A renowned Swiss train journey, frequently hailed as one of the most spectacular on the planet, can now be experienced without the eye-watering price tag, thanks to a savvy local travel secret.
The Pricy Panorama: The Glacier Express Experience
The Glacier Express is an iconic eight-hour rail odyssey connecting the prestigious mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. Departing from the foot of the mighty Matterhorn, it traverses breathtaking Alpine landscapes, crossing over 291 bridges and passing pristine lakes and peaks. Celebrated by Condé Nast and reviewers as a "once in a lifetime experience," the train features panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and an audio guide.
Passengers can upgrade to Excellence Class for luxuries like a five-course meal with Champagne, an exclusive bar under a gold dome, and personalised iPads. This premium comes at a steep cost: a standard second-class seat is around CHF 213 (approx. £200), first-class is CHF 326 (approx. £300), and the top-tier Excellence Class soars to about CHF 812 (approx. £761).
The Local's Loophole: Riding the Regular Rails
However, the scenic tracks between Zermatt and St. Moritz aren't exclusive to the famous tourist train. Switzerland's national railway operator, Schweizerische Bundesbahnen (SBB), runs regular commuter and regional services along the same core route.
By opting for these standard SBB trains, travellers can witness the identical majestic scenery for a mere fraction of the cost. The key is to search for journeys from Zermatt to St. Moritz (or vice versa) via Brig and Andermatt on the SBB website. This simple switch slashes the price to just CHF 44 (about £41) for second class or CHF 59 (about £55) for first class.
Flexibility and Freedom on a Budget
While the local service lacks the panoramic carriages and plush amenities of the Glacier Express, it offers distinct advantages. The journey involves a few changes, but this allows for a more flexible, exploratory trip. Travellers can break up the route, stopping to visit charming towns and natural wonders along the way.
Potential stops include Brig, a gateway for hiking the vast Aletsch Glacier, and the picturesque village of Andermatt, from where you can visit the dramatic Schöllenen Gorge and the historic Devil's Bridge. Onboard, while there's no butler service, you can bring your own picnic and drinks—including alcohol—to enjoy as the world-class views roll by.
This ingenious hack proves that the awe-inspiring beauty of the Swiss Alps is accessible without requiring a luxury budget, offering an authentic and affordable alternative to one of the world's most celebrated train journeys.
