Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is a scenic Swiss train service linking Zermatt in the Valais with St. Moritz in Graubünden, running across the high Alpine passes. It is renowned for its panoramic coaches and slow, scenic journey through mountain valleys and over passes.

The complete journey takes about eight hours, reaching its highest point at the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres. Along the route the train traverses many tunnels and bridges and stops at major mountain towns that serve as gateways to regional tourism.

Introduced in the 20th century, the service is operated by the regional railways that manage the mountain lines and is marketed as a day-long scenic experience with onboard catering in the panorama cars. Travelers are strongly advised to reserve seats in advance, particularly for panoramic coaches and during peak season.

The Glacier Express travels through Swiss alpine landscapes in the cantons of Valais and Graubünden and is a principal scenic rail link between the two famous mountain resorts.

• Duration/high point: The full route between Zermatt and St. Moritz takes about eight hours and crosses the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level.
• Route stats and reservations: Runs over a route that includes approximately 291 bridges and 91 tunnels while traversing roughly 290 kilometres, requiring advance seat reservations for panoramic cars.

What to See #

• Panorama coaches: Panoramic coaches fitted with large windows and elevated seating that provide expansive views along the route between mountain valleys.
• Key stops: Major intermediate stops including Zermatt, Brig, Andermatt, Chur and St. Moritz that serve as entry points for regional connections and excursions.