The Glacier Express is with no doubt one of the most famous scenic train journeys in the world, winding its way through the Swiss Alps connecting Zermatt with St. Moritz. Known as “the slowest express train in the world,” it is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in changing Alpine panoramas with snow-covered peaks, ancient glaciers, deep gorges naturally carved by rivers and traditional mountain villages. The eight-hour journey takes you through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges – past countless highlights. A masterpiece of technical ingenuity on the inside and spectacular Alpine scenery on the outside, revealing a seamless harmony between Swiss engineering and the majestic Alps. Step aboard the legendary Glacier Express, where you are invited to capture some of the most incredible photo moments Switzerland hast to offer.
Why the Glacier Express Is a Photographer’s Dream
The Glacier Express is more than a train ride, it is a moving window into the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture Alpine landscapes in motion.
- Panoramic windows: Enjoy uninterrupted views of remote valleys, dramatic mountain peaks, sheer rock faces, idyllic Swiss villages and winding rivers.
- Dramatic landscapes: Glaciers, towering viaducts, alpine meadows, deep gorges and rugged summits unfold naturally along the route, creating endless photographic possibilities.
- Engineering marvels: The train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, each presenting a new and unique perspective for your shots.
- Seasonal transformations: The scenery changes with the seasons – snow-covered peaks in winter, blooming alpine meadows in spring, lush green valleys in summer and golden forests in autumn, offering a fresh palette for every journey.
Whether you are capturing photos, exploring the Alps, or simply enjoying the ride, the Glacier Express turns the simple act of travel into a living photographic masterpiece, showcasing the Swiss Alps in all their glory.
Scenic Highlights Along the Glacier Express Route
Between Zermatt and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express passes a series of iconic Swiss Alpine landmarks and scenic highlights.
1: Zermatt & Matter Valley
Zermatt, at the base of the iconic Matterhorn, delights with breathtaking Alpine vistas, traditional chalets, historic buildings, the charming Blacknose Sheep and a classic Swiss mountain atmosphere. The Matter Valley, stretching approximately 25 kilometres between Zermatt and Stalden, is a showcase of Alpine beauty. Here, you will find everlasting ice, deep gorges, and dramatic rock faces and 29 peaks soaring above 4,000 metres. The valley is also home to Europe’s highest vineyards and world-class ski slopes. Winding through this spectacular landscape is the wild, rushing River Matter Vispa, which meets the Saaser Vispa at Stalden before joining the Rhone River at Visp.
2: Kipfen Gorge
Near Kalpetran, the Glacier Express winds its way through the wild and picturesque Kipfen Gorge, one of the most scenic stretches along the route. Here, the railway and the River Vispa run closely side by side.
3: Andermatt
Andermatt, situated at the base of the 2,033-metre Oberalp Pass in the canton of Uri, lies along the 144-kilometre network of the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway. From this central hub, trains travel to Disentis, Göschenen and Zermatt.
4: Oberalp Pass
At 2,033 metres above sea level, the Oberalp Pass marks the highest point along the Glacier Express route. From here, travellers are treated to classic Swiss Alpine scenery: wide meadows, snow-covered peaks, and winding rivers stretching across the valleys. Just further south, even higher at 2,345 metres, lies Lake Toma, famed as the source of the mighty River Rhine, adding another spectacular highlight to this breathtaking journey.
5: Disentis Monastery
Disentis is home to Switzerland’s oldest Benedictine monastery, dating back to the late 17th century. The monastery’s church suffered fire and looting at the hands of Napoleon’s army in 1799, but extensive restoration in the late 19th century preserved its historic charm. Today, the monastery serves as an educational institution, while remaining a striking landmark and a key cultural highlight for visitors to the region
6: Rhine Gorge – The “Swiss Grand Canyon”
Formed some 10,000 years ago by the famous Flims landslide, the Rhine Gorge offers a truly spectacular natural setting. Over millennia, the River Rhine has carved its way through the rocky terrain, creating a dramatic ravine often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.” Today, the Rhine Gorge stands as one of Switzerland’s most remarkable natural wonders, attracting hikers, mountain bikers and river-rafters alike. From the Glacier Express, the Rhine Gorge reveals stunning views of one of the country’s most remarkable natural landmarks.
7: Landwasser Viaduct
The Landwasser Viaduct is the standout engineering marvel of the 63-kilometre Albula line between Thusis and St. Moritz and it is easily the most photographed landmark of the entire Rhaetian Railway. Approaching the village of Filisur, travellers on the Glacier Express are greeted by the striking sight of this 142-metre-long viaduct, which soars 65 metres above the Landwasser Valley. Built from natural stone, the curved structure gracefully spans the rugged valley before leading directly into a tunnel carved into a vertical rock face, creating one of the most dramatic and iconic railway views in Switzerland.
8: Engadin Valley & St. Moritz
As the Glacier Express descends into the Engadin Valley, the landscape unfolds into a sweeping panorama of glacial lakes, towering mountains, and picturesque Alpine villages. This high Alpine valley, known for its sunny climate and distinctive Engadin culture, offers a striking contrast to the rugged passes earlier on the journey. St. Moritz, Switzerland’s iconic luxury Alpine town, offers spectacular lakes, traditional architecture and panoramic mountain views.
Photography Tips for Your Glacier Express Journey
To capture the stunning Swiss Alpine scenery along the Glacier Express, keep these tips in mind:
- Make use of the onboard digital infotainment and be prepared for prime photo opportunities: The Glacier Express digital system keeps you informed about scenic highlights along the route.
- Secure your guaranteed window seat in Excellence Class: Book early to secure a window seat in the lounge-style Excellence Class, which includes your own tablet with infotainment, concierge service, Wi-Fi, headset and the Excellence Class magazine, ideal for preparing for the most scenic moments.
- Choose the right season: Each season offers unique photographic opportunities. Experience the Glacier Express through snowy winters, blooming spring alpine meadows, lush summer greenery and golden autumn forests provide different moods, colours and lighting for your shots. Get in touch to find out which season is best for you.
- Minimise reflections from panoramic windows: Reflections from interior lights, seats, or yourself can affect your photos. Use a polarising filter, shoot at an angle rather than straight-on, keep your lens close to the glass and ensure the window and your lens are clean.
- To photograph without obstructions, use the end-of-carriage window when possible. Lower the window to capture unobstructed scenery.
- Be ready for surprises: wildlife, reflections on lakes, steep mountain terrain, or sudden changes in weather and scenery can create spontaneous, unforgettable shots.
- Oberalp Pass photo opportunity: The Oberalp Pass, at 2,033 metres above sea level, is the highest point on the Glacier Express journey and a popular spot for photography in every season. In winter, the frozen lake lies beneath a thick blanket of snow, while in summer, cows graze along its shores. In spring, the area transforms into a colourful alpine garden, with wildflowers blooming in every shade, offering a truly picturesque setting for photographers and travellers alike.
- Best light for mountain photography: Early morning or late afternoon provides soft, golden light that beautifully enhances peaks, valleys, and lakes, whether you’re capturing the majestic Matterhorn at Zermatt or the sparkling waters and Alpine architecture of St. Moritz. Overcast days can also create dramatic mood and striking contrast in rugged landscapes along the Glacier Express route.
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