Glacier Express
Eight hours of uninterrupted Alpine splendour — the world's slowest express train connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz through 91 tunnels, 291 bridges and the heart of the Swiss Alps.
The World's Most Iconic Mountain Railway
Launched in 1930, the Glacier Express has become synonymous with Swiss mountain rail travel. Its nickname — "the world's slowest express" — is meant affectionately. At an average speed of 36 km/h, it gives passengers maximum time to absorb one of Europe's most dramatic landscapes.
The route connects two of Switzerland's most exclusive ski resorts: Zermatt, in the shadow of the Matterhorn, and St. Moritz, overlooking the glacial Engadin Valley. Between them lies the spine of the Alps — the Rhine Gorge, the Furka Pass, and the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres.
Stations Along the Way
Zermatt
Matterhorn gatewayVisp
Rhône ValleyBrig
Simplon gatewayAndermatt
Oberalp PassChur
Rhine GorgeSt. Moritz
Engadin Valley
Journey Highlights
The Matterhorn Departure
Leaving Zermatt with the iconic pyramid-shaped Matterhorn behind — arguably the most dramatic train departure in the world.
Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta)
The "Swiss Grand Canyon" — the train clings to canyon walls above the youthful Rhine River cutting through pale limestone gorges.
Landwasser Viaduct
A six-arch curved viaduct built into the sheer rock face — appears in countless Swiss tourism images and never disappoints.
Dining in the Alps
Lunch is served at your panoramic seat — Swiss cuisine accompanied by unfolding Alpine vistas.
Booking & Tips
Best seats: Panoramic cars offer the best views. Seat reservation is mandatory (CHF 33–49 surcharge). Book early for summer — especially July and August.
Direction: Zermatt → St. Moritz offers better light for morning photography. St. Moritz → Zermatt is better for afternoon travellers.
Passes: Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail, and Interrail are all accepted. The reservation surcharge still applies regardless of your pass.