Is the train from Zurich to Zermatt scenic?

Separated by 162km of incredible views, the train from Zermatt to Zurich is the best way to get from one side of the country to the other. Not just because of the scenery, but because SBB trains are comfortable, quick and take you right into the heart of Zermatt without having to find somewhere to park.



Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Zermatt is incredibly scenic, particularly the final leg of the trip. While the first portion from Zurich to Visp travels through the Swiss plateau and industrial regions, the experience transforms once you board the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn in Visp. This narrow-gauge cogwheel train climbs nearly 1,000 meters through the narrow Nikolai Valley, the deepest valley in Switzerland. You will pass through charming alpine villages, cross dramatic bridges, and see cascading waterfalls against a backdrop of jagged, snow-capped peaks. The train features large panoramic windows designed specifically for sightseeing. For the ultimate scenic experience, many travelers connect to the Glacier Express if coming from other directions, but even the standard regional trains on this route provide "front-row seats" to the majestic Alps. The grand finale is the arrival in car-free Zermatt, where the iconic, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn finally comes into view, making it one of the most rewarding rail arrivals in Europe.

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If you are travelling to Zermatt by train: fly to Zurich or Geneva and take the train to Visp, where you change to the mountain train direct to Zermatt. The whole journey is very scenic, going alongside lakes, vineyards and mountains with typically Swiss efficiency.

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Travel from Zurich to Zermatt by train The average train time from Zurich Hb station to Zermatt station is 4h 3m, although it takes 3h 12m on the fastest SBB services. There are around 25 trains per day running from Zurich to Zermatt and will usually require a change along the way in Visp.

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The Oberalp Pass is the highest point of the Glacier Express. At a height of 2,033m above sea level, you get possibly the most breathtaking view of the journey. If you're travelling in the winter months, expect the landscape to be topped with stunning snow. It's glorious in any season!

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The one we recommend is a full 12 hour trip that takes in Zermatt, the Matterhorn and Gornergrat. During the day you'll travel by train from Zurich, accompanied by an expert guide, and even take a trip to the top of Gornergrat for those panoramic Alpine views.

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On average, there are about 25 trains per day travelling between the two cities. They leave approximately every 26 minutes.

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Now 120 years old the Gornergrat Railway operates from just opposite the main Zermatt railway station all the way to the peak it shares its name with. At the top you can enjoy incredible views of the Matterhorn and the Gorner Glacier.

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Why is Zermatt so famous? Firstly, Zermatt is home to the Matterhorn. At 14,692ft-high, it's one of the most famous mountains in Switzerland, distinguishable for its pyramid-shaped peak. It's a mecca for mountaineers and climbers.

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No, there are no direct train services from Zermatt to Zurich Hb. Travelling from Zermatt to Zurich Hb by train will require a minimum of 1 change.

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I would recommend Zermatt - if you like mountains and hiking and quiet, Lucerne if you like cities and nightlife. Lucerne is a city, you will find the same kinds of things in Lucerne that you will find in Geneva - Lucerne does have Mt. Pilatus, you can take a great round trip tour, boat, cog rail, tram, gondola, bus...

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Zermatt – the Mountain Village of Records Zermatt lies at the foot of the highest mountains in the entire Alpine mountain range. With the Matterhorn, Weisshorn, Monte Rosa. A single visit to the Matterhorn village is not enough to experience all of the attractions and records. An excursion to Gornergrat is a must.

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Zermatt has no airport of its own and the most convenient airports are in Geneva or Zurich, although the nearest airport is in Sion. Sion has a limited flight schedule, which is why people often opt to travel to the airports in Geneva or Zurich. Once you reach here, you can take a train to Zermatt.

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Topping our list is none other than the Glacier Express, probably the most iconic and luxurious scenic Swiss rail journey. Known as the 'slowest express train in the world', the entire journey will grant you with undisputed panoramic views of the country's most dramatic scenery, no matter the season.

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Guests are able to purchase food on board the train, choosing from a 'plate of the day' (CHF30) or three-course lunch (CHF43). All food is freshly prepared on the train, hence the high price, and meals can be paired with wines from an extensive list featuring many Swiss wines.

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A ride on the Glacier Express is anything but fast. The 290-kilometer trip through the Swiss Alps takes over 8 hours, essentially an entire transatlantic flight within tiny landlocked Switzerland.

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