Is the Glacier Express worth it?

If a long, scenic train day appeals to you, yes — it's a genuine experience, not just transport. If eight hours on a train sounds like a lot, ride the central Andermatt-to-Chur section instead, which delivers the best scenery in a fraction of the time. What's rarely worth it is rushing it: the Glacier Express rewards people who treat the journey as the destination.

Do I need to reserve a seat on the Glacier Express?

Yes — seat reservation is mandatory and separate from your ticket or pass. A Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card covers the fare, but you still pay the reservation, which rises in peak season and sells out. Book as far ahead as you can for summer travel.

Scenic Train

Glacier Express

The slowest express train in the world — and one of the most beautiful.

🇨🇭 SwitzerlandReservation required

Route

Zermatt → St. Moritz

Duration

~8 hrs

High point

2,033 m

Reservation

Required (paid)

Pass coverage

Swiss Travel Pass & Swiss Half Fare Card (reservation paid separately)

Best months

June, July, August, September

The Glacier Express links two of Switzerland's most glamorous resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz, on an eight-hour panoramic crawl over the Oberalp Pass, across 291 bridges, and through 91 tunnels. It is the most famous train journey in the Alps and a bucket-list ride — though the scenery is at its very best through the middle, between Andermatt and Disentis.

Is it worth it?

Worth it if you love trains and have a full day to give it. If you don't, ride only the scenic central section (Andermatt–Disentis–Chur) for most of the magic in half the time — the run in and out of the resorts is pretty but slower-going.

Insider tips

Book the seat reservation months ahead for summer departures
The panoramic windows curve overhead — either side is fine, so don't stress about seats
Short on time? Ride just the Andermatt–Disentis–Chur middle, the best stretch
A regular (non-panoramic) regional train shadows much of the route, covered by a pass with no reservation

Where to stay

Bases on this line

Towns that make a natural start, finish, or overnight on this journey.

Valais

Zermatt

$$$$$

The Matterhorn, a car-free village, and the best splurge in the Alps.

2–3 nightsCar-free OK

Good to know

Questions, answered

Is the Glacier Express worth it?: If a long, scenic train day appeals to you, yes — it's a genuine experience, not just transport. If eight hours on a train sounds like a lot, ride the central Andermatt-to-Chur section instead, which delivers the best scenery in a fraction of the time. What's rarely worth it is rushing it: the Glacier Express rewards people who treat the journey as the destination.
Do I need to reserve a seat on the Glacier Express?: Yes — seat reservation is mandatory and separate from your ticket or pass. A Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card covers the fare, but you still pay the reservation, which rises in peak season and sells out. Book as far ahead as you can for summer travel.

All Alps rail passes & scenic trains

Not sure where to start?

Take two minutes to find the Alps base that actually fits your trip — then we'll send the route to match.

Find Your Perfect Alps Base

Or get the free 7-day starter route: