Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Glacier Express offers a journey like no other. The Glacier Express is often hailed as the “glass train” giving a panoramic view with a three or seven course meal gives a luxurious travel experience leaving a long lasting impression and memory for the travellers despite being the ‘world’s slowest express train’. This iconic route takes passengers on an unforgettable voyage between Zermatt and St. Moritz. But with a journey that spans 8 hours, the question arises: Is the Glacier Express worth your time and money? Let’s dive in and find out.

The Route: A Journey Through the Swiss Alps

The Glacier Express covers approximately 291 kilometers (181 miles), connecting two of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts: Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn, and St. Moritz, the epitome of luxury alpine living. The route traverses some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, including deep valleys, towering peaks, and charming villages.

Key highlights of the journey include:

A. Oberalp Pass: The highest point of the journey at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet) above sea level.

B. Landwasser Viaduct: A stunning architectural marvel that seems to emerge from the cliffs.

C. Rhine Gorge: Known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” this natural wonder is a feast for the eyes.

The Experience: Comfort and Luxury Onboard

The Glacier Express is not just about the destination—it’s about the experience. The train is designed with large panoramic windows that extend up to the ceiling, ensuring that you don’t miss a single detail of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re traveling in first class or second class, the seats are spacious, comfortable, and perfectly positioned for sightseeing.

For those looking to elevate their experience, there’s the option of traveling in Excellence Class. This premium service offers a 1:1 seating arrangement, a seven-course gourmet meal, and access to an exclusive bar area. It’s a splurge, but one that promises an unforgettable journey.

The Travel Cost: Ticket Price, Meals & Reservations

The Glacier Express is undoubtedly a luxury experience, and the price reflects that. Tickets for the full journey i.e. St. Moritz to Zermatt, starts at around CHF 159 (approx. USD 180) for second class, while first-class tickets begin at CHF 272 (approx. USD 306). Excellence Class, the pinnacle of luxury, costs a whopping CHF 580 (approx. USD 650). Though if you’re in budget constraint and still want to experience the Glacier Express for one-time experience then you can also buy ticket for shortest route available i.e. Andermatt – Zermatt for which the ticket costs around 77 CHF (approx 89 USD) for second class and 131 CHF (approx 151 USD).

If you have a Eurail Pass or Swiss Pass, then you’re in luck. The Glacier Express is covered by the Eurail Pass (when you activate the travel day), but you’ll still need to pay for a seat reservation. The reservation fees are as follows:

• Second Class: CHF 39 (approx. USD 43)
• First Class: CHF 49 (approx. USD 54)
• Excellence Class: CHF 470 (approx. USD 530) (includes all meals and drinks)

These fees are in addition to the cost of your Eurail Pass and further, for a 4 course meal, you’ll need to reserve and pay extra price of CHF 49 (approx. USD 54) per person. Therefore, it’s essential to factor this into your budget.

When it comes to dining, the Glacier Express offers a variety of options:

A. Onboard Menu: You can order meals à la carte or choose from set menus. A three-course lunch costs around CHF 43 (approx. USD 47), while individual dishes like soups, salads, or desserts range from CHF 10-20 (approx. USD 11-22).

B. Excellence Class: The seven-course gourmet meal included with Excellence Class is part of the experience and is factored into the ticket price.

While the prices might seem steep, it’s important to consider what you’re getting for your money. The Glacier Express is not just a train ride—it’s a full-day experience that offers unparalleled views, comfort, and service. For many, the cost is justified by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world from the comfort of a train.

Which season is the Best to take this scenic journey?

I wish I read some blogs answering this question since it would save me a lot of money of taking the same journey twice (second time during January in snow season). And yes, the answer for me is a one sided win for winter season when the Swiss Alps are covered in snow and the bleak Sunlight adds a golden hue to the snow-capped Swiss Alps giving a spectacular and magnificent sight. These picturesque snow capped landscape during winter season is surely a ‘dream come true’ sight for travellers across the globe.

The Alternatives: Other Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland

If the price or duration of the Glacier Express is a concern, there are other scenic train rides in Switzerland that might be worth considering. The Bernina Express, for example, offers a shorter journey with equally stunning views, connecting Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. The GoldenPass Line, another popular route, takes passengers from Montreux to Lucerne, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Riviera and the Bernese Oberland.

Final Verdict: Worth your time & money or Not?

Thus, in my personal view, the Glacier Express is definitely worth your time but is it worth money? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a lover of scenic landscapes, a fan of leisurely travel, or someone who appreciates luxury experiences, then the Glacier Express is undoubtedly worth it. The journey offers a unique perspective of the Swiss Alps that you simply can’t get anywhere else. Also, remember the advice that the Swiss alps look absolutely stunning during winters in comparison to what summer view offers.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule, budget-conscious, or prefer a more dynamic travel experience, you might find that the Glacier Express is not the best fit. In that case, exploring other regional trains is best alternative since the view you get especially while travelling from Bern to Zermatt or Chur to San Maurizio is definitely breathtaking. Many other regional train routes in Swiss Alps offers such incredible sights.

In the end, the Glacier Express is more than just a train ride—it’s a celebration of the journey itself. For those who choose to embark on this adventure, it promises memories that will last a lifetime.