A Unique Journey on the World’s Slowest Express Train – Glacier Express
Switzerland’s Glacier Express is famously known as “the slowest express train in the world”, taking 8 hours to travel 290 kilometers through the breathtaking scenery of the Alps.
Holding a cup of hot dark chocolate in her hand, British traveler Monisha Rajesh steps out of a café in the alpine village of Zermatt, Switzerland. Just a two-minute walk away is the train station, where the red and white Glacier Express is waiting on the platform.
The operator of the Glacier Express proudly refers to it as “the world’s slowest express train”, as it journeys across the Alps at an average speed of just over 36 km/h, covering 290 km in 8 hours. The train departs from the foot of the Matterhorn, passes over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, and ends in the charming resort town of St. Moritz.
Summer landscapes in the Alps
Brushing snow off her boots, Monisha squints up at the ice-covered Matterhorn peak. Against the blue sky, it promises perfect photo opportunities for the scenic 8-hour ride to St. Moritz.
As she boards the train, she notices the car is full—mainly with retirees, hikers, friend groups, and families. The train departs the station, meandering through pine forests and alpine meadows. Along the tracks, edelweiss flowers bloom, their delicate white petals looking almost metallic in the sunlight. The village of Tasch comes into view, dotted with half-wood, half-stone houses adorned with colorful balcony flowers.
The slow pace of the train allows travelers to fully take in the sights: old chapels, barns, granaries, and locals in snow boots going about their day.
Winter in the Alps – like a fairytale world
Leaving the town of Brig, the train crosses the Rhone River, climbing the winding roads of the Upper Rhone Valley, gliding along dramatic cliffs. Below, villages and towns look like scattered Lego pieces.
At Andermatt, some passengers disembark with skis and snowboards, while others continue the journey toward the final stop.
After enjoying lunch on board, passengers are treated to the majestic Rhine Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland. Between Tiefencastel and Filisur, many passengers rise from their seats, cameras in hand. Monisha gazes down at the vivid blue river cutting through massive rocks. Suddenly, excited cheers erupt as the train plunges into a tunnel.
A feast for the senses aboard Glacier Express
The Swiss Alpine journey is a feast for all senses: panoramic views through wide windows, exclusive beverages at the bar, and elegant 5-course meals. The train also offers personal guides and dedicated services for guests’ comfort. Many travelers consider the Glacier Express one of the most memorable highlights of any trip to Switzerland.
Glacier Express offers wide glass windows that stretch to the ceiling, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscapes.
Traveling on the Glacier Express is a unique experience not to be missed.
The train operates in winter from December 7 to May 2 and in summer from May 3 to October 11.
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