Experiencing Switzerland’s iconic panoramic trains
Aug 27, 2026 · By Rob Payne
Soak in jaw-dropping alpine views at the Top of Europe and cross from Interlaken to Montreux on Switzerland’s GoldenPass Express with Great Rail Journeys.
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A moving display of mountain peaks sets the backdrop for two of Europe's most scenic countries, Austria and Switzerland. The similarities of these two countries are nearly as striking as their contrasts, and independent and escorted tours showcase these idiosyncrasies beautifully. Quaint alpine towns sit alongside cosmopolitan cities, and sparkling lakes complement sprawling meadows. From the Imperial heritage of Vienna to the car-free resort of Zermatt, discovering Austria and Switzerland by train is the easiest way to fall in love with this part of the world.
Travel from Cologne or Bavaria in Germany into the dramatic landscapes of Austria. Look upon scenes straight out of the "Sound of Music" and discover breathtaking mountainscapes and charming locales from one side of the country to the other. Colorful buildings and Medieval city sites collide in the capital of the Alps, Innsbruck. Musical history and baroque architecture give Salzburg a unique flair, and palaces and grand cathedrals fill Vienna's skyline. Of course, Vienna also sits alongside the beautiful Danube River, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for holidays. Crossing the border into Switzerland, even more awe-inspiring sights await aboard some of the world's most famous luxury rail lines. Glacier-fed lakes and twisting mountain passes highlight the courses of the Bernina Express and the GoldenPass Panoramic. The Jungfrau Railroad climbs to the top of Europe. These prestigious rail lines pave the way between beloved destinations, like St. Moritz, Lucerne, and Interlaken. While each of these countries shines in its own right, combining them into thoughtfully orchestrated vacation packages makes Austria and Switzerland tours some of the most memorable in Central Europe.





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