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Panoramic train · St. Moritz, Grisões
Glacier Express
Panoramic train between St. Moritz and Zermatt, in about 8 hours, over 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, passing the Landwasser viaduct, the Rhine Gorge and the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 m.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Glacier Express
The Glacier Express links St. Moritz to Zermatt, in Valais, in about 8 hours. It has been running since 1930 and crosses the center of the Swiss Alps via 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, with stops in Chur, Disentis, Andermatt and Brig, among others.
Departing St. Moritz, the train descends along the Albula line: it passes through the Albula tunnel, the spirals between Preda and Bergün and the Landwasser viaduct, 65 m high and 142 m long, near Filisur. After Chur, it follows the Rhine through the Ruinaulta, the Rhine gorge, between Reichenau and Ilanz.
The highest point is the Passo do Oberalp, at 2,033 m, where a beacon marks Lago Toma, the source of the Rhine. From there the train descends to Andermatt, continues through the Goms valley and climbs to Zermatt, at the foot of the Matterhorn.
Meals are prepared on board and served at your seat. There is first and second class and the Excellence Class, with a guaranteed window seat and menu included. Seat reservation is mandatory for everyone, even with a rail pass.
The train runs every day, with an annual pause that usually goes from mid-October to the beginning of December.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 8 h from St. Moritz to Zermatt, one way. You can do just one section, like St. Moritz–Chur.
Best time
On clear days. In the European summer, from June to September, long days keep the whole trip in daylight; in winter, from December to March, the landscape is usually covered in snow.
How to get there
The train departs from St. Moritz station, on the lakeside, a few minutes' walk from Dorf.
Tip
To see the Landwasser and the Albula without spending the day on the train, do only the St. Moritz–Chur section. In summer, a special train and a trail lead to the viaduct viewing platform. Order meals in advance, up to 48 hours before departure.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Glacier Express
How long does the Glacier Express take?
About 8 hours between St. Moritz and Zermatt.
Do you need to reserve the Glacier Express?
Yes. Seat reservation is mandatory for all passengers, even with a rail pass.
Does the Glacier Express operate year-round?
Almost. There is an annual break that usually runs from mid-October to early December.
What is the highest point of the Glacier Express?
The Passo do Oberalp, at 2,033 m.