of your train seat.

The last day of the journey includes a ride from St. Gallen to Schaffhausen. You’re riding along the shore of Lake Constance for some 40 kilometers, and then you get to tour Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Hidden Treasures Tour

The Hidden Treasures Tour is another short three-day itinerary suitable for budget travelers. The itinerary includes visits to four cities – Interlaken, Lucerne, Domodossola, and Locarno – with overnight stays in Interlaken and Locarno.

On the third and final day of the tour, you get to ride in 1st class on the Gotthard Panorama Express train and enjoy stunning scenic views while traveling back to Lucerne. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 240, which includes two overnight stays with breakfast, train tickets, and seat reservations.

Winter Magic Tour

The Winter Magic Tour is the perfect train trip through Switzerland for people who want to discover the country in the winter. Rolling hills and turquoise lake waters give way to glaciers, frozen lakes, and snow-capped mountains in this epic 7-day journey through central Switzerland.

The tour explores four towns – Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz – with multiple overnight stays in the same locations. This allows you to thoroughly explore these beautiful towns and gives you enough time to explore all the mountains you want in the Alps.

The itinerary includes a ride on the Glacier Express train and an optional ride on the Bernina Panorama Winter train. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 940, which includes overnight stays with breakfast and a seat reservation for the Glacier Express.

The Swiss Rail Pass And Packages

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can cost you anywhere from a few hundred Swiss francs to a few thousand, depending on the type of ticket/package you purchase.

A Swiss Travel Pass is all you need to be able to travel on the Swiss trains, and the prices start at 232 CHF for a three-day pass. The longer the validity of the pass, the more it’s going to cost. Also, keep in mind that the Swiss Travel Pass only covers the cost of the train rides – accommodation, meals, and tickets to attractions are all coming out of your budget. Read this guide for more info about the Swiss Travel Pass.

That’s precisely why many people choose to book package deals, which include all of the above, as well as train travel. You can purchase a package that covers any of the suggested itineraries, and even the full Grand Train Tour that covers the entire 1280 kilometers of the route.

Additionally, you will need to spend extra money on the seat reservation for the panoramic trains. Reservations are necessary, and they’re usually around 20 CHF per seat, regardless of the class.

Finally, I would encourage you to pay extra for a 1st class travel pass, if you can afford it. The panoramic trains have windows that are either on the roof or curve over the roof in 1st class, for truly spectacular views the entire time. It will bring the train journey experience to a whole new level, and it’s worth the extra money.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

If you’re going to tour Switzerland by train, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app is a great travel companion. It contains information on all the legs of the journey, as well as the highlights and top tourist attractions of all the cities and towns that you can visit during the tour.

The travel app also offers coupons that can get you anything from free drinks to first-class upgrades on trains and boats, plus you can collect points for every new place you visit. Travelers are encouraged to visit tourist information offices in each of the cities they visit to redeem unique prizes and collect codes, which they can then use to collect stamps within the app.

The app is free and it costs nothing to install it on your phone, but it has lots of benefits. In addition to all the extra features, this app can track your location and display the nearby attractions in all towns. It’s a great way to ensure you don’t get lost while discovering Switzerland, as well as a detailed journey of your entire trip.

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Scenic Switzerland by Train

• Fully Guided
• Train & Rail

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 ARRIVE IN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
• Day 2 ZURICH–LUCERNE
• Day 3 LUCERNE–INTERLAKEN–GOLDENPASS MOB PANORAMIC TRAIN TO MONTREUX–LAUSANNE
• Day 4 LAUSANNE–MONTREUX–TÄSCH–ZERMATT AREA
• Day 5 ZERMATT. GORNERGRAT EXCURSION
• Day 6 ZERMATT AREA–GLACIER EXPRESS–ST. MORITZ
• Day 7 ST. MORITZ. BERNINA EXPRESS EXCURSION TO TIRANO, ITALY
• Day 8 ST. MORITZ–ZURICH
• Day 9 ZURICH

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Cosmos

The Cosmos Story. For nearly 60 years, Cosmos has done something remarkable: Bringing the world to people; and people to the world. By pioneering value touring vacations, we have a long history of turning travel dreams into reality. We make possible “never thought I would” or “never imagined I could” moments by making travel attainable and easy. And in doing that, we help travelers expand their horizons, clear their heads and open their hearts to the world around them. Cosmos understands that adventure is waiting for us – all of us – out in the world. And there simply is no better time than the present to discover new sights, new sensations and new experiences. That’s why we pride ourselves in turning “what if” moments into “I did” realizations. With our new look and feel, we’re celebrating this ideal and the unparalleled and attainable access we offer our travelers to the globe with value-centric vacations in 64 countries, on six continents. Let the unexpected begin. Let awe-inspiring take over. Adventure is knocking. As a Cosmos traveler, we know you will answer – as you always have – by finding adventure in the world around you.

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 4.7
• Guide Excellent 4.9
• Transport Excellent 4.9
• Accommodation Excellent 4.4
• Food Good 3.6
• Tour Operator Cosmos 4.9
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• YL Yuan · 5th May 2024 The guide was good and the accommodation was nice. The train times and equipment were good Trip date: April 2024 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Elizabeth · 14th October 2023 Excellent tour guide (Tamas Deak). Accommodations were very nice. Trip date: October 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A terry · 12th October 2023 Well managed and conducted with excellent guide. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Mary · 11th October 2023 The variety of trains we traveled on were extraordinary. Tamas, our guide, was passionate about Switzerland and very knowledgeable about its history, architecture, etc. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Pamela · 10th October 2023 Reasonable pricing, very good itinerary, excellent location, organized, balanced. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A doug · 8th October 2023 Very well recieved..on time..warmly welcomed Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Caroline · 8th October 2023 Scenic Switzerland by train tour was beyond our expectations. Travelling by train through Switzerland was the best decision we could have made. So much to see and photo opportunies were numerous with the large windows in the carriages. Having the option... Show more Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Atle · 7th October 2023 The guide Tamas was exceptional anx made the trip worthwhile. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Anonymous · 5th October 2023 We did train tour of Switzerland.Everything was as good as we expected. Fiorenza (Flo) Vable was very nice and excellent tour quide. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• Friday 24 May, 2024 Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,940 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 2 Jun, 2024 Monday 10 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,015 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 7 Jun, 2024 Saturday 15 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,015 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 Monday 17 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,921 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 Monday 24 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,921 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 21 Jun, 2024 Saturday 29 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,987 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 Monday 1 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,921 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 28 Jun, 2024 Saturday 6 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,987 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 7 Jul, 2024 Monday 15 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,892 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 14 Jul, 2024 Monday 22 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,892 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 19 Jul, 2024 Saturday 27 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,968 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 Monday 29 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,921 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 28 Jul, 2024 Monday 5 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,892 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 12 Other Unavailable Departures
• -2% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 2 Aug, 2024 Saturday 10 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,985 €2,938 Confirm Dates
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• -2% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 9 Aug, 2024 Saturday 17 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,919 €2,872 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Friday 16 Aug, 2024 Saturday 24 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,987 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 18 Aug, 2024 Monday 26 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,987 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 25 Aug, 2024 Monday 2 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €2,987 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 30 Aug, 2024 Saturday 7 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,062 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 1 Sep, 2024 Monday 9 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,015 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 4 Other Unavailable Departures
• -2% Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 8 Sep, 2024 Monday 16 Sep, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,985 €2,938 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• -2% Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 15 Sep, 2024 Monday 23 Sep, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,985 €2,938 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the tour dates are fixed, and the structure of the tour does not allow for customization to maintain the integrity of group activities.

Feedback can be submitted through the tour company's official website or via the post-tour email communication that guests receive.

The tour includes breakfast for most days and some dinners.

Specific check-in and checkout times are often standard but can vary; these details are normally provided with your final itinerary.

Updates to booking details can be made through the dedicated tour portal or by contacting the customer support service directly.

In the case of emergencies, guests are advised to contact the tour support via their provided contact or through the online chat feature.

The query doesn't specify whether taxes and tips are included. However, it's typically standard for some local taxes to be included.

A brief itinerary is provided at booking with a more detailed itinerary given on the first night. Hotels are confirmed 30 days prior to departure.

The actual cost will be provided during the booking process or can be found on the official tour webpage.

The tour does have limited options for single travelers, and the availability of single accommodations varies by departure date.

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Italy Fr. Swiss Franc Switzerland

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L, J.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Switzerland. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 9th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 9th July 2024, a minimum payment of €250 is required to confirm your booking with Cosmos. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 50 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Cosmos will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Cosmos" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Swiss Voyages

Switzerland Destination Management Company

Swiss Rail Packages

Take a grand tour of switzerland in rail.

Our rail tour packages combines most breathtaking routes in the Swiss Alps.

Book your Swiss Rail Packages for 2 Nights to 9 Nights, enjoy splendid inclusions of travel by rail, boat,postal-coaches and cable cars at best price. Grand Rail Journey with Swiss Voyages.

2 Nights 3 Days

Check out our Glacier Express and Bernina Express Rail Packages Get your Grand Rail Journey with Swissvoyages.  Enjoy the mesmerizing view of Switzerland. Book Online Now for your splendid journey in swiss railways....

3 Nights 4 Days

Check out our Glacier Pullman and Bernina Express Rail Packages Get your Grand Rail Journey with Swissvoyages.  Book Online Now for your splendid journey in swiss railways....

4 Nights / 5 Days

Swiss Rail Packages : 4 Nights / 5 Days Top of Europe + TitlisItinerary :   Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken Arrival in Interlaken by train in 2nd class from any Swiss border or Swiss airport. Rest of the day...

5 Nights 6 Days

Enjoy Europe's Highest Cogwheel & Beautiful Cities. Discover the beautiful city of Lucerne, enjoy Europe's highest open-air cogwheel railway and ride on to Golden Pass Panoramic train, which will take you to beautiful alpine forest, bubbling mountain spring and picturesque...

6 Nights / 7 Days

Enjoy riding on Rotair & Flyer chairlift for spectacular view Enjoy riding the first revolving gondala, which will take you to Mount Titlis and show you the spectacular close-up insight into a glacier.  ...

7 Nights / 8 Days

Visit world famous sights, exciting modern architecture & Museum with Swissvoyages  ...

8 Nights / 9 Days

Enjoy "Grand Tour of Switzerland" with Swissvoyages Book Grand Tour of Switzerland with swissvoyages. Book online to view Mesmerizing Switzerland with us....

9 Nights and Above

Enjoy the Best of Switzerland Package...

Any questions related to Swiss Rail Packages?

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Switzerland Train Tours

Magic Switzerland has been offering Switzerland tour packages since 2001. We continue to provide leisure travelers with the best Switzerland train tours including scenic trains and mountain rides. Our expertise with guided and self-guided packages will provide you with a unique vacation experience. Enjoy the best of Swiss train travel with one of our pre-designed rail packages. They include the most famous highlights of Switzerland and connect them with a Swiss rail ticket. You can select from a variety of itineraries, from 3 to 11 days long, and including scenic trains and mountain excursions. Click on the tour title to learn about the individual itineraries, destinations included and prices.

Scenic trains Custom Vacations Swiss Rail Pass Switzerland extensions

Standard Packages

The perfect and most entertaining way to know the different regions of Switzerland

Diversity in one journey! Get to know the must-visit cities in the main European regions

A rail adventure that will capture your senses throughout the Swiss highlights

A quick taste of the different regions of Switzerland aboard of our scenic trains

A great combination of all – cable cars, cogwheel trains and snow peaks!

The perfect way to discover the diversity of Switzerland from the comfort of your seat!

Enjoy the fresh air and stunning vistas from two of Switzerland's most famous mountains

Experience Zurich's vibe and the scenery of the Jungfrau region - the CLOY way

Get a glimpse at the fascinating mountains and lakes of the Bernese Oberland region.

A great experience along lakes and mountains connected through the Golden Pass Line.

Busy rail itinerary covering 7 very diverse Swiss destinations and 5 scenic trains...

Select one of the Switzerland train tours and fill in your contact information at the bottom of the page and we will respond to your request quickly. If you can’t find what you are looking for and would like us to present you with an individual proposal then fill in our custom vacation form .  You can look at sample itineraries or use our standard itineraries as a base – just let us know what you prefer and we present your with your own Switzerland tour package. We can also combine your ideas for Switzerland with our neighboring countries for a European tour package. Switzerland is an all year vacation paradise boasting of spectacular mountain scenery, clean lakes and attractive cities that are ideal to spend your vacation.

One of the most culturally diverse countries in the Europe, Switzerland is a magic place to visit. At Magic Switzerland we have lots of experience and the expertise that comes with it. You can rely on our expert travel consultants to assist you in planning and booking your Switzerland train tour. Once you are in Switzerland we personally support you to make sure you enjoy yourselves. Our Swiss roots and network will enhance your experience from your first interaction with us and until it is time to leave again.

There are well over a hundred individual tourist destinations and resorts in Switzerland. The main highlights are the Matterhorn in Zermatt, the Jungfrau Joch in the Bernese Oberland, Berne the Capital of Switzerland with its UNESCO protected Old Town, taking a scenic train like the Glacier Express, Lucerne with its proximity to lake and mountains, the French speaking part of Switzerland around Lake Geneva and the Ticino, Switzerland’s Italian speaking canton.  Each area has its own charm and combining the right areas and activities is the best way to select your Switzerland tour package. Knowing you and learning about your preferences and wishes is critical to us. Call our experts and share your Switzerland train tour ideas and what you are looking for during your visit of Switzerland.

Contact our experts to set up a Custom Switzerland Itinerary for you!

Train tours by days, 4 days / 3 nights.

Glacier and Bernina Express Classic Golden Pass Tour

5 days / 4 nights

Scenic Rail Adventure Famous Mountain Peaks Best of Switzerland

7 days / 6 nights

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Classic

8 days / 7 nights

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Jungfrau Highlights of Switzerland Crash Landing on You Grand Train Tour In The Footsteps of James Bond

9 days / 8 nights

Greatest Rail Adventure

10 days / 9 nights

Epic Switzerland Best of France, Switzerland and Italy

Pay in full discount

from pp Twin Share

Single Traveller

12 Day Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland

On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

✓ Incredible sightseeing! Tour Switzerland by world-famous rail journeys, experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station, explore cosmopolitan cities like Zurich and charming Swiss villages and resort destinations like Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Montreux and Interlaken  ✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel with all arrangements made for you ✓ 11 nights in handpicked, quality 3-star accommodation  ✓ Breakfast daily ✓ World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express ✓ Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains ✓ Self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station ✓ Entry to Lindt Home of Chocolate ✓ Panoramic cruise on Yacht MS Saphir in Lucerne  ✓ Guest cards in Zurich, Lucerne, Lugano, Montreux, and Interlaken, providing free local transport and discounted shopping opportunities 

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

Explore this dreamy part of the world at your own pace. Start with sophisticated Zurich and then see Switzerland the best way, on world-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps. Discover idyllic alpine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, charming mountain villages and luxury resort destinations.

Day 1 Zurich

Grüezi! Welcome to Switzerland. After your arrival at the airport, make your own way to the hotel and enjoy your first day at leisure. As a lakeside "metropolis of experiences", with a magnificent view of the snow‐capped Alps on the horizon, Zurich offers a unique mixture of attractions.

Start with the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings. If you feel like getting a better view, take the train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain. From the station, it’s a short walk to the peak and the scenery is incredible over Zurich, the lake and the Alps. Or if you’re in the Old Town and fancy a vantage point, you can walk up Lindenhof Hill for sweeping views over the city.  

Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

Day 2 Zurich

Wake up to a delicious Swiss breakfast, then take a stroll along the famous Bahnhofstrasse — Zurich's shopping paradise. A quick detour will lead you to the narrower cobbled streets of Zurich's Old Town and its smaller, independent artisan shops. Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate (self-guided), and take the opportunity to use your included 24-hour Zurich Card for local transport and various discounts across the city. Be sure to not miss the picturesque waterfront promenades!

Day 3 Zurich Lucerne

After breakfast, transfer by rail to Lucerne in Central Switzerland, situated in an enviable location surrounded by a stunning lake and mountain panorama. The historic town of Lucerne attracts visitors globally with its well-preserved old town, countless shops and restaurants. A visit to Chapel Bridge, which has stood the test of time as a traditional crossing for locals, is one of many highlights that are sure to impress. 

Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23 kg due to train compartment restrictions.

Day 4 Lucerne Flüelen Gotthard Panorama Express Lugano

This morning, the Gotthard Panorama Express takes you from the heart of Switzerland, with a journey through Lake Lucerne on a paddle steamer boat.  From Flüelen, travel by first-class panoramic train to Lugano, a picturesque lakeside town in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region.

Use the provided guest card to take full advantage of local transport and explore nearby villages, such as the pretty village of Morcote.

Day 5 Lugano Tirano Bernina Express St. Moritz

Board the Bernina Express bus after breakfast, and enjoy a scenic drive to Italy-based Tirano where you join the Bernina Express panoramic train across the border back to Switzerland. You will travel over circular viaducts and pass through winding tunnels, with highlights including the Brusio Circular Viaduct and a photo stop at Alp Grüm. 

Arrive in St. Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley, and spend the rest of the day at leisure. This luxury alpine resort town, a favourite for celebrities and royals, is surely one of the world’s most famous winter sports resorts. This was the first mountain village in the country to have a ski school, a tram and electric lighting. The Winter Olympics have been held here twice. It’s a renowned ski destination.

Day 6 St. Moritz

A full day awaits to explore St. Moritz, where guests from all over the world appreciate the modern Alpine lifestyle. Take advantage of your included guest card to visit the local area. We suggest the nearby mountains of Muottas Murgal or Diavolezza for incredible views that are not to be missed. Various sights including the leaning tower, a remnant of the Mauritius Church from around 1500, or the Segantini Museum, offer unique insight into the city’s fascinating history. 

Day 7 St. Moritz Glacier Express Zermatt

Ride the world‐famous Glacier Express to Zermatt today, a gorgeous village near the Italian border. Be enthralled by Switzerland’s spectacular scenery, thanks to oversized, panoramic windows that make for an unforgettable experience. Along the deep Rhone valley, the Glacier Express travels through an incredibly fascinating part of the Alps. The route famously takes you through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, offering unrivalled views. Make sure to have your camera handy! Optionally, you may wish to dine at your seat with a delicious 3-course meal served on your table (additional charges apply). 

Day 8 Zermatt

Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is arguably the world's most famous mountain. This car‐free resort offers guests an abundance of activities such as visits to the local mountains of Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It is also home to the highest open-air cog railway in Europe. 

Day 9 Zermatt Montreux

Continue by train to Montreux, nestled between steep hills and the lakeside of Lake Geneva. The town's promenade is lined with flowers, sculptures, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque buildings. Nearby attractions include the medieval island castle, Chateau de Chillon and the vineyards of the Lavaux region.

Day 10 Montreux GoldenPass Express Wilderswil

Your journey continues by train on the GoldenPass Express through the wild and romantic Pays d'Enhaut, complete with scenic villages and crystal-clear lakes at every corner. 

Interlaken is a laidback resort town, presided over by three mighty mountains, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It makes a great base from which to explore the Bernese Oberland. Unprecedented views of the Swiss Alps give an impression of what is to come during your stay.

Höheweg, the main promenade of Interlaken, is lovely for a stroll. It runs from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun, with flower gardens and parks on one side allowing for a view of the Bernese Alps. On the other side you’ll find high-end hotels, boutiques, cafes and the casino.

Note: if you have selected the 4* hotel upgrade, you will be staying at Interlaken instead of Wilderswil.

Day 11 Wilderswil Jungfraujoch Wilderswil

Your penultimate day in Switzerland packs another highlight! This morning you will embark on a self-guided excursion to the Jungfraujoch, also known as the highest railway station in Europe. You may choose to go via Grindelwald Terminal on the technical marvel that is Eiger Express cable car, or take the traditional route by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg. Highlights include the world’s highest Lindt Chocolate Shop and the Ice Palace with its impressive ice sculptures.

Day 12 Wilderswil Zurich

Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through Switzerland. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring trip.

Your train ticket includes the rail transfer from Wilderswil to Zurich airport, allowing you the flexibility to select a suitable connection for your departure flight. Trains via Lucerne typically depart every hour. 

Note: If you wish to conclude your journey at a Swiss destination other than Zurich, we can make arrangements for an extra fee. Please reach out to us to inquire about a personalized quotation.

What's Included

• Incredible sightseeing! Tour Switzerland by world-famous rail journeys, experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station, explore cosmopolitan cities like Zurich and charming Swiss villages and resort destinations like Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Montreux and Interlaken
• Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel with all arrangements made for you
• 11 nights in handpicked, quality 3-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily
• World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express
• Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains
• Self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station
• Entry to Lindt Home of Chocolate
• Panoramic cruise on Yacht MS Saphir in Lucerne 
• Guest cards in Zurich, Lucerne, Lugano, Montreux, and Interlaken, providing free local transport and discounted shopping opportunities

Tour Highlights

• Zurich – Enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped Alps in this ‘Metropolis of Experiences’ 
• Lucerne – Visit famous Chapel Bridge and board the Gotthard Panorama Express including a paddle steamer boat experience on picturesque Lake Lucerne 
• Lugano – Board the Bernina Express including bus and panoramic train rides across circular viaducts and winding tunnels 
• St. Moritz – Use your included guest card to explore this picturesque village, then take the world-famous Glacier Express through valleys and the Alps
• Zermatt – Marvel at the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains, and stroll through this car-free resort town with an abundance of activities at your leisure
• Montreux – Walk the town’s promenade and admire grand Belle Epoque buildings, and perhaps consider a visit to nearby Chillon castle or the vineyards of the Lavaux region
• Wilderswil/Interlaken – On your way stop at the famous Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, and marvel at impressive ice sculptures 

Rail & Accommodation Upgrades

4 Star Hotel upgrade ($820 person. Single price on application.) Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your hotel to 4-star. 1st Class Rail Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors, including seat reservation on the scenic trains. Upgrade for $413 per person.  First Class has dedicated carriages offering a higher level of comfort with spacious seats and less passengers per carriage.  Some trains will have larger windows in First Class.

Golden Pass Prestige Class + 1st class rail supplement  The Prestige class is characterised by its very comfortable, heated seats which enable the passenger to face in the direction of travel. The Prestige area is raised by 40 centimetres to allow the passengers to be fully immersed in the landscape. The passenger feels like sitting in the landscape. Upgrade for $515 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

Glacier Express 3-Course Lunch  As you gaze out at the stunning alpine panorama, enjoy a freshly prepared 3-course meal on board and served at your seat. Upgrade for $102 per person. 

Glacier Express Excellence Class + 1st class rail supplement  A panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express is now even more spectacular with guaranteed window seats and panoramic views. The new Excellence Class sets standards that are as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route. Along the way you will be served a refined regional 5-course menu with accompanying wines. For an aperitif, some delicious cocktail or to exchange with fellow travellers the Glacier Bar is the perfect place to visit. Thanks to the compass on the ceiling none of the many turns will be missed.

During the entire journey, you will be taken care of by a concierge. Be it with culinary delights, answers to personal concerns or exciting anecdotes and information about nature, culture and people along the journey. Upgrade for $1,394 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

Complementary Services on Excellence Class

• Lounge seating with guaranteed window seat
• Exclusive access to the Glacier Bar
• Tablet with Bord Infotainment
• Concierge as host in the Excellence Class
• Welcome-Desk & personal check-in on the platform
• Luggage transport in dedicated lockable sections aboard
• Coffee, juice, soft drinks
• Starter plate with Champagne
• Regional 5-course menu incl. wine accompaniment
• Tea Time in the afternoon with goodies
• Snacks throughout the day available

Ultimate Rail Upgrade - Golden Pass Prestige Class + Glacier Express Excellence Class + 1st class supplement Our Ultimate Rail Upgrade bundle offers an unparalleled experience, combining the luxurious inclusions of the Golden Pass Prestige Class and the Glacier Express Excellence Class, along with 1st class tickets for all other sectors of your journey. Upgrade for $1,496 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

As this service is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.

Payment Terms

Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person. Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options. Instalment Schedule:

• At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
• Pay a 1st installment of $540.00 per person within 28 days.
• Pay a 2nd installment of $1,080.00 per person within 90 days.
• You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Flight Information & Booking Options

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Visa & Passport

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here .

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorized as a”3”

Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $1,425.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE .

Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.

Children Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Style To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveler has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

• Independent - On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible.

Luggage Requirements Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23 kg due to train compartment restrictions.

Health & Mobility Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation & Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $445.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $597.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

• International airfares
• Airport Transfer
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Local taxes such as hotel city taxes
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland (Itinerary, Info and Map)

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers visitors to this incredibly beautiful country a unique way to see all the highlights. 

Although it’s called a Switzerland train tour, the Grand Tour is actually a self-guided trip that combines Switzerland’s most scenic train rides with all the key sights. 

The Swiss Grand Train Tour comprises eight different legs, covering 1,280 kilometres, and visitors can choose to take as few or many of these trips as they like to create a bespoke itinerary reflecting their interests.

In this way, individual train tours in Switzerland can be designed just as the visitor pleases.

Whilst all eight sections can be completed in eight days, if time permits, we recommend you take a little longer to complete the route.

This is because taking the tour in eight days means travelling every day, leaving you short of time for seeing the sights and enjoying some time in each destination. 

Ideally, a 14 day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is recommended for those who want to get the very best out of their trip through Switzerland. 

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

The entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland visits ten destinations, passes by eleven lakes, and incorporates journeys on all five premium panoramic trains.

Travellers wishing to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience that is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can either make all their own rail and hotel arrangements, or they can book one of the Switzerland train tour packages that are based on the Grand Tour route.

We’ll cover both options in more detail below.

What's in this Article

Booking a Switzerland train tour package

The easiest way to plan your Grand Tour of Switzerland by train is to book a pre-designed Grand Train Tour package . There are a number of different packages available, ranging from 3 days / 2 nights up to 9 days / 8 nights.

These self-guided tours of Switzerland include all rail travel on your chosen route as well as accommodation. 

Travellers have the flexibility to amend the pre-designed itineraries to suit their own requirements.  Additional days can be added and excursions can be included at each destination.

Travellers can also choose the standard of accommodation and room type they prefer and choose between first class and second class train travel.

One of the most popular Switzerland train tours is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original.  This 8 day / 7 night itinerary includes rides on five of the most scenic trains Switzerland has to offer, making it the ideal way to tour Switzerland by train.

Seat reservations on the premium panoramic train rides in Switzerland are also included.

The ‘Original’ Grand Train Tour of Switzerland package can be easily extended if you have additional time and would like to spend more time in each destination. 

To make your Switzerland trip even easier, the tour can also be booked with luggage transport.

Simply leave your luggage in the hotel reception at the designated time each morning and it will be waiting for you at your destination hotel later the same day.

🇨🇭 Listen to our podcast episode about Swiss rail packages here .

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland price

Having the option to customise the itinerary to your own requirements makes a Grand train tour of Switzerland hotel package very affordable.

Prices for a 3 day / 2 night ‘Stunning Waters’ Grand Tour start from just CHF 300 per adult, whilst the 8 day / 7 night Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original package starts from CHF 1280 per adult.

> Click here to browse all 10 Grand Train Tour of Switzerland packages  

EXCLUSIVE BONUS OFFER Holidays to Switzerland readers can benefit from a 5% discount when they book one of Switzerland Travel Centre’s Grand Train Tour of Switzerland journeys . Simply quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for the discount.  > Click here to browse the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itineraries .

Planning a DIY Switzerland Grand Train Tour 

If you love the research side of planning your trips, and have the time to book each of the components of your Switzerland train itinerary separately, we recommend you consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass .

This all-in-one public transport ticket covers all of Switzerland by train, bus, boat and tram. With the Swiss Travel Pass there’s no need to purchase individual train tickets in Switzerland for each leg of the journey, as the pass allows you to hop on and off each train in Switzerland as you wish.

The Swiss Travel Pass incorporates all of the premium panoramic trains that run throughout the country, including the Luzern-Interlaken Express, Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line, Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express.  > Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

(*Note: seat reservations – which are an additional cost – are compulsory for the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Express Prestige Class, and are recommended for all premium panoramic trains.) 

Prefer to drive around Switzerland? Click here to see our 14-day itinerary of Switzerland by car.

The Original Grand Tour of Switzerland by Train Itinerary

The original 8-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itinerary visits the most popular tourist destinations in the country and includes rides on the famous Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express. (See our Transport section for detailed guides on each of the premium panoramic trains.)

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland 8-day itinerary

• Day 1: start anywhere in Switzerland > Interlaken
• Day 2: Interlaken > Montreux
• Day 3: Montreux > Zermatt
• Day 4: Zermatt > St. Moritz
• Day 5: St. Moritz > Lugano
• Day 6: Lugano > Lucerne
• Day 7: Lucerne > St. Gallen
• Day 8: St. Gallen > finish anywhere in Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Sectors

There is no official start and finish point as visitors can choose to commence their journey wherever is most convenient.  You can, of course, add additional overnight stays in your chosen locations to extend the duration of your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

As Zurich is the gateway to Switzerland for most visitors, we have used it as the start and end point for this itinerary and have provided a day-by-day itinerary so you can see just how much of the country you can cover.

Zurich – Lucerne – Interlaken

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Luzern-Interlaken Express

Distance/Journey time: 131km / 2h:45

Highlights of the journey:

After travelling from Zurich to Lucerne by a regular intercity train, passengers join the Luzern to Interlaken Express which connects two of Switzerland’s most desirable destinations.

En route, visitors pass glistening lakes, tumbling waterfalls and enjoy alpine vistas, as well as travelling over the Brunig Pass. 

This scenic train in Switzerland journeys into the breathtaking Jungfrau region, and forms the first part of the GoldenPass Line that travels on to Montreux.

What to do in Interlaken

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Interlaken , such as rafting, paragliding and canyoning. For the best views over the city and lakes Brienz and Thun, a funicular ride to Harder Kulm is highly recommended. 

Visitors can also take trips to Schnyige Platte, the Jungfraujoch or Brienz Rothorn, or take a train ride to gorgeous Lauterbrunnen.

Where to stay in Interlaken

• 3* Hotel Beausite > click here to check prices
• 4* Carlton Vintage Adults Hotel > click here to check prices

There are more hotels in Interlaken to suit all budgets in this article.

Interlaken – Montreux

Premium Panoramic Trains used: GoldenPass Express

Distance/Journey time: 120km / 3h:15

Highlights of the journey

As it departs Interlaken, the GoldenPass Express glides past Lake Thun before continuing to Zweisimmen in the Bernese Oberland, via the Simmen Valley. 

Along the way, this panoramic train in Switzerland passes a range of rivers, clear mountain lakes and waterfalls. Travellers can also see pastures where cattle graze and majestic castles. 

The glitzy resort village of Gstaad is an ideal place to stop off for a stroll and a meal, before reboarding for the final part of the journey.

The trip comes to an end when the train arrives in Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva.

What to do in Montreux

Popular activities in Montreux include lake cruises and visiting Chillon Castle, while some like to explore the nearby Lavaux vineyards. 

Other day trips from the city include the Alimentarium in Vevey, the world’s first museum dedicated solely to food, as well as excursions to Rochers de Naye, Geneva and Gruyeres. The latter is where the famous Swiss cheese originated. 

Where to stay in Montreux

• 3* Hotel Splendid > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Eden Palace Montreux > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Montreux in this guide .

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Distance/Journey time: 148km / 2h:30

This leg of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland takes visitors through the magnificent Rhone Valley. The destination is Zermatt , but before arriving in the home of the mighty Matterhorn visitors will pass through Visp. 

The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway then travels through the Nikolai Valley, climbing over 900 metres in altitude with the assistance of cogwheel technology.

What to do in Zermatt

Zermatt is famous for its car-free centre – as well as the majesty of the Matterhorn. There are spa springs and plenty of shopping to enjoy in the pretty resort of Zermatt. 

To see the Matterhorn more closely, visitors can take a cable car ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Alternatively, spending time on the Gornergratbahn is also popular. 

Hiking and skiing – which is available all year round – are also popular activities in Zermatt.

Where to stay in Zermatt

• 3* Hotel Bristol Zermatt > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Mirabeau & Spa > click here to check prices

Read more: Best hotels in Zermatt.

Zermatt – Chur – St. Moritz

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Glacier Express

Distance/Journey time: 291km / 7h:45

Train rides in Switzerland don’t come much more iconic – or scenic – than the Glacier Express . This is surely the most dramatic of all train journeys in Switzerland, not least because it’s the longest sector. 

En route, travellers can marvel at typically Swiss panoramas including deep ravines, pretty villages, vast forests, 91 tunnels, 291 bridges, and the breathtaking Landwasser Viaduct. 

The slowest express train in the world – as it is often known – also crosses the Oberalp Pass.

What to do in St. Moritz

St. Moritz is an elegant ski resort where visitors can take to the slopes in winter or hike in summer.  Trips and activities on the lake are also popular.

It’s also a great place to take in the fresh mountain air while admiring sweeping views over the Swiss landscape. St Moritz also has a leaning tower that’s well worth a visit. 

Where to stay in St. Moritz

• 3* Hotel Waldhaus am See > click here to check prices
• 4* Crystal Hotel St. Moritz > click here to check prices

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

 Premium Panoramic Trains used: Bernina Express

Distance/Journey time: 183km / 6h:30

Travel by train in Switzerland between St. Moritz and Lugano, and the journey will take you from the ski slopes of St. Moritz to the palm trees of Lugano, via Tirano in Italy and the 2253 metre high Bernina Pass. 

The Rhaetian railway line, on which the Bernina Express runs, is one of only three in the world that have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lakes, switchback tunnels, and even an alpine garden can also be glimpsed along the way. 

The Morteratsch Glacier is also a highlight. 

What to do in Lugano

Lugano is a pretty Italian-influenced resort with an interesting Old Town and an enviable lakeside position. With something of a Mediterranean air, Lugano has a lovely palm-lined promenade. 

Visitors can take a lake cruise, or sample some Italian-style Swiss dishes at the town’s fine selection of cafes and restaurants. Mountain excursions to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore are also popular. 

Where to stay in Lugano

• 3* Continental Parkhotel > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel de la Paix > click here to check prices

Lugano – Flüelen – Lucerne

Premium Panoramic Trains used:   Gotthard Panorama Express

Distance/Journey time: 182km / 5h:30

Train tours in Switzerland don’t come much more diverse than the sector between Lugano and Lucerne. As the train rolls through the scenic landscape, visitors pass through the famed Gotthard panoramic route, then the impressive Reuss Valley. 

At  Flüelen, travellers board a modern motor boat or historic paddle steamer to glide across the waters of Lake Lucerne before reaching the city of Lucerne.

What to do in Lucerne

Lucerne is a city very much at the heart of Swiss history, so there’s lots to see and do in Lucerne . Many visitors like to take a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne. 

As well as exploring the town on the shores of the lake, travellers can see Chapel Bridge or take a mountain excursion to Rigi, Titlis, Pilatus or Stanserhorn.

Where to stay in Lucerne

• 3* Hotel des Alpes > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Astoria > click here to check prices

Browse more accommodation options in our Lucerne Hotels Guide .

Lucerne – St. Gallen

Distance/Journey time: 125km / 2h:15

The Voralpen Express (Pre-Alps Express) takes travellers past some of the mightiest mountains of the Swiss Alps – including the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. 

This panorama train in Switzerland begins at Lake Lucerne, passing gentle rolling green hills as well as majestic peaks en route. 

It also passes Rapperswil and the Rothenthurmer upland moors, before crossing Lake Zurich and the 99-metre high Sitter Viaduct before arriving in St. Gallen.

What to do in St. Gallen

The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Abbey Library and District are a particular highlight of St. Gallen. Situated between Lake Constance and the Appenzeller region , St Gallen is a compact town that’s easy to explore on foot. 

The biggest draws include the open-air, art nouveau pool, the baroque cathedral and the library’s Rococo Hall.

Read our guide to things to do in St. Gallen here .

Where to stay in St. Gallen

• 3* Sorell Hotel City Weissenstein > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Walhalla > click here to check prices

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zurich

Distance/Journey time: 133km / 2h:30

Your train journey through Switzerland will reveal an interesting truth – the fact that this landlocked European nation has a real maritime heritage. Lake Constance in particular has played a leading role. 

The journey between St. Gallen and Zurich travels along the lake’s shore for 40 kilometres. After that, it traces the route of the Rhine past Schaffhausen, home of the Rhine Falls and Munot Fortress. The falls are the largest in Europe.

Should time allow, a side trip to the pretty medieval town of Stein am Rhein is highly recommended.

What to do in Zurich

Zurich is the financial and industrial hub of Switzerland, and as such is sometimes overlooked by visitors. However, it also boasts a fascinating Old Town – the Altstadt – that dates back to pre-medieval times. 

The Old Town is bisected by the Limmat River, and this has waterside promenades. The Rathaus dates back to the 1600s, and a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse – one of Europe’s most expensive shopping strips – is a must.

The city is built beside Lake Zurich which is popular for boat cruises and water sports. 

Where to stay in Zurich

• 3* Hotel Adler > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Zurich in this article .

Adding more days to your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Itinerary

As mentioned above, the original Grand Train Tour of Switzerland route can be completed in eight days, however we suggest allowing more time in some destinations.

For a 12-day Switzerland by train itinerary, add additional nights in Interlaken, Zermatt, Lugano and Lucerne.  If you have 15 days available for your journey by train through Switzerland, stay two nights in each destination.

More Grand Tour of Switzerland by train itineraries

If you don’t have a full week available or don’t want to travel the entire Grand Train Tour route, you can choose to travel on the sectors that are of particular interest to you.

To make it easier to choose an alternative itinerary, a number of shorter Grand Train Tour package options are available.  Click on the tour name below for further details and see below for our bonus offer:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Original – 8 days / 7 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Classic – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Top Attractions – 5 days / 4 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Historic Tour – 6 days / 5 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Glaciers & Palm Trees – 4 days / 3 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters – 3 days / 2 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Hidden Treasures – 3 days / 2 nights

Travel all year round

No matter what time of year you plan to take your Switzerland holiday, you can enjoy your very own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. 

The Swiss railways – and therefore the premium panoramic trains – operate year round* so even during the winter months it’s possible to enjoy these spectacular Swiss train journeys.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland in winter takes in all the seasonal highlights of Switzerland, including pure white snow, frozen lakes and glaciers.  Click the tour names below for further details:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Magic Tour – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Edition – 9 days / 8 nights

*The Glacier Express does not operate between mid-October and around 9 December. There are no Bernina Express bus services in December and January.  The Gotthard Panorama Express only operates from mid-April until mid-October. Regular trains operate on the Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express routes year round.

Don’t forget to quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for a 5% discount on package holidays. 

No matter what season you travel, touring Switzerland by train makes for the most memorable of holidays.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

Ready to plan your own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland? It is highly recommended that anyone undertaking this rail journey downloads the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app.

The free app is available in seven languages, including English, German and Chinese. 

Using the app gives travellers access to exclusive offers via digital coupons and helps to make sure you get the best from all the key sights. 

The app will guide you as you make the journey, taking in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lakes, alpine panoramas, glaciers and Swiss cities. Fun facts and top tips are given throughout, and you can tick off where you’ve been via the ‘been there’ function. 

You can also play by collecting rewards and stamps, which you can then share via social media. Those who become a ‘Master of Grand Train Tour of Switzerland’ will even receive a surprise reward at the end of the journey!

Final Thoughts about the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Following the suggested eight sectors of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a convenient way to see all the highlights the country has to offer – from north to south and east to west.

Should you not have time to cover the whole route, simply choose the sectors that connect the destinations you wish to visit and tailor your Swiss rail itinerary to suit.

Whether you prefer a DIY approach and want to purchase your Swiss Travel Pass or rail tickets and accommodation separately, or would rather book a package which includes transport and accommodation, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the ideal way to explore this scenic country.

Get your 5% discount by quoting the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking with Switzerland Travel Centre . 

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Podcast Episode

Click the green arrow below to learn more about the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

Episode 62: Fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region with kids

Episode 63: Tips for planning your 2023 trip to Switzerland

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10 of Europe’s greatest escorted rail trips

“Dear Victoria,” wrote Agatha Christie, “gateway to the world beyond England. How I love your continental platform, and how I love trains anyway.” The author was an inveterate traveller across Europe , often joining her archaeologist husband, Max Mallowan, on his digs in the Middle East, and millions still identify with her sentiments.

Train travel is liberating – and not just from traffic jams and airport queues. Besides the pleasure of watching landscapes unfold, it frees the mind to wander in a way all too rare in today’s world. Passing scenes outside the window spark a reverie of thoughts, reminiscences, and conjectures. It makes you feel that the holiday has begun when you board the first train, not when you finally leave the airport.

It’s the most relaxing way to travel, especially when someone else is in charge of the planning, with the next hotel or cultural attraction already arranged in advance. Using trains as the prime means of travel to explore countries with good services has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism – and it helps the planet, too.

The CEO of Great Rail Journeys, Dave Riley, says the company’s “2024 and ‘25 seasons have continued to see incredible growth across Europe and the rest of the world. Great Rail Journeys is up 35 per cent (year on year) for 2025, with our tours in India and Vietnam proving to be extremely popular. Our most popular Europe tours, including Switzerland, Italy and Scandinavia, have seen our strongest ever growth in new customers.” 

Riley is not the only one feeling optimistic. Maria Cook, general manager of Ffestiniog Travel, believes that it’s their “enthusiasm for and knowledge of railways around the world that is recognised by our travellers and why over 60 per cent of customers return to travel with us year on year”.

It’s full steam ahead, then, for escorted rail adventures. We’ve picked 10 of the best journeys across the continent, each offering a hassle-free way to see some of Europe’s most spectacular locations. Dame Agatha would have been proud indeed.

Find the perfect route

London to ajaccio, ljubljana to pristina, lisbon and porto, london to malaga, brussels to tallinn , cologne to assmannhausen, strasbourg to tiefencastel, istanbul to budapest, a grand tour.

Italy’s most iconic region is a joy to discover by train. Set off from London to Turin (with a change in Paris) for your first night, before heading to the spa town of Montecatini Terme, your base for the week. From here, a funicular can be taken to Montecatini Alto for spectacular views over the valley. 

Local trains are used to visit Tuscan cities and towns, beginning with a day in Florence for a guided tour of such architectural treasures as the Ponte Vecchio and the cathedral, whose dome by Brunelleschi is still a construction puzzle. Lucca can be explored on foot or by an easy ride along the ramparts by bike. The tour continues to Pisa for its astounding tower.

After a day wandering among the 13 towers in the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, there is a tour of the garden and cellars of Castello di Verrazzano before a dinner of local produce. Following the final day in Siena, famed for its shell-shaped piazza and cathedral with statues by Michelangelo and Donatello,  a coach takes the party back to France for a night on the Côte d’Azur before the train back to London via Paris.

Great Rail Journeys (01904 521936) offers the 10-day Highlights of Tuscany tour from £1,895pp, including all rail and coach travel, luggage transfers and nine nights’ four-star accommodation, with monthly departure dates until October 19.

The Splendour of Corsica

Eurostar and TGV are used to reach Lyon for the first night before continuing to Nice for two nights, allowing a trip inland by narrow-gauge train along the steep-sided craggy valley to Digne-les-Bains.

Corsica is reached by ferry to Bastia, the northern terminus of the island’s mountainous main line which offers views denied to all but intrepid walkers. The railway includes some spectacular engineering, including a viaduct by Gustave Eiffel across the River Vecchio and a tunnel almost 4km long before the descent to the southern terminus at Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon.

Nights are spent in the seaside resort of Calvi, served by a branch railway, as well as Bastia and Ajaccio, giving plenty of time to use the railway to explore the island. A coach tour takes in the picturesque Cap Corse promontory with mountains rearing out of the sea along its western shore.

The return is by ferry to the naval city of Toulon where a night is spent before moving on for a final night in Lyon and back to London via Lille.

Ffestiniog Travel (01766 512400) offers this 14-day tour from £2,975pp, including all rail and coach travel and accommodation on a B&B basis. Departs September 16.

A ride through history

Expect a fascinating lesson on Europe’s colourful past on this tour of seven countries. It begins in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, where there’s a full day of soaking up the lively, small-town atmosphere, before taking the train to the Croatian capital, Zagreb. 

After a walking tour of the city’s Austro-Hungarian architecture, the waterfalls in Plitvice National Park are the setting for a picnic lunch, before a ride south through spectacular mountain landscapes to Sarajevo, for an insight into the beginnings of the First World War and the siege of the city in the 1990s. 

You’ll also see scenic ­Mostar and the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, before admiring the scenery between Podgorica and Belgrade. The time in the Serbian capital includes an excursion to Novi Sad, where the Petrovaradin Fortress dominates the city, and the final days are spent visiting North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, where parts of the fortress date from the 6th century. The ancient Macedonian city of Heraclea, Lake Ohrid for a boat ride, and Kosovo’s capital, Pristina, are among the highlights.

Responsible Travel (01273 823700) offers the 16-day Balkans trip from £2,899pp, including all rail and coach travel, expert guides, excursions and accommodation in local guest houses. Multiple departures until September 28 2024. Flights not included.

The best of Portugal

Starting in Lisbon, this eight-day tour begins among the narrow streets of the Portuguese capital, where old-school trams clatter up and down the city’s hills. 

Local trains will take you to the former royal summer residence of Sintra, where Lord Byron is said to have conceived Childe Harold, and also the chic fishing town of Cascais and its museum quarter.

After four nights in Lisbon, the tour heads north to Porto, with its Unesco-listed historic centre a striking contrast to the city’s spectacular modern buildings, such as Rem Koolhaas’s geometric Casa da Música. A day is also devoted to the scenic train journey through the lush Douro Valley, with a port tasting at one of its many quintas (wine estates).

Rail Discoveries (01904 734939) offers the Lisbon, Porto & Douro Valley tour from £1,299pp, including all rail and coach travel, guides and accommodation. Departures in August, September and October, available from Gatwick and regional airports.

Wine and waves

The high-speed service from the French capital to Barcelona might be the most practical way to reach Spain on a train (taking around six and a half hours), but why not follow the Atlantic coast instead? 

After taking the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord where the tour leader will meet the train, a TGV will whisk you to Bordeaux for a tour of the historic centre and markets. It is then a leisurely ride along the coast, through the pine forests of Aquitaine and the Pyrenean foothills, across the border to San Sebastián , the gourmet capital of Spain’s Basque Country. 

Join the locals in one of the many pintxo bars, take five on the beautiful Playa de La Concha or follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on a stretch of the Camino Norte. From here, you will head south to Segovia, renowned for its storybook castle and Roman aqueduct, before a final journey to Malaga via a night in Madrid . 

Far more than a gateway to the Costa del Sol, the city is a lively cultural hub and the birthplace of Picasso, with a whole museum dedicated to the painter.  You might even want to extend your journey to Morocco; from Algeciras, it’s a short ferry crossing to Tangier, where the country’s rail network links up the coastal cities of Rabat and Casablanca, as well as the historic treasures of Fez and Marrakech.  

Explore (01252 240700;) offers the London to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach tour from £1,600pp, including all rail travel, accommodation and guides. Five departure dates until November 4. Return from Malaga not included.

A Baltic odyssey

This six-country tour begins with Eurostar to Brussels and a connection to Bremen for the first night. After two days exploring Copenhagen , a high-speed train crosses the dramatic  Øresund Bridge, featured in Scandi Noir series, to reach Stockholm. A day is spent in the Swedish capital, built over 14 islands, before a flight to Riga and its architectural delights: an historic centre with 13th-century Lutheran cathedral and Art Nouveau buildings, and such modern gems as the national library, shaped like a mountain and known as the ‘Castle of Light’.

A coach along the Gulf of Riga takes you on to the Estonian capital of Tallinn for another two nights. Its lower town is one of the best-preserved medieval districts in Europe, and the city’s vibrant cafés add to the pleasure of exploring the cobbled streets on foot. A network of hidden tunnels built under Swedish rule during the 17th century is one of the city’s more unusual attractions.

A ferry is taken to Helsinki for two days exploring the Finnish capital and archipelago: among the sights are the planned city square surrounded by the cathedral, government palace and university, a rock church hewn out of solid stone, a World Heritage Site fortress on an island and many fine Art Nouveau-influenced buildings.

Return to London is either by plane from Helsinki or by a three-day train and ferry journey, taking an overnight ferry across the Baltic Sea to Travemünde for Lübeck, coach to Hamburg and a train to Cologne for the night and back to London via Brussels.

Great Rail Journeys (01904 734152) offers the 16-day Highlights of the Baltics & Scandinavia tour from £3,195pp, including all rail, ferry, air and coach travel, luggage transfers, accommodation and most dinners. Numerous departures into 2025.

A walking break

The base hotel in the thermal town of Gréoux-les-Bains in reached from London by Eurostar and TGV. The hotel is a member of the Châteaux Demeures de Tradition and the Relais du Silence groups and prides itself on sourcing ingredients from producers within a 20km radius.

Over the next six days, guided walks ranging from 4 to 9.5 miles and mostly reached by coach explore the countryside that has inspired many painters. They take in wooded limestone plateau, ancient abbeys, botanic gardens, remote pilgrimage chapels, Roman roads, old canals and numerous picturesque villages.

An easier or harder option is offered for each day and there is a free day for relaxation or further suggested walks.

HF Holidays (020 3974 8865) offers the seven-night A Week in Provence tour from £1,999pp, including all rail and coach travel and half-board accommodation in a four-star hotel. Various departures to September 21.

River deep, mountain high

This nine-day tour encompasses two of the finest railway journeys in ­ Germany : along the Rhine and through the Harz Mountains. 

Travelling out by Eurostar and the high-speed ICE train, via a night in Cologne, this tour reaches Wernigerode, a base for four nights and the headquarters of the ­network of historic narrow-gauge ­railways. A highlight is the summit of the Brocken, which became a tourist destination after Goethe set a scene in Faust on the mountain. 

The locomotives make a thunderous ascent of the steep grad­ients – stand on one of the open-balcony coaches to take in the scent of pine resin as the line threads through forest. A journey on the Selketal line from Alexisbad to Gernrode is followed by an afternoon in Quedlinburg, a Unesco world heritage site for its 1,500 timber-­framed houses. 

The final four nights are spent in ­Assmannhausen on the Rhine with a cruise along the river. The day at leisure could be spent on a visit to a winery or exploring some of the other scenic lines in the region, such as Koblenz to ­Giessen along the River Lahn. 

Great Rail Journeys (01904 734152) offers the Harz Mountains and Rhine Gorge tour from £1,695pp, including all rail and coach travel, and all accommodation. Multiple departure dates until October 6.

Peaks and passes

The Glacier Express is one of Europe’s finest railway journeys for its stupendous scenery and the quality of the train, with its panoramic windows and audio commentary. 

A Eurostar and TGV whisk you to Strasbourg for the first night before moving on by train to the prettily sited village of Tiefencastel for six nights. 

The journeys over the next few days include the equally spectacular Bernina Express, over the highest rail crossing of the Alps at Ospizio Bernina at 2,253m (7,329ft) and the railway to the ski resort of Arosa, where there is plenty of time to explore Lake Obersee and Chur, ­Switzerland’s oldest town. 

You can also visit Bergun to see the museum telling the remarkable story behind this rare world heritage site railway or drop in at the restored art nouveau hotel, Kurhaus Bergun. On free days use the Swiss Travel Card for a 50 per cent reduction in fares. The return to ­London is via a night in Basel.

Rail Discoveries (01904 734939) offers the eight-day Glacier Express All Inclusive from £1,699, including all rail and coach travel, half-board accommodation, wine and beer and a Swiss Travel Card. Multiple departure dates until October 7.

En-suite luxury

For those who don’t fancy waddling down the corridor of a sleeper train at 2am in search of the bathroom, then the Danube Express Golden Eagle may be for you. The smart en-suite cabins accommodate a total of just 50 passengers; there are comfortable sofas in the lounge car, and meals in the restaurant car are served in a single sitting. 

And, of course, touring this way means you return to the same cabin every night rather than constantly packing and unpacking for hotels. Among the itineraries spanning 10 central and eastern European countries, Castles of Transylvania begins in Istanbul’s historic Pera Palace Hotel (ask to see the room used by Agatha Christie), with a tour of the city’s highlights.

From here, the seven-day tour includes the medieval castle in Bulgaria’s ancient capital at Veliko Tarnovo; the 19th-century Peles Castle in Sinaia, Romania, and Bran Castle in Brasov, forever linked with Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Budapest , Hungary’s timeless capital, is the final flourish.  

Golden Eagle Luxury Trains (0161 928 9410) offers the seven-day Castles of Transylvania tour from £8,895, including excursions, tips, ensuite on board and five-star pre- and post-tour accommodation. Departs May 10 and October 20. Excludes flights.

The article was first published in April 2023, and has been revised and updated.

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