Switzerland’s breathtaking Trans-Alpina trains swiftly transport you through the Alps along the most astonishing stretches of railway, offering large windows to ensure you catch every detail. Travelling through the country this way is incredibly peaceful, thanks to Switzerland’s efficient operations, and it allows for completely customizable itineraries.
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Travelling via train presents a fantastic way to access regions of Switzerland and the Alps that might otherwise be unreachable by car. It also serves as a much more eco-friendly mode of transportation. The scenery on display is genuinely awe-inspiring, and the trains can navigate altitudes that may be challenging on foot. Instead of hiking, simply relax and enjoy the vistas in comfort.
It’s important to note that these trains offer a level of comfort and reliability surpassing those found in other regions around the world (especially in the UK, USA, and other parts of Europe). Additionally, train travel in Switzerland is surprisingly budget-friendly and can bring a new level of flexibility to your journeys – with numerous route options available.
Watch, and Cow specializes in distinctive trips in Switzerland and has curated a range of train journeys to showcase what’s achievable. You can ride the train, hop on and off, and incorporate unique experiences and accommodations along the way.
Suggested routes comprise:
- Milan to Geneva
- Geneva to Zurich via Mont Blanc
- Geneva to Geneva via Lucerne, Lugano, St Moritz, and Zermatt
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Switzerland train journey highlights.
Traverse iconic mountain passes.
Among the unforgettable aspects of traveling by panoramic train are the views. As you journey through the Alps, there are countless breathtaking scenes to take in from your seat. Many of the trains ascend iconic mountain passes like the Golden Pass Train from Montreux to Interlaken through the Bernese Alps. Journey in a Belle Époque carriage for a nostalgic experience as you travel. Lush pastures flank both sides of the tracks, with peaks towering in the distance.
View a video HERE
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Embark on the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt
Step aboard the renowned Glacier Express train, a remarkably tranquil way to traverse from St. Moritz to Zermatt, covering a distance of 300km. Indulge in a served lunch onboard, allowing you to relish the panoramic views through specially crafted windows designed to capture the summits of peaks as you glide by. The journey encompasses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels.
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Admire views of the Eiger from a classic cogwheel train.
Climb aboard the Jungfrau railway, a traditional cogwheel train that has ascended to the highest station in Europe for a century. Commencing at the Kleine Scheidegg station, the train ascends through the mountains, reaching a lofty 3,454 m. Pass through a 19th-century rock tunnel and pause as you emerge to savor the northcountenance of the Eiger.
Ascend out of the verdant valleys into snow-capped peaks on your way to the summit. Upon arrival, alight and relish the vistas from the observation deck, gazing upon the Aletsch glacier and a chain of 4,000m summits.
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Embark on a picturesque steam locomotive ride to the peak of Rothorn.
Sail across glistening lake waters to Brienz, where you’ll board a steam locomotive from 1892 for the ascent to Rothorn at 2,350m. Behold Lake Brienz and the Bernese Alps, enveloped by charming meadows teeming with wildflowers. Later, descend by cable car to Sörenberg, the hub of Entlebourg. This region is a safeguarded biosphere, with its extensive marshes providing a distinctive habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
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Embark on the Bernina Express from the palm groves of Italy to shimmering ice formations.
The transition from commencement to conclusion is unparalleled. Join the Bernina Express at Tirano station and journey to Pontresina. Traverse the highest elevated passage in the Alps, linking the divide between two distinct languages and cultures.
During the trip, you’ll traverse through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges before reaching Ospizio Bernina, the peak of the route. This path is so iconic that it has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ride Switzerland’s pioneering electric cogwheel train for breathtaking panoramas. Originating in 1898, the Gornergrat Train is Switzerland’s inaugural 100% electric cogwheel railway and the second globally. This half-hour train excursion transports you to the summit of Gornergrat at 3,089m. A viewing platform awaits, presenting vistas of 29 peaks, many towering over 4,000m – the most striking being the Matterhorn at 4,478m. Don’t miss the chance to spot chamois and marmots along the way!
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This piece touches on just a small assortment of the incredible railway sojourns in Switzerland. To witness how they seamlessly align in an itinerary, peruse samples from Watch and Cow. Should you desire guidance on any of the rail routes and agendas in Switzerland or details tailored for a specific client, we are thrilled to connect you with the team at Watch and Cow.
Reach out to explore incorporating train excursions in Switzerland into your offerings.
