Glacier Express FAQs - Scenic Journey | SwissASAP (2024)

Planning a ride on the Glacier Express? Our FAQ guide ensures a smooth and unforgettable Swiss rail experience.

🇨🇭Q: Is Glacier Express worth it?
A: Yes, the Glacier Express is most definitely worth it. The panoramic windows allow you an unobstructed view of the picturesque scenery: snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, beautiful green valleys, and pristine Alpine villages. The train also features comfortable seats, exceptional onboard dining, and a travel guide for each passenger, enhancing your journey with insightful commentary about the regions you’re passing through. The Glacier Express isn’t just a train ride, it’s an experience — a leisurely, all-day immersion into the heart of the Swiss Alps.

🇨🇭Q: What is the duration of the Glacier Express journey?
A: Prepare for an 8-hour journey of pure wonder! The Glacier Express takes you on a mesmerizing 186-mile voyage straight through Switzerland’s iconic Alps, traveling from the alpine paradise of Zermatt to the exclusive ski haven of St. Moritz or vice versa.

🇨🇭Q: How frequently does the Glacier Express operate?
A: The Glacier Express operates year-round, except for a brief hiatus from late-October to mid-December. During the winter months, specifically from 10 December, 2023 to 13 May, 2024, the Glacier Express departs Zermatt at 8:52 am and reaches St. Moritz by 4:37 pm. This schedule ensures travelers can experience the breathtaking Swiss landscapes in all their winter splendor. For exact detailed information, passengers can contact Glacier Express directly.

🇨🇭Q: If I have a Swiss Travel Pass, do I still need to reserve and pay for a seat on the Glacier Express?
A: Absolutely, a reservation is necessary. Holding a Swiss Travel Pass does grant you access to the Glacier Express, but it’s important to remember that you must reserve and pay for your seat separately. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend booking your seat in advance. You can conveniently make your reservation and payment at glacierexpress.ch. And don’t forget, for all your Swiss Travel Pass needs, visit us at SwissASAP.com, your trusted source for exploring the beauty of Switzerland with ease and convenience.

🇨🇭Q: I purchased a 2nd class ticket but want to upgrade to 1st class. How can I do this?
A: It’s a simple process! You can reserve a 1st class seat online. During the third step of the process, under ‘Reductions,’ select the Swiss Travel Pass. This means you’ll only need to pay for the reservation online. However, you’ll have to pay the difference between the 1st and 2nd class fares at the station. The cost varies depending on the route. And don’t worry, both classes offer the panoramic windows for breathtaking views!

🇨🇭Q: When should I make my booking for the Glacier Express?
A: To secure your seat on the magnificent Glacier Express, it’s best to book at least 93 days in advance for both 1st and 2nd class. For those seeking the lavish Excellence Class experience, bookings can be made online for any date within the entire timetable period.

🇨🇭Q: What should I do if I need to change or cancel my online booking?
A: We understand that plans can change, but please note that online tickets for the Glacier Express are final and cannot be changed or canceled once booked.

🇨🇭Q: Which segment of the Glacier Express journey is the most scenic?
A: Every moment on the Glacier Express is special, but the route from Andermatt to Disentis truly stands out. This is where you’ll cross the Oberalp Pass, offering a panorama of snow-laden vistas in winter and awe-inspiring mountains in summer. This is a must-see part of the journey!

🇨🇭Q: Which side of the Glacier Express offers the best views?
A: If you’re traveling from Zermatt to St. Moritz, the right side of the train provides the most stunning views. Of course, if you’re going in the opposite direction, the views flip. We estimate about 85% of the most picturesque sights are on the right side.

🇨🇭Q: Can I purchase food on the Glacier Express?
A: Absolutely! You won’t have to worry about going hungry during the journey. The Glacier Express offers an on-board food service. Indulge in an exquisite culinary journey aboard the Glacier Express. Glacier Express offers an exceptional selection of wines from the cantons of Graubünden and Valais, perfectly curated to complement your dining experience. To ensure a seamless service, we recommend individual travelers to reserve their lunch in advance due to our high demand and limited capacity.

🇨🇭Q: What is the ideal time of year to travel on the Glacier Express?
A: The Glacier Express is a sight to behold year-round. The snow-capped mountains in winter add an extra dash of magic to your journey. However, for clearer and consistently impressive views, spring is a great choice. The Glacier Express operates nearly throughout the year, pausing only from late October until mid-December.

🇨🇭Q: Is Glacier Express worth it in Summer?
A: Absolutely! The Glacier Express is an exquisite journey regardless of the season, and summer offers its own unique advantages. In summer, the Alpine landscapes are at their most vibrant. As you traverse the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express, you’ll witness lush green meadows, blooming wildflowers, sparkling mountain lakes, and majestic peaks under clear blue skies. The train’s panoramic windows offer unobstructed views of these breathtaking sights.

🇨🇭Q: Should I consider staying in Chur?
A: Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, is a destination not to be missed! This car-free mountain city offers an authentic Swiss charm right in the heart of the Alps. Especially if you’re traveling on the Bernina Express or the Glacier Express, an overnight stay in Chur comes highly recommended.

🇨🇭Q: Does Glacier Express have stops?
A: Yes, the Glacier Express does make stops along its route. However, it’s important to note that these stops are not for sightseeing purposes but for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The Glacier Express is primarily designed to be a scenic journey from start to finish (from Zermatt to St. Moritz or vice versa), rather than a hop-on, hop-off service. The train passes through several towns and cities, including Brig, Andermatt, Chur, and Davos, among others. Passengers are allowed to disembark at these stations if their travel plans require it.