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Golden Pass is your chance to immerse yourself in Switzerland's diverse landscapes as you traverse from the sun-kissed vineyards of Lake Geneva to the rugged peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
Your guide to experience Swiss scenic wonders with Golden Pass tickets
- Ditch the boring transfers! Hop on this panoramic train ride for a jaw-dropping ride between Montreux and Interlaken.
- Zoom past picture-perfect villages and mountains on one of the country's most Instagram-worthy train routes in just 3.15 hours.
- First or second class? Your choice! You'll be in air-conditioned comfort while you pass the the scenic Vaud Riviera and majestic Bernese Alps.
- Stay in the loop with free Wi-Fi, keep your gadgets happy with power outlets, and indulge in tasty snacks and drinks.
- Your journey doesn't end here! Both stations are gateways to more Swiss gems like Zermatt, Grindelwald, and Lucerne.
- Ditch the boring transfers! Hop on this panoramic train ride for a jaw-dropping ride between Montreux and Interlaken.
- Zoom past picture-perfect villages and mountains on one of the country's most Instagram-worthy train routes in just 3.15 hours.
- First or second class? Your choice! You'll be in air-conditioned comfort while you pass the the scenic Vaud Riviera and majestic Bernese Alps.
- Stay in the loop with free Wi-Fi, keep your gadgets happy with power outlets, and indulge in tasty snacks and drinks.
- Your journey doesn't end here! Both stations are gateways to more Swiss gems like Zermatt, Grindelwald, and Lucerne.
Inclusions
- One-way transfers to/from Montreux & Interlaken OST
- 1st or 2nd class seats (based on option selected)
- Air-conditioning
- Ample luggage space
- Free Wi-Fi & power supply
- Snacks & drinks
- Accessible area for bicycles
From Montreux
- First train: 7:34am
- Last train: 2:34pm
- Frequency: Every 2-3 hours
From Interlaken
- First train: 9:08am
- Last train: 4:08pm
- Frequency: Every 2-3 hours
- The trains are wheelchair accessible.
- Your pets are welcome onboard.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Golden Pass Tickets
Need to know
Facts
Facilities and services
- Route: Lucerne - Montreux (via Interlaken Ost - Bahnhof Zweisimmen)
- Frequency: The Golden Pass Line operates year-round, with four daily departures in each direction.
- Schedule: Trains run regularly throughout the day, though specific timings may vary based on the season.
- Distance: The full journey from Montreux to Lucerne covers around 191 km (118 miles).
- Duration: The entire trip takes approximately five hours, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenic route.
- Recommended tickets: Golden Pass Tickets, Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail Pass & Interrail Pass
- Mandatory seat reservations for Prestige class.
- Though not mandatory, but strongly recommend reservations for First and second class. Surcharges apply in addition to valid tickets.
- Stops: Key stops include Montreux, Zweisimmen, Interlaken, and Lucerne.
- Requirements: Valid tickets are required for the entire journey. Seat reservations are optional but can enhance your comfort, especially during peak seasons.
Facts
- The Golden Pass Line covers three distinct language regions of Switzerland: French, German, and the unique Swiss-German dialect.
- At its highest point, the train reaches an altitude of 1,274 meters (4,180 feet) above sea level at the Saanenmöser Pass.
- The route includes a section where the train's bogies (wheel assemblies) are automatically adjusted to switch between standard and narrow-gauge tracks.
- The Golden Pass Line has been in operation since 1901, making it one of the oldest scenic routes in Switzerland.
- The journey crosses over 50 bridges and passes through 5 tunnels, showcasing Swiss engineering prowess.
- Direct route without transfers: You can enjoy a seamless journey from Montreux to Lucerne without the hassle of changing trains, while fully immersing yourself in the scenic experience.
- Air conditioning: Climate-controlled carriages ensure your comfort regardless of the alpine weather outside, maintaining an ideal temperature throughout your journey.
- Power sockets: Easily accessible power outlets at every seat allows you to stay connected and work on-the-go.
- Restaurant/bistro: You can dine on authentic Swiss culinary delights in the onboard restaurant while relishing local specialties and international favorites.
- Shower: Golden Pass also lets you freshen up during your journey with clean, well-maintained facilities. It also includes accessible options if you have reduced mobility.
- Snack trolley: Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages brought directly to your seat, from Swiss chocolates and local cheeses to refreshing drinks.
- Video screens: You can learn about the regions you're passing through with insightful video content, available across multiple languages to enhance your travel experience.
Highlights
Buying Golden Pass tickets with
Swiss Travel Pass
Direct booking through SBB (Swiss Federal Railways)
Eurail Pass
Rail tour packages
What it covers:
- Fully covers the Golden Pass Express along with unlimited travel on the entire Swiss Travel System, including free entry to over 500 museums
- Discounts on mountain excursions
Pass options:
- Consecutive day passes: 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days
- Flex passes: 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days of travel within a month
How to book:
- Purchase the pass on the Swiss Travel System website
- Or buy from authorized resellers in your home country
Seat reservations:
- Still required for the Golden Pass Express
- Book separately through SBB website or at Swiss train stations
Pricing:
- Varies based on duration and class (1st or 2nd)
- Check the Swiss Travel System website for current prices
- Note: Calculate if the pass is cost-effective for your specific itinerary
How to book:
- Visit the SBB website (www.sbb.ch)
- Use the timetable search function
- Enter "Interlaken" to "Montreux" (or vice versa)
- Click "Add via" and enter "Zweisimmen"
- Select your travel date and preferred time
- Look for connections with the "Panorama" symbol
- Choose your class and click "Buy"
Seat reservations:
- Can be made during the booking process
- Cost: 9 CHF per person, per leg of the journey
Pricing:
- Varies based on class, season, and demand
- First-class fares typically range from 76 CHF to 133 CHF
- Second-class fares are generally 20-30% cheaper
Payment options: Major credit cards, PayPal, and TWINT (Swiss payment app)
What it covers:
- Travel on the Golden Pass Express (seat reservation required)
- Extensive rail network across participating European countries
Pass options:
- Global Pass: covers all participating countries
- One Country Pass: for Switzerland only
- Various durations available, from 4 days to 3 months
How to book:
- Purchase the Eurail pass on the Eurail website
- Or buy from authorized resellers in your home country
Seat reservations:
- Required for the Golden Pass Express
- Book through the Eurail Reservations Service or at Swiss train stations
Pricing:
- Varies based on pass type, duration, and traveler's age
- Check the Eurail website for current prices
Note: Compare the cost of point-to-point tickets (tickets ideal for those traveling on just a specific journey on the Golden Pass Line) with the pass price for your specific itinerary
What rail tour packages offer:
- Pre-planned itineraries including the Golden Pass Express
- Often include hotel accommodations and other activities
How to book:
- Through tour operators specializing in Swiss rail travel
Pricing:
1. Golden Pass Classic (2-3 days):
- Experience the full Golden Pass route from Montreux to Lucerne
- Overnight stay in charming Interlaken with optional excursion to Jungfraujoch
- Includes first-class train tickets and 4-star hotel accommodation
2. Swiss Alps Adventure (4-5 days):
- Combine Golden Pass journey with Glacier Express experience
- Explore Zermatt and see the iconic Matterhorn
- Includes all train tickets, hotel stays, and guided mountain excursions
3. Lake and Mountain Escape (3-4 days):
- Golden Pass journey with extended stays in Montreux and Lucerne
- Lake cruise on both Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne
- Optional wine tasting in Lavaux vineyards
4. Grand Swiss Tour (7-10 days):
- Comprehensive Swiss rail experience including Golden Pass, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express
- City tours in Zurich, Bern, and Geneva
- Multiple mountain excursions and scenic boat rides
Note: Ensure the package aligns with your travel preferences and desired level of flexibility
Plan your Golden Pass journey
Train classes
Special considerations
Prestige Class: The ultimate in luxury
- An absolute value for money; with an elevated seating allowing you to see over hedges and walls that might obstruct views in other classes.
- You can relax in temperature-controlled seats which adjust to your comfort, perfect for crisp alpine mornings or cool evenings.
- 180-degree rotating seats gives you the complete freedom to align your seat with the direction of travel or face your travel companions, all while never missing a moment of the spectacular scenery.
- Exceptional culinary offerings are served at your seat in prestige class, featuring local delicacies and fine wines that perfectly complement the views outside your window.
First class: Premium comfort
- You can avail spacious seating with extra legroom and wider seats, giving you the freedom to relax or work comfortably throughout your journey.
- First class offers you panoramic oversized windows that offer unobstructed Swiss views from every angle.
- You can enjoy premium refreshments like complimentary champagne and light snacks, elevating your travel experience without the full price of Prestige Class.
- If you are someone who is seeking a peaceful journey or a space to concentrate, you can certainly benefit from a more serene environment here.
Second class: comfort for all
- Well-designed seats that provide ample comfort along with generous windows for your scenic journey, proving that spectacular views don't require a premium price tag.
- Allows you to allocate more of your travel budget to experiences at your destinations
- You can enjoy a livelier atmosphere, perfect for families or solo travelers who are looking to meet fellow adventurers from around the world.
Children's fares
- Under 6: Free travel, but seat reservation fee applies if a separate seat is required
- 6-15: Half-price fares on direct bookings
- Family Cards: Available for purchase, allowing children under 16 to travel free when accompanied by a parent
- Discounts may also apply to youths between the ages of 16 and 25. However we recommend you to confirm through the official website first.
Senior discounts
Seniors aged 65 and above also enjoy reduced fares. Check for current offers on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) website.
Group bookings
For groups of 10 or more, contact SBB Group Travel Service for potential discounts and easier reservation process.
Accessibility
Please notify the railway company in advance if you need assistance or have specific requirements. Most Golden Pass Express trains are wheelchair accessible—just confirm this during your booking for peace of mind!
Frequently asked questions on Golden Pass
Can I use a Swiss Travel Pass on the Golden Pass route?
Absolutely! Your Swiss Travel Pass is your golden ticket to the Golden Pass route. It covers the entire journey from Montreux to Lucerne (or vice versa) without any additional cost. However, keep in mind that while the pass covers your transportation, seat reservations are still recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. These can be made for a small fee to ensure you get the best views and most comfortable seating options.
Can I get off the train and explore the towns along the route?
Of course! One of the beauties of the Golden Pass is its flexibility. You're free to hop off and explore any stop that appeals to your eye and then catch a later train to continue your journey. Just make sure to check the timetable for your onward connections. If you have a point-to-point ticket, you'll need to complete your journey on the same day. With a Swiss Travel Pass or flexi-pass, you have even more freedom to break up your journey over multiple days.
What should I bring with me on the Golden Pass journey?
To make the most of your Golden Pass adventure, consider packing a fully charged camera or smartphone (don't forget a power bank!). Don’t forget your sunglasses to combat glare from snow-capped peaks or glistening lakes. A light jacket or sweater comes in handy, as temperatures can vary in the mountains. Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and some snacks, although there's onboard catering available. And, of course, your valid ticket and any necessary travel documents! Bonus tip: carry a book with you to pass time in the long tunnels!
Can I cancel or modify my Golden Pass ticket after booking?
Yes, but the conditions depend on the type of ticket you've purchased. Generally, supersaver tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable while standard tickets can often be refunded or changed for a small fee up to the day before travel. If you've booked with a Swiss Travel Pass, you have more flexibility as the pass itself doesn't tie you to a specific train. Always check the specific terms and conditions at the time of booking. If you need to make changes, it's best to do so as early as possible to avoid any additional fees.
Does the Golden Pass train offer Wi-Fi?
While the scenery outside might be the best entertainment, we understand you might need to stay connected. Most Golden Pass trains do offer free Wi-Fi onboard. However, due to the mountainous terrain, the signal can be intermittent in some areas. It's generally suitable for checking emails or light browsing, but might not support heavy streaming or large downloads.
Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?
While there's a trolley service offering snacks and drinks, as well as both local and international culinary delicacies, you're welcome to pack your own Swiss picnic. Just imagine munching on local cheese and chocolate while gazing at the Alps!
Is the Golden Pass suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Kids under 6 years can travel for free (though they'll need a seat reservation if you want them to have their own seat). The changing landscapes will keep little ones entertained, and there's plenty of space for strollers.
Are there any special seasonal experiences on the Golden Pass?
Indeed, there are! In winter, you might catch the "Chocolate Train" or "Cheese Train" themed journeys. During the Montreux Jazz Festival (usually in July), there are sometimes special music-themed carriages. Check the official website for current seasonal offerings.
How accessible is the Golden Pass for travelers with mobility issues?
The Golden Pass trains are designed with accessibility in mind. Most carriages have step-free access and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs. However, it's best to contact the railway company in advance to ensure they can accommodate your specific needs and to arrange any necessary assistance.
How much luggage can I carry?
Pack light if you can, but don't stress if you can't! There's storage space for medium-sized luggage near your seats and at the end of each carriage. Just keep in mind that space can be limited during peak seasons.