Glacier Express
Glacier Express
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About
The most famous panoramic train cuts through the Swiss Alps providing passengers with some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable. The route goes over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and over the 2033m high Oberalp Pass. On the route St. Moritz / Zermatt you can experience several beautiful sights such as the Landwasser Viaduct, the Matter Thal, the Rhine Gorge known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon", the Albula Line and many more. In addition, you can enjoy our various gastronomic offer. Launched in 2019, the Excellence Class makes your train journey even more luxurious. A personal concierge, window seats, on-board entertainment, a Glacier Bar and a phenomenal 7-course menu freshly prepared in our on-board kitchen make this train journey an unforgettable experience!
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TravelDispatch
Washington DC, DC1 441 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
We took the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Saint Moritz along our 8-day trip through Switzerland. We were seated in the 1st class area and booked the 4-course meal for the trip. Although the views were great there are numerous things one should be aware of before taking the trip.
1) PHOTOS; they will likely suck. There is a lot of glare on the windows from the lights within the train and other passengers. You can occasionally get a decent photo, but they do not turn off the lights throughout the entire trip because the train darts in and out of about 91 tunnels along the journey.
2) SERVICE; was somewhat disjointed and lackluster. Although we booked a 4-course meal ahead of time and seating is assigned, we had several instances where the servers missed serving us or brought incorrect orders. The quality of service was definitely below expectations for the 1st class car of an already relatively premium train experience.
3) FOOD; quality did not quite meet the standard one would think for the 1st class car on an already relatively premium train experience. The soup was warm, not quite hot. The main dish of chicken with a mushroom sauce, served with spaetzle and roasted vegetables was cafeteria quality. The spaetzle was undercooked, as were the bland roasted vegetables. The cheese and desert courses were good, but not great.
4) LANDWASSER VIADUCT; is the most photographed / iconic part of the journey. Yes, you'll pass over it on the Glacier Express, but so does every other train between Saint Moritz towards Chur. Although there's plenty of breathtaking scenery along the Glacier Express route, I don't think there's any advantage over other trains other than moving slower.
5) OTHER AMENITIES; the bar car is apparently closed during the winter months, which was a disappointment. Additionally, although the Glacier Express offers free wifi, the signal was so weak we couldn't connect to it the entire journey from our 1st class car.
Please don't get me wrong; I don't regret booking the experience. however, I don't think it may be worth it for everyone. As a hobbyist photographer I would have thought the Glacier Express would at least have a photography car where the windows can be opened, like several other regular trains that run between Saint Moritz & Chur. As someone who also enjoys good food, I wouldn't recommend the meals from the Glacier Express. We saw several people bring their own food, so I'd recommend doing that. Overall, if you don't mind paying the seat reservation premium and are someone who just wants to settle in an enjoy the ride and doesn't care about the quality of any of your photos, then this may be an experience you would enjoy. However, if you're a photographer, I'd suggest just booking a regular train and confirming it includes a photography car; it will be cheaper, your photos/video will be better, and the experience won't be much different.
1) PHOTOS; they will likely suck. There is a lot of glare on the windows from the lights within the train and other passengers. You can occasionally get a decent photo, but they do not turn off the lights throughout the entire trip because the train darts in and out of about 91 tunnels along the journey.
2) SERVICE; was somewhat disjointed and lackluster. Although we booked a 4-course meal ahead of time and seating is assigned, we had several instances where the servers missed serving us or brought incorrect orders. The quality of service was definitely below expectations for the 1st class car of an already relatively premium train experience.
3) FOOD; quality did not quite meet the standard one would think for the 1st class car on an already relatively premium train experience. The soup was warm, not quite hot. The main dish of chicken with a mushroom sauce, served with spaetzle and roasted vegetables was cafeteria quality. The spaetzle was undercooked, as were the bland roasted vegetables. The cheese and desert courses were good, but not great.
4) LANDWASSER VIADUCT; is the most photographed / iconic part of the journey. Yes, you'll pass over it on the Glacier Express, but so does every other train between Saint Moritz towards Chur. Although there's plenty of breathtaking scenery along the Glacier Express route, I don't think there's any advantage over other trains other than moving slower.
5) OTHER AMENITIES; the bar car is apparently closed during the winter months, which was a disappointment. Additionally, although the Glacier Express offers free wifi, the signal was so weak we couldn't connect to it the entire journey from our 1st class car.
Please don't get me wrong; I don't regret booking the experience. however, I don't think it may be worth it for everyone. As a hobbyist photographer I would have thought the Glacier Express would at least have a photography car where the windows can be opened, like several other regular trains that run between Saint Moritz & Chur. As someone who also enjoys good food, I wouldn't recommend the meals from the Glacier Express. We saw several people bring their own food, so I'd recommend doing that. Overall, if you don't mind paying the seat reservation premium and are someone who just wants to settle in an enjoy the ride and doesn't care about the quality of any of your photos, then this may be an experience you would enjoy. However, if you're a photographer, I'd suggest just booking a regular train and confirming it includes a photography car; it will be cheaper, your photos/video will be better, and the experience won't be much different.
Written 6 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear TravelDispatch
Thank you very much for your warm feedback, which is much appreciated.
We appreciate your feedback, as we are constantly striving to improve and expand. This individual feedback helps us to further develop these topics and improve ourselves.
Thank you very much and we hope to welcome you again aboard the slowest express train of the world.
Best wishes
Glacier Express
Written 16 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sheree W
5 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
Alps is amazing in Winter. My daughter and I booked the Glacier Express 1st class for Christmas. Before the trip, I was a little worried about this adventure in the snow. However, the joy of the journey washed away my worries. A friendly bellman greeted us and took our luggage. The train is nicely decorated with fine wood, with big glass windows to the ceiling. There is a beautiful bar area. We were first served by bobbly champagne.
We embarked at St. Moritz station. The train passed snow-covered mountains that were majestic and amazingly beautiful.
As we indulged in the local Swiss tea and the exquisite scenery, the serviceman announced that due to the strong wind, the train might have the risk of being unstable or facing avalanches at the peak; we had to take a detour and change to regular trains at Chur. to Zurich and back to Glacial Express at Brig. The service man managed well; he took 20+ 1st class passengers up and down four transfers with luggage. We missed the fabulous 6-course meal. Instead, we were given lunch bags. However, we were thankful that the railroad was doing this to keep us safe.
After we reboard the Glacier Express at Brig, the stunning scenery returns to our eyes. We had drinks of choice. The Glacier Express promised to refund our tickets.
After the train ride, My daughter and I had dinner at CHALET HOTEL SCHOENEGG, Zermatt, at a hill overlooking the glittering lights in the city with the backdrop of the majestic snowing Matterhorn. It is another fantastic experience.
We embarked at St. Moritz station. The train passed snow-covered mountains that were majestic and amazingly beautiful.
As we indulged in the local Swiss tea and the exquisite scenery, the serviceman announced that due to the strong wind, the train might have the risk of being unstable or facing avalanches at the peak; we had to take a detour and change to regular trains at Chur. to Zurich and back to Glacial Express at Brig. The service man managed well; he took 20+ 1st class passengers up and down four transfers with luggage. We missed the fabulous 6-course meal. Instead, we were given lunch bags. However, we were thankful that the railroad was doing this to keep us safe.
After we reboard the Glacier Express at Brig, the stunning scenery returns to our eyes. We had drinks of choice. The Glacier Express promised to refund our tickets.
After the train ride, My daughter and I had dinner at CHALET HOTEL SCHOENEGG, Zermatt, at a hill overlooking the glittering lights in the city with the backdrop of the majestic snowing Matterhorn. It is another fantastic experience.
Written 31 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear shereew460
Thank you very much for your feedback, which is much appreciated.
Nature shows its most impressive and sometimes wildest side along the Glacier Express route. We do our best to keep the route as open as possible, but safety is always our top priority.
We do hope, that apart from the detour, you could enjoy a winterwonderland in Switzerland.
Best regards
Gacier Express
Written 16 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Werner W
Zurich, Switzerland871 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
We took the train from St. Moritz to Zermatt. Shortly before Christmas there was enough snow to show the Winter in the alps. We liked the train and the beautiful landscape. The service was a bit chaotic but in the end good and friendly. The meal served was good. All in all a good experience.
Written 30 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear 708wernerw
Thank you very much for your feedback, which we appreciate. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your journey on the Glacier Express and that we were able to meet your expectations and will be happy, to forward your input about the service with our Staff.
We wish you all the best and hope to welcome you back soon again.
Best wishes
Team Glacier Express
Written 16 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Renee L
Sandton, South Africa27 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
We took the Glacier Express from Chur to Zermatt. We booked first class without the food service or pre ordered meals. The seats are a bit close together.
The service was brilliant though. Tickets and reservations were checked. I was extremely happy that they do that so people don’t sit in the wrong places. The journey was amazing. Was on time and the views are breathtaking. However they need to make the seats a bit more spacious especially in 1st class section.
The service was brilliant though. Tickets and reservations were checked. I was extremely happy that they do that so people don’t sit in the wrong places. The journey was amazing. Was on time and the views are breathtaking. However they need to make the seats a bit more spacious especially in 1st class section.
Written 17 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear ReneeL302
Thank you very much for your feedback, which we appreciate. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your journey on the Glacier Express and that we were able to meet your expectations and will be happy, to consider your inputs about the seats.
Best wishes
Team Glacier Express
Written 17 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stephen L
9 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
Paid for the upgrade to excellence class service. Once aboard the train the car looks a bit worn, seats, carpets. The car was full. We started out and service began with drinks and very small hors d'oeuvres beginning what we thought was a 7 course meal. Then an announcement, there was debris on the track ahead so we are only going to get soup and cheeses, nothing else. The drinks were still available and current route would be ending and transfer to other train with NOTHING offered, no food, no drinks. After 2 train transfers and a bus ride; 9 1.2 hours later arrived at destination. We were told a refund was in order to fill out form from an email. I know the weather was the main problem but why they didn't just serve the main course and not the hors d'oeuvres didn't make any sense. Now waiting for my refund! The pics of the train cars are enhanced to look shiny and new in my opinion. The single seats that face each other are so close together legs were cramped. Seats are somewhat comfortable but show signs of wear, etc. Overall I was disappointed. We saw NONE of the tunnels or sites listed on website and brochures.
Written 17 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear 366sl
Thank you for your feedback. Our first priority is always the safety of our guests. In an alpine environment, such as the Glacier Express operates in, this sometimes entails measures that may entail some compromises in terms of service and experience.
On the day of your travel, this was the case as well, and the tracks between Zermatt and Brig had to be closed as a safety precaution after many days of heavy rain. Despite the interruption, we did everything we could to ensure that guests could travel on the Glacier Express for as long as possible, enjoy the experience of the original route and reach their planned destination. This was possible thanks to a replacement Glacier Express from Brig, but unfortunately all Glacier Express passengers had to change trains in Disentis. In addition, due to these unexpected and last-minute logistical changes, we were unfortunately unable to provide the usual catering on the train.
However, the adjustments allowed us to spare you the detour via Bern - Zurich on the regular trains, which would have been the only alternative. As you rightly mentioned, we will nevertheless refund seat reservation fees for this day due to the service restrictions and inconveniences.
Written 20 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Buffy Chicken
Dallas, TX281 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
Breathtaking views, but we had clear skies. We started in St Moritz to Zermatt. Train left promptly at 8:51 am. Tickets and seats were checked and no tolerance for sitting in wrong seats. Many people on and off the train throughout the day. We pre-ordered and pre-paid for our 4-course meal. Drinks are extra. All drinks cost extra. We were in second class as first class seats were all sold out.
Written 10 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RelaxedAdventures
Sydney, Australia23 contributions
Sept 2023 • Solo
The views on this journey were beautiful, but not as breathtaking as the Bernina Express in my opinion. There was also no option to buy food if you hadn't pre-booked and despite being assured by staff I could order something after the main dinner service, I never saw them again so I was left hungry for six hours. There are a couple of points where you can leave the train for a couple of minutes to take photographs and I would recommend doing this no matter the weather for the amazing views!
Written 24 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RBN11
North Lakes, Australia1 005 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Probably the most famous Swiss train. As you would expect it was very clean; staff were friendly and efficient. We travelled on the train from Chur to Brig and enjoyed wonderful views along the way.
Written 18 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Omeshnarula
Ludhiana, India3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Be there love it! The entire journey is very picturesque, a heaven on earth. Manicured and too perfect. Would like to holiday here again!
Written 25 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Phillip L
Melbourne, Australia364 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
We travelled on the Glacier Express as part of a package tour around Switzerland by train. As a result, it was interesting reading some of the other reviews where cost seemed to be an issue. I can't comment on that.
We had second class seats and no complaints about the comfort and space available. We had decided to bring our own lunch snacks on board, rather than order the meal. However, many others in our carriage had ordered the al a carte lunch and again, whilst I cannot comment on the cost, the food did look very good.
The overall journey from St Moritz to Zermatt is a long one, with many stops, but the scenery is spectacular. We travelled on a bright, sunny day and whilst the windows for viewing are huge, reflection was horrendous on occasions. So therefore, there are two options - one, make your way to a viewing carriage, where the windows are down, allowing for clearer photography; or two, just sit back to enjoy the journey. Similarly to the other tourist trains, you can run around the carriage trying to take as many photos as possible, but in the end, you miss so much. It really is about the experience and it is a wonderful one to savour.
We had second class seats and no complaints about the comfort and space available. We had decided to bring our own lunch snacks on board, rather than order the meal. However, many others in our carriage had ordered the al a carte lunch and again, whilst I cannot comment on the cost, the food did look very good.
The overall journey from St Moritz to Zermatt is a long one, with many stops, but the scenery is spectacular. We travelled on a bright, sunny day and whilst the windows for viewing are huge, reflection was horrendous on occasions. So therefore, there are two options - one, make your way to a viewing carriage, where the windows are down, allowing for clearer photography; or two, just sit back to enjoy the journey. Similarly to the other tourist trains, you can run around the carriage trying to take as many photos as possible, but in the end, you miss so much. It really is about the experience and it is a wonderful one to savour.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hnv34
Coventry, UK31 contributions
Hi glacier express
I am travelling to Zurich in august for a week with my husband and my 4 year old.
I want to experience the glacier express but a short journey as I am travelling with my young child. So was thinking about just one- two stops 1-2 hours etc.
1. Where is the easiest place to board the glacier express from Zurich.
2. Am I likely to see any of the beautiful scenery or bridges or tunnels within 1-2 stops from Zurich. As I am trying to work out if it’s still worth it if not completing the entire trip.
Werner W
Zurich, Switzerland871 contributions
The nearest possibility is from Chur.
Regards Werner
Hola! Quiero coger el tren, pero me alojo en Zúrich, cuál sería la mejor ruta para cogerlo lo más cercano a Zúrich y creéis que merece la pena? Gracias !!!!
Glacier Express
Andermatt, Switzerland
Hello, If you want to do a day rount trip from/to Zurich you can take the normal train to Chur and from there to Brig the Glacier Express. From Brig there is a normal train again back via Bern to Zurich. Same works in the other direction too .
WeAlwaysLove2Travel
Hoboken, NJ52 contributions
So confused... Trying to make sure I'm good to go on the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz in February. I have purchased two Swiss Half Fare cards. One for me and one for my wife. I also paid for the two of us to upgrade to Excellence Class.
As I understand it, the Excellence Class tickets are simply a reservation. Do I now need to purchase two first class tickets? I assume use the SHF cards to obtain them. Correct? When can I get them now?
Mary R
Ireland108 contributions
Yes you are correct. One option is to buy your ticket to St. Moritz 1st class with your half fare card. In addition to your excellence class reservation.
Another potential option is to buy either a day saver pass from the sbb app for the day you are reserved for or a super saver point to point ticket.
syl k
Paris, France3 contributions
Hi all. I want to book the Glacier Express from Andermatt to Filisur in July.
I have a few questions.
Is it worth travelling down to St Moritz at all? As its been commented it's dead in summer?
Someone on this forum said the Glacier express is not worth it because it's crowded in 2nd class is this true?
I would not want to be stuck in crowded train for that length of time. Kindly give me any advice you can.
BillyMacPSU
Novi, MI151 contributions
While skiing we had to take the Glacier Express from Sedrun to Andermatt. This was a 10 mile train ride with the most gorgeous scenery and took 60 minutes. As this was unplanned and we were in our ski boots and carried our skiis on board, the cost was 11 swiss franks for 2nd class seat. The conductor told us what side to sit on for the best views and it was a fabulous experience. The train car was relatively empty, but it was a Sunday at 4pm. The interior of the second class car was modern with very comfortable seats. If you are going less than 3 hours 2nd class would be fine. If going longer distance and want meal options maybe 1st class is worth it.
Wai H
Singapore, Singapore19 contributions
May i ask which is the more preferable direction to take ? St Moritz to zermatt ? Or the other way round. Any major differences in terms of the view ? Thanks!
Mary R
Ireland108 contributions
Would suggest St. Moritz to Zermatt as Zermatt is a much nice town and we felt a little disappointed leaving Zermatt and its lovely vibe and arriving in St. Moritz which we really didnt like.
Hello, we are traveling to Switzerland in mid-March with our two boys and would like to do the Glacier Express. We fly into Zurich and plan to take a train to either St. Morritz OR Zermatt to start the trip on the GE. We plan to stop halfway on the GE in Andermatt and stay a few days at the Chedi. Questions…. What is the best rail pass to get that works for discounts on the GE? Is it better to get on the GE in Zermatt or St. Moritz if we plan to get off in Andermatt? What is the difference between class first and second class tickets on the GE for this trip?
BlueEyesPeter
Ghent, Belgium7 contributions
Hi, I want to know whether February is suitable for the express? What's the average temperature in Zermatt ?Thank you.
MVB59
Long Beach, CA16 contributions
If the weather is nice and not snowing, it's absolutely worth doing the Glacier Express. I recommend buying a First Class Flex pass for a few days, and then the Glacier Express is only a few CHF to make a reservation. There is a higher class (Excellent Class), but I'm not sure it's worth the price. Zermatt's average temperature is around 2° / -7 Celsius, and it's in the middle of ski season. So be prepared for that.
Milica S
Novi Belgrade, Serbia11 contributions
We made the mistake of buying the 1st class tickets from Zermatt to St. Moritz for 31.12. without checking the train timetable - unfortunately, we cannot make it that early to Zurich from Zurich.
However, we could still make it on time to catch the Glacier Express from Brig station.
Is it possible to use our ''from Zermatt'' tickets and reservation, but to board-in in Brig, one station after the Zermatt station?
Glacier Express
Andermatt, Switzerland
Good day,
Please reach out to info@glacierexpress.ch with your details to check, what we can do for you in this case.
We wish you all the best and a great journey on the Glacier Express in December.
Hi, I would like to know what would be the weather like in mid November?
Glacier Express
Andermatt, Switzerland
Dear Andrés B,
Thank you very much for your question. That is very difficult to say, because we do not always have an equally strong and early winter in Switzerland. It can already happen that snow falls in the higher regions and that it is cold.
For your info, we have a short break from 23.10 - 10.12, when no Glacier Express trains run.
I hope that I have been able to answer your question and we would be happy to welcome you on the Glacier Express soon.
Best regards,
Glacier Express Team
sbrad6
Baton Rouge, LA14 contributions
Are St Moritz shops and restaurants fully open end of August?
MVB59
Long Beach, CA16 contributions
As with everything in Switzerland, you have to be more specific. On the weekend shops are usually closed on Saturday from 4 PM to Monday 7-8 AM. In tourist towns, Souvenir shops are open. If you only have snacks they sell them everywhere. If you just need milk and other basics, there is a Migrolino store right at the train station that sells all those things. If you need more than that, the large Coop in St. Moritz Bad is open on Sundays during the season from 11.00 to 18.00 h (closed during the off-season). It's a nice walk along the lake from the train station.