Board in Basel and spend a day on the Glacier Express between Chur and Brig, passing Oberalp Pass, the Ruinaulta gorge and Valais terraces. This private tour pairs panoramic rail travel with a guided on-board experience and a seated three-course lunch.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You meet at Basel SBB beneath the clocked departure hall, the guide a steady presence among rolling suitcases and morning commuters. A two-hour run on the intercity brings you to Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, where the Glacier Express takes over — a long, glass-paneled carriage that frames valleys, passes, and gorges like moving photographs.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; you should be comfortable boarding trains and walking short distances at stops.
Wildlife
History
Chur is one of Switzerland’s oldest settlements and serves as the administrative center of Graubünden; the train route traces historic trade and mountain-passage corridors linking cantons.
Conservation
Swiss rail travel is promoted as a low-carbon way to see the Alps; visitors should follow station rules, stay on marked paths during stops and avoid feeding wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Express Panoramic Train Round Trip in one Day Private Tour from Basel today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Window seat matters
Request a window-side seat when you book — the panoramic views are best from the outer-facing seats and lightning-fast photo opportunities can be missed otherwise.
Pack light for short stops
Luggage space is limited and stops are brief; keep essentials in a daypack for quick disembarkation at Chur and Brig.
Prep for motion sensitivity
The route has many sweeping curves; bring travel medication or acupressure bands if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Carry ID and small cash
National ID or passport is required for train travel and helpful at mountain kiosks; some small vendors accept only cash.
Passport/ID
Needed for train travel and any cross-canton checks; always bring official ID.
Layered jacket
Temperature swings on high passes demand windproof and insulating layers.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Long panoramic views and quick pull-offs mean you’ll want reliable photo gear.
Comfortable walking shoes
Useful for short station walks and viewpoints during stops in Chur and Brig.