Zermatt, Switzerland. Gornergrat train. Discover 6 of Switzerland's best train rides.
gettyFew countries can boast as many jaw-dropping scenic train excursions as mountain-laden Switzerland. While many travelers are familiar with the Glacier Express, there are plenty of lesser-known trains that offer equally memorable journeys. Best of all, travel is made easy and affordable with the use of the hop on and off Swiss Travel Pass, which can be used for travel by train, bus and boat. Take a look at 6 Swiss train trips that should be on your bucket list.
Rigi Railways, Central Switzerland
If you’re planning a visit to the charming mountain-top town of Rigi (known locally as “Queen of the Mountains”), renowned for its stunning views over Lakes Lucerne, Zug and the Alps, consider getting there by train. You’ll ascend the slopes via an old-school stream train, which was actually Europe’s first mountain railway that is still in in use. While in Rigi, be sure to sample some delicious regional mountain cuisine, enjoy a treatment at Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Spa or get you’re your blood pumping with winter sports like skiing, sledding and more.
Gornergrat, The Ultimate Zermatt Mountain Excursion
Switzerland’s ultimate alpine escape, the pedestrian-only resort village of Zermatt is celebrated for its unparalleled nature beauty, world-class ski slopes and proximity to the iconic Matterhorn. The Gornergrat Railway links Zermatt to the summit of the majestic Gornergrat mountain. To make your experience even more exclusive, consider booking the train’s NostalChic Class, which is the most indulgent way to ascend Gornergrat to enjoy the ultimate Matterhorn view. Running once a week, you’ll enjoy an intimate, refined journey that includes a personal concierge and window seats for all in an atmospheric 1961 carriage.
End station of the cog railway to the Brienz Rothorn, Bernese Alps, Switzerland
gettyBrienz Rothorn Railway in the Bernese Oberland
Immerse yourself in the magic of Switzerland’s mountains aboard the Brienz, a historic steam train. Running from June to October, you’ll reach the top of the incredible Rothorn Kulm in just an hour and feast on awesome views of over 600 mountains. If it’s your birthday you get a free ride! For a unique local experience, book the Steam Sausage Train, where sausages are cooked in the boiler of the trail during the ascent.
Rochers-de-Naye Cog Railway, Canton of Vaud
All aboard! Experience an unforgettable scenic ride of almost 6560 feet up to the peak of Rochers-de-Naye aboard a cog railway. At the top, you’ll be wowed by panoramas of the Swiss and French Alps — spanning the Eiger to Mont-Blanc, as well as gorgeous Lake Geneva. At the top, discover La Rambertia, a lovely botanical garden that’s home to over 800 mountain plant species.
View of Domodossola and Ossola Valley from the Vigezzina-Centovalli train, Piedmont, Italy
gettySwitzerland’s Vigezzina-Centovalli railway runs year-round and connects the lovely Swiss town of Ticino with Italy. Your voyage — which will be jam-packed with picturesque views — will take you over 80 beautiful bridges and viaducts. Take advantage of a free audio guide to make your journey more informative (a small fee is charged for the Italian section, Domodossola–Camedo). Just be sure to have your travel documents ready for entry to Italy.
The Voralpen-Express is a captivating 2-hour and 15-minute trip between Lucerne and St. Gallen. Pass by quaint villages, undulating hills and verdant orchards, as well as the famous Sitter Viaduct. From St. Gallen’s UNESCO-recognized Abbey District to the enchanting beauty of Lucerne, the Voralpen-Express is a serene way to experience Switzerland’s countryside.
Sandra MacGregor is a Canadian writer specializing in luxury travel, airlines, culinary experiences and eco-tourism. She has been contributing to Forbes since 2019, covering a wide
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