Throughout our overland journey from Cork to Cape Town, a plethora of breathtaking places stand out. While the eclectic landmarks of Cairo and the scenic filming locations of Dubrovnik were memorable experiences, it’s safe to say that few compare to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.
The name Grand Train Tour of Switzerland alone evokes images of a panoramic journey through valleys and alongside vast lakes, passing the world’s greenest meadows and mountains. This was definitely the case, but the quaint Swiss villages and fields full of the world’s happiest cows are things few remember to mention.
From the slowest express train in the world, like the Glacier Express, to the scenic Bernina Express, this journey is unlike any other. It’s easily one of the most exciting things to do in Switzerland.
So, if you want to stop at all of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages and enjoy an experience like no other, this Switzerland train itinerary covers everything you need to know.
Magical Swiss Train Tour Essentials You Need to Know
Before diving right into the itinerary, it’s crucial that you know a few things about taking a Grand Tour of Switzerland. You’ll find all the essentials here, from how long it takes to ticket prices.
How Long Switzerland Train Tours Last
Typically, people opt for 8-day passes for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, which is valid for travel on all trains, buses, and boats in Switzerland. This meant that virtually all transport for the entire week is covered by one pass.
While many people think it’s just a train pass, it’s honestly way more. It allows you to take buses for free in all the cities you visit, and boat rides are included as well. This allows one to explore Lausanne, Lugano, and Lucerne without stress.
Your pass will also get you free admission to over 500 museums across the country. One place to include in your itinerary is the town of Ascona. Check it out if you can.
To explore more of the country, you could always choose the 14-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland pass.
Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Cost and Ticket Prices
While the 8-day pass is most common, they also offer a 4-day pass for just €272 ($320 USD), an unbelievable value for Switzerland. Seriously, Google the price of a simple one-way intercity ticket, and you’ll cry, so this really is the cheapest option.
There are also many different railway lines within Switzerland and different routes depending on what type of scenery you’re looking for. One of my absolute favorite places to visit, with stunning high-alpine scenery, is the Jungfrau Railways. So definitely add that to your Swiss bucket list!
The two top panoramic trains are the Bernina and the Glacier Express. The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage Route, which speaks volumes in and of itself.
Note: If you don’t have eight days, let alone four, there are many Swiss train tours you can join for one day. If you’re short on time, I’ve found the top options for you. P.S. Some of them even leave from Milan.
An 8-Day Grand Tour of Switzerland by Train
Now, it’s time to get stuck into the fun stuff. Below, you’ll find an example itinerary for what you can expect at each town worth visiting. Each village is spectacular, so you can imagine there’s a lot to do at each of these Swiss destinations.
Day One | Start Your Swiss Train Tour in Lausanne
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can enjoy a grand start in Lausanne, a city that quickly stands out for its character and setting. With its blend of historic streets and modern architecture, Lausanne combines a rich past with a lively cultural scene shaped by international organizations and major events.
Set along the shores of Lake Geneva and home to several of Switzerland’s most renowned hotels, Lausanne is an ideal starting point for a rail journey through the country. Its lakeside location and relaxed pace make it easy to settle into Switzerland’s rhythm from the very first stop.
Highlights include a boat trip around the northern end of Lake Geneva on a 100-year-old steamboat, passing by the famous Vevay Vineyards and an island owned by the English Royal Family (apparently, it was gifted to them!). The cruise also offers views of the incredible lakeside mansions; you’ll have a hard time deciding which house you’d love to live in.
Lausanne is also home to some great restaurants, bars, and nightclubs (if visiting, be sure to go to MAD), so don’t be afraid to over-indulge for a day, eating your own body weight in delicious Swiss cheese and local wines; no one will be judging.
Another highlight of a day in Lausanne is a visit to the Olympic Museum. There’s something very special about visiting an Olympic Museum in the Olympic city.
Day Two | Adventure Lovers Head to Interlaken
From Lausanne, take the direct train to Interlaken, a town famous as the adventure sports capital of Europe. Interlaken could give cities like Queenstown and Victoria Falls a run for the title of adrenaline junkie capital of the world. Be it skydiving, hiking, biking, Paragliding, or a variety of winter sports, Interlaken has it all.
A stay at Balmers Hostel is recommended. It’s the longest-running independent hostel in Switzerland and one of the funkiest hostels you’ll ever stay in, guaranteed. They even have their own nightclub!
Book Balmers Hostel Interlaken
Traveling by rail in Switzerland really means traveling in style. On this journey, the contrast between the polished interiors and the casual look of backpacking travelers occasionally draws curious glances
From the moment we boarded our first train in Lausanne to the moment we disembarked our last train in Lugano on the Swiss-Italian border, the scenery blew us away.
It was difficult not to be overwhelmed by Switzerland’s beauty. People often refer to it as ‘straight from a fairytale’, and when traveling the country by train, you have to agree. The country’s exceptional cleanliness, combined with vivid green fields, stunning Swiss lakes, and vibrant skies, feels almost unreal.
While in Interlaken, the journey can continue on a historic cog railway climbing toward Lauterbrunnen Valley, one of the most picturesque towns in the world.
As the train passes small, timeworn stations and follows a fast-flowing river below, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Fed directly by melting snow from the surrounding peaks, the water took on a striking blue-gray hue, a color rarely seen elsewhere, adding to the sense of traveling deep into the Swiss Alps.
Day Three | Visit the Beautiful Village of Lauterbrunnen
Exploring Lauterbrunnen is sure to stand out as a highlight of the journey. The town often steals the hearts of even the most well-traveled visitors, which says it all.
Lauterbrunnen is the Swiss Mountain Village that many imagine but never thought really existed. It’s a place where every house looks like it’s from a fairytale, where the local graveyard looks like a scene from the Chelsea Flower Show. There are also so many waterfalls flowing off the side of the surrounding mountains that you begin to lose track of their names and how many you have seen.
One cascade that you will definitely remember, though, is Trummelbach Falls. It ranks among the most powerful and visually striking waterfalls in Switzerland. Even when compared to world-famous sites like Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls, and many of Iceland’s most famous waterways, its force and setting stand out.
The power of the water pushes through the rock, swirling in mini funnels that look like washing machines. They gush down level after level until the water emerges as a raging river at ground level, a spectacular sight. A must-visit if you are in the area!
Book Valley Hostel Lauterbrunnen
Day Four | Explore Spiez
While traveling from Interlaken to Zurich, the train passes the lakeside village of Spiez via the Goldenpass Line. With views over Lake Thun, a historic church, and a compact marina, it’s striking enough to warrant an unplanned stop.
Stepping off the train, the short walk from the station leads straight into a quiet spot overlooking the water. From there, elevated viewpoints reveal the town’s postcard-worthy layout, including the surrounding vineyards framed by the lake and mountains.
Day Five | Discover the Beauty of Zurich
Zurich is another one of Switzerland’s stunning cities, offering plenty to do on a stop here. As the country’s largest city, it perfectly blends historic charm with modern culture and scenic beauty.
The cobblestone streets of Old Town (Altstadt) wind past medieval buildings, cafés, and landmarks such as the twin towers of Grossmünster and the stained‑glass windows of Fraumünster, making it a rewarding area to wander. Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets, stretches from the main station toward Lake Zurich and is lined with luxury boutiques and cafés.
For culture and history, the Swiss National Museum presents Swiss heritage from prehistoric times to the present, while the Rietberg Museum houses an impressive collection of non‑European art in an elegant park setting. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic promenade around Lake Zurich or a short trip up Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views over the city and the Alps.
Whether sampling local chocolate, strolling parks such as Platzspitz, or discovering art and design museums, Zurich rewards even short visits with a rich mix of experiences.
Day Six | Pop Over to Stein Am Rhein
From Zurich, avoid sleeping in till late as the early-morning departures to Schaffhausen are well worth the effort. The scenic train route sets the stage for a memorable visit to the charming village of Stein am Rhein. Situated on the banks of the mighty River Rhine, the town captivates with its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and riverside charm. It’s safe to say Stein Am Rhein is one of the most quintessentially Swiss towns you’ll ever come across, and for good reason.
Every building along the main streets features ancient frescoes, each telling stories of the town’s rich history, making it a photographer’s dream. Small cafés and local restaurants add to its appeal, including eateries serving dishes such as exceptionally prepared crepes, proving the town is as delightful for dining as it is for sightseeing.
Day Seven | Catch a Swiss Train to Lucerne
Ask any visitor, and they’ll be more than happy to mention Lucerne as one of the highlights of their time in Switzerland. This is mainly thanks to offering a mix of scenic beauty and engaging activities. Locals swear by the boat trip across Lake Lucerne and a ride on the old cog railway up Mount Rigi, both providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sparkling waters. Photos taken here often appear like drone shots due to the sweeping vistas and dramatic angles.
The area is also social and welcoming, with opportunities to meet fellow travelers from around the world, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. For the descent, taking the cable car back down Mount Rigi adds an extra thrill, with sweeping turns and scenic views that make the ride feel almost like a rollercoaster.
Day Eight | End Your Switzerland Grand Tour in Lugano
While Lugano offers plenty to enjoy on its own, the train ride on the Wilhelm Tell Express (also known as the Gotthard Panorama Express) will likely be the highlight of the area. The train’s panoramic windows provide uninterrupted views of Switzerland’s changing landscapes, from spiral tunnels carved through towering mountains to valleys that open onto the Swiss-Italian border, where towns take on a distinctly Italian character.
While in Lugano, travelers can take a boat trip around the lake (free, like the others!), often with very few other tourists in sight. Remember that Italian character seen from the comfort of a train seat? See it up close with a stop at the stunningly beautiful village that is reminiscent of Cinque Terre.
The area also offers opportunities for local experiences, such as wine tasting at family-run wineries. It is the perfect way to wrap up a trip that’ll stay in memory for a long time.
FAQs about The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland
Do you still have a few questions about the Glacier Express, nearby famous landmarks, and the Swiss Travel Pass? Here are the internet’s most searched questions and answers.
How Much Does the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Cost?
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland costs vary by package and duration. Self-guided 4-day passes start around €272 ($320 USD), while guided 15-day options can start as low as €537 ($630 USD). The Swiss Travel Pass covers extra routes with seat reservations.
How Long Is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?
The standard Grand Train Tour spans 3-10 days, covering 1,280 km across scenic routes like the Glacier and the Bernina Express. However, some tour companies offer flexible itineraries that allow customization for over 15 days for deeper exploration.
Is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Worth It?
Yes, the Grand Train Tour is a wonderful way to discover hidden gems and see the lush green natural wonders of the stunning Swiss Alps. It is ideal for rail enthusiasts seeking Switzerland’s essence in one journey.
Is It Worth Buying a Swiss Travel Pass?
Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is highly worth it. It offers unlimited trains, buses, and boats, plus discounts on mountain and museum tickets. It covers the full Grand Tour (reservations extra) for 3-15 days.
Final Thoughts on Taking Switzerland Tours by Train
So there you have it, an eight-day itinerary for an epic Switzerland rail tour that highlights some of the country’s most scenic routes and picturesque towns. However, there are still several destinations worth exploring on a future trip, including Bern, St. Moritz, Jungfraujoch, and more that complement the route outlined here.
Next Read: If you’re planning an extended stay in Lucerne, have a look at these fantastic Mount Pilatus tickets.
Last updated on January 16th, 2026 at 12:53 pm
