GoldenPass Express: 4 days to discover Switzerland on a luxury panoramic train

Written by Sophie Renassia

Published yesterday

Photo: ©Zentralbahn, 2024, photographer: Kim Sokola

Traveling through Switzerland while admiring its breathtaking landscapes from panoramic windows that stretch to the ceiling—tempted? That’s exactly what the GoldenPass Express Classic turnkey tour offers: the elegance of Swiss rail combined with the magic of alpine scenery. In 4 days and 3 nights, this tour lets you explore the Bernese Alps, the alpine pastures of Gstaad, and the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, before arriving in style on the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva.

If you're looking for an alternative to driving—without worrying about traffic, logistics, or your carbon footprint (taking the train significantly lowers your environmental impact compared to a car or plane)—this tour is for you. A calmer, more conscious, more connected way to travel—without compromising on comfort. In short: Swiss-style slow travel.

The GoldenPass Express: From Montreux to Lucerne via Interlaken

What’s the itinerary and how long does the tour last?

From Lake Geneva to the Bernese Oberland, through Central Switzerland and over the Brünig Pass, the GoldenPass Express Classic connects three of Switzerland’s most beautiful regions. A spectacular route aboard the GoldenPass Express and the Luzern–Interlaken Express, filled with postcard scenery and stops in traditional mountain villages.

The trip lasts 4 days, and breaks down as follows:

• Day 1: Arrival in Montreux
• Day 2: Journey aboard the GoldenPass Express
• Day 3: Travel on the Luzern–Interlaken Express
• Day 4: Return from Lucerne

Tour details - © switzerlandtravelcentre.com

How Much Does the GoldenPass Express Classic Cost?

The full trip costs around €650 in 2nd class. The GoldenPass Express Classic tour includes:

• Travel aboard the GoldenPass Express (reservations included)
• 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast in Interlaken and Montreux

Best Time to Travel?

This tour runs year-round, from January to December. Note: the line is very popular, especially in high season (July–September). Book early to get the best seat!

Each season offers its own charm:

• Winter: fairy-tale snowy landscapes typical of the Alps
• Autumn: golden Lavaux vineyards and vibrant forest colors
• Summer: perfect for combining this tour with other panoramic trains (Glacier Express, Bernina Express…)

Swiss Comfort: Where Luxury Meets Panoramic Views

What can you expect? The GoldenPass Express is a next-generation train combining modern design with Belle Époque spirit. More than a panoramic train, it's an affordable luxury experience, featuring swivel seats, at-seat service, and even a Prestige Class for travelers seeking extra elegance. On board, you’ll find:

• Panoramic windows for optimal scenic views
• Comfortable swivel seats by the window (in 1st class)
• A Prestige car with even higher-end service
• Meal and drink trays served at your seat (must be reserved in advance)
• A calm, air-conditioned space designed for train lovers (and photography fans!)

It’s a bit like a luxury train carriage—without the sky-high price tag, and always with that famous Swiss precision.

2nd class on board the GoldenPass Express - © Swiss Travel System, 2022 - Dominik Baur

As for the Luzern–Interlaken Express (taken on Day 3), it too immerses you in alpine views, lakes, and valleys, with large panoramic windows and skylights. Some trains even feature a central dining car—perfect for a snack or drink.

Dining car of the Luzern–Interlaken Express – © Zentralbahn, 2024, photographer: Kim Sokola

The Itinerary in Detail: From Montreux to Interlaken in 4 Days / 3 Nights

Day 1: Arrival in Montreux

Your journey begins in Montreux, a Belle Époque-style resort town in the canton of Vaud. Once there, take time to explore: visit Chillon Castle, pose by the Freddie Mercury statue, or stroll along the magnificent Lake Geneva. Overnight stay in Montreux.

Day 2: Montreux – Interlaken (GoldenPass Express)

3h15 of breathtaking scenery: the panoramic train glides through golden vineyards, dense forests, and narrow valleys… and crosses several spiral tunnels. You’ll arrive in Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, at the foot of the Bernese Alps. Take time to explore this nature- and adventure-lovers' paradise before spending the night there.

©MOB-GoldenPass, 2023, photographer: JoBersier

Day 3: Interlaken – Lucerne (Luzern–Interlaken Express)

Spend 2 hours aboard the Luzern–Interlaken Express, heading to Lucerne via the Brünig Pass. Once there, enjoy the charm of the city—medieval flair, a shimmering lake, and majestic mountains—before your overnight stay.

©Zentralbahn, 2024 - Kim Sokola

In Lucerne, there's something for everyone:

• History buffs: Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the Musegg Wall, and the old town
• Culture lovers: Lucerne Art Museum, Wagner Museum
• Nature lovers: Mount Pilatus (via cable car) and Mount Rigi (the “Queen of Mountains”)
• Romantics and wanderers: lakeside walks among swans and mountain views

Day 4: Return from Lucerne

On the fourth day, you can return home via public transport—or extend your Swiss adventure (destinations like Zermatt or Lausanne are easily accessible by train).

Bonus: Get 5% Off with the Code AFFHOURRAIL

Use the promo code AFFHOURRAIL on the booking site below to get -5% off:

This article was written in partnership with Switzerland Travel Centre. To dream (and book), head to their official website: switzerlandtravelcentre.com!