Lucerne: Glacier Express’s Swiss Alps & Lucerne Tour

Traveling through Switzerland often means encountering postcard-perfect landscapes, charming towns, and legendary train journeys. This full-day tour promises all that and more, combining a scenic train ride on the famous Glacier Express with a visit to the picturesque medieval town of Lucerne. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary highlight its potential for an unforgettable Swiss adventure.

What truly stands out are the breathtaking views of the Alps, the chance to explore Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, and the opportunity to experience Swiss culture firsthand. The inclusion of a gourmet meal onboard the Glacier Express and a guided tour of Lucerne’s iconic landmarks makes this a well-rounded experience. That said, with a 10-hour span and a fairly full itinerary, it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic travel and don’t mind a busy day.

One possible consideration is the price point of $874 per person, which might seem steep for some, but the value lies in the combination of transportation, guided insights, and unique sights. Perfect for travelers eager to combine train travel with cultural exploration, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and historic charm.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps and lakes from multiple vantage points.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides lead with engaging commentary, adding context and local insights.
• Comfortable Travel: All transportation is included, with reserved seats on the Glacier Express for a stress-free experience.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore the medieval streets of Lucerne, including the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument.
• Gourmet Meal: A hot, included meal served onboard adds a touch of luxury.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting in Lucerne

This tour kicks off right in Luzern, a city renowned for its charming old town and stunning lake views. Meeting in front of platform 7, travelers gather with their guide, ready for a day filled with scenic travel and cultural exploration. The small group setting (max 8 people) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience to your interests.

The Train to Chur

Your first leg involves about 2.25 hours of train travel toward Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city. The journey itself is scenic, with views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and alpine panoramas. Passing through the Swiss countryside gives you a sense of the country’s diversity in landscape and architecture.

Chur and the Glacier Express

In Chur, you’ll have a brief 15-minute stop — enough to appreciate its historic old town or just stretch your legs. Then, you’ll board the Glacier Express, regarded as one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Guided by a knowledgeable guide (in this case, Rose, who is praised for her expertise), you’ll settle into your reserved seat for approximately 3 hours of spectacular views.

The Glacier Express’s Oberalp section offers some of the most dramatic scenery, with towering mountains, glaciers, and deep valleys. During the journey, you’ll be served a hot gourmet meal with your choice of drink, providing a luxurious touch amidst the natural splendor. Reviewers mention that the views are breathtaking, with one noting the experience as “stunning” and “perfectly paced” thanks to the guide Gustavo, who made sure everyone had great spots for photos and took care of snack stops along the way.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Passing Through Andermatt

After the Glacier Express, you’ll pass through Andermatt for about 5 minutes — a quick glimpse of this mountain village before continuing your journey. This brief transit keeps the day moving efficiently while offering micro-views of alpine life.

Return to Lucerne via Lake Lucerne

Your next train ride lasts about 2 hours, heading towards Lucerne with a stop at Lake Lucerne. This middle stop provides an opportunity to take in the lake’s crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountain scenery, perfect for photos or just soaking in the tranquility.

Exploring Lucerne

Once in Lucerne, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore this historic town. Highlights include the Chapel Bridge, with its distinctive painted panels and medieval construction, and the Lion Monument, a poignant tribute to Swiss guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Reviewers pointed out the guides’ deep knowledge, with one describing Rose as “an amazing tour guide,” making the brief tour both informative and engaging.

The Practical Details

Transportation & Logistics

All transportation, including the standard rail pass and seat reservation on the Glacier Express, is included. The convenience of having everything booked and reserved in advance means less stress and more time enjoying the scenery.

Meal & Refreshments

A hot gourmet meal onboard, served with a drink of your choice, elevates the experience from a typical train ride to a luxurious outing. This is especially appreciated on such a long day, providing comfort and refinement during the stunning journey.

Group Size & Guide

Limited to 8 participants, the small group setting ensures personalized attention. The live English-speaking guide adds value with insightful commentary, local tips, and photo opportunities.

Pricing & Value

At $874 per person, the tour is on the pricier side, but considering all inclusions — transportation, guided commentary, meals, and entrance fees — it offers good value for travelers seeking convenience and a curated experience. It’s a comprehensive way to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Accessibility & Cancellation

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travelers with changing plans.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with guests praising Jade, Gustavo, and Rose for their engaging storytelling and thoughtful pacing. One traveler from the United States called the experience “great,” noting that Jade made the day “easy and efficient.” Another added that their guide Gustavo “perfectly paced the day,” making sure everyone saw the best views and had fun.

The stunning vistas are a consistent theme — travelers loved the panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains, often describing the scenery as “stunning” and “breathtaking.” Many also appreciated the local insights provided during the stops, which enriched their understanding of Swiss culture and history.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who value scenic travel, enjoy guided cultural insights, and are okay with a packed schedule. It’s ideal for travelers eager to combine a luxurious train journey with historic exploration in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.

If you’re after a stress-free way to see the Swiss Alps and Lucerne’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and a touch of luxury, this tour delivers well on all fronts. It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors who want to maximize their day or return travelers eager to revisit Swiss charm from a new perspective.

For those traveling with limited time but wanting a rundown of central Switzerland’s natural wonders and cultural gems, this tour offers a memorable, well-curated experience.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours from start to finish, including all train rides, sightseeing, and free time in Lucerne.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all train travel is covered, including the standard rail pass and seat reservations on the Glacier Express.

What meals are provided?
A hot gourmet meal is served onboard the Glacier Express, with a drink included. Lunch during free time in Lucerne is not included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally accessible and suitable for most travelers, including those in wheelchairs. However, the full schedule might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for verification, and dress comfortably, layering for the mountain weather.

This tour offers a genuine chance to combine Switzerland’s most iconic train journey with cultural highlights in a manageable, guided format. If panoramic views, historic towns, and Swiss hospitality appeal to you, it’s a highly recommended way to spend a day in this stunning country.

You can check if your dates are available here: