Hop On: 4 Swiss Trains That Will Take Your Breath Away

In the mid-nineteenth century, English engineers built the foundations of what would be one of Switzerland’s greatest attractions – railways. These railway routes made Switzerland’s magnificent mountainous beauty accessible to tourists. Till date thousands of tourists continue to use these very railways to explore this breathtaking country. Travelling by train in Switzerland is an exhilarating experience that must not be missed. Here are four trains that must be on your Swiss to-do list while planning  a vacation in Switzerland.

Often touted as the world’s slowest train, Glacier Express takes 7.5 hours to traverse across southeastern Switzerland through the country’s most beautiful glacial landscapes. This train connects Zermatt and St. Moritz while crossing more than 291 bridges and 91 tunnels! Zermatt is home to Matterhorn, Switzerland’s tallest mountain, whereas St. Moritz is the country’s most famous winter and ski resort town. Passing through some of Switzerland’s most inaccessible mountains, the entire train journey is a feast for the eyes. At the Oberalp Pass, this train will take you over 6,600 feet above sea level! The highpoint of the journey, literally! Thanks to large glass windows, you can enjoy panoramic views of snowcapped mountains, long stone bridges, countless waterfalls, alpine forests, and deep valleys.

Part of UNESCO World Heritage, Bernina Express offers sweeping views of some of Switzerland’s otherwise inaccessible alpine wonders. Beginning from the oldest town in Switzerland, Chur, this train takes you to the country’s Italian-speaking town, Lugano, and from there to Tirano in Italy. At Chur, you can wander through the city’s architecturally stunning and car-free old town. Lugano is a beautiful slice of Italy in Switzerland, made up winding alleys and a stunning lakefront. Tirano has a serene winding river, a gorgeous Alpine setting, and lively piazzas. This stunning train runs along one of the best narrow gauge railways in the world, Albula railway, and passes over the 213 feet high Landwasser Viaduct.

Wilhem Tell Express is a magnificent journey connecting the German-speaking Luzern with the Italian-speaking Locarno. Famous for Kapellbruck, a covered wooden footbridge, Luzern is the base to explore Mt Pilatus. The 5-hour Wilhem Tell journey begins with a boat ride from Luzern to Flüelen. From there board the panoramic Wilhelm Tell Express, named after a Swiss folk hero. Along the way, you’ll pass the medieval town of Bellinzona, famous for its castles before finally arriving at Locarno, an ethereal lakeside town that once inspired Hemingway.

Unarguably, one of the most scenic train journeys in Switzerland, the Golden Pass Line connects Luzern and Montreux passing through the breathtaking towns of Interlaken and Zweisimmen. Make sure to stop at Interlaken, a splendid lake town and the base to explore the majestic peak of Jungfraujoch and the alpine town of Grindelwald. On the way, the train traverses along pristine lakes, lush pastures, Giessbach waterfalls, Brunig Pass, and snowy mountains. Keep your camera handy!

So, book your flights in emi and experience Switzerland’s surreal beauty in all its glory!