Episode 164: How to Experience Winter in Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass

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From iconic routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to charming towns, winter boat rides, and festive markets, winter in Switzerland offers a travel experience that feels straight out of a postcard.

In this episode, I’m joined by Swiss rail expert Andy Nef to break down one of the most beautiful winter routes in the country, highlighting train travel in Switzerland at its best. We walk through a stunning Swiss itinerary inspired by the Grand Train Tour, including Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz, all easily explored with the Swiss Travel Pass.

You’ll learn which panoramic trains operate in winter, when to book seat reservations, how to pair rail journeys with scenic lake cruises, and how your pass unlocks perks like discounted mountain excursions and free museum access. Andy also shares practical winter travel tips to help you stay warm, flexible, and stress-free while moving through the Alps.

If you want a smooth, scenic, and unforgettable winter journey, this episode gives you a clear path to planning a stunning Swiss winter adventure without the hassle, all while maximizing comfort and value.

Show Notes

In this episode you’ll learn about:

• Why traveling by train in Switzerland during winter is such a magical experience
• Andy’s recommended “Winter Magic” train itinerary and the highlights along the route
• How long to allow for a comfortable, unrushed journey on a Swiss winter rail holiday
• The importance of advance seat reservations for panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
• Helpful tips for making the most of your Swiss Travel Pass, including museum entries and discounted excursions
• What to expect from winter train timetables and how to plan around seasonal changes and possible disruptions

Our Guest

Winter Magic rail itinerary

Day 1 – Travel from any location in Switzerland to Lucerne by train. Then take the Luzern-Interlaken Express to Interlaken (2 hours). Stay 2 nights in Interlaken.

Day 3 – Travel from Interlaken to Zermatt by train (2h:20). Andy suggests taking the slightly longer route as the fastest route travels through the Lötschberg Base Tunnel. Stay 2 nights in Zermatt.

Day 5 – Travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz on the Glacier Express (8 hours). Stay 2 nights in St. Moritz

Day 6 – Option to travel from St. Moritz to Chur and back to St. Moritz on the Bernina Express or a regional train (2 hours each way).

Day 7 – Travel from St. Moritz to any location in Switzerland by train for your departure.

Winter Magic rail itinerary tips

The Swiss Travel Pass covers all public transport in Switzerland, therefore all train journeys featured in this itinerary are included with the pass. Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here.

Seat reservations are mandatory on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express and fees apply. You can read more about booking seat reservations on Switzerland’s panoramic trains in this article.

Whilst seat reservations are not mandatory on the Luzern-Interlaken Express, they are recommended if you wish to guarantee a window seat, or a seat on the right hand side of the train.

Andy recommends a minimum stay of two nights in each location. Staying longer will allow you to take full advantage of the other bonuses included with the Swiss Travel Pass such as lake cruises, free museum entry and discounts on mountain excursions.

If you’d prefer to have your train tickets and accommodation booked on your behalf, Switzerland Travel Centre’s Winter Magic rail package is a great option. Packages usually include the most-economical tickets for your itinerary but you can request a Swiss Travel Pass for added flexibility. Mention our exclusive promo code HTSWISS when booking to receive 5% off your Swiss rail package.

Browse more Swiss winter rail itineraries (the 5% discount also applies – just remember to add the promo code when booking).

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Useful resources

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> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.