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Free ride ahead:

Everything you need to know before your trip

Route and Timetable
Booking, reservation, travel cards/tickets & discounts
Service on the train
Individual requirements
Additional information
Traveling as a group
B2B

Route and Timetable

How long does the trip on the Glacier Express take?

The entire trip on the Glacier Express lasts around 8 hours and takes you along a variety-packed route through the Swiss Alps. While taking in the stunning Alpine panorama, you can enjoy a freshly prepared meal or use our on-board infotainment system to find out exciting facts and stories about the Glacier Express.

Does the Glacier Express operate all year round?

The Glacier Express operates daily apart from during the annual break from mid-October to the beginning of December. The Glacier Express trains operate according to the winter (December - April) and summer timetable (May - October). You will find details on this in the current timetable.

Why can’t I select my preferred travel date?

Bookings for 1st and 2nd class are available 93 days before the date of travel. Excellence Class can be booked for the entire timetable period. If you cannot select a date, it could well be outside the bookable period. Sales for travel dates from December of the following season start at the end of October at the latest.

Where does the Glacier Express start and finish?

The original route of the Glacier Express with all the highlights goes from Zermatt to St. Moritz, or vice versa. However, shorter sections are possible. You can embark and disembark at the following locations: Zermatt - Brig - Andermatt - Chur - Filisur - Samedan - St. Moritz.

Please note, however, that there are certain minimum distances and not all combinations are possible. In addition, short trips (St. Moritz - Chur / Chur - Andermatt / Andermatt - Brig / Brig - Zermatt) are only possible during the summer timetable on trains 900, 901, 906 and 907. You will find the train numbers on the timetable.


Which airport is best for reaching the Glacier Express?

Zurich Airport is the best starting point for connections to the Glacier Express. But there are also train connections to the various stops of the Glacier Express from other Swiss and international airports. You will find an overview of the different routes and connections on our interactive map.

How can I reach the Glacier Express from the airport?

Switzerland is well known for its excellent public transport network. You can easily reach all starting points of the Glacier Express from Zurich / Geneva / Basel airports on Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). You will find detailed information on connections and timetables on the SBB website.

Where do I take the Glacier Express from?

You can board the Glacier Express at various stations. Please refer to our interactive map for a comprehensive overview of all stops and the most suitable boarding point for you.
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Booking, reservation, travel cards/tickets & discounts

Is it necessary to book the trip on the Glacier Express in advance?

Yes, you need a seat reservation on the Glacier Express. There are two steps to booking your trip on the Glacier Express: to guarantee you a seat on the train, you need a compulsory seat reservation and you also need a valid ticket for the selected route and travel class (1st or 2nd class).

Take a look at the overview of valid travel cards under Travel planning / prices to find out which travel cards entitle you to a discount on the ticket price. Due to high demand, we recommend you reserve your seats early. Bookings for 1st and 2nd class can be made up to 93 days before the date of travel; for Excellence Class for the entire timetable period.


I already have a valid travel card or a discount card. How can I make a seat reservation without having to pay for a ticket or having to pay the full fare?

You can make your seat reservation directly in the online shop. First of all, you will see the total cost of the ticket and seat reservation. In the next step, you can enter your travel card below the details on the traveler under “Discount” and the price will be adjusted accordingly. If you already have a ticket for the route, just select the option “Reservation only” to ensure you are not charged for the ticket again.

What does a trip on the Glacier Express cost?

The cost of traveling on the Glacier Express is made up of two separate components: the ticket for the selected route and the mandatory seat reservation. The total cost depends on the length of your journey and the travel class selected. Take a look at the price details here .

Which travel cards are valid on the Glacier Express?

The following travel cards are accepted for a trip on the Glacier Express: Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail Pass, Interrail Pass, Half Fare Travelcard, Half Fare Travelcard for Youth, GA travel card, day pass for the Half Fare Travelcard, Municipal Saver Day Pass, Day Pass Children, Junior Travelcard, Children’s Co-Travelcard, Swiss Family Card, Swiss Transfer Ticket, Swiss Half Fare Card Swiss Travel Pass Flex Combi, Swiss Travel Pass Youth and Youth Flex.

Children under the age of 6 travel free of charge. Children between the ages of 6 and 16 years of age are entitled to a discount of 50%. With a Junior Travelcard, children under the age of 16 travel free of charge when accompanied by a parent. Important: a seat reservation is obligatory for all passengers and costs an additional charge that is not covered by the travel cards.


Is the trip on the Glacier Express free of charge for Swiss Travel Pass holders?

Apart from the cost of the obligatory seat reservation, the trip on the Glacier Express is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass which means you do not need an additional ticket. Take a look here for detailed information on the price of a seat reservation.

Can I use a Saver Day Pass on the Glacier Express?

A Saver Day Pass gives you unlimited travel for a whole day throughout Switzerland, and that includes the Glacier Express. However, a separate seat reservation is necessary for the Glacier Express.

The prices for the Saver Day Pass depend on advance sales and demand so it is advisable to buy early. Please note that the Saver Day Pass is non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

You can buy a Saver Day Pass at www.sbb.ch .


How much does a trip on the Glacier Express cost for holders of a Eurail Pass?

Apart from the cost of the mandatory seat reservation, the trip on the Glacier Express is covered by the Eurail Pass which means you do not need an additional ticket. Take a look here for detailed information on the price of a seat reservation.

How can I buy tickets for the Glacier Express?

The tickets as well as the seat reservations can be purchased on the official Glacier Express website. Due to the high demand, it is advisable to book in advance. Tickets are available up to 6 months before the date of travel. Seat reservations for 1st and 2nd class can be made up to 93 days before the date of travel. In contrast, bookings for Excellence Class can be made for the entire timetable period. Please ensure that you have a valid ticket and seat reservation at the time of traveling.

Follow these steps on the official Glacier Express website to buy tickets and reserve a seat:

First enter your point of departure and destination, the date of travel and whether you want to travel 1st or 2nd class in the toolbar (on the Glacier Express website) and click on “Next”.

You are then shown a calendar displaying the number of available seats on the day you have selected as well as for three days either side of that date.

As soon as you have selected a date and departure time, you are shown a plan of the train and the available seats. This is where you can choose the seat you prefer.

The total price of the ticket and seat reservation is then displayed. If you have a special travel card or a discount card (e.g. Eurail / Interrail Pass, Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Travelcard), you can apply it in the next step to get a reduction on the ticket price.

Enter the details on the person traveling and select the relevant travel card from the “Reduction” dropdown menu. The price is adjusted accordingly. If you do not have a special travel card, select "No discount". If you have already purchased a ticket for the route chosen or are intending to do so at a later date, select “Reservation only”.

In the next step, you will be asked whether you want to add a meal to your booking as an additional service. The menu is available on the website under Gastronomy. For capacity reasons, it is advisable to pre-order your meal. However, you can also do this at a later date. Pre-orders can be made up to 48 hours before departure by phone on +41 (0)81 300 15 15 or by sending an e-mail to info@panoramic-gourmet.ch. Alternatively, you can also order a meal during the journey, but there may only be a limited offer depending on capacity utilisation and availability.

In the next step you can see your Shopping Cart and can now conclude the booking by proceeding to the checkout. You will receive your ticket by e-mail and can print it out at home or take it with you as a digital ticket.


Can I book a seat facing in the direction of travel or on a certain side of the carriage?

As the train changes direction during the journey, it is impossible to guarantee tickets in a specific direction of travel. If you are traveling as a group, it is advisable to book seats opposite each other in order to take account of preferences regarding the direction of travel.
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Service on the train

What are the differences between the Glacier Express Excellence Class and 1st and 2nd class?

Each class has special characteristics that are tailored to suit individual needs. These range from maximum luxury and privacy in Excellence Class to the practical comfort of 2nd class. First class is in between these two comfort classes.

Excellence Class: a luxurious experience with guaranteed window seats in a two-seater lounge compartment, panoramic windows, concierge service and tablet with Infotainment, including a five-course menu with wine accompaniment and drinks as well as exclusive access to the Glacier Bar

1st class: offers more space with two- and four-seater compartments, more traveling comfort and privacy, panoramic windows, catering service at your seat (not included)

2nd class: offers comfortable seats in four-seater compartments, panoramic windows, catering service at your seat (not included)

All classes have the same panoramic windows.


I already have a travel card for 2nd class. Can I also travel in 1st class or Excellence Class?

If you already have a valid ticket (GA travelcard, Swiss Travel Pass, etc.) for 2nd class, you can make your seat reservation in your preferred class. When you start your journey, however, you must purchase a class upgrade in addition to your valid ticket. Unfortunately, the class upgrade cannot be purchased via our web shop, but can be purchased at any station in Switzerland until shortly before departure or even on the train itself, depending on the availability of free seats.

Please note that when upgrading to Excellence Class, you will not only have to pay for the class upgrade, but also the surcharge for the seat reservation. This gives you exclusive services and benefits in Excellence Class.


I already have a seat reservation for 2nd class. Is it possible to upgrade to a higher class?

Unfortunately, we are currently not able to offer an upgrade to a higher class through our online shop. Upgrading is, however, possible during the journey depending on availability. If you are interested in an upgrade, please contact our train guard who will show you to your new seat for the corresponding surcharge – providing, of course, there are seats available.

Please note that when upgrading to a higher class, you also incur the cost of changing the class of ticket.


I already have a seat reservation, but don’t yet have a ticket. Will my seats remain reserved or will my reservation be released?

The seat reservation remains valid even without a ticket. You must, however, have a valid ticket accompanying your seat reservation at the latest on the train. Tickets are available up to six months before the date of travel and are available from our online shop (ticket only) or at any other points of sale or railway stations.

Do I have to book/pre-order a meal in advance?

For organisational and capacity reasons, we would recommend you pre-order your meal before you travel. The menu is available on the website under Gastronomy. The easiest thing to do is pre-order your meal when you buy your ticket and seat reservation in the online shop. You can choose between the dish of the day or various menus. If you don’t want to decide yet or perhaps would like an à la carte dish, you can skip this step and pre-order your meal at a later date.

Pre-orders can be made up to 48 hours before departure by phone on +41 (0)81 300 15 15 or by sending an e-mail to info@panoramic-gourmet.ch. Alternatively, you can also order a meal during your journey if you would prefer but there may only be a limited offer depending on capacity utilisation and availability. Groups who would like to eat on board must pre-order meals at least 10 days in advance. It is not necessary to pre-order meals in Excellence Class.

Please note that only cashless payments can be accepted on board the Glacier Express.


What dishes can I order on the Glacier Express?

We offer a unique culinary experience on board the Glacier Express. The meals are prepared freshly in the on-board kitchen and served to you directly at your seat. You can choose between the dish of the day, various menus as well as à la carte dishes. The menu is available on the website under Gastronomy. First-class local ingredients are used in the preparation. If so desired, your meal can be accompanied by a selection of fine local wines. The offer varies according to the route, time and duration of your journey. We also recommend you order your menu at the same time as you buy the ticket and seat reservation. Without advanced booking, there may only be a limited offer depending on capacity utilisation and availability.

What methods of payment are accepted on board the train for food, drinks and souvenirs?

Please note that only cashless payments can be accepted on board the Glacier Express. The following cards are accepted: Maestro, Visa, Master, American Express, Postcard and Twint.

Am I allowed to take luggage on the Glacier Express?

Of course you can bring luggage on board the Glacier Express. There are special racks at the end of each carriage for larger suitcases, while hand luggage and bags can be stored under the seat or between seats. Due to the limited space on the Glacier Express, we do, however, recommend that you take a maximum of one additional piece of luggage in addition to your hand luggage. If you have very large luggage or several pieces of luggage, please have your luggage transported for you if at all possible.

The space on the Glacier Express does not allow for the following items of luggage: ski luggage, bulky luggage, bicycles / electric scooters.

For individual travelers we recommend the luggage transport service Jaisli Mobility Service (only bookable during the summer months) and for groups of 10 people and more the SBB Transport-Service.


Are you provided with information on the stops during the journey?

Yes, with our infotainment on board you won't miss any of the highlights. Via the headphones at your seat, our audio guide provides you with interesting facts about the viewpoints along the route in six languages. The gong signal on the train and the headphone signal on the carriage display alert you to new announcements. Passengers also have access to Wi-Fi and can use their smartphone or tablet to access our digital infotainment. You can expect great insights into your journey, the live location of the train, lots of real-time information and an exciting short video series.
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Individual requirements

Do you also have to reserve a seat for children?

Children under the age of 6 travel free of charge and therefore do not need a ticket. However, they are not entitled to their own seat unless they have a seat reservation. If you would like your child to have a seat, which we would certainly recommend in case the train is fully booked, you should also reserve a seat for your child. To do so, select the option “Reservation only” under “Reduction” in the “Travelers” section. Children aged 6 to 15.99 require a half-price ticket and a seat reservation. To purchase these, select the option “Child (6-15.99 years)” under “Reduction” in the “Travelers” section. The surcharge for the seat reservation must be paid in full for everyone. Please note: in the Glacier Express Excellence Class, children under the age of 6 also need a seat reservation and a ticket.

How can I buy an online ticket for my child who is not yet 6?

Children under the age of 6 travel free of charge and therefore do not need a ticket. However, they are not entitled to their own seat unless they have a seat reservation. If you would like your child to have a seat, which we would certainly recommend in case the train is fully booked, you should also reserve a seat for your child. To do so, select the option “Reservation only” under “Reduction” in the “Travelers” section. The surcharge for the seat reservation must be paid in full. Please note: in the Glacier Express Excellence Class, children under the age of 6 also need a seat reservation and a ticket.

As a wheelchair user, how can I make a reservation?

Please contact our Railservice: by phone on +41 (0)81 288 65 65 or by sending an e-mail to info@glacierexpress.ch.

Are dogs allowed on board the Glacier Express?

Dogs are not allowed on board the Glacier Express due to the hygiene regulations for gastronomy. Guide dogs are exempt from this rule providing they have the necessary licenses and passes. Please contact our Railservice for more information. By phone on +41 (0)81 288 65 65 or by sending an e-mail to info@glacierexpress.ch.

Is smoking allowed on board the train?

No. The Glacier Express is a smoke-free train.
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Additional information

I did not receive a confirmation e-mail with my travel documents.

Please check the spam folder of your e-mail in-box. If you did not receive an e-mail with your travel documents, please contact our Railservice by phone on +41 (0)81 288 65 65 or by sending an e-mail to info@glacierexpress.ch.

My booking was not made, but my credit card has been charged. What should I do now?

Please send an e-mail to info@glacierexpress.ch with the following information:

• The number of the credit card charged (Please specify the card holder as well as the last four digits of the credit card number)
• What amount in CHF was charged?
• When was the amount debited from your card? (Date and time, as precisely as possible)

We will check the credit card bookings and, if they are not justified, we will reimburse your credit card.


What conditions apply for the reimbursement of tickets and seat reservations?

As specified in the General Terms and Conditions, online seat reservations cannot be changed or cancelled. Take a look here for information on exceptions to this rule.
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Traveling as a group

What do you have to do to make a group reservation?

GROUP RESERVATION

Reservation for groups (10 people and more)
Group reservations can be submitted at any time.
It is advisable to book early. We try to reserve groups together in one carriage. The definitive allocation of the train, carriage and seat numbers takes place at the latest 27 days before the date of travel.

How to make a group reservation
Winter 2025/26 timetable enquiries
Up to 03.08.2025*: Reservation enquiries to Glacier Express via info@glacierexpress.ch
From 27.08.2025: Reservation confirmations are sent by Glacier Express

Summer 2026 timetable enquiries
Up to 14.09.2025*: Reservation enquiries to Glacier Express via info@glacierexpress.ch
From 15.10.2025: Reservation confirmations are sent by Glacier Express
* Please note: The dates specified are recommendations. Naturally, later enquiries are taken into consideration according to availability.

When making your enquiry, please let Railservice know whether the trip is to be planned with or without catering. The pre-order for catering still runs separately via Panoramic Gourmet AG and must be sent to gruppen@panormaic-gourmet.ch.

Contact for reservation
E-mail: info@glacierexpress.ch | Subject “Reservation on the Glacier Express 2024”
Tel.: +41 (0)81 288 65 25
Opening times:
Monday – Friday: 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am - 4 pm


How long in advance should reservations for groups of 10 people and more be made?

Group reservations can be submitted at any time. It is advisable to book early. We try to reserve groups together in one carriage. The definitive allocation of the train, carriage and seat numbers takes place at the latest 27 days before the date of travel.

What are the cancellation and reimbursement conditions for group bookings?

The cancellation and reimbursement conditions for group bookings on the Glacier Express can vary. The date on which we receive your written cancellation via info@glacierexpress.ch is decisive for the calculation of the cancellation or amendment fees.

Please consult our General Terms and Conditions for detailed information and specific conditions.

What culinary offers are available for groups?

Here you will find an overview of the various catering options for groups. Please send any enquiries regarding specific dietary requirements or special requests at least 10 days in advance to gruppen@panoramic-gourmet.ch.

How can I pre-order meals for a group?

Groups of 10 and more people who would like to eat on board must pre-order their meals at least 10 days in advance. No catering offer can be made for groups unless a pre-order has been made. In the case of group pre-orders, please specify the service you require for the entire group as well as the method of payment (unless specified). In addition, a group pre-order must be identical for logistic reasons. Confirmations received from Panoramic Gourmet AG are valid. Group pre-orders must be made in writing to Panoramic Gourmet AG by sending an e-mail to gruppen@panoramic-gourmet.ch.

Pre-orders, cancellations and changes must be made in writing to Panoramic Gourmet AG. Any Pre-order, change or cancellation only becomes effective upon reconfirmation from Panoramic Gourmet AG. For organisational reasons, service times and menus are subject to change.

Can special dietary requirements or wishes be taken into consideration when pre-ordering?

Please send enquiries about special menus regarding food allergies and intolerances at least 10 days before the date of travel to gruppen@panoramic-gourmet.ch.

Are there any special regulations for group luggage?

For groups of 10 and more, we recommend SBB Transport-Service. Baggage check-in is generally possible until 9 am and delivery from 6 pm onwards. Please note: Exceptions: Zermatt – St. Moritz or St. Moritz – Zermatt: collection takes place at 7 am so that the luggage arrives at its destination on time.
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B2B

How can I / we as a tour operator / a travel agency make reservations for our customers?

Tour operators and travel agencies can make reservations for their groups directly in writing via our Railservice. Please get in touch with our Railservice for more details

E-mail: info@glacierexpress.ch
Tel.: +41 (0)81 288 65 25
Opening times:
Monday – Friday: 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am - 4 pm


How do reservations for individual travelers work through B2B channels?

RESERVATION FOR INDIVIDUAL TRAVELERS
THROUGH B2B CHANNELS

Reservation for individual travelers (1 – 9 people)

Possible from 93 days before the date of travel
• On www.glacierexpress.ch
• At all manned Swiss stations
• At main stations abroad
• In all travel agencies that sell train tickets

Glacier Express B2B shop
Resellers of individual seats (up to 9 people) can book directly by logging in to the B2B shop. This enables a precise seat to be booked and also includes the possibility to pre-order a catering offer. If you are interested, please contact the person responsible for the relevant market or send an e-mail to info@glacierexpress.ch

Regulations for reserving through B2B channels
• Bookings for groups (more than 9 people) must be made via Railservice RhB in Chur and cannot under any circumstance be made through the B2B shop.
• Groups are not allowed to be split to fulfil the conditions.
• Failure to comply may result in a non-replacement cancellation of the reservation by Glacier Express.

What are the general conditions that tour operators have to take into consideration when booking vouchers?

You will find detailed information on the applicable general conditions for booking vouchers in our General Terms and Conditions.
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