Alpine panoramas – 5 of the most famous panoramic train journeys in Europe

Your journey begins with a comfortable trip to Switzerland, where you can choose between a flight for a quick arrival or an overnight train for a more relaxed start.

Overnight train: Relax in your private sleeping compartment as the train takes you through Europe. Upon arrival in Switzerland, you’ll wake up to beautiful alpine views and be ready to begin your adventure in Lucerne.

Flight: With a quick flight, you will arrive directly in Switzerland, giving you more time to enjoy Lucerne.

Upon arrival in Lucerne, the gateway to the Central Alps, you will be welcomed by a city that combines charm, history and a spectacular lakeside setting on the shores of Lake Lucerne. The rest of the day is yours to explore the beautiful old town, where colourful buildings, narrow streets and the iconic Chapel Bridge create a fairytale atmosphere.

Relax with dinner at one of the cosy restaurants overlooking the lake and let your journey begin at a gentle pace.

Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most charming cities, is where history and nature meet. Beautifully located on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks, the city offers an unforgettable setting.

Start by exploring the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge, gracefully stretching across the Reuss River. This iconic landmark, with its historic water tower and colourful paintings, is Lucerne’s most famous attraction and a perfect spot for photos.

Take a leisurely walk through the old town, where cobbled streets are lined with colourful medieval buildings, small shops and cosy cafés. Here you’ll also find the famous Lion Monument, an impressive sculpture carved into the rock in honour of the Swiss soldiers who lost their lives during the French Revolution.

If you’d like an even more breathtaking view, take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne. From the water, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding mountains as you glide across the calm, mirror-like surface.

For those who love heights and panoramic views, a trip to Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi is highly recommended. Both mountains can be reached by cogwheel railway or cable car and offer spectacular views over the lake and the Alps – an experience that truly makes you feel on top of the world.

End your day with a delicious dinner at one of Lucerne’s many restaurants, where you can enjoy classic Swiss dishes such as raclette or fondue while soaking up the cosy atmosphere of this beautiful alpine city.

From Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most scenic railway routes begins as you board the Brünig Express towards Interlaken. This approximately two-hour journey offers breathtaking landscapes and an experience that is just as memorable as the destination itself.

The train runs along the mirror-like surface of Lake Lucerne before beginning its ascent through the lush forests and picturesque valleys of the Brünig Pass. Here, the views constantly shift between green meadows, small alpine villages and impressive mountain peaks. Along the way, the train also passes the beautiful Lake Sarnen and Lake Brienz, two idyllic lakes with crystal-clear waters shimmering in the sunlight.

The train journey itself is a highlight, where every curve and tunnel reveals new panoramic views of the Swiss landscape. The final stretch towards Interlaken offers views of the iconic mountains of the Bernese Oberland, which begin to dominate the horizon.

Upon arrival in Interlaken, located between the two stunning lakes Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, you are welcomed by a charming town surrounded by some of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain scenery.

The rest of the day is yours to explore the town’s cosy streets, enjoy a coffee at a café with mountain views, or take a relaxing walk along one of the nearby lakes. Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau region and the perfect base for the experiences that await.

Interlaken, beautifully situated between the two lakes Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the majestic Alps as a backdrop. The town is known as the gateway to the Jungfrau region and a paradise for nature lovers.

Spend your time exploring the charming streets of Interlaken and enjoying its peaceful atmosphere. A walk through Höhematte Park offers fantastic views of the impressive mountains, especially the iconic Jungfrau massif, rising proudly on the horizon.

The area around Interlaken offers excellent opportunities for short excursions. You can take a relaxing walk along the shores of Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, where the mirror-like waters reflect the surrounding mountains, or enjoy a scenic boat trip to get closer to nature.

Interlaken is also the starting point for one of the highlights of the journey – an excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station. This spectacular experience awaits you on Day 3.

With two nights in Interlaken, you have time to enjoy both relaxation and adventure in one of Switzerland’s most scenic regions.

The day offers one of the absolute highlights of the journey: a trip to Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe. Located at 3,454 metres above sea level, this is the highest railway station in Europe, where a world of snow and ice awaits.

The journey begins by train from Interlaken through stunning natural scenery. The train passes beautiful valleys and picturesque alpine villages such as Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen, while the mountains rise higher around you. In Kleine Scheidegg, located at 2,061 metres above sea level, you change to the impressive Jungfrau Railway, which takes you the final kilometres to the summit.

On the way to Jungfraujoch, the train travels through tunnels carved directly into the mountains, and along the route you can enjoy views through panoramic windows, offering unique perspectives of the Alps.

Upon arrival at Jungfraujoch, a world of unforgettable experiences opens up:

• Visit the Jungfraujoch Plateau, where you can step outside and enjoy breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in Europe.
• Explore the Ice Palace, a labyrinth of tunnels and impressive ice sculptures carved into the glacier.
• Discover the Alpine Sensation exhibition, which tells the story of early mountaineers and the construction of the Jungfrau Railway.

With free time at your disposal, you can also enjoy lunch with a view at one of the station’s restaurants or visit the Sphinx Observatory, which offers an even higher and more spectacular panorama.

The return journey to Interlaken takes you via Eiger Glacier, followed by a cable car descent to Grindelwald, where you reconnect with the train. After a day filled with unforgettable experiences, you return to Interlaken for a relaxing evening and overnight stay.

From Interlaken, another unforgettable train journey begins as you board the GoldenPass Express towards Montreux. This iconic route is known for its spectacular views and ever-changing landscapes, taking you from the heights of the Alps down to the beautiful Lake Geneva (Léman).

The journey begins with the train’s ascent through the breathtaking Bernese Oberland, where green meadows, forest-covered mountains and charming alpine villages create postcard-perfect scenery. The train winds through picturesque valleys and crosses dramatic mountain passes, while you relax in comfortable seats and enjoy panoramic views through large windows.

As you approach Montreux, the landscape gradually transforms. The alpine scenery gives way to vineyards, orchards and a milder climate as the train nears the shores of Lake Geneva. The view of the lake with the mountains in the background is simply stunning and provides the perfect finale to the journey.

Upon arrival in Montreux, you are welcomed by a town full of elegance and a Mediterranean atmosphere. The lakeside promenade is lined with palm trees, flowerbeds and cafés, inviting you for a relaxing stroll.

The rest of the day is at your leisure, giving you time to enjoy the charming atmosphere of Montreux and reflect on the day’s experiences. Overnight stay in Montreux at a hotel close to the train station.

Montreux, an elegant and charming town beautifully located on the shores of Lake Geneva (Léman), surrounded by lush vineyards and the impressive Swiss Alps. With one night here, you have time to enjoy the town’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

Start your time in Montreux with a walk along the famous lakeside promenade, where colourful flowers, palm trees and sculptures create a Mediterranean feel. The view over Lake Geneva, with snow-capped mountains in the background, is nothing short of spectacular. Here, you will also find a statue of Freddie Mercury, celebrating the town’s connection to the Queen frontman, who loved Montreux.

A must-see experience is a visit to the impressive Chillon Castle, located just outside Montreux. This castle is one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks and is rich in history. Situated directly on the lakeshore, it offers both a fascinating historical experience and breathtaking views over the lake.

For wine lovers, a visit to the nearby Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique opportunity. Here, you can explore the beautiful terraced vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting with views over the lake and mountains.

End the day with dinner at one of Montreux’s many restaurants, where the local cuisine combines Swiss and French flavours. The town’s calm atmosphere makes it easy to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

From Montreux, the journey continues towards Zermatt, a scenic train route that takes you from the Mediterranean atmosphere of Lake Geneva (Léman) to the spectacular Swiss Alps at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn.

The journey begins with a relaxing train ride through lush vineyards and small, idyllic villages before the train gradually climbs into higher altitudes. The landscape quickly transforms as rivers, green valleys and snow-covered peaks dominate the view. The train follows the Rhône River, and upon arrival in Visp, you transfer to a narrow-gauge train that winds its way through the Matter Valley (Mattertal).

On this final stretch, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with steep mountain slopes, impressive gorges and charming alpine villages scattered throughout the valley. The highlight is the arrival in the car-free alpine village of Zermatt, where you are greeted by the striking silhouette of the Matterhorn rising majestically in the background.

The rest of the day is yours to explore the charming centre of Zermatt, where traditional wooden houses, small shops and cosy cafés create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The town is known for its peaceful alpine charm and offers the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Overnight stay in Zermatt at a hotel close to the train station, where you can look forward to the next day’s experience on the Gornergrat Railway.

Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine villages and the gateway to the famous Matterhorn. This completely car-free town is full of authentic alpine charm, with its traditional wooden chalets, cobbled streets and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Zermatt is ideal for both relaxation and outdoor experiences. Start with a walk through the charming town centre, where you’ll find a wide range of shops, cafés and restaurants. Visit the historic Hinterdorfstrasse, where wooden houses dating back to the 16th century tell stories of mountain life and offer a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.

For those interested in history, the Matterhorn Museum is well worth a visit. Here, you can learn about the town’s development as a centre for mountaineering, see historic equipment used by climbers and discover fascinating stories about the early expeditions to the Matterhorn.

If you’d like to experience nature up close, Zermatt offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels. A shorter hike could take you to the Edelweiss Hut (Edelweisshütte), where you’ll enjoy beautiful views over the town and surrounding mountains. During the summer months, the trails are surrounded by green meadows filled with flowers and flowing mountain streams.

For food lovers, Zermatt is a true paradise. The town is known for its wide selection of restaurants, serving everything from Swiss classics such as raclette and fondue to international gourmet cuisine, including Michelin-starred dining.

In the evening, you can relax while enjoying views of the illuminated Matterhorn, which casts a magical atmosphere over the town, especially as the sun sets behind the mountains.

The day offers one of the highlights of the journey: a ride on the Gornergrat Railway – one of the highest cogwheel railways in Europe. The journey up to Gornergrat at 3,089 metres above sea level is a scenic experience that brings you closer to the raw beauty of the Alps and offers unforgettable views.

From Zermatt station, the train begins its ascent, and within minutes, breathtaking views open up over the town and surrounding mountains. The train winds through sharp curves, along mountain slopes and past small alpine huts, as the landscape gradually changes from green meadows to rugged, snow-covered heights.

Upon arrival at the summit of Gornergrat, a spectacular viewing platform awaits. From here, you are greeted by a panorama unlike any other. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the Matterhorn, rising majestically in the background, along with more than 20 other Alpine peaks exceeding 4,000 metres. You can also admire the impressive glaciers that flow like white rivers between the mountains.

Take your time to explore the platform and breathe in the fresh mountain air while enjoying the feeling of being on top of the world. If you wish, you can also enjoy a hot chocolate or lunch at the Gornergrat restaurant, with direct views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for short hikes in the area, where you can get even closer to nature and capture incredible photos of the landscape.

After a day in the mountains, the journey returns to Zermatt by train, where the views on the way down are just as impressive. The rest of the evening is yours to relax in the cosy atmosphere of Zermatt, as the alpine village lights up at dusk with the Matterhorn as a constant backdrop.

On this day, one of the world’s most famous and scenic train journeys awaits – the Glacier Express. From Zermatt, at the foot of the Matterhorn, to the elegant alpine town of St. Moritz, this journey takes you through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes.

On board the Glacier Express, you can relax in comfortable seats and enjoy the views through large panoramic windows, giving you the feeling of being fully immersed in nature.

The train journey itself is an experience:

• The train begins in the Matter Valley (Mattertal), where steep mountain slopes and views of the Matterhorn create an unforgettable start.
• You pass through the Rhône Valley and the town of Brig before the train begins its ascent towards the highest point of the route – the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level. Here, you can enjoy views of snow-covered mountains and idyllic alpine lakes.
• On the descent, the train travels through green valleys, past small alpine villages and across iconic bridges such as the Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that soars high above a dramatic gorge.

Along the way, the Glacier Express crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, showcasing the remarkable engineering behind this legendary route. The journey takes approximately 7.5 hours, and every moment offers a new opportunity to experience the incredible beauty of Switzerland.

On board, you can also enjoy a delicious lunch served at your seat – an experience that perfectly combines comfort with the ever-changing scenery outside.

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you are welcomed by an exclusive and elegant alpine town, known for its luxury atmosphere and stunning lake views. Here, a relaxing evening awaits, giving you time to unwind after an unforgettable journey. Overnight stay at a hotel close to the train station.

St. Moritz, one of Switzerland’s most exclusive and elegant alpine resorts, is renowned for its luxurious atmosphere, crystal-clear lakes and breathtaking mountain scenery. Located at 1,856 metres above sea level, the town has been a popular destination for both nature lovers and luxury travellers for more than 150 years.

Start your stay with a relaxing walk along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, where snow-covered peaks are reflected in the clear water – the perfect place to enjoy the silence and fresh mountain air. The town centre offers charming streets filled with shops, cafés and luxury boutiques, especially along the famous Via Serlas, home to renowned brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

For spectacular views over the Engadin Valley and surrounding mountains, take the cable car up to Muottas Muragl. The panorama from here is truly breathtaking, offering sweeping views of lakes, valleys and alpine peaks. For more active travellers, there are excellent opportunities for short hikes, with trails suitable for all levels.

History and culture are also an essential part of St. Moritz’s identity. Visit the Segantini Museum, dedicated to the artist Giovanni Segantini, known for his beautiful landscape paintings of the Engadin region.

End your day with dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants, where you can enjoy local specialities such as Engadine walnut cake or a classic Swiss fondue. St. Moritz is also known for its luxurious spa and wellness offerings, making it the perfect place to indulge in a relaxing experience before continuing your journey the next day.

The day offers another spectacular train journey as you board the legendary Bernina Express from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage route is one of the most beautiful and scenic railway journeys in the world and a true highlight for nature lovers.

The journey begins with the train’s ascent through the Engadin Valley, where mountains rise steeply around you. The route then continues over the impressive Bernina Pass at 2,253 metres above sea level – the highest point of the journey. The views here are nothing short of breathtaking, with snow-covered peaks, shimmering glaciers and stunning alpine lakes such as Lago Bianco and Lej Nair.

As the train descends from the pass, the landscape changes dramatically. From rugged high mountains, the train glides through lush valleys, past vineyards and charming Italian villages, before arriving in Tirano, where the Bernina Express journey concludes.

From Tirano, the journey continues to Lugano by train or bus. This part of the route takes you through beautiful scenery with glimpses of Lake Como, where deep blue waters and picturesque Italian villas create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Upon arrival in Lugano, you are welcomed by a town that combines Swiss precision with Italian charm. Beautifully located on the shores of Lake Lugano, the city offers a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. The rest of the day is yours to stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy the views and experience the contrast between alpine landscapes and palm-lined squares.

Lugano, a beautiful lakeside town in the southern part of Switzerland, where Italian charm meets Swiss precision. Located on the shores of Lake Lugano and surrounded by lush mountain slopes, Lugano offers a relaxed atmosphere and a wide range of experiences.

Start your stay with a walk along the promenade of Lake Lugano, where flower-filled gardens, palm trees and cafés create a Mediterranean feel. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, reflected in the shimmering water.

For unforgettable panoramic views, take the cable car up to Monte San Salvatore or Monte Brè. From the top of both mountains, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Lake Lugano, the surrounding valleys and the small Italian villages scattered across the horizon. These areas are also perfect for short hikes in nature.

In Lugano’s old town, you’ll find charming squares, narrow streets and elegant arcades. Visit Piazza della Riforma, the city’s main square, where cafés and restaurants create a lively atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a coffee or taste local specialities such as risotto alla luganese and freshly made gelato.

For shopping enthusiasts, Lugano offers everything from local markets to exclusive boutiques along Via Nassa, the city’s famous shopping street. Here, you’ll find both luxury goods and unique Swiss souvenirs.

If you’re interested in culture, LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura is a must-visit. This modern cultural centre hosts exhibitions, concerts and theatre performances, reflecting both local and international artistic traditions.

Spend your final evening relaxing by the lake and enjoy the sunset, which creates a magical atmosphere over the water. Lugano is the perfect finale to your journey through Switzerland, with its relaxed vibe, stunning nature and unmistakable Italian flair.

Your unforgettable journey through Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes and charming towns comes to an end with a comfortable return to Denmark.

By flight: From Lugano, you can easily continue to the nearby airport in Milan, from where direct flights to Denmark are available. This is the fastest way to return home and allows you to enjoy a relaxed morning in Lugano before continuing your journey.

By overnight train: If you prefer to travel through Europe’s beautiful landscapes, you can take a northbound train and connect to the new, modern overnight trains. On board, you can relax in a private sleeping compartment with your own toilet and wake up refreshed in Denmark the next day.

No matter how you choose to travel home, you will leave Switzerland with a suitcase full of memories – from iconic train journeys such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to unforgettable experiences in the Alps and by crystal-clear lakes.