Zermatt to St. Moritz by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €89
Route Overview: Zermatt to St. Moritz
The Glacier Express is one of the world's most famous train journeys, connecting two of Switzerland's premier Alpine resorts — Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn and St. Moritz in the Engadin valley. This 7.5-hour panoramic ride crosses 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and climbs to the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level.
The journey takes you through the Rhine Gorge (Switzerland's own Grand Canyon), over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and across some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Europe. The train features panoramic windows that extend into the roof, providing unobstructed views of glaciers, mountain meadows, and deep valleys.
Three classes of service are available: 2nd Class with panoramic windows, 1st Class with wider seats and more space, and the exclusive Excellence Class offering a premium experience with a seven-course gourmet meal, personal concierge service, and the best window seats on the train.
How Long Is the Zermatt to St. Moritz Train?
The direct Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz takes approximately 7h 30min, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Zermatt to St. Moritz Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €89 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Zermatt to St. Moritz?
Up to 3/day trains operate daily on the Zermatt to St. Moritz route.
Train Operator
Glacier Express
Direct high-speed service · 7h 30min max
Which Stations Serve the Zermatt to St. Moritz Route?
Zermatt
- Car-free village — arrive by Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn from Visp/Brig
- Electric taxis and hotel shuttles available from station
St. Moritz
- Local bus connections to Engadin resorts from station
- Bernina Express to Tirano departs from same station
What Classes Are Available on Zermatt to St. Moritz Trains?
2nd Class Panoramic
- Panoramic windows extending into the roof
- Comfortable seating with table
- Three-course lunch served at seat
- Bar car access
- Power outlets
1st Class Panoramic
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- Panoramic windows
- Three-course lunch served at seat
- Bar car access
- Power outlets
- Quieter carriages
Excellence Class
- Premium window seats with best views
- Seven-course gourmet meal with wine pairing
- Personal concierge service
- Welcome drink and aperitif
- Exclusive lounge car
- Souvenir gift
How to Book the Zermatt to St. Moritz Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class Panoramic class. Prices shown are indicative. Glacier Express requires a separate seat reservation on top of the rail ticket.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Zermatt to St. Moritz Trains?
Two Purchases Required
To ride the Glacier Express you need both a valid rail ticket (or Swiss Travel Pass) AND a mandatory Glacier Express seat reservation. These are purchased separately.
Seasonal Service
The Glacier Express operates from early May to mid-October (summer) and mid-December to early April (winter). There is no service during the transition periods in November and parts of April/December.
Onboard Dining
A three-course lunch is served at your seat in all classes. Pre-order your meal when booking or choose from the onboard menu. Excellence Class includes a seven-course gourmet meal with wine pairing.
Best Photo Spots
The Landwasser Viaduct (near Filisur) and the Oberalp Pass are the most photographed sections. Sit on the right side (heading to St. Moritz) for the best Rhine Gorge views.
Frequently Asked Questions: Zermatt to St. Moritz
The Glacier Express takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes to travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz, covering 291 km through the Swiss Alps. It crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels.
A standard 2nd class ticket costs CHF 152 (full fare). Swiss Travel Pass holders ride free but must still purchase a mandatory seat reservation (CHF 49 in 2nd class, CHF 69 in 1st class). Excellence Class reservation costs CHF 540 and includes a gourmet meal.
Yes, a seat reservation is mandatory on all Glacier Express services, even if you hold a Swiss Travel Pass or Eurail/Interrail pass. Reservations open 93 days before departure for 1st and 2nd class.
The Glacier Express is a dedicated panoramic scenic train with extra-large windows designed specifically for sightseeing. It travels at a leisurely pace to allow passengers to enjoy the Alpine scenery, earning its nickname as the slowest express train in the world.
You can travel the same route using regular regional trains with stops in Andermatt, Disentis, or Chur. However, the Glacier Express itself is a point-to-point panoramic service and your seat reservation is only valid for the specific train booked.