Best time to visit Switzerland

Glacier Express in Switzerland 2024

Take a train from Zermatt to Davos or St. Moritz to see unique Alpine landscapes

Best time: May 4–October 12, 2024 | December 9, 2024–May 3, 2025

Glacier Express
Glacier Express
Glacier Express
Glacier Express

This day train trip takes up to seven hours, however, it's totally worth it! After all, it's one of the most famous trains in the world, often called 'World's slowest express train.' The Glacier Express will take you from the picturesque Zermatt to the luxurious resorts of Davos and St. Moritz. You'll pass untouched mountains, green valleys, 91 tunnels, and 291 bridges. The service runs for all seasons with a break between mid-October and mid-December.

Tickets

One-way Glacier Express fare is 152 CHF (€160). Excellence Class ride is 268 CHF (€280). Excellence Class journey through the Swiss Alps includes a guaranteed window seat with a superb panoramic view. Lounge seating comes with exclusive access to the Glacier Bar, tablet with Bordinfotainment, concierge service, Welcome-Desk & personal check-in on the platform, and luggage transport in dedicated lockable sections aboard.

Food

Gastronomy on the Glacier Express includes an array of culinary specialties and traditional Swiss dishes cooked from local produce. All meals are freshly prepared on board and served at the seat. Passengers can opt for the dish of the day or a 3-course meal. Dining includes seasonal specialties and traditional dishes, which are a perfect match for the beautiful scenery. Passengers are also offered wines from the cantons of Graubünden and Valais to complete their meal. After the meal, guests are served a range of fine digestifs, including Grappa and Williams.

Best time to take the train

The best time is spring when you can see flowers in bloom and snow-capped mountains in the background. The train wagons are equipped with the panoramic windows so that the passengers can enjoy the views​.

Practical info

When is the best time to take the Glacier Express train?

One can take the Glacier Express train during spring and witness flowers in bloom and snow-capped mountains. The train operates in all seasons except for a period in mid-October to mid-December. During summers, visitors can see the countryside teeming with wildflowers. The train ride is popular amongst tourists for its scenic views and is a great way to explore Switzerland. Show more

What is the duration of the train journey?

The train trip from Zermatt to St Moritz or Davos lasts for approximately 7.5 hours. The train has a restaurant car, snack bar and clean toilets. Passengers may also take shorter trips en route the full trip. The Glacier Express train ride operates all year round except between mid-October to mid-December for maintenance. Patrons may carry food, but dinner aboard the train is a unique experience. Show more

What kind of views can we expect to see during the train ride?

Riding the Glacier Express train guarantees an unobstructed and breathtaking panorama of the Swiss Alps. The train ride promises majestic views of the mountains, valleys, glaciers, forests, and passes iconic landmarks such as the Oberalp Pass, Rhine Gorge and the Landwasser Viaduct. The train features floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that afford guests the stunning scenery while enjoying their journey in comfort. Show more

Can we bring our food and drinks on the Glacier Express train?

Visitors may bring their food and beverages on the Glacier Express train, and there is a restaurant and snack car available on board. The train provides both standard and first-class seating options that are comfortable and spacious, and the food on board is pricier than what is available on the station. Bringing your meal is a money-wise option that many visitors prefer, and the train ride is an excellent way to enjoy the scenery while eating. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Glacier Express (Map)

Last updated: