Rick Steves Says These Three Swiss Train Rides Are The Most Scenic In All Of Europe

Switzerland is one of Europe's most stunningly beautiful countries, and according to travel guide author and TV host Rick Steves, it's also home to the best scenic train rides on the continent. If you're looking for the perfect way to experience the nation's natural beauty, small towns, and elegant cities then you should definitely consider booking a ticket on one of Rick Steves' favorite trains.

As a young teenager, Rick Steves traveled to Europe for the first time with his family and fell in love with traveling. He enjoyed visiting Europe so much that it shaped his entire career. He's published multiple bestselling guidebooks, hosted a popular travel-themed television program, and hosted group tours all over Europe that attract thousands of tourists each year. Currently, he spends several months out of each year in Europe. After a lifetime of exploring Europe's most incredible destinations, it's safe to say he's learned a thing or two about what's worth experiencing. He's probably taken hundreds of train rides, so the fact that he considers Switzerland's scenic trains the best means they're truly something special.

"Europe's most scenic train rides are Switzerland's top three: the Golden Pass, Bernina Express, and Glacier Express," he wrote in an article posted on his website that outlined best and worst places to visit in Europe. Train rides are a wonderful and accessible way to see some of the most beautiful scenery. In Switzerland, you can see remote snow peaked mountains high in the Alps that would otherwise be impossible to reach. If you're looking to explore Switzerland as glamorously as possible, these trains are an excellent choice.

The Golden Pass train route runs diagonally through Switzerland from Lucerne to Montreux on Lake Geneva. Out of the three fantastic scenic trains recommended by Steves, the Golden Pass route is his favorite. "While most train rides in Switzerland are photogenic, four are aggressively marketed as the most spectacular. Of those rail journeys, my pick is the Golden Pass," he wrote on his website. He recommends purchasing a VIP ticket for the best views, or choosing a seat in one of the panoramic train cars with massive windows. The entire journey takes about five hours and has a couple of transfers.

Steves was particularly impressed with the portion of the route that runs between Zweisimmen and Montreux where he enjoyed views of the "pristine alpine scenery" during the two hour ride. "Leaving Zweisimmen, the train rolls through varied landscapes, starting in the German-speaking region before entering French Switzerland. With the change of language comes a change in culture and architecture. French-style stone houses start to replace half-timbered, woodsy, German-style chalets," he wrote.

Along the way you'll pass through the Jaman Tunnel which stretches for two miles. On one side of the tunnel, the views out of the window reminded Steves of the feudal Middle Ages, and on the other end he felt as though he was experiencing the belle époque era. The route ends in Montreux, which has a more Mediterranean climate. Montreux is perched on the shores of Lake Geneva and is home to Switzerland's oldest castle. It's well worth spending a few days there exploring the lakeside cities. One of the best ways to enjoy Lake Geneva is by taking a ride on a vintage boat.

The Bernina Express passes through some of Switzerland's most rugged and wild landscapes. A portion of the route from Switzerland to Italy travels along the Bernina Pass, which is one of Europe's best scenic drives. If you ride the Bernina Express from start to finish you'll travel between Tirano, Italy and Chur, Switzerland. Along the way it passes through the shimmering resort town of St. Moritz, an ideal place for a picture-perfect ski vacation.  

Construction on the Bernina Express train track began in 1908. The rugged Alps were an extremely difficult place to build, which makes the train track even more impressive. Along the way you'll pass through 55 tunnels and cross 196 bridges. It is the highest railroad track in Europe, reaching a height of 7,392 feet. It's also the steepest track in the world.

One of the major highlights along the route is the Rhaetian Railway section, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The entire ride only takes about four hours, but the gorgeous views will stay with you for years to come. 

Even the name of this train seems like it was taken right out of a fairytale. The Glacier Express has been in operation since the 1930s and it traverses 181 miles of gorgeous Swiss scenery. It runs between Zermitt and St. Moritz, which is a popular destination for winter sports. Along the way you'll get to explore the best of Switzerland.

The Glacier Express crosses over 291 bridges, and passes through 91 tunnels. It climbs to a heart pumping height, so get ready for your ears to pop as the altitude changes. Peak elevation occurs at the Oberalp Pass where the train route climbs to over 6,500 feet. One of the most scenic sections runs between Preda and Bergün. There are multiple viaducts and tunnels that are impressive feats of engineering and the train passes through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.The Rhine Gorge crossing is another highlight. The massive gorge has been compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States.

You'll also pass through some adorable small towns surrounded by mountains and meadows and get to view some traditional Swiss architecture. For the most epic views, book your ticket in Excellence Class. You'll be served champagne, appetizers, and a five course meal with wine. If you're in first or second class you can optionally purchase a three course meal, snacks, and beverages.

If you want to experience the best of Switzerland, scenic trains are the way to go. It's easy enough to experience all three during a two-week trip if you enjoy traveling by train. "Rick Steves Switzerland" is an excellent guidebook with examples of potential itineraries to help you plan your dream trip. 

Steves recommends purchasing a rail pass during your Swiss travels. They're often more affordable than paying for separate tickets for each individual train trip. "Passes cover nearly all Swiss trains. Even specially designated scenic routes are covered, including the entire route of the Glacier Express," he advised on his website.

The Swiss Travel Pass is one of his favorite options because it allows you to travel on buses, trains, and boats. Some lift tickets are included, and you'll receive a 50% discount on others. In addition to transportation you'll also be granted free admission to more than 500 museums around the country. Prices start at around $320 per person for a three day pass and go up to about $940 for a 15-day first class experience.