Glacier Express | Glide through the Alps

As the train winds through the mountains, you'll be treated to incredible views of the towering Alps, especially during the winter and early spring months. The snow-covered peaks are absolutely stunning and create a breathtaking backdrop for the whole journey.

Keep an eye out for those picture-perfect Swiss villages such as Andermatt tucked away in the mountains. You'll see traditional wooden houses, neat little streets, and scenic rooftops, all surrounded by lush greenery or snowy slopes, depending on the season.

If you’re riding in the warmer months, the lush valleys below are sure to leave you in awe. In the summer, the valleys are a sea of vibrant green with blooming meadows and dense forests, making it feel like you’re riding through a postcard. You can also spot the Rhine Gorge, also known as the Swiss Grand Canyon.

As you approach Chur, you’ll catch a glimpse of this charming city, which holds the title of Switzerland’s oldest city, dating all the way back to the Pfyn culture (3900-3500 BC). With its medieval old town, cobbled streets, and traditional Swiss buildings, Chur has a pretty unique vibe, and it’s a great place to see as you roll by.

The highest point on the Glacier Express route is a must-see. Sitting at 2,044 m, the Oberalp Pass gives you a feeling of being on top of the world. It’s a great place to snap some epic photos, especially as the train climbs higher and higher into the sky.

As the train passes through the Alps, you’ll spot rushing glacial rivers winding their way through the landscape. The highlight, though, is the waterfalls, such as Trummelbach Falls and Staubbach Waterfall.

One of the coolest parts of the Glacier Express is crossing over some seriously impressive bridges and viaducts. The Landwasser Viaduct is especially iconic, with its striking curves and steep drops below. It’s a moment that’ll definitely make you appreciate Swiss engineering!

The train takes you through so many tunnels that it feels like you’re disappearing into the mountain. Some are short -, while others such as the Furka Tunnel seem to go on forever, giving you a sense of adventure as you pass through the dark before emerging into spectacular views.

If you’re lucky, you might spot some of the local wildlife along the way. Look closely, and you could see ibex grazing on the hillsides, marmots peeking out of their burrows, or birds of prey soaring overhead. It’s always exciting to see a bit of nature up close while you’re taking in the scenery.

Keep your eyes peeled for those stunning alpine lakes. The waters are crystal-clear and often reflect the surrounding mountains, creating perfect mirror images of the peaks above. Some of these lakes, especially around Zermatt and Andermatt, are so beautiful they’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.