5 Things To Know About the Glacier Express

Switzerland is famous for its stunning scenery, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a ride on the Glacier Express train. This iconic train route takes you through some of Switzerland's most beautiful landscapes, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and sparkling lakes.

Railbookers offers dozens of itineraries that feature this unforgettable journey and can easily help you add it to your dream European independent train vacation. Here are five things you should know about the Glacier Express train:

1. The Glacier Express is one of the world's most scenic train journeys

The Glacier Express is often referred to as the "slowest express train in the world," and for good reason. The train takes around eight hours to travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz, covering a distance of 180 miles. But the leisurely pace is part of the charm, as it allows you to take in the stunning scenery at a relaxed pace. The train passes through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, as it winds its way through the Swiss Alps, offering views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque villages along the way.

2. The train offers luxurious comfort and dining options

Despite its leisurely pace, the Glacier Express offers luxurious comfort and dining options. The train features spacious, comfortable seats with large windows that provide unparalleled views of the passing scenery. There are also first-class compartments available, which offer even more space and comfort. The dining car serves up delicious Swiss cuisine, including local specialties like raclette and fondue, as well as a selection of fine wines.

3. The Glacier Express is a year-round attraction

Although the Glacier Express train ride is especially popular in the summer months when the scenery is at its most vibrant, it's worth noting that the train operates for most of the year. Specifically, it runs from Dec 10 to May 12 during the winter and from May 13 to Oct 15 during the summer. Winter travel on the Glacier Express offers a unique and magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes and cozy interiors. In fact, some people even consider winter to be the best time to take the journey, as the snow adds an extra layer of enchantment.

4. The journey can be customized to suit your needs

The Glacier Express journey can be customized to suit your needs, with a range of different options available. You can choose to travel in first or standard class, or even splurge for the unparalleled Excellence Class. You can also choose to break up the journey and spend a night in one of the picturesque villages along the way, allowing you to explore the local area in more depth.

5. There are plenty of other attractions to explore along the way

While the Glacier Express journey is undoubtedly the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to see and do along the way. The train passes through a number of charming Swiss villages, including Zermatt, Brig, Andermatt, and St. Moritz, each with its own unique character and attractions. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as cultural attractions like museums and historic churches.