There is definitely something magical about scenic train rides. The soft click-clack of the train wheels, the wide windows that let in views that are always changing, and the excited chatter of other passengers. The Glacier Express train through the Swiss Alps was one of those trips that I had always wanted to take. People say it’s one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, and I couldn’t wait to see for myself.
The famous ski towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz are linked by the Glacier Express, which goes through the middle of Switzerland. The trip is a visual treat, with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, sparkling glaciers, and cute towns. It looks like the trip will be an adventure you’ll never forget.
The Glacier Express was more than just a train ride for me. It gave me a chance to take things slowly, enjoy the beauty of nature, and learn about Swiss culture. The idea of taking the train has always interested me, and this trip seemed like the best way to do it.
Tip for travellers: Get your tickets early, especially during busy times. A lot of people take the Glacier Express, so seats can go fast.
How to buy Glacier Express Tickets
It was an adventure in and of itself to book my Glacier Express tickets. I chose trainline.com because it was easy to use and gave me clear information about prices. You can also book in person at nearby train stations or on the Glacier Express official website.
Book Early: If you want to get certain seats or are going during peak season, I suggest booking at least three months in advance. Here is the official timetable, you can download from the link.
Compare Prices: I checked prices on a few different sites before I booked to make sure I was getting the best deal.
Think About Ticket Types: There are different classes on the Glacier Express, and each one has a different amount of comfort and cost. I’ll talk more about these choices in the next part of the piece.
After I finished booking, I got an email with an e-ticket. It was really that easy!
A Look at the Train Journey
The Glacier Express road goes through 291 kilometres (181 miles) of beautiful Alpine scenery and is a work of engineering genius. Through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, it offers a view of mountains, valleys, and ice that changes all the time. It takes about 7.5 hours to get there, with a few short stops along the way.
The Oberalp Pass, the Rhine Gorge (also called the “Swiss Grand Canyon”), and the famous Landwasser Viaduct are some of the most beautiful places to see. Also, be ready for possible delays, especially in the winter or when it snows a lot. The train times can also change based on the time of year.
Types of trains and seat choices
There are three main ways to travel on the Glacier Express:
Excellence Class: This is the most luxurious choice. The seats are very roomy, the windows look out over the whole plane, and there is a dedicated concierge service. It also comes with a five-course gourmet meal paired with wine.
First Class has comfortable seats set up in a 2-1 layout, with lots of legroom and personal space. Views are beautiful through the large panoramic windows.
Second Class has seats set up in a 2-2 configuration and is the least expensive choice. It’s still comfortable, but there isn’t as much room for you to move around as in First Class.
I chose First Class, which was the best option for me. There were no obstructions in the views, the seats were very comfortable, and the atmosphere was overall calm and enjoyable.
Services on Board
The Glacier Express has everything you need for a nice trip.
Restrooms: The bathrooms on board are clean and well taken care of. There are both Western-style and squat toilets.
Dining Car: There are a variety of Swiss and foreign dishes and drinks and snacks in the dining car. I enjoyed a tasty cheese fondue, which is a traditional Swiss dish that you should try.
Bring Your Own Food: You can also bring your own food and drinks with you. I brought sandwiches, snacks, and a lot of water with me so I could stay refreshed on the trip.
Entertainment: There is no Wi-Fi on board, but the view is always changing, so there is plenty to do. I also brought a book and downloaded some videos to listen to when it was quiet.
Beautiful Views Along the Way
Every time the Glacier Express goes around a corner, it opens up a new, amazing view. The trip starts in Zermatt, a cute mountain town that is dominated by the famous Matterhorn peak. As the train goes up, the view changes from green slopes to snow-covered mountains and sparkling glaciers.
Crossing the Oberalp Pass, which was the highest point on the road, was one of the most memorable parts. The views from this spot were truly amazing, with wide views of the hills and valleys nearby. The Rhine Gorge, a scenic canyon made by the Rhine River, was another great sight. The train goes along the edge of the gorge and gives you great views of the rough terrain.
As you might expect, the Glacier Express trip would not be complete without seeing the Landwasser Viaduct. This famous bridge goes over a deep valley. As the train goes into the tunnel on the other side, it looks like it disappears into the hillside.
Photogenic Moments: Along the way, there are many chances to take pictures. Don’t forget to bring your camera so you can record the beautiful scenery and cute villages.
Best Times to See Beautiful Views: The views are lovely all along the way, but the light in the early morning and late afternoon can be especially magical.
Getting to know other passengers and train staff
There was a friendly and calm vibe on the Glacier Express. I slept in the same cabin as a German traveler by myself and an Australian couple. We talked about our trips, told each other stories, and even shared some snacks.
The train staff was also friendly and helpful. They told us about the way, answered our questions, and made sure our trip was comfortable. Even though there were some language obstacles, we were able to get our point across by using both words and body language.
Getting the Essentials Ready for the Trip
It takes some careful thought to pack for a long train trip. Here are some important travel tips:
Water and snacks: It’s important to stay hydrated and fed during the trip.
Comfortable Clothes: Pick clothes that don’t fit too tightly and let air flow through them.
Fun: To pass the time, bring a book or magazine with you or download some films or podcasts.
If you want to listen to music or talks without bothering other people, headphones are a good idea.
A neck pillow and a blanket will help you relax and maybe even fall asleep.
Things to Bring and Cash: Remember to bring your ID, train tickets, and some local money in case you want to buy something on the train.
The Good and Bad Things About Taking the Train
The Glacier Express has pros and cons, just like any other way to travel.
Pros:
Beautiful Views: Without a doubt, the scenery is the star of the show.
Affordably priced: The Glacier Express is a cheaper choice than flying.
Cultural Experience: It’s a great way to get to know Swiss society and meet people from the country.
Nice: The seats are nice, and there’s a lot of space for your legs, especially in First Class.
Cons:
Travel Time: The trip takes about 7.5 hours, which might be a problem for people who are pressed for time.
Not much privacy: If you’re in Second Class, you might have to share a table with other people.
Possible Delays: The train could be late because of bad weather or technical problems.
My Own Experience and Final Thoughts
The Glacier Express trip was even better than I had hoped. The food was wonderful, the views were breathtaking, and the whole experience will stay with you forever. The Landwasser Viaduct was my favourite part of the trip. The sheer size and beauty of the bridge left me speechless.
I would strongly suggest the Glacier Express to anyone planning a trip to Switzerland. The Swiss Alps are beautiful, and this is a one-of-a-kind way to see them. Get your ticket today and get ready for one of the world’s most beautiful train rides!
Conclusion
The Glacier Express is more than just a train ride. It’s a trip through the heart of Switzerland that’s beautiful to look at and shows how creative people can be. It’s something that you’ll remember long after you get off the boat. How long are you going to wait? Get on board and start the journey!
