Slowfoxes
Route 01

Glacier Express

St. Moritz to Zermatt via the Oberalp Pass

Glacier Express

© Kabelleger / David Gubler (bahnbilder.ch) — CC BY-SA 3.0

Overview

The Glacier Express is Switzerland's most famous scenic train journey, connecting St. Moritz in the east with Zermatt in the west. This legendary rail route takes you through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges, showcasing the most spectacular Alpine scenery in Europe. The train climbs to the Oberalp Pass at 2,033m, traverses the Rhine Gorge — Switzerland's own Grand Canyon — and descends to the Matterhorn's base.

Duration8 hours
Distance291 km
Stops8 stations
Best SeasonJune – September
Stops on board

Route & stations

Each numbered stop on the line — tap a card to explore the destination.

On the map

Route map

Click any marker to see the station name and elevation.

Why this journey

Journey highlights

Oberalp Pass

The highest point of the journey at 2,033m above sea level

Landwasser Viaduct

The iconic 65m high curved stone bridge near Filisur

Rhine Gorge

Switzerland's "Grand Canyon" with dramatic limestone formations

Panorama Windows

Extra-large windows and open-air observation areas for unobstructed views

Travel tips

  • 01Book seat reservations in advance — the train sells out weeks ahead in summer
  • 02Sit on the right side when traveling from St. Moritz to Zermatt for the best views
  • 03The train offers dining service with regional Swiss cuisine
  • 04Consider breaking the journey with overnight stays in Andermatt or Brig
  • 05Swiss Travel Pass covers the base fare; a seat reservation fee applies

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