A Scenic Symphony on Rails: Why Switzerland Is Best Discovered by Train
Switzerland is not just a destination—it’s a masterpiece of alpine beauty, precision, and cultural charm. And there’s arguably no better way to experience it than by train. In 2025, the Swiss rail system continues to set global standards for efficiency, comfort, and scenic access. From snow-capped peaks and mirror-like lakes to quaint villages and cosmopolitan cities, every journey through Switzerland by train feels like a cinematic experience on tracks.
Switzerland’s trains are renowned not only for their punctuality but also for their ability to seamlessly connect cities with remote, postcard-worthy locations. Travelers seeking to discover the country’s natural beauty and cultural diversity will find that exploring Switzerland by train in 2025 offers the ultimate balance of ease, elegance, and adventure.
Why Travel Switzerland by Train?
Switzerland’s railway system is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Operated primarily by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and regional partners, the country’s rail network offers extensive coverage—even to small alpine villages.
Benefits of exploring Switzerland by rail:
Punctual and frequent services—delays are rare
Breathtaking routes through mountains, valleys, lakes, and vineyards
Eco-friendly travel in a country devoted to sustainability
Convenient connections between airports, cities, and resorts
Impeccably clean and safe trains suitable for all age groups
Luggage forwarding services for multi-day trips or those with ski equipment
Panoramic trains designed for scenic viewing (e.g., Glacier Express, Bernina Express)
Whether you’re planning a short holiday or a grand tour across cantons, the Swiss railway will likely be both the highlight and backbone of your trip.
Top Scenic Train Routes to Experience in 2025
🚂 Glacier Express: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Known as the "slowest express train in the world," this 8-hour journey crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels through the heart of the Alps. Panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views of glaciers, alpine forests, deep gorges, and snowy peaks.
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, honeymooners
🚞 Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano (Italy)
A UNESCO-listed route, the Bernina Express climbs up to 2,253 meters and descends into northern Italy. Highlights include the Landwasser Viaduct, Morteratsch Glacier, and views of turquoise lakes.
Best for: Cross-border exploration, mountain lovers, rail enthusiasts
🚆 GoldenPass Line: Lucerne to Montreux
This line takes you from lake-dotted Lucerne through alpine meadows to Montreux on Lake Geneva, with views of the vineyards of Lavaux. Some coaches even offer VIP “front view” seats.
Best for: Families, relaxed travelers, scenic diversity
🚃 Voralpen-Express: St. Gallen to Lucerne
A shorter yet stunning ride that connects the northeastern German-speaking region to central Switzerland. You'll pass rolling hills, wooden farmhouses, and shimmering lakes.
Best for: Local culture, rural views, quick half-day trips
🚄 InterCity Routes: Zurich to Geneva, Bern, Lausanne, Lugano
These high-speed trains are perfect for efficiently exploring Swiss cities while still enjoying mountain backdrops. They often run every 30–60 minutes.
Best for: Business travelers, short stays, urban explorers
Key Cities and Stops Worth Exploring
Zurich: Switzerland’s largest city with art museums, shopping, and nightlife
Lucerne: Home to medieval architecture, the Chapel Bridge, and Mount Pilatus
Interlaken: Gateway to the Jungfrau region; popular for adventure sports and alpine hikes
Zermatt: Car-free village at the base of the Matterhorn; ideal for winter and hiking
Bern: The capital city, with a UNESCO-listed Old Town and Bear Park
Montreux: Lakeside town known for its jazz festival and vineyard views
Lugano: Italian-speaking Switzerland with Mediterranean flair
St. Moritz: Luxury alpine resort with world-class skiing and spa hotels
Who Should Travel Switzerland by Train?
👨👩👧👦 Families
Easy boarding, scenic distractions for kids, and child discounts make train travel family-friendly. Many routes also stop near zoos, museums, and ski resorts.
👵 Seniors
Clean facilities, accessible carriages, and reduced fares with the Swiss Half Fare Card make Switzerland ideal for older travelers.
👤 Solo Travelers
The safety and predictability of Swiss trains offer peace of mind. It’s easy to connect with fellow travelers in scenic compartments or dining cars.
👩❤️👨 Couples
Romantic views, cozy alpine towns, and spa destinations make this an unforgettable experience for two. Consider booking 1st class or panoramic cars.
🌿 Nature & Wellness Seekers
Switzerland’s trains offer quick access to thermal baths, hiking trails, and national parks without renting a car.
Types of Rail Passes Available
n 2025, Switzerland continues to offer some of Europe’s most flexible and inclusive rail passes:
Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, and public transport in over 90 cities
Half Fare Card: Reduces the price of most public transportation by 50%
Regional Passes: Tailored to areas like Bernese Oberland, Lake Geneva, or Ticino
Family Card: Allows children under 16 to travel free with at least one paying adult
Most passes include museum entries, cable cars, and even discounted scenic train supplements.
Booking and Onboard Experience
Tickets can be booked via the SBB app, online platforms, or purchased at train stations. Seat reservations are optional for most routes, except for scenic express trains.
Expect onboard:
Spacious, reclining seats
Quiet zones in 1st class
Charging outlets and clean restrooms
Snack trolleys or full dining cars on longer routes
Luggage storage areas and accessible seating options
Panoramic trains like the Glacier Express offer multilingual audio guides, fine dining, and extra-large windows for views you’ll never forget.
When to Travel
Winter (December–March): Best for snow lovers, skiing, and Christmas markets
Spring (April–June): Blooming alpine flowers, waterfalls, and fewer tourists
Summer (July–August): Ideal for hiking, festivals, and glacier visits
Autumn (September–October): Beautiful fall foliage and vineyard harvests
Each season offers a different side of Switzerland, and the train system runs year-round with impressive reliability—even during heavy snowfall.
Final Thoughts
Switzerland by train is more than a method of transport—it’s an essential part of the travel experience. The country’s landscapes are so stunning that the journey often becomes as memorable as the destinations themselves. With a national focus on punctuality, comfort, and nature-friendly policies, traveling by rail aligns beautifully with modern travel priorities.
Exploring Switzerland by train in 2025 ensures you’ll enjoy the richness of the Alps, the serenity of the lakes, and the cultural depth of its multilingual cities—all without lifting a steering wheel. Sit back, relax, and let the rails guide you through one of Europe’s most enchanting countries.
AI-Assisted Content Disclaimer
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by a human for accuracy and clarity.