is glacier express included in swiss pass
A great question for travelers to Switzerland!
The Glacier Express is a scenic train route that runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz (or vice versa) in the Swiss Alps. While the Swiss Pass (also known as the Swiss Travel Pass) offers extensive coverage of public transportation in Switzerland, the Glacier Express is a special case.
The Glacier Express is a premium train route that requires a reservation, and it’s not entirely included in the Swiss Pass. However, here’s what you can expect:
Free travel, but with a caveat:
With a valid Swiss Pass, you can travel for free on the Glacier Express, but you’ll still need to make a reservation and pay a supplement fee. The supplement fee varies depending on the class of service and the route:
- 2nd class: CHF 33 (approximately $35 USD)
- 1st class: CHF 66 (approximately $70 USD)
This supplement fee is mandatory, even with a Swiss Pass, as it covers the costs of the special services and amenities offered on the Glacier Express, such as the panoramic windows, food and beverage service, and onboard entertainment.
Additional tips:
- Make sure to reserve your seat on the Glacier Express in advance, especially during peak season (June to September).
- If you have a Swiss Pass, you can make reservations online or at a train station in Switzerland.
- The Swiss Pass also grants you free access to many other scenic train routes, buses, and boats in Switzerland, so be sure to explore the country’s public transportation network.
In summary, while the Glacier Express is not entirely included in the Swiss Pass, you can still travel for free with a valid pass, but you’ll need to pay a supplement fee and make a reservation.
