Scenic Trains in Switzerland: Beyond the Glacier and Bernina Express

When people think of scenic trains in Switzerland, the Glacier Express and Bernina Express usually come to mind. They deserve their fame, but they are only part of the story. Switzerland’s rail network is full of panoramic routes that cross mountain passes, run along lakeshores, and wind past vineyards. Some are famous, others are more low-key, but all turn travel into an unforgettable experience.

I have taken most of these train rides myself, sometimes as day trips from Zurich, other times as part of longer journeys. Each one gave me new views and memories. Here are my favorite scenic train tours in Switzerland, from the iconic to the underrated.

Chur to St. Moritz: A Scenic Shortcut

For those finding the Bernina Express a bit too long, complicated, or pricey, the journey with IR 38 (hourly service starting at 22 CHF - 28 CHF) from Chur to St. Moritz presents a perfect alternative. This route, accessible via the official Bernina Express or any other regular train, traverses the same tracks and offers the same breathtaking views at a fraction of the cost. Highlights include the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and the picturesque village of Bergun, finishing in the luxurious alpine resort of St. Moritz. Sometimes you are even in the same train as the Bernina Express, just not in the panoramic cars with the oversized windows. The views are the same, and often the ride feels calmer without the crowds.

The famouse Landwasserviadukt

St. Gallen to Lucerne via Rapperswil-Jona: A Lake Lover's Dream

This is one of my personal favorites because it feels like a hidden gem. The route from St. Gallen to Lucerne, via Rapperswil-Jona,also called Voralpen Express is a must for those who love lakeside views. From train bridges to mountain views, this journey truly begins as you ride from St. Gallen along the Obersee towards Rapperswil. Crossing Lake Zurich over a dam, you’ll enter a high plain before skirting Lake Zug and arriving at Lake Lucerne. For the best views, grab a seat on the left side to be lakeside at both Lake Zurich and Lake Lucerne.

Zurich Obersee with view of the alps

Lucerne to Interlaken: The Heart of Switzerland

I have done this journey more than once, and it never gets old. The Luzern–Interlaken Express transforms the trip between these two cities into a breathtaking adventure. Part of the scenic GoldenPass Line, this train ride showcases five crystal-clear mountain lakes, steep rock faces, and the impressive Brünig Pass using cogwheel technology.

Lucerne to Montreux: The GoldenPass Route

Connecting Lucerne with Montreux, the GoldenPass route is a journey through six cantons filled with unparalleled views. From lakeside shores to the ascent of the Brünig Pass and the vineyards sloping down to Montreux, this trip is a natural beauty and Swiss engineering marvels. Whether you choose the GoldenPass Panoramic or the Belle Époque trains, the experience remains the same, with first-class seats recommended for the most serene views.

Vineyards near Montreux with Lake Geneva in the background

Lugano to Lucerne or Zurich: The Gotthard Panorama Express

For a journey combining rail and water, the Gotthard Panorama Express from Lugano to Lucerne offers an unmatched experience. When booking this trip, ensure you choose the slower, scenic route through the old Gotthard Base Tunnel rather than the faster option that goes through the new 50 km tunnel. Starting in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, the journey takes you through the UNESCO-protected Bellinzona, the Gotthard Base Tunnel, and ends with a boat trip on Lake Lucerne. This route showcases Switzerland's iconic landscapes and offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the country by traversing both its serene lakes and majestic mountains.

Short Scenic Train Rides Worth Trying

Not every scenic train journey in Switzerland takes a full day. These shorter rides are perfect if you want to experience beautiful views in just an hour or two.

RE7 Lucerne to Berne:

This slow regional line offers a leisurely way to enjoy the countryside between two of Switzerland's iconic cities.

RE1 Bern to Brig

Depart at Kandersteg for a picturesque stop in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

S7 Langenthal to Lucerne

Traverse the picturesque landscapes between Langenthal and Lucerne, enjoying rural and mountainous vistas.

Appenzellerbahn

Explore the charming region of Appenzell with its rolling hills and traditional Swiss culture.

Scenic view of the Appenzell region

Ziegelbrücke-Walenstadt RE

A journey offering beautiful views of the Swiss landscape, especially the Walensee area.

Biel to La-Chaux-de-Fonds

Travel through the Jura mountains, experiencing the unique beauty of this less-traveled region.

Lausanne to Geneva through the Wine Fields at Lake Geneva:

Enjoy the stunning vineyard landscapes along Lake Geneva, making this journey a feast for the eyes and the soul.

Concluding the Journey

The famous scenic trains in Switzerland like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are just the beginning. Routes like the GoldenPass, the Gotthard Panorama Express, or even short trips past Walensee or through Appenzell reveal just how varied the country’s rail journeys are.

Whether you have a full day or only a couple of hours, Swiss trains make the journey part of the adventure. Each ride gives you views you will remember long after the trip has ended.

Frequently Asked Questions: Scenic Trains in Switzerland

Do I need a reservation for scenic trains? Not always. Premium services like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express require a seat reservation (and often a supplement) on top of your ticket. For most other scenic routes, especially if you ride them on a regular Swiss train, no reservation is needed — and in many cases it’s not even possible to make one. You just hop on, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Can I use the Swiss Travel Pass on scenic trains? Yes. The Swiss Travel Pass covers the basic fare for all of these routes. On the named panoramic trains, you’ll still need to pay the seat reservation fee. On regular trains running the same lines, your pass covers the full ride with no extra cost.

Are regular trains really the same as scenic trains? Yes, often they are. For example, between Chur and St. Moritz the regular IR 38 runs on the exact same Albula line as the Bernina Express. Sometimes you’re even on the same train set as the Bernina Express, just not in the panoramic cars with the oversized windows.

Do I miss out if I take the regular train? The scenery is the same, but you may miss a few extras such as commentary, panoramic glass cars, and guaranteed reserved seats. Many travelers prefer the quieter regular trains for a more relaxed experience. Personally, I often choose the regular trains and enjoy the views just as much.

Which scenic trains are your personal favorites? My two favorites are the Luzern–Interlaken Express and the Chur to St. Moritz route. The Luzern–Interlaken Express feels like a perfect postcard of Switzerland, passing five mountain lakes and climbing over the Brünig Pass. And the Chur to St. Moritz line is pure alpine beauty — the Landwasser Viaduct never fails to impress me.

Which side of the train has the best views? It depends on the route. On the Bernina line heading south, the right side gives better glacier views. On the Voralpen Express, the left side is better for lakes. If in doubt, switch sides at stops if the train isn’t crowded.

What is the best season for scenic trains in Switzerland? Summer and early autumn offer green valleys and clear skies. Winter has its own magic, with snow-covered landscapes and cozy alpine towns. Shoulder seasons (late October or early May) can mean fewer tourists but also shorter days and occasional maintenance closures.

Are there short scenic rides worth doing? Yes. Not all scenic rides take a full day. Short trips like the Appenzellerbahn, Ziegelbrücke to Walenstadt along Lake Walensee, or the Voralpen Express between St. Gallen and Lucerne can be done in under two hours and still feel very special.