Your Top Questions Answered: The Glacier Express

By Railbookers Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Read time: 3 minutes

Everything you need to know to plan the perfect Glacier Express trip including classes, seasons, scenic stops, and more.

They call it “the slowest express train in the world,” and that’s exactly why travellers love it. The Glacier Express isn’t about speed; it’s about soaking in some of the most spectacular views on Earth. The journey connects two of Switzerland’s most glamorous resorts, Zermatt and St Moritz, and along the way, you’ll pass through an ever-changing landscape of mountains, gorges, valleys, and storybook villages.

With Railbookers, the trip is effortless. We handle the train bookings, arrange perfectly located hotels, and can build in extra nights to explore along the way. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Glacier Express holiday.

When is the best time of year to take the Glacier Express?

The Glacier Express runs all year, and each season transforms the scenery into something completely new:

Summer (June–September): You’ll see green meadows dotted with wildflowers, glacial rivers glinting in the sunlight, and hikers winding along alpine trails. It’s ideal for combining the trip with mountain excursions like the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt or the Diavolezza cable car near St Moritz.
Autumn (late September–October): The crowds thin, the air is crisp, and the larch trees turn golden. This is a photographer’s dream season, and perfect for quieter travel.
Winter (December–March): Imagine snow-dusted rooftops, frozen waterfalls, and ski slopes just steps from your hotel. You could pair the train ride with a few days of skiing in St Moritz or winter hiking in the car-free village of Zermatt.

Because Railbookers packages are fully customisable, we can build your itinerary around the scenery you most want to see.

How long does the Glacier Express journey take?

The full route takes around eight hours from Zermatt to St Moritz (or vice versa), winding past the Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the line, and the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon.”

We recommend spending two to three nights in both Zermatt and St Moritz so you can explore each destination. In Zermatt, ride the cogwheel train to Gornergrat for panoramic views of the Matterhorn. In St Moritz, enjoy lakeside strolls and sweeping alpine vistas.

Can I book a Glacier Express trip with hotels included?

Yes, and it’s the easiest way to travel. Railbookers’ all-in-one packages include:

Confirmed Glacier Express bookings
Centrally located hotels, often just a short walk from the station
Transfers to ensure a smooth connection between trains and accommodation

For example, The Glacier Express trip starts in Zurich, travels to St Moritz and continues on the Glacier Express to Zermatt, and finishes in Geneva for a lakeside finale. All hotels and trains along the way are included.

What’s the difference between Excellence Class and First Class?

Excellence Class: Reserved for just 20 passengers, this is as luxurious as train travel gets. Expect a guaranteed single window seat, a multi-course gourmet menu with wine pairings, afternoon tea, and a personal concierge.
First Class: Spacious panoramic windows and plush seating without the inclusive dining. You can still order meals à la carte from your seat.

Some travellers opt for Excellence Class in one direction and First Class on the return to experience both.

Train travellers look out of the window and the snowy Alpine scenery

Are meals included?

In Excellence Class, yes, every course is included, from appetisers to dessert. In First and Second Class, you can purchase meals and drinks, served right to your seat. Railbookers also includes overnight stops to sample local cuisine, like raclette in Zermatt or Engadin nut cake in St Moritz.