Glacier Express vs. Bernina Express: Which Scenic Swiss Route is Right for You?

So, you’ve decided to explore Switzerland by train—smart move. But now comes the real challenge: choosing between the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express.

Both promise jaw-dropping Alps, charming villages, and Instagram-worthy moments. But how do you pick? Is it about the views, the vibe, or the bragging rights?

Let’s break down these two iconic journeys so you can spend less time debating and more time gazing at glaciers.

1. Landscapes: Snowy Peaks vs. Palm Trees

Glacier Express: Nicknamed the “slowest express train in the world,” this 8-hour route from Zermatt to St. Moritz serves up Switzerland’s greatest alpine hits.

Think deep valleys like the Rhine Gorge (dubbed the “Swiss Grand Canyon”), frosty peaks like the Matterhorn, and villages where wooden chalets wear blankets of snow. Winter lovers, this is your postcard come to life.

Bernina Express: This 4-hour ride from Chur to Tirano, Italy is all about drama. You’ll spiral around the Bernina Pass, past Morteratsch Glacier’s icy blue cracks, and descend into valleys where palm trees sway beside snowbanks.

Yes, palm trees! Summer riders get wildflower meadows; autumn serves golden larch forests. It’s like swapping a snow globe for a technicolor dream.

Verdict: Glacier = classic winter wonderland. Bernina = four seasons in one ride.

2. Journey Time: Marathon vs. Sprint

Glacier Express: Buckle up for a full-day adventure (8 hours). The train crawls at 24 mph, giving you time to savor three-course meals, clink glasses of local Pinot Noir, and nap between photo ops.

Perfect for travelers who want to slow down and soak in the views—or justify a second dessert.

Bernina Express: At 4 hours, this is the Swiss answer to a quick thrill. The train moves faster, but the Bernina’s open-top observation cars and floor-to-ceiling windows make every minute count.

Ideal for day-trippers or anyone with FOMO (Fear of Missing Out… on gelato in Italy).

Pro Tip: Glacier Express requires reservations ($$). Bernina? You can hop on with a Eurail Pass—but book seats early for the panoramic cars.

3. Iconic Stops: Alpine Villages vs. UNESCO Engineering

Glacier Express Highlights:

• Zermatt: Car-free village with Matterhorn views.
• Andermatt: Gateway to ski slopes and goat-cheese fondue.
• Oberalp Pass: Highest point (2,033 meters) with frozen lakes in winter.

Bernina Express Must-Sees:

• Landwasser Viaduct: A six-arched stone bridge straight out of Harry Potter.
• Brusio Spiral Viaduct: A 360-degree loop that’ll make your phone storage cry.
• Tirano, Italy: Finish with espresso and risotto (the train connects to buses for Lake Como!).

Verdict: Glacier = cozy alpine charm. Bernina = Engineering Masterpieces and pasta.

4. Onboard Experience: Luxury vs. Local Flavor

Glacier Express: This is first-class all the way. Red-upholstered seats, white tablecloths, and menus featuring saffron-infused capuns (Swiss chard dumplings).

Premium riders get champagne flutes and noise-cancelling headphones for the included audio guide. It’s like a Michelin-starred restaurant… on rails.

Bernina Express: More casual, but with perks. The panoramic cars have sunroofs for summer and heaters for winter.

Pack a picnic of Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) from Chur’s market, or grab a slice of chestnut cake from the onboard café.

Pro tip: Sit on the right side from St. Moritz to Tirano for cliffside drama.

Fun Fact: The Bernina’s dining car only serves snacks. Save room for pizza in Tirano.

5. Seasons: When to Go

Glacier Express: Winter (Dec–Mar) is pure magic—snowdrifts, frozen waterfalls, and St. Moritz’s glamorous apres-ski scene. Summer (Jun–Sep) offers green valleys but fewer empty seats.

Bernina Express: Spring (May–Jun) and autumn (Sep–Oct) are gold. The Albula Valley blazes with wildflowers or fall colors, and Tirano’s vineyards glow.

Avoid July/August crowds unless you love sharing armrests.

Verdict: Glacier = winter fairy tale. Bernina = shoulder-season secret.

6. Budget: Splurge vs. Steal

Glacier Express: Prices start at 180 for second class (with lunch). First class? Around 350. Worth it for the “once-in-a-lifetime” crowd.

Bernina Express: From 50 for second class (no meals). Upgrade to panoramic seats for 50 in second class (no meals). Upgrading to panoramic seats costs an extra 25.

Budget travelers can take regional trains along the same route for half the price — but you’ll miss the fancy windows.

Pro Tip: Both routes are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, but seat reservations cost extra (Glacier: ~45; Bernina: 45 or 20, depending on the seat type).

The Ultimate Tiebreaker: What’s Your Travel Style?

• Choose the Glacier Express if…
  • You love slow travel with luxury touches.
  • Snowy peaks > Mediterranean vibes.
  • Your ideal day includes fondue and naps.
• Choose the Bernina Express if…
  • You’re short on time but want big views.
  • Engineering feats and gelato sound like a perfect combo.
  • You’re okay trading white tablecloths for a sunroof.

Still Can’t Decide? Do Both!

Yes, really. The Glacier and Bernina Express meet in St. Moritz/Chur. Spend a night in a Swiss mountain hut, then tackle the second route the next day.

It’s the ultimate Swiss rail sandwich—and you’ll earn serious bragging rights.

Final Thought: The Rails Are Calling

Whether you’re sipping wine under the Matterhorn’s shadow or spiraling down to Italy with a gelato in hand, Switzerland’s trains turn travel into art.

So, which route steals your heart? The Glacier’s snowy romance or the Bernina’s wild contrasts? Either way, you’ll leave with full memory cards and a craving to return. All aboard—your Swiss fairy tale awaits!