Pick your priorities
| Feature | Glacier Express | Bernina Express |
|---|---|---|
| Route | Zermatt → St. Moritz (or reverse) | Chur → Tirano (Italy) |
| Time | ~8 hours direct (no transfer) | ~4 hours direct |
| Reservation | Mandatory, CHF 49–260 depending on class | Recommended but not mandatory on regional trains; CHF 39 for panoramic coach |
| Scenery highlight | Matterhorn views + Oberalp Pass + Rhine gorge | Landwasser viaduct + Morteratsch glacier + Bernina pass |
| Crosses to Italy? | No (stays in CH) | Yes — Tirano is in Lombardy |
| Free alternative | Regular regional trains via Andermatt (free with Half Fare / STP, longer total time) | Rhaetian Railway regional trains on the same track (no reservation, half the windows, no panoramic roof) |
What this solves
The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are the two most-purchased add-ons in Switzerland. They are also the two most mis-sold: travel blogs call them "must-do" without telling you a regular regional train rides the same track for less than half the price. This tool helps you decide whether the panoramic roof, the seat reservation, and the on-board lunch are worth the difference for your trip.
How to read
- Reservation-only = you pay even if you have a Swiss Travel Pass / Eurail.
- "Free alternative" = the same track with regional trains. Slower (more stops), less comfort, no lunch service. Most of the scenery is the same.
- Photo windows: Bernina has the iconic Landwasser curve. Glacier Express has the Oberalp Pass at 2,044 m.
Limitations
- Glacier Express runs only Dec–Oct (no service in November 2026 due to maintenance).
- Bernina Express panoramic coach seats sell out 4+ weeks in summer.
- Neither train runs on certain Swiss events days (Fasnacht week in Basel affects Bernina connections).
FAQ
Does the Glacier Express actually cross a glacier?
It crosses the Oberalp Pass at 2,044 m, which is usually snow-covered in winter and rarely glaciated in summer. The name is historic (1908 naming).
Is Bernina Express the same as Bernina railway?
The Bernina Express is the named panoramic train. The Bernina railway is the line itself; you can ride any regional train on it for less.
Sources
- glacierexpress.ch - 2026 timetable
- berninaexpress.ch - tariff table
- RhB (Rhaetian Railway) regional fares
About
Built after watching three couples on three different days take the same Glacier Express — only one had paid the panoramic supplement; the other two didn't realise their regional tickets were valid.
Privacy
No tracking. See homepage privacy.
Disclaimer
2026 reference. Verify timetable on operator sites.