Overview
The Swiss hail the Glacier Express as the world’s slowest express. The train takes almost eight hours and the services of two private, narrow-gauge railroads to traverse the 168 mountainous miles between two posh resort towns—Zermatt and St. Moritz. The Alpine route of the Glacier Express is what makes this train so marvelous (less marvelous are the hordes of tourists who cram aboard in high season). Better to go in shoulder season. Enjoy lunch served at your comfy seat as you chug by spectacular scenery.
Why take it? The scenery. Taken as part of a comprehensive Swiss rail program, the Glacier Express shines as it pokes across 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and masters the 6,660-foot Oberalp Pass. We have several comprehensive programs from which to choose.
Accommodations
This is a daytime only train; there are no overnight accommodations on board.
The first and second-class panorama cars are air-cushioned, air-conditioned, wheelchair-accessible and are considerably quieter than the previous generation of rolling stock. The interiors are elegant and pleasant, and the information system is available in seven languages. Each seat comes with a power socket and free Wi-Fi.
Also on offer now is Excellence Class, which includes a guaranteed window seat, a five-course regional meal served at your seat, exclusive access to the Glacier Bar and concierge service; this class is only available on the stretch from St. Moritz-Zermatt or Zermatt to St. Moritz.
Dining
Generous hot, at-seat meals are available in Glacier Express premium trains, at additional cost.
Drinks and snacks are available at all times, served at your seat; drinks are not included in the price. You can also buy the famous slanted glasses from your attendant.
Lounges
Some trains include a bar car with stools for enjoying a drink.
IRT Insights
We highly recommend Excellence Class. We also recommend traveling in the shoulder season when there are fewer travelers, so you can move around on board — to escape the beating sun in the panorama cars. The Glacier Express has one wheelchair-accessible compartment in first class and accessible bathroom.