Alpine Express - The Most Scenic train journeys in Switzerland
First-class scenic routes for tour groups and independent travelers
Four distinctive routes, a boundless panorama. Whether via the historic Gotthard mountain route, past rolling hills or along sparkling riverbanks: operating under the name Alpine Express lines, the Voralpen-Express, the Treno Gottardo, the Alpenrhein-Express and the Interregio Aare Linth bring Switzerland’s most beautiful routes to life with the Premium Seat Reservation service.
Alpine Express St Gallen–Lucerne
The Alpine Express from St. Gallen to Lucerne, operating as the Voralpen-Express IR32, takes in a landscape that is perfect for relaxed travel. Gentle hills, sparkling lakes and the striking silhouette of the Rigi characterise the route, as do historic towns and their rich traditions. Every stage of the journey offers ever-changing views of the Pre-Alpine landscape.
Route: St. Gallen–Rapperswil–Lucerne
Journey times:
St. Gallen–Lucerne: 2 hours 16 minutes
Rapperswil–Lucerne: 1 hour 25 minutes
Alpine Express Treno Gottardo
The Alpine Express Treno Gottardo IR26/46, with its unique Gotthard panoramic route, is one of the most impressive train journeys in Switzerland. From the urban centres of Basel, Lucerne and Zurich, the route winds its way through alpine landscapes and regions steeped in tradition all the way to the Mediterranean canton of Ticino. Along the way, striking viaducts, mountain valleys and sunny riverside landscapes alternate. The result is a travel experience that brings Switzerland’s cultural and scenic diversity to life in a special way.
Route: Zurich/Basel/Lucerne–Bellinzona/Locarno
Journey times:
Basel–Locarno: 4 hours 21 minutes
Zurich–Locarno: 3 hours 19 minutes
Lucerne–Locarno: 3 hours 6 minutes
Alpine Express Bern–Zurich–Chur
The Alpine Express from Bern via Zurich to Chur, operating as the Aare Linth IR35, connects some of Switzerland’s most distinctive landscapes and cultural regions. From the capital, Bern, via the urban centre of Zurich to the Alpine town of Chur, the route takes in a succession of medieval old towns, river landscapes and vast plains. Along the way, passengers gain insights into Switzerland’s cultural life, history and everyday life.
Route: Bern–Zurich–Chur
Journey times:
Bern–Chur: 3 hours 10 minutes
Zurich–Chur: 1 hour 36 minutes
Alpine Express St Gallen–Chur
The journey on the Alpine Express from St. Gallen to Chur, operating as the Alpenrhein-Express IR13, takes you through unspoilt countryside, traditional villages and one of Switzerland’s most important wine-growing regions. Between Lake Constance and Graubünden, gentle vineyard-covered slopes, historic villages and sweeping views define the character of the route. Attractions such as Werdenberg Castle and the village of Heididorf invite you to discover and enjoy Eastern Switzerland at your own pace.
Route: St. Gallen–Chur
Journey times:
St. Gallen–Chur: 1 hour 23 minutes
Premium comfort on board
Sit back, enjoy a delicious coffee from the bistro and marvel at the fascinating views during the journey.
Bistro area
There are two bistro areas on the train, each equipped with drinks and snack vending machines for self-service. Payment can be made in cash (Swiss francs or euros) or contactless using a debit or credit card. You can also pay using Twint, Apple Pay and Amex.
Light and Space
The modern, copper-coloured Traverso low-floor multiple units impress with their large windows, bright interiors, an outstanding 1st Class section and spacious 2nd Class compartments. All seats are fitted with power sockets so you can charge your smartphone at any time.
Family Compartment
A lovingly designed family compartment featuring hidden-object pictures depicting the four seasons is available for families. Young passengers can spread out their toys on the large tables. The exciting ‘Zughörnli’ travel guide, featuring puzzles, colouring pages and coloured pencils, is available free of charge from the on-board staff.
Bookings for individual travellers
Make your journey an unforgettable experience and enjoy Switzerland from the front row. With our Premium Seat Reservation, you can be sure of an exclusive travel experience.
Prices
2nd Class CHF 20.– 1st Class CHF 30.–
Places are limited: on each train, only the best seats in each class are available – a magnificent view is guaranteed. Included are:
Seat reservation
1 coffee, tea or hot chocolate from the bistro area
High-quality audio guide in German and English
