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Glacier Express red train crossing the Landwasser Viaduct in the Swiss Alps
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Glacier Express

Zermatt to St. Moritz • Switzerland

Quick Facts

Distance291 km
Journey Time~8 hours
Bridges291
Tunnels91
Highest Point2,033m
Operating Since1930

About This Journey

The Glacier Express connects two of Switzerland's premier mountain resorts — Zermatt (at the foot of the Matterhorn) and St. Moritz (the birthplace of Alpine tourism) — on an epic 291-kilometer journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Despite its name, this is deliberately the "slowest express train in the world," taking approximately 8 hours to complete the route.

The journey passes through the Rhine Gorge (the "Swiss Grand Canyon"), crosses the dramatic Landwasser Viaduct, and reaches its highest point at the Oberalp Pass (2,033m). Passengers travel in panoramic cars with floor-to-ceiling windows, enjoying a three-course meal served at their seats.

বাংলায় পড়ুন

গ্লেসিয়ার এক্সপ্রেস সুইজারল্যান্ডের দুটি প্রধান পর্বত রিসোর্ট — জারম্যাট এবং সেন্ট মরিটজ — কে সংযুক্ত করে। ২৯১ কিলোমিটারের এই যাত্রায় রাইন গর্জ, ল্যান্ডওয়াসার ভায়াডাক্ট এবং ওবেরালপ পাস (২,০৩৩ মিটার) পার হয়। প্যানোরামিক জানালাসহ ট্রেনে ৩-কোর্স খাবার পরিবেশন করা হয়।

Highlights

  • Known as the "slowest express train in the world"
  • 291 bridges and 91 tunnels over 8 hours
  • Panoramic windows with stunning Alpine views
  • Three-course meal served at your seat
  • Crosses the Oberalp Pass at 2,033m altitude
  • Iconic Landwasser Viaduct crossing

Best Time to Visit

June to September for green valleys; December to March for snow-covered landscapes

How to Book

Book through the official Glacier Express website. Reservations are mandatory. Second class starts around CHF 153 and first class from CHF 268. A Swiss Travel Pass covers the fare but you still need a seat reservation (CHF 33-49).

Visit Official Booking Site →

Travel Tips

  • Book well in advance during summer — seats sell out quickly
  • A Swiss Travel Pass covers the base fare but not the reservation
  • First class offers wider seats and champagne on request
  • Sit on the left side from Zermatt to St. Moritz for the best views
  • Pre-order the three-course lunch when booking — it's part of the experience

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Glacier Express cost?

Second class starts at CHF 153 plus a mandatory seat reservation of CHF 33-49. First class starts at CHF 268. Swiss Travel Pass holders only pay the reservation fee.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, seat reservation is mandatory and the train often sells out in summer. Book at least 2-4 weeks ahead during peak season (June-September).

Is the Glacier Express worth it?

Absolutely. It is consistently rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, offering unmatched panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, glaciers, and mountain villages.