The Most Beautiful Railway Routes In Switzerland
Switzerland is a land of picturesque landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is through its railway routes. The Swiss railway system is considered one of the best in the world, and for good reason. It’s efficient, comfortable, and offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and its magnificent lakes. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most beautiful railway routes in Switzerland that you don’t want to miss.
Glacier Express: The slowest express train in the world
The Glacier Express is a panoramic train that runs between St. Moritz and Zermatt, covering a distance of 291 km in around 8 hours. The train passes through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express is also known as the slowest express train in the world, which is a testament to its leisurely pace and stunning views.The journey on the Glacier Express is an experience in itself, with its comfortable seats, large windows, and panoramic view cars that allow you to take in the scenery. The train passes through picturesque villages, lush green valleys, and towering mountains, offering a glimpse into Switzerland’s stunning natural beauty.
Gornergratbahn for the most beautiful view of the Matterhorn in Zermatt
Zermatt is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland, and the Gornergratbahn is a must-see attraction. The Gornergratbahn is a cogwheel train that takes you to the summit of Gornergrat, offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains. The train journey takes around 33 minutes, and the views from the top are breathtaking.The Gornergratbahn is the highest open-air cogwheel train in Europe, with an altitude of 3,089 meters above sea level. From the top, you can see over 29 peaks that are over 4,000 meters high, including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the Jungfrau. The panoramic views are truly awe-inspiring and make for a memorable experience.
Along Lake Maggiore to Lugano
Lake Maggiore is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, and a journey along its shores is a must-do activity. The train journey from Locarno to Lugano takes around an hour and passes through quaint villages, vineyards, and lush green valleys. The train tracks run right along the shore of Lake Maggiore, offering stunning views of the lake and its surrounding mountains.The journey on this train is relaxing and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to take in the views. The train passes through the picturesque town of Bellinzona, known for its medieval castles and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The journey ends in Lugano, a charming town known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, palm-lined promenades, and stunning lakeside views.
In the Bernina Express over the Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur
The Bernina Express is another panoramic train that takes you from Chur to Tirano, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of the Swiss Alps. The journey takes around 4 hours and passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges. The train also passes over the famous Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur, one of the most photographed spots in Switzerland.The Landwasser Viaduct is an engineering marvel, with its curved design and stunning architecture. The viaduct is 65 meters high and 136 meters long and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The train slows down as it passes over the viaduct, allowing you to take in the views and capture some amazing photographs.
By boat across Lake Lucerne
Lake Lucerne is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland, andone of the best ways to experience its beauty is by taking a boat ride across its tranquil waters. The lake is located in the heart of Switzerland and is surrounded by towering mountains, picturesque villages, and lush green forests. The boat ride across Lake Lucerne offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a must-do activity when visiting Switzerland.
The boat ride across Lake Lucerne starts from Lucerne and takes you on a leisurely journey across the lake. The boats are equipped with comfortable seats, large windows, and open-air decks, allowing you to take in the views from every angle. The boat ride passes by some of the most iconic landmarks in Switzerland, including the famous Chapel Bridge and the stunning Mount Pilatus.The boat ride also offers the opportunity to explore the charming villages that dot the shoreline of the lake. The villages of Weggis, Vitznau, and Brunnen are popular stops along the way and offer a glimpse into the traditional Swiss way of life. You can explore these villages on foot, try some local cuisine, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views.
Information on the Swiss Travel Pass
If you’re planning to explore Switzerland by train, the Swiss Travel Pass is a must-have. The Swiss Travel Pass is an all-in-one ticket that allows you to travel on trains, buses, boats, and some mountain railways across the country. The pass is available for durations of 3, 4, 8, or 15 days and is a cost-effective way to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes.
With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel on any train or public transport system in Switzerland, including the panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express. The pass also includes free entry to over 500 museums across Switzerland, making it an ideal option for culture and history enthusiasts.The Swiss Travel Pass also offers discounts on some mountain railways and cable cars, allowing you to explore some of the most iconic peaks in Switzerland at a reduced price. The pass also includes free travel on the local transport systems in most Swiss cities, making it an excellent option for city breaks.
In conclusion, Switzerland is a country that is best explored by train, and the most beautiful railway routes in Switzerland offer stunning views of the country’s stunning landscapes. The Glacier Express, Gornergratbahn, the journey along Lake Maggiore to Lugano, the Bernina Express over the Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur, and the boat ride across Lake Lucerne are all must-do activities when visiting Switzerland. The Swiss Travel Pass is an excellent option for travelers looking to explore Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and culture in a cost-effective way.
Switzerland is a land of picturesque landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is through its railway routes. The Swiss railway system is considered one of the best in the world, and for good reason. It’s efficient, comfortable, and offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and its magnificent lakes. In…
