Your Guide to an Unforgettable 5-Day Train Tour of Switzerland

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Imagine gliding through snow-capped peaks, emerald-green meadows, and crystal-clear lakes—all while comfortably seated on a panoramic train, windows wide open to the beauty of Switzerland. A 5 day train tour of Switzerland is the ultimate way to experience everything this enchanting country has to offer, from the iconic Matterhorn to the cozy, car-free streets of Zermatt. 

Whether you’re a mountain lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking the next adventure, this itinerary promises views that seem straight out of a postcard, plus some unique Swiss experiences that’ll make you fall in love with this alpine paradise.

Day 1: Arrival and Lucerne Exploration

Route: Start at your point of entry in Switzerland, heading to Lucerne.

Highlights: Chapel Bridge, Lake Lucerne, Lion Monument, Mount Pilatus

Plan your Swiss journey by train and start your tour in the medieval city of Lucerne, a picturesque gateway to central Switzerland. After arriving, take some time to explore key sites in Lucerne:

• Chapel Bridge: This iconic 14th century bridge, with its historic paintings and vibrant flowers, is an ideal starting point for a photo-friendly stroll.
• Lion Monument: Carved into the stone, this moving memorial honors Swiss Guards who fell during the French Revolution.
• Lake Lucerne Boat Ride: If time permits, enjoy a scenic boat ride, soaking in views of the surrounding mountains.

Lucerne’s charm lies in its blend of historic architecture and lakeside beauty. Overnight in Lucerne to get ready for the scenic train journeys ahead

Day 2: Lucerne to Interlaken via Luzern-Interlaken Express

Route: Lucerne to Interlaken on the Luzern-Interlaken Express

Highlights: Lake Lungern, Giessbach Falls, Brünig Pass, views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau

The Luzern-Interlaken Express departs from Lucerne, offering a scenic route through Switzerland’s central alpine region. This journey covers several highlights:

• Brünig Pass: Enjoy stunning views as the train climbs through this mountain pass, revealing panoramas of Lake Lungern and alpine forests.
• Giessbach Falls: The route offers views of this waterfall flowing directly into Lake Brienz, a sight often admired from the train.

• Lake Brienz: Arrive in Interlaken, set between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, with time to explore the charming lakeside paths and bustling town center.

Interlaken’s surrounding peaks—Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—make it a perfect overnight stop. Stay in Interlaken and consider a quiet evening stroll along the shores of Lake Thun.

Day 3: GoldenPass Line to Montreux

Route: Interlaken to Montreux on the GoldenPass Line

Highlights: Château d’Oex, Gstaad, Lavaux Vineyards, Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle

Embark on the GoldenPass Line from Interlaken to Montreux, a ride that offers a blend of alpine and vineyard views as you pass through quaint towns like Gstaad.

• GoldenPass Line: This train journey takes you from Interlaken into the rolling vineyards of Montreux, known for its French-influenced lakeside setting.

• Château d’Oex and Gstaad: Pass through picturesque villages, with a chance to glimpse charming Swiss architecture and farmland.
• Lavaux Vineyards: Once in Montreux, take a short trip to the Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The terraced vineyards overlook Lake Geneva, and some tours include wine tastings.

As you settle in Montreux, consider visiting the nearby Chillon Castle, an enchanting medieval structure perched right on Lake Geneva. Stay the night in Montreux, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a jazz performance in a vibrant lakeside atmosphere.

Day 4: Glacier Express to Zermatt

Route: Montreux to Zermatt via the Glacier Express

Highlights: Gornergrat Railway, Matterhorn, Glacier Express, Rhine Gorge

Board the Glacier Express from Montreux to Zermatt, a panoramic train with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for alpine views:

• Glacier Express Journey: Known as the “world’s slowest express train,” this ride takes you through the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge, also known as Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon.”

• Zermatt and Gornergrat Railway: Arrive in Zermatt, a car-free village at the base of the Matterhorn. Take the Gornergrat cogwheel train to a breathtaking viewing point, with the Matterhorn as the star.

Spend the evening in Zermatt, exploring its charming pedestrian village streets lined with rustic shops and cozy Swiss eateries.

Day 5: Glacier Express to Chur and Departure

Route: Zermatt to Chur on the Glacier Express, then onward travel

Highlights: Oberalp Pass, Rhine Gorge, scenic alpine views

The final leg of your journey from Zermatt to Chur on the Glacier Express is packed with scenic beauty, making it a memorable end to the tour:

• Oberalp Pass and Rhine Gorge: Cross the Oberalp Pass and take in the expansive Rhine Gorge, with dramatic cliffs and lush alpine valleys.

• Chur: The oldest city in Switzerland, Chur is a great place to explore briefly before departing. Its historic old town and local museums are highlights.

From Chur, you can extend your stay in Switzerland or head back to your starting point, filled with lasting memories of Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes and efficient, scenic train network​

Unique Experiences to Add to Your Itinerary

Now you know what a 5-day train tour across Switzerland can offer. But there can also be some exciting and signature additions to your trip that are Swiss at their core. So, let’s see what these are. 

Swiss Chocolate and Cheese Tasting

No Swiss adventure is complete without sampling the country’s finest exports: chocolate and cheese. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in these treats:

• Chocolate Shops in Lucerne and Zermatt: Try handmade pralines or traditional milk chocolates at artisan shops.
• Cheese Tasting in the Bernese Alps: Switzerland is famous for fondue and raclette, both of which are made with local cheeses. Consider a cheese tour in Interlaken or the Bernese Alps to see traditional cheese-making and sample it with crusty bread and pickles.

Bernina Express Train Journey

The Bernina Express is one of Switzerland’s most scenic rail routes, connecting Chur to Tirano, Italy, and showcasing the stunning transition from alpine glaciers to Mediterranean landscapes. 

With its UNESCO-listed route, the Bernina Express crosses the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and ascends the Bernina Range, offering breathtaking views of Piz Bernina and Morteratsch Glacier. 

This route is known for its floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, ideal for capturing Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. It’s a must for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, adding an unforgettable highlight to your Swiss journey.

Tricks and Tips for A Memorable Swiss Train Tour 

For a truly memorable Swiss train tour, a few handy tricks and tips can make all the difference. Here’s a quick rundown to make your journey smooth and enjoyable:

• Get the Swiss Travel Pass: This pass covers all major trains, buses, and boats, and offers free or discounted access to popular museums and attractions, perfect for seamless travel throughout Switzerland.
• Luggage Services: Take advantage of the Swiss Railways’ luggage transfer service, allowing you to travel light while your bags get safely transported to your next destination.
• Pick the Right Season: Summer offers lush scenery and outdoor activities, while winter brings a magical, snowy landscape and fewer crowds— so pick one that matches your preferences.
• Make Seat Reservations: For the Glacier Express and GoldenPass Line, reserving a seat guarantees you a window to Switzerland’s most stunning sights, particularly during high season.
• Pack for Changing Weather: Even in summer, Switzerland’s weather can shift quickly. Bring layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable, especially if you plan to explore alpine areas.
• Plan for Stops Along the Way: Make time for iconic stops like Chillon Castle, Lavaux Vineyards, or even a chocolate or cheese tasting to immerse yourself in Swiss culture.
• Leverage the Swiss Travel App: Download the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) app for real-time schedules, platform information, and travel updates on the go.

Final Thoughts

As your 5-day Swiss train adventure wraps up, expect to leave with a camera roll full of alpine panoramas, quaint towns, and unforgettable moments from the Glacier Express and GoldenPass routes. Switzerland’s mix of natural beauty and seamless rail travel makes this journey an experience you’ll treasure long after the final train stop. Here’s to your next adventure on the Swiss rails—until we meet again!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)