The Most Scenic Train Routes in Switzerland for Families

Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and impeccable rail network, offers some of the most picturesque train journeys perfect for family adventures. Below are the top scenic train routes in Switzerland that will captivate both adults and children alike.

Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is often dubbed the slowest express train in the world, but this is because it traverses some of the most stunning landscapes in the Swiss Alps. The route connects the chic ski resort of Zermatt with the equally glamorous St. Moritz, covering 291 kilometers in about eight hours.

Families will marvel at panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, pristine valleys, and charming alpine villages.The highlight is crossing the Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bernina Express

The Bernina Express offers an unforgettable journey from Chur to Tirano, crossing the Swiss Engadin Alps. This route features 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, including the famous Brusio Spiral Viaduct. The train climbs to the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters, offering families spectacular views of glaciers and mountains.

In contrast, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland. The train’s panoramic windows offer a front-row seat to the icy beauty of frozen lakes, frosted trees, and villages blanketed in snow. The winter journey is particularly enchanting, as the train passes through some of the most picturesque winter scenery in the world.

The journey’s scenic diversity, from icy landscapes to palm trees in Italy, ensures a memorable experience for all ages.

GoldenPass Line

The GoldenPass Line connects Lucerne to Montreux, passing through picturesque towns and stunning landscapes. This route is ideal for families, as it offers a combination of lakes, mountains, and charming Swiss villages.

Highlights include the crystal-clear Lake Thun, the historical town of Interlaken, and the panoramic views of Lake Geneva as the train descends into Montreux. The journey offers several class options, including luxurious panoramic coaches for the best views.

Gotthard Panorama Express

Combining train and boat travel, the Gotthard Panorama Express takes families from Lucerne to Lugano. The journey begins with a scenic boat ride across lake lucerene followed by a train ride through the heart of the Swiss Alp. Key highlights include the historic Gotthard Tunnel, picturesque valleys, and charming villages.

This route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Swiss engineering marvels.The best time to travel on the Gotthard Panorama Express is during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the days are long.

The journey is also available in the spring and autumn, when the landscapes are equally beautiful with blooming flowers or fall foliage. The service operates from April to October, with the exact dates varying each year.

Voralpen Express

The Voralpen Express travels between Lucerne and St. Gallen, offering a less crowded yet equally stunning alternative. This journey takes families through rolling hills, lush meadows and the famous Toggenburg region.

Highlights include views of the Rigi and Pilatus mountains, the serene Lake Zurich, and the charming town of Rapperswil. The route is particularly beautiful during the autumn months when the landscapes are adorned with vibrant fall colors.

Jungfrau Region Railways

The Jungfrau Region Railways offer a network of scenic routes ideal for families exploring the Bernese Oberland. Key routes include the Jungfrau Railway, which takes passengers to the Jungfraujoch – the highest railway station in Europe, and the Wengen–Männlichen Aerial Cableway.

Families can enjoy unparalleled views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, lush green valleys, and charming alpine villages.The region also offers numerous hiking and recreational activities suitable for children.

Mont-Blanc Express

The Mont-Blanc Express connects Martigny in Switzerland to Chamonix in France, offering a scenic journey through the Trient Valley. Families will be captivated by views of dramatic gorges, alpine forests, and towering peaks. The route is famous for its spectacular backdrop of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps.

The train’s slow pace and frequent stops allow ample opportunities to admire and photograph the stunning landscapes.

Arosa Line

The Arosa Line travels from Chur to the mountain resort of Arosa, offering a short but spectacular journey. The route includes a dramatic ascent from Chur, passing through tunnels, over bridges, and along steep mountain sides. Highlights include the impressive Langwieser Viaduct and panoramic views of alpine meadows and forests.

The destination, Arosa, offers a range of family-friendly activities, including hiking, skiing, and a visit to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary.In the summer months, the Arosa Line showcases the lush green meadows, dense forests, and vibrant wildflowers that blanket the Swiss Alps.

During the winter, the Arosa Line takes on a magical quality as the landscape is transformed into a snow-covered wonderland. The train ride through the snow-dusted forests and frozen valleys is truly enchanting, and Arosa becomes a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts

Conclusion

Switzerland’s scenic train routes provide families with unique and unforgettable travel experiences. Each journey offers a blend of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and a touch of adventure, making them perfect for family vacations. Whether it’s traversing high alpine passes or meandering through serene valleys, these train rides promise to enchant travelers of all ages.

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