How to Explore Switzerland by Train, According to an Expert Travel Advisor

Switzerland is famous for its scenic train journeys with breathtaking views of the Alps. The panoramic views on these trips are not only beautiful, but they are a significant part of Swiss heritage and history. This itinerary combines three of the best trains in the country for fantastic alpine experiences.

Zurich

Begin your trip with a two-night stay in Zurich. A guided walking tour of the old city is a great way to get your bearings and acquaint yourself with Switzerland. Baur au Lac or Hotel Aries are fantastic, luxurious hotel options.

Glacier Express

Drive 90 minutes to the town of Chur to board the fabulous Glacier Expresswhich offers a stunning six-hour trip to Zermatt, a mountain resort.

The Excellence Class option on this train is setting new standards, with guaranteed window seats, an exclusive bar, on-board entertainment, a concierge service and personal travel guides. While the spectacular landscape passes by outside, guests are served champagne and amuse-bouches, followed by an exquisite five-course meal with accompanying wine. First-class and second-class cars are also available.

Once in Zermatt, take the cog-wheel train up to the Gornergrat glacier for lunch and great views from the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Hiking options are also available.

Lugano

Travel three hours to the lakeside city of Lugano, or arrive via a private 20 minute helicopter ride over the Alps for an unforgettable experience. Lugano is a lakeside town in Ticino, known as the Italian Riviera of Switzerland. The red wines are excellent and the primary language is Italian. Additional waterfront locales like Locarno and Ascona offer picturesque views. The Brissago Islands, accessible by boat, are a worthwhile sojourn, as is Bellinzona, which has 3 castles—and plenty of hills! Stay at Villa Principe Leopoldo or Villa slendide royal in Lugano.

Bernina Express

Head to Tirano to board the Bernina Expresswhich carries passengers along the highest railway tracks in Europe, 55 tunnels, and 196 bridges on the way to St. Moritz. Palm trees in the Italian Riviera, spectacular man-made structures such as the Landwasser Viaduct, and the eternal ice of the glaciers line the route. Modern, panoramic cars ensure first-class travel comfort as the impressive landscape appears almost within reach.

Golden Express

After a night at the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains in St. Moritz, head to Lucerne. Wander around the fantastic medieval architecture, take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne, and stay at the Mandarin Oriental Palace. Then board the GoldenPass Express to Montreux.

Relax and allow yourself to be enchanted by the golden vineyards, green alpine meadows and blue lakes passing by. Finish your Swiss adventure in Montreux with a wine tasting (the white varietals in this region (Lavaux) are especially prized) and a tour of the Chateau de Chillon.

Bob Preston is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Switzerland and France. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Preston at (email protected).