Glaciers. Cheese. Views that look like they’ve been Photoshopped by Mother Nature herself. This isn’t a fairytale—it’s a train ride. Switzerland’s Glacier Express doesn’t just connect towns. It connects your jaw to the floor and your heart to the Alps. You’ll glide past snow-dusted peaks, over dizzying bridges, and through villages that feel like they were designed for postcards. One moment you’re sipping wine in a sun-drenched valley. The next, you’re spiraling through tunnels carved into mountains, only to emerge into landscapes so grand they feel unreal. And yes, there’s cheese. Fresh, melty, gooey heaven—served right on board or at alpine stops along the way. This isn’t just a train ride. It’s an all-out sensory adventure at high altitude.
Board the Glacier Express
The Glacier Express, dubbed the slowest express train, offers a leisurely pace for travelers to soak in the alpine majesty as it snakes through 291 km of Swiss landscapes. Feel the thrill of embarking on this iconic journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz or Chur, as the train traverses dramatic scenery and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The panoramic windows provide unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, quaint villages, and serene valleys, setting the stage for a memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or on your first Swiss adventure, this ride promises enchantment at every turn.
Dine Like Royalty – Onboard Gourmet Meals
Indulge in the luxurious experience of dining aboard the Glacier Express, where meals are crafted with Swiss flair using regional and seasonal ingredients. Imagine savoring a delectable Swiss-style gourmet lunch, perfectly paired with exquisite local wines, as the alpine vistas unfold outside your window. In Excellence Class, the journey is elevated with five-course meals and attentive concierge service, ensuring a dining experience as unforgettable as the scenery. Whether you’re a gastronome or simply love good food, this culinary adventure offers a taste of Switzerland’s rich flavors in a truly unique setting.
Taste Raclette Cheese in Valais During the Ascent
As the Glacier Express ascends into the enchanting canton of Valais, delight in the rich, creamy goodness of raclette cheese. This iconic Swiss dish, served with potatoes, onions, and pickles, is a must-try for any cheese lover. Valais, known for its high-altitude vineyards, also offers an opportunity to sample Fendant Chasselas wines, adding a flavorful dimension to your journey. Whether you’re exploring the local markets or enjoying this delicacy onboard, raclette offers a delicious slice of Swiss culture that is sure to warm your heart and palate.
Marvel at Glacier Views & Viaducts
One of the highlights of the Glacier Express route is the awe-inspiring views of glaciers and engineering marvels like the Landwasser Viaduct. As you journey across this UNESCO-listed landmark, let the sight of sweeping alpine landscapes take your breath away. The train’s path weaves through picturesque valleys, alongside shimmering lakes, and beneath towering peaks like the Matterhorn and Piz Bernina. Each turn reveals a new facet of Switzerland’s natural beauty, making this journey not just a train ride but a visual feast that captivates the senses and the soul.
Optional Detour via Bernina Express
For those looking to extend their Swiss train adventure, the Bernina Express offers a thrilling detour over the majestic Bernina Pass. This route, celebrated for its panoramic views and engineering prowess, crosses 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, linking Chur/St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy. As you descend into Italy, the landscape transforms, offering a blend of cultures and vistas that enrich your journey. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or a curious traveler, this detour adds an exciting chapter to your Swiss adventure, promising new stories and breathtaking memories.
Graze at the Chur Alpine Station Local Cheese Market
Starting December 2025, the Chur Alpine Station will host a vibrant cheese market, showcasing over 100 varieties of regional cheeses. This market provides a delightful opportunity to explore Swiss agrarian culture and taste the rich flavors of Alpine cheese. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or simply curious, the market offers a sensory journey through Switzerland’s dairy heritage. Engage with local producers, sample distinct cheese varieties, and perhaps find a new favorite to savor at home. The market serves as a perfect stop either before or after your Glacier Express adventure.
Summit at Gornergrat for Mountaintop Views
In Zermatt, extend your adventure by taking the Gornergrat Railway to its summit at 3,089 meters. Here, an awe-inspiring panorama awaits, featuring 29 four-thousand-meter peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn. Whether you’re keen on alpine hiking or capturing stunning photographs, Gornergrat offers an unparalleled vantage point. The crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas create a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and appreciation of nature’s grandeur. A visit to this summit not only enriches your Swiss train journey but also provides memories that linger long after you’ve descended.
Swiss Travel Pass and Grand Train Tour Connection
For a seamless exploration of Switzerland, the Swiss Travel Pass is your key to the Grand Train Tour, encompassing 1,280 km of stunning routes like the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Golden Pass Line. This pass allows unlimited travel, making it easy to hop on and off, discovering lakes, castles, and art-rich towns like Montreux and Lucerne. Whether you’re a culture buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour offers a comprehensive view of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. The freedom to explore at your own pace makes every journey uniquely yours.