Planning a trip on the Glacier Express: Is it worth the price?

Switzerlandtraveltrains

Milen_22

Joined:
21.12.2023
Posts: 2447

Topic Starter

07.03.2025 10:27

I am currently planning a trip to Switzerland and really want to include the Glacier Express route in my itinerary. I have read that it is incredibly scenic, but I am wondering if the premium ticket price is actually worth it compared to just taking the regular regional trains along the same route. Are the panoramic windows really that much better, or can you get the same views from the standard carriages? I would love to hear from anyone who has done the full journey recently and whether you felt the experience justified the extra cost.

12 replies in this topic

ObiknovenChovek

Joined:
09.03.2020
Posts: 1356

08.06.2025 09:03

Honestly, I took the regional trains instead and saved a fortune. The views are exactly the same, and you can actually open the windows on the regional trains to take better photos without the glare.

Stefan_W

Joined:
11.06.2022
Posts: 152

13.10.2025 00:41

In reply to a previous post

I second that! The panoramic windows on the Glacier Express get super dusty or reflect the interior light, which makes photography a nightmare. Regional trains are the way to go if you're on a budget.

Maya_L

Joined:
04.09.2023
Posts: 578

24.10.2025 23:41

I think it depends on how much you value comfort. The Glacier Express is a 'tourist experience' with table service and a bit more luxury, whereas the regional trains are just, well, trains. If you want a relaxing day where you don't have to change lines, it's worth the premium.

gost_nedelq

Joined:
27.10.2021
Posts: 331

25.10.2025 12:12

In reply to a previous post

Exactly, the convenience of not having to switch trains three or four times is worth the extra money for me. It's a long day, and having a reserved seat and a meal brought to you makes it much more enjoyable.

Krasen_K

Joined:
24.06.2024
Posts: 1919

19.11.2025 13:29

Just keep in mind that if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, the regional trains are fully covered, but you still have to pay the seat reservation fee for the Glacier Express. That adds up fast.

jacek_bg

Joined:
13.01.2023
Posts: 1724

25.11.2025 04:19

In reply to a previous post

That is a great point. I didn't realize the reservation fee was so high until I went to book. Definitely check the current prices on the SBB website before you commit.

Aleks_K

Joined:
23.05.2025
Posts: 247

01.12.2025 21:12

I did the full journey last summer and felt it was a bit overrated. It’s a lot of sitting in one spot for eight hours. I found the segments between Brig and Chur to be the most scenic, maybe just do that part?

mati_123

Joined:
21.01.2021
Posts: 1286

02.01.2026 06:57

In reply to a previous post

I agree with the user above. The whole eight-hour stretch is a bit much. I’d recommend breaking it up and staying a night in one of the mountain towns along the way.

Hubo_K

Joined:
17.05.2025
Posts: 1763

22.01.2026 20:49

For me, the Glacier Express was a bucket list item and I don't regret it. The staff were wonderful and the commentary through the headsets added a lot of context to the landscape.

robert_d

Joined:
22.12.2024
Posts: 1362

13.02.2026 06:56

I think it's worth it for the 'experience' factor alone, but if you're just looking for transportation from A to B, definitely stick to the regional routes.

Alan_K

Joined:
23.04.2023
Posts: 1233

09.04.2026 16:10

In reply to a previous post

Don't forget that the regional trains have much more space to move around. I felt really cramped in the Glacier Express carriage when the train was full.

Oskar_Z

Joined:
01.08.2022
Posts: 1686

14.04.2026 05:56

Whatever you decide, make sure you check the weather forecast. If it's a cloudy or rainy day, neither option is going to give you those breathtaking alpine views you're paying for.

Planning a trip on the Glacier Express: Is it worth the price?

Want to join the discussion?