5 Swiss Rail Holidays That Capture the Magic of the Alps
Switzerland isn’t just beautiful—it’s brilliantly engineered for rail travel. Whether you’re gliding past glaciers, coasting alongside alpine lakes, or pulling into mountain villages straight out of a postcard, this country is best explored by train.
In partnership with Travel Switzerland and Switzerland Tourism, we’ve rounded up five exceptional holidays that show off the very best of Swiss rail. Each one includes flexible travel dates, hand-picked hotels, and seamless journeys aboard iconic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express—without the fuss of group tours or rigid itineraries.
Here are five Swiss escapes every rail enthusiast should have on their radar:
1. Classic Glacier and Bernina Express
Duration: 6 Days
Highlights: Chur • St Moritz • Tirano • Zermatt • Glacier Express • Bernina Express
This is one for the rail purists. Linking two of the world’s most scenic train journeys, this itinerary takes in the full grandeur of the Swiss Alps—towering peaks, hairpin turns, and UNESCO-listed landscapes included. It’s the ultimate “sit back and enjoy the view” experience.
Why it’s great: Two iconic train routes in one perfectly packaged holiday.
Our Rail Experts take: “A dream itinerary for rail fans and scenery lovers alike—it’s like watching a nature documentary from the comfort of your seat.”
2. Iconic Swiss Villages and Majestic Mountain Peaks by Rail
Duration: 8 Days
Highlights: Bern • Grindelwald • Zermatt • Gornergrat Railway
This classic holiday offers the charm of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages paired with the majesty of its famous mountain ranges. Explore Bern’s medieval old town, relax in Grindelwald, and ascend to breathtaking heights on the Gornergrat Railway.
Why it’s great: Combines cultural gems with some of the most awe-inspiring alpine scenery.
Our Rail Experts take: “It’s everything you imagine Switzerland to be—lakes, peaks, wooden chalets and crisp mountain air.”
3. Railbookers Signature – Swiss Mountains Adventure
Duration: 10 Days
Highlights: St Moritz • Glacier Express • Zermatt • Montreux
A curated showcase of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations, this itinerary blends first-class alpine glamour with once-in-a-lifetime rail journeys. Enjoy time in elegant St. Moritz, ride the renowned Glacier Express, and unwind in lakeside Montreux.
Why it’s great: Railbookers’ definitive Swiss adventure, with a perfect balance of luxury, sightseeing and relaxation.
Our Rail Experts take: “This is the one we’d book ourselves—it’s Swiss travel at its finest, without the guesswork.”
4. Zurich to Milan Alpine Luxury Rail Adventure
Duration: 7 Days
Highlights: Zurich • Andermatt • St Moritz • Milan
If you enjoy the finer things in life, this journey delivers. Travel in style from Switzerland’s chic alpine towns to Italy’s fashion capital, combining boutique hotels, scenic rail routes, and elegant cities all in one trip.
Why it’s great: Sophisticated, smooth, and a delightful blend of Swiss serenity and Italian flair.
Our Rail Experts take: “It’s the grand tour for modern travellers—style, scenery and simplicity from start to finish.”
5. Scenic Switzerland from Zurich
Duration: 7 Days
Highlights: Lucerne • Interlaken • Zermatt • Glacier Express
Start in cosmopolitan Zurich before heading into the heart of alpine Switzerland. With time in Lucerne and Interlaken and a stunning Glacier Express ride to Zermatt, this itinerary packs in all the beauty and ease of Swiss rail travel in just one week.
Why it’s great: A perfect mix of lakes, mountains and iconic routes—ideal for first-time visitors.
Our Rail Experts take: “This one’s a crowd-pleaser—easy to book, stunning at every stop, and unforgettable.”
Travel Switzerland the Railbookers Way
All of our Swiss holidays include rail travel, hotel accommodation, and expert planning—so you can simply enjoy the journey. With flexible departures, no group tours, and tailor-made options, it's the stress-free way to explore Switzerland at your own pace.
Book with confidence. Travel when it suits you. Let the train take you there.
