Self-Guided Glacier Express

FAQ

Is this Glacier Express tour guided or self-guided?

This is a self-guided tour that is a 3 night/4 day tour package. We will book the hotels, purchase Swiss Travel Rail passes, and make seat reservations on the Glacier Express train. You will then follow our detailed daily instructions to travel on this tour independently. We can always add on extra days if you would like.

Do you guarantee seats in 1st Class on the Glacier express train?

Seat reservations open 93 days before departure, and we make every effort to secure first-class seats as soon as they become available. However, due to high demand, it’s possible that first-class seats may not be available, in which case we will reserve second-class seats for you. The Glacier Express is Switzerland’s most popular scenic train, but rest assured—both first and second class feature panoramic windows and the same stunning views along the route.

What is the full route of the Glacier Express?

The Glacier Express runs the full distance between St. Moritz and Zermatt in Switzerland. Travelers arriving in Zurich or Geneva must first take connecting trains—about 3.5 hours—to reach either terminus. The complete journey takes around 8 hours and spans 180 miles (291 km). You can shorten the trip by boarding or exiting in Chur or Andermatt, though the seat-reservation fee is the same whether you ride a segment or the entire route.

I sometimes have motion sickness so I want to ride facing forward. Is this possible?

No, the Glacier Express seat reservation system does not indicate the direction of travel when booking. Train carriages can change direction, and the seating chart won’t show which way is forward. To help with motion sickness, it’s best to book a pair of seats facing each other, so at least one person will be traveling forward. Keep in mind that the train enters Chur station in one direction and departs in the opposite, so you will inevitably travel backward at some point unless you can switch seats with another person.

Can I order lunch on the Glacier Express while on the train?

It’s recommended to pre-order your meal from the Glacier Express catering company at least 10 days in advance. Instructions are included on your seat reservation confirmation flyer and in the tour documents we provide. If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, you can notify the catering company when placing your pre-order. A small a la carte menu may also be available on board, but it’s subject to availability and the servers’ schedule. Alternatively, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the train.

What is Excellence Class on the Glacier Express?

• Excellence Class is the top-tier carriage offered on the Glacier Express route between St. Moritz and Zermatt (and vice versa)
• There are just 20 seats in the Excellence Class carriage, and only one train per direction operates each day
• Every seat is a guaranteed window seat and includes a gourmet 5-course meal with drinks
• There is a surcharge of CHF 540 per person, along with a 1st-class train ticket or 1st-class rail pass

Do I need seat reservations on all the trains?

You only need a seat reservation on the Glacier Express train since this is a scenic specialty train. You do not need seat reservations on any of the regular trains in Switzerland. Your Swiss Travel Rail Pass is your train ticket on all trains, including the Glacier Express.

Do I need to take my luggage on the trains?

Yes, you should plan to take your luggage with you on the trains each day. Most trains have a luggage rack at the end of the car for storing your belongings during the trip. It is possible to arrange door-to-door express luggage transfer directly with SBB if you would like to check into this option. You would need to arrange this on your own so that you have direct contact with the company in case they need to reach you for any reason.