An Unforgettable Rail Journey Through Switzerland

Experience the unrivalled beauty of this small yet breathtaking country, as you traverse train-accessible routes that reveal verdant valleys, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and majestic mountain summits. Embark on a journey like no other, with some of the world's most scenic train rides awaiting their exploration.

Wondering how to visit Switzerland by train?

There's no other country that does stunning scenery quite like Switzerland, and it's all accessible by train. Rolling hills dotted with wooden chalets, snowy peaks, dramatic waterfalls and mountain-fringed lakes combine with a variety of itineraries and activities, from scenic gondola rides to hiking adventures.

Louise was lucky enough to enjoy some of the highlights of Switzerland recently, working with Zermatt Tourism, Glacier Express and Bernina Express.

Switzerland Rail Trip Highlights

Overnight in Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn
Experience the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the Gornergrat
Travel on the Glacier Express with a 3-course lunch on board
Experience the Bernina Express journey
Traditional cooking class in Poschiavo, in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland

Swiss Travel Pass Benefits

Swiss Travel Pass – 4 advantages

Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat
Public transportation in more than 90 cities and towns
Including mountain excursions: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
Free admission to more than 500 museums throughout Switzerland

What to Pack for a Switzerland Train Holiday

A travel adaptor – plug type J (not the standard European 2 pin)
Sunglasses (the snow can be very blinding)
Suncream (believe it or not in winter)
Winter hat, scarf, gloves
Sensible (all-weather) footwear, boots for mountain excursions
A waterproof coat and layers
Day bag (small rucksack or sensible day bag to carry your day-to-day items)
Water bottle

Inspiration for Switzerland Travel

Take a look on @switzerlandtravelcentre on Instagram or search the hashtag #switzerlandtravelcentre for so much more information and inspiration.

You can also search the hashtags #inlovewithswitzerland or #ineedswitzerland from Switzerland Tourism.

Louise’s Switzerland Rail Journey

Arriving in Switzerland & Zermatt Stay

Louise flew into Zurich airport via Amsterdam from Humberside with KLM before boarding the first train to Zermatt, via Visp.

Staying at the Hotel Derby, centrally located in Zermatt, this beautiful traditional Swiss family-run hotel was the perfect base. In Zermatt, we enjoyed traditional cheese fondue at a local restaurant — such a treat!

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise & Gornergrat

Experienced both Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat using the Peak2Peak Pass. Took the cable car up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise to enjoy the fantastic views.

The Gornergrat train from Riffelberg station up to the top station is predominantly used in ski season, but we got great seats and enjoyed the journey — truly breathtaking.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks from the 360° viewing platform, visit the ZOOOM the Matterhorn exhibition and the brand-new “Golden Spot” photo point.

Glacier Express: Brig to Chur

Excitement was building as we boarded the Glacier Express — the slowest ‘express’ in the world. Lunch onboard was included and served silver service style at our seats, all while admiring the scenery through panoramic windows.

It was a very snowy day, creating a magical winter wonderland. Although visibility was limited, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment at all.

Bernina Express to Poschiavo – A Personal Favourite

Boarding the Bernina Express in Chur delivered breathtaking views over bridges and viaducts, through galleries and switch-back tunnels carved into the rock, past waterfalls, ravines and rushing mountain streams.

As the train descended into Poschiavo, the snow-capped mountains gave way to stunning scenery — this was my personal favourite. It felt more relaxed, with freedom to move around the carriage for photos. While only coffee and snacks were served, the clearer weather made the views unrivalled.

Italian-Speaking Poschiavo & Cooking Experience

Poschiavo is the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, and we were lucky enough to take part in a unique cooking class learning to make a traditional Puschlav dish using local ingredients.

We ate with the family who taught us and enjoyed some local wine too — a truly memorable experience.