Celebrating over 175 years of Swiss Rail
For such a small country, Switzerland packs a punch when it comes to extraordinary holidays. While it's most famous as an outdoor playground in sensational Alpine scenery, it also has a world-class rail network, with tracks that ascend lofty peaks, and cosmopolitan cities including Zurich, Bern, and Interlaken - so there's plenty for those not looking to ski or snowboard.
What's the best Swiss railway journey?
Switzerland has several famous railway journeys, including the Bernina Express, the Mont Blanc Express, and the Glacier Express - perhaps three of the best-known. But other journeys claim fame, too, including the route to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe and a nostalgic trip on a steam-powered cogwheel that dates back to 1892.
The Bernina Express follows the highest railway line in the Alps in panoramic carriages with curved glass roofs, allowing you to see some of Switzerland's finest scenery on a day trip from a base on the shores of Lake Como in neighbouring Italy.
Glide through the Swiss Alps by rail and explore northern Italy. Enjoy a journey from Brig to Zermatt, where you'll take in views of the Matterhorn, a scenic day trip on the historic Glacier Express, and a ride on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano, passing St Moritz along the way. You'll also visit northern Italy's stunning Lake Maggiore, set against a backdrop of snowcapped peaks and explore Stresa and the Baroque palazzo on Isola Bella.
The Mont Blanc Express links France and Switzerland. Board this famous train and travel along the Montenvers rack railway, climbing 1,913m through forests, tunnels and over viaducts before opening up to an enormous panorama with the Mer de Glace below.
Spend three nights in charming Chur and ride the Glacier Express to St Moritz. Pass through breathtaking Swiss countryside, over the Landwasser Viaduct enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Alps and stop in the stylish resort town of St Moritz. Your trip concludes with a scenic rail journey back to Zurich, through verdant landscapes and snow-capped hills.
The best holidays in Switzerland blend exploration by rail with other Alpine excursions. Take a nine-day tour of the Italian Lakes and majestic Swiss peaks - including a journey on a nostalgic cogwheel railway.
To experience the best of the Swiss landscape, a week-long holiday to the Swiss and Italian Alps includes a daytrip to elegant St Moritz on the Bernina Railway. This unforgettable train ride will take you along the highest railway line in the Alps - perfect for admiring the scenic views of crystal lakes and mountain peaks.
Snowy and ski-ready in winter, and verdant and vibrant in summer, Switzerland is always inviting. The right time to visit depends on the kind of experience you want. Most trains continue to operate throughout the winter, so passengers can admire the snow-blanketed scenery, although summer visitors won't miss out, as snow remains year-round on the highest peaks.
Travelling in the spring and summer promises a diversity of green shoots and snow-capped mountains, and milder climes for getting out and about on Alpine walks and taking scenic boat journeys across the lakes. Some people prefer Switzerland when it's quieter in the spring, after the skiers have returned home but before the summer holidays have started.
