GoldenPass Express Tickets

4.4(482 ratings)
Breathtaking Alpine Views
Breathtaking Alpine Views
Iconic Swiss Routes
Iconic Swiss Routes
Expertly Curated Choices
Expertly Curated Choices
























GoldenPass Express train at station platform in Interlaken, Switzerland.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush Swiss countryside.
Passengers enjoying panoramic views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush green hills with Interlaken mountains in the background.
Passengers enjoying views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through scenic Swiss countryside near Interlaken at sunset.
Scenic view of the GoldenPass Express train passing through a Swiss village near Interlaken and Gstaad.
GoldenPass Express train at station platform in Interlaken, Switzerland.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush Swiss countryside.
Passengers enjoying panoramic views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush green hills with Interlaken mountains in the background.
Passengers enjoying views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through scenic Swiss countryside near Interlaken at sunset.
Scenic view of the GoldenPass Express train passing through a Swiss village near Interlaken and Gstaad.
GoldenPass Express train at station platform in Interlaken, Switzerland.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush Swiss countryside.
Passengers enjoying panoramic views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through lush green hills with Interlaken mountains in the background.
Passengers enjoying views on the GoldenPass Express train from Montreux to Interlaken.
GoldenPass Express train traveling through scenic Swiss countryside near Interlaken at sunset.
Scenic view of the GoldenPass Express train passing through a Swiss village near Interlaken and Gstaad.
NEW

GoldenPass Express: One-Way Tickets to/from Interlaken OST & Montreux

from
CHF 58.73
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

3 hr 15 min
Itinerary
Timeline
Map
START POINT

Starting point details will be shared along with your tickets

1

Montreux

1 attractions

Nearby things to do

passby-image

Lavaux

21 minutes walk

2

Gstaad

1 attractions

Nearby things to do

passby-image

Montbovon

32 minutes walk

3

Zweisimmen

1 attractions

Nearby things to do

passby-image

Château-d’Oex

27 minutes walk

4

Interlaken

1 attractions

Nearby things to do

Jungfraujoch

Ride past idyllic valleys & mountain peaks on this direct ride between Montreux and Interlaken.

  • Everything you get: Marvel at the picturesque views of the Swiss countryside on this panoramic train ride to/from Montreux and Interlaken OST. Relax in wider first-class seats or ride in the cozy comfort of second-class seats as you speed past lush vineyards, snow-capped peaks & more.
  • Why choose this: Hop on the GoldenPass Express and skip dull transfers when traveling between Interlaken and Montreux while indulging in locally sourced food packages.

Ride past idyllic valleys & mountain peaks on this direct ride between Montreux and Interlaken.

  • Everything you get: Marvel at the picturesque views of the Swiss countryside on this panoramic train ride to/from Montreux and Interlaken OST. Relax in wider first-class seats or ride in the cozy comfort of second-class seats as you speed past lush vineyards, snow-capped peaks & more.
  • Why choose this: Hop on the GoldenPass Express and skip dull transfers when traveling between Interlaken and Montreux while indulging in locally sourced food packages.

Inclusions

  • Direct train to/from Montreux & Interlaken OST
  • 1st or 2nd class seats (based on option selected)
  • Panoramic windows
  • Onboard catering service
  • Luggage compartments & ski racks

Between Montreux and Interlaken

  • Duration: 3 hr 15 mins
  • Frequency: 4 times a day. Check the full schedule here
  • Stops: Montreux, Montbovon, Château-d’Oex, Gstaad, Schönried, Saanenmöser, Zweisimmen, Boltigen, Erlenbach, Oey-Diemtigen, Wimmis, Spiez, Interlaken West, Interlaken Ost
  • The trains are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your pets are welcome onboard.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Train traveling through Swiss Alps near a turquoise lake with mountains in the background.
Train traveling through snowy Swiss Alps landscape with Swiss Travel Pass.
Passengers enjoying a meal and wine on a scenic Swiss train journey.
Jungfraujoch observatory on snowy peak, accessible with Swiss Travel Pass.
Couple admiring a large snow globe display at a museum in Jungfraujoch, Switzerland.
Visitors on Stanserhorn viewing platform overlooking snowy Swiss Alps.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Bernina Express on Brusio Circular Viaduct with mountain backdrop.
Passengers enjoying scenic view from panoramic train window in Swiss countryside.
Red cogwheel train ascending Mount Pilatus in Lucerne, part of the Swiss Travel System.
Train traveling through Swiss Alps near a turquoise lake with mountains in the background.
Train traveling through snowy Swiss Alps landscape with Swiss Travel Pass.
Passengers enjoying a meal and wine on a scenic Swiss train journey.
Jungfraujoch observatory on snowy peak, accessible with Swiss Travel Pass.
Couple admiring a large snow globe display at a museum in Jungfraujoch, Switzerland.
Visitors on Stanserhorn viewing platform overlooking snowy Swiss Alps.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Bernina Express on Brusio Circular Viaduct with mountain backdrop.
Passengers enjoying scenic view from panoramic train window in Swiss countryside.
Red cogwheel train ascending Mount Pilatus in Lucerne, part of the Swiss Travel System.
Train traveling through Swiss Alps near a turquoise lake with mountains in the background.
Train traveling through snowy Swiss Alps landscape with Swiss Travel Pass.
Passengers enjoying a meal and wine on a scenic Swiss train journey.
Jungfraujoch observatory on snowy peak, accessible with Swiss Travel Pass.
Couple admiring a large snow globe display at a museum in Jungfraujoch, Switzerland.
Visitors on Stanserhorn viewing platform overlooking snowy Swiss Alps.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Bernina Express on Brusio Circular Viaduct with mountain backdrop.
Passengers enjoying scenic view from panoramic train window in Swiss countryside.
Red cogwheel train ascending Mount Pilatus in Lucerne, part of the Swiss Travel System.
4.5(276)

Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat

from
CHF 248.88
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Transfers included

4.5/5

(276)

Deborah Preston

Deborah

Aug 2025
Verified booking
What a AWESOME one fit pass - it made travelling in Switzerland affordable and allowed us to enjoy all of the boats/ferrys/cable cars/vaniculars/trams and incredible train routes........Switzland is an incredible country full of great transport options and this pass gave us the ability to use all of these. Even the bernina express tickets were included. You can't go wrong with this pass.
Scott A Wilson

Scott

Mar 2025
Verified booking
Considering train travel is not common for us in the US, everything was well marked, and the ability to flash our QR code was VERY convenient!Not sure if we will travel enough throughout Switzerland to have the math work, but the conscience is overwhelming! Eager to hit some museums on the pass as well.
Megha Mini Reghunathan

Megha

Aug 2025
Verified booking
Through the window, the Swiss landscape was a treat for the eyes and heart. The view shifted from snow-capped peaks to lakes. Along the way, the wooden house in the greenish landscape was a pictoriq view.

Enjoy discounted mountain excursions, free museum visits, and unlimited travel on panoramic and local transport.

  • What you get: This pass gives you unlimited travel on the Swiss rail network for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days. You’ll get discounts on mountain trips to Jungfraujoch, Gornergrat and more, free entry to 500 museums, and free rides on scenic trains like the Glacier and Bernina Express.
  • Why choose this: It’s the easiest way to experience more of Switzerland in less time, combining flexibility, convenience, and value. With seamless access to transportation and attractions, you can make the most of every day of your Swiss journey.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to 1st class for quiet luxury, extra space, and stunning views, or go with 2nd class for cozy comfort and big windows perfect for enjoying Switzerland’s scenic landscapes.

Enjoy discounted mountain excursions, free museum visits, and unlimited travel on panoramic and local transport.

  • What you get: This pass gives you unlimited travel on the Swiss rail network for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days. You’ll get discounts on mountain trips to Jungfraujoch, Gornergrat and more, free entry to 500 museums, and free rides on scenic trains like the Glacier and Bernina Express.
  • Why choose this: It’s the easiest way to experience more of Switzerland in less time, combining flexibility, convenience, and value. With seamless access to transportation and attractions, you can make the most of every day of your Swiss journey.
  • Upgrades: Upgrade to 1st class for quiet luxury, extra space, and stunning views, or go with 2nd class for cozy comfort and big windows perfect for enjoying Switzerland’s scenic landscapes.

Inclusions

  • Pass valid for 3/4/6/8/15 consecutive days
  • Unlimited access to trains, boats & buses across Switzerland
  • 1st or 2nd class seats (based on the option selected)
  • Premium panoramic trains: Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Golden Pass MOB, Gotthard Panorama Express & Luzern Interlaken Express
  • Mountain excursions: Mount Rigi, Monte Generoso & more
  • Cruises: Lake Lucerne and Zurich, Lakes Thun and Brienz, Lake Geneva & more
  • Discounts: 50% off on Pilatus, Titlis, Glacier 3000, 25% off on Jungfraujoch & more
  • Access to intra-city public transportation
  • Access to 500+ museums
  • See all inclusions here

Exclusions

  • Seat reservation on Bernina and Glacier Express
  • This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
  • Children aged 15 years and under travel free when accompanied by a parent.
  • Seat reservation is mandatory for panoramic trains. Please follow the reservation instructions in the ticket you receive post-booking.
  • Staff is available for guests requiring disability assistance.
  • After booking your pass, you will receive a PDF in the confirmation email.
  • Download the ticket and show either the printed version or use the digital ticket containing the QR code to the conductor to board the trains.
  • Your pass will be activated on the day selected during booking.
  • Your pass is valid for the consecutive number of days chosen. For instance, if you picked the 3-day pass, your pass is valid for 3 consecutive days. It ends at 5am on the day following the last day.
  • Access the handy Swiss map here and begin your travel adventure!
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.5
276 ratings
144
126
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  • United States
  • India
  • United Kingdom
  • Brazil
  • Portugal
  • France
  • Germany
  • Chile
  • Ireland
  • United Arab Emirates
Guests from United States, India, United Kingdom and over 27 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
reviewer
Deborah
Aug 2025Verified booking
5/5

What a AWESOME one fit pass - it made travelling in Switzerland affordable and allowed us to enjoy all of the boats/ferrys/cable cars/vaniculars/trams and incredible train routes........Switzland is an incredible country full of great transport options and this pass gave us the ability to use all of these. Even the bernina express tickets were included. You can't go wrong with this pass.

reviewer
Megha
Aug 2025Verified booking
5/5

Through the window, the Swiss landscape was a treat for the eyes and heart. The view shifted from snow-capped peaks to lakes. Along the way, the wooden house in the greenish landscape was a pictoriq view.

reviewer
Anet
Jul 2025Verified booking
5/5

Very easy to use , definitely recommend every one.

reviewer
ANGSHUMAN
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

Very easy to use. Single purchase and travel stress free during the valid days.

reviewer
JOAO
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

The ease and transparency of purchase and use... Very good. I recommend it...

View original review in Portuguese

reviewer
Ragnar
Aug 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Michel
Jul 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Victor
Jul 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Grazyna
Jul 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Harshit
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
RAHUL
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Thomas
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Divya
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Ingrid
May 2025Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Mariana
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Lombard
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
GUILLERMO
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
SHUBHI
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Rene
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

One Tiket for everything, bus train boat

View original review in German

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reviewer
Scott
Mar 2025Verified booking
5/5

Considering train travel is not common for us in the US, everything was well marked, and the ability to flash our QR code was VERY convenient!Not sure if we will travel enough throughout Switzerland to have the math work, but the conscience is overwhelming! Eager to hit some museums on the pass as well.

reviewer
Pranay
Mar 2025Verified booking
5/5

On time and seamless experience At times the trains were crowded on Friday in particular

reviewer
LUISA
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Ramesh
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Charles
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
John
May 2025Verified booking
4/5

Train traveling through snowy Swiss landscape with Swiss Travel Pass logo.
Passenger taking photos on Glacier Express train with Swiss Alps view.
Jungfraubahn train at station with snow-covered mountains in Berner Oberland, Switzerland.
Glacier Express crossing the Landwasser Viaduct in Graubünden, surrounded by forested mountains.
Cable car ascending in the Swiss Alps with views of snow-capped peaks and a village below, Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Travelers in a cable car with views of the Swiss Alps, using Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Sphinx Observatory perched on snowy peak at Jungfraujoch, surrounded by Swiss Alps.
Schilthorn summit with Piz Gloria restaurant and Swiss Alps, accessible via Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Train and boat on Lake Lucerne with Swiss Alps in the background.
Train traveling through snowy Swiss landscape with Swiss Travel Pass logo.
Passenger taking photos on Glacier Express train with Swiss Alps view.
Jungfraubahn train at station with snow-covered mountains in Berner Oberland, Switzerland.
Glacier Express crossing the Landwasser Viaduct in Graubünden, surrounded by forested mountains.
Cable car ascending in the Swiss Alps with views of snow-capped peaks and a village below, Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Travelers in a cable car with views of the Swiss Alps, using Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Sphinx Observatory perched on snowy peak at Jungfraujoch, surrounded by Swiss Alps.
Schilthorn summit with Piz Gloria restaurant and Swiss Alps, accessible via Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Train and boat on Lake Lucerne with Swiss Alps in the background.
Train traveling through snowy Swiss landscape with Swiss Travel Pass logo.
Passenger taking photos on Glacier Express train with Swiss Alps view.
Jungfraubahn train at station with snow-covered mountains in Berner Oberland, Switzerland.
Glacier Express crossing the Landwasser Viaduct in Graubünden, surrounded by forested mountains.
Cable car ascending in the Swiss Alps with views of snow-capped peaks and a village below, Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Travelers in a cable car with views of the Swiss Alps, using Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Steamboat on Lake Brienz with Swiss flag, surrounded by mountains in Berner Oberland.
Sphinx Observatory perched on snowy peak at Jungfraujoch, surrounded by Swiss Alps.
Schilthorn summit with Piz Gloria restaurant and Swiss Alps, accessible via Swiss Travel Pass Flex.
Train and boat on Lake Lucerne with Swiss Alps in the background.
4.3(206)

Swiss Travel Flexi Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat

from
CHF 279
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Transfers included

Plan your perfect mix of travel & rest days with this pass valid for any 3-15 days within 1 month.

  • Create a flexible itinerary with the Swiss Travel Flex Pass and enjoy the freedom to explore Switzerland without a rigid daily schedule.
  • Choose to travel on any 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days over a month with this must-have pass, perfect for adventurers seeking flexibility and spontaneity.
  • See the best with one pass: get access to scenic train routes, public transit, museums, mountain excursions, and discounts for an unforgettable journey.
  • Experience spacious, quieter rides with 1st class or embrace the vibrant atmosphere of 2nd class, both offering unforgettable Swiss train journeys.

Plan your perfect mix of travel & rest days with this pass valid for any 3-15 days within 1 month.

  • Create a flexible itinerary with the Swiss Travel Flex Pass and enjoy the freedom to explore Switzerland without a rigid daily schedule.
  • Choose to travel on any 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days over a month with this must-have pass, perfect for adventurers seeking flexibility and spontaneity.
  • See the best with one pass: get access to scenic train routes, public transit, museums, mountain excursions, and discounts for an unforgettable journey.
  • Experience spacious, quieter rides with 1st class or embrace the vibrant atmosphere of 2nd class, both offering unforgettable Swiss train journeys.

Inclusions

  • Pass valid for any 3/4/6/8/15 days
  • Valid for 1 month after activation
  • Unlimited access to trains, boats & buses across Switzerland
  • 1st or 2nd class seats (based on the option selected)
  • Premium panoramic trains: Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Golden Pass MOB, Gotthard Panorama Express & Luzern Interlaken Express
  • Mountain excursions: Mount Rigi, Monte Generoso & more
  • Cruises: Lake Lucerne and Zurich, Lakes Thun and Brienz, Lake Geneva & more
  • Discounts: 50% off on Pilatus, Titlis, Glacier 3000, 25% off on Jungfraujoch & more
  • Access to intra-city public transportation
  • Access to 500+ museums
  • See all inclusions here

Exclusions

  • Seat reservation on Bernina and Glacier Express
  • This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
  • Children under 16 travel free when accompanied by a parent.
  • Seat reservation is mandatory for panoramic trains. Please follow the reservation instructions in the ticket post-booking.
  • Staff is available for guests requiring disability assistance.
  • To activate your Swiss Travel Flex Pass, simply head to www.activateyourpass.com, enter your reference number, and fill in the required details to get started.
  • Follow the step-by-step activation instructions provided in the ticket that you receive post-booking.
  • If you picked the 3-day pass, your pass is valid for any 3 days and can be used within one month from the first date of use.
  • Download the ticket and show either the printed version or the digital ticket to board the trains.
  • Access the handy Swiss map here and begin your travel adventure!
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.3
206 ratings
67
133
2
0
4
What our guests say
reviewer
Betty
Jul 2025Verified booking
4/5

The opportunity to use it on boats, cable cars and metro travel was a real.plus

review media 0
review media 1
reviewer
Thomas
Jul 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Jennifer
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Nowak
Jun 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Verónica
May 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Philip
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Martha
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Mukka
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Jasprit
Mar 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
William
Apr 2025Verified booking
1/5

I could not sync with my SBB account. Which is what I thought this was. I never used it and asked for a refund

reviewer
Miriam
Apr 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Long
Jan 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Carmen
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Brian
Oct 2024Verified booking
5/5

This pass was such a great investment! I would recommend it to anyone who likes to make spontaneous plans. It is a little pricier than the continuous pass, but it is worth the money. The only thing you should remember is that seat reservations for panoramic trains cost extra.

reviewer
Henri
Oct 2024Verified booking
5/5

Like the name says, this pass really was super flexible and fit my loose itinerary perfectly! I could pick my travel days as and when I was up to travel and I never felt the pressure to travel fast. It was awesome to have unlimited access to trains and buses on the days I needed too.

reviewer
Mia
Sep 2024Verified booking
5/5

I was nervous before purchasing it, but it is totally worth the buy. It was a relief to not plan everything about my trip in advance. And it worked out very well for me because I wanted to spend some extra time in Interlaken. The flexibility was perfect for my sometimes spontaneous style.

reviewer
Dorothy
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Nyah
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Daniela
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Mr.
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Mrs.
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Tyrese
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Linda
Jul 2024Verified booking
3/5

Easy with the app.

reviewer
Melyna
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Zoila
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

What is the GoldenPass Express?

The GoldenPass Express is a panoramic train that runs between Montreux and Interlaken. The journey lasts 3 hours and 15 minutes, during which you can kick back in your seat and soak up spectacular views of the Swiss countryside.

Connecting the shores of Lake Geneva to the alpine valleys surrounding Interlaken, the GoldenPass Express cuts through three prominent Swiss cantons: Vaud, Bern, and Freiburg. So, keep your eyes peeled for the palm fronds of Montreux, the picturesque hamlets dotting Gstaad, and the weeping glaciers of the Bernese Oberland.

Golden Pass Map

A quick overview of the GoldenPass Express

Golden Pass train traveling through Swiss Alps with scenic mountain and lake views.
  • Distance: 115.34 km (71.6 miles)
  • Duration: 3 hr 15 min
  • Frequency: 4 trains per day
  • No. of stops: 14
  • Popular sights: The chalets of Gstaad, the vineyards of Lavaux, the hot air balloons of Château-d’Oex, and and more.

The GoldenPass Express: Origins, evolution & groundbreaking engineering

  • The GoldenPass Express has been in the works for over a century, dating back to 1873 when the idea to link Lake Geneva, Gstaad, and the lakes of Thun and Brienz was first proposed.
  • In the early 20th century, two train tracks were built with different gauges. So, trains from Montreux to Zweisimmen run on a metric track (1m), and trains heading to Interlaken from Zweisimmen run on a standard track (1.435m).
  • As a result of the tracks’ differing gauges, passengers would have to switch trains at Zweisimmen, which was not only a big hassle for locals but also for tourists hoping to get a direct connection between two prominent districts of Switzerland.
  • However, with the GoldenPass Express, passengers no longer have to switch trains in the middle of their journey. This high-tech luxury train directly connects Montreux and Interlaken, thanks to the revolutionary variable gauge bogie technology.
  • This groundbreaking feat of railway engineering, developed after 15 years of research, facilitates seamless transitions between metric and standard gauges within seconds. The carriages also rise from 35 cm on the metric track to 55 cm on the standard track. So the train can jump tracks and rise while still moving, and the passengers onboard would barely feel a thing.

Choose 1st or 2nd class seats

Both first and second-class carriages on the GoldenPass Express are air-conditioned and have comfortable seats with wide panoramic windows that reach the ceiling. While the train does not have a dining car, it offers food packages you can order in advance to be served during your ride.

If you’re unsure about which seats to choose, consider some of these differences before booking your tickets.

First Class on Golden Pass train with panoramic views of Swiss Alps.

First-class seats

First-class carriages have wider legroom for passengers to stretch their legs. There is also extra aisle space for you to move around the carriage during their three-hour journey. With only three seats in a row (two on one side of the aisle and one on the other side), first-class seats are ideal for you if you’re looking for a luxurious experience coupled with a quiet atmosphere. However, note that there are only 48 first-class seats. So, book them as early as you can before the train fills up.

second class seats on the Golden Pass train, Switzerland.

Second-class seats

With four seats in a row (two on either side of the aisle), second-class carriages are more compact and have less space to move around compared to first-class. However, there is a more vibrant and communal atmosphere in second-class, where the carriages are arranged in groups of four, with two seats facing each other, separated by a table in the center. Depending on the train, you can expect 118 to 172 seats in second-class carriages, so you have a wider range of seats to choose from. If you’re looking for an affordable panoramic train experience with standard comfort and a dynamic atmosphere, second-class seats are the way to go.

Seat reservation for the GoldenPass Express

  • While seat reservations aren’t mandatory for the GoldenPass Express, it is recommended that you purchase one, especially during the peak season (between late May and October).
  • The reservation fee is CHF 20 for both first and second class passengers. We recommend reserving your seat as early as possible, preferably three to six months in advance.
  • Children under six years old can travel for free on the GoldenPass Express, provided they don’t need a separate seat. If they need their own seat, you have to pay the full seat reservation charge for that seat.

GoldenPass Express with rail passes

Golden Pass Express train traveling through scenic Swiss Alps landscape.

If you’re exploring Switzerland with any of the following rail passes, you can travel on the GoldenPass Express for free or at a discounted rate.*

  • Swiss Travel Pass: Traveling with a continuous or flexible Swiss Travel Pass? You can ride the GoldenPass Express for free as the pass gives you unlimited access to Switzerland’s public transport network, which includes panoramic trains.
  • Eurail Pass: Non-European residents with a Eurail Pass have free access to the rail networks in 33 European countries. So, if you have a valid Eurail Pass, you don’t have to pay for your GoldenPass Express tickets. 
  • Interrail Switzerland Pass: Enjoy a free ride on the GoldenPass Express with the Interrail Switzerland Pass, which grants European residents free and unlimited access to Switzerland’s national rail network.
  • Swiss Half-Fare Card: The Swiss Half-Fare Card offers 50% discounted access to the Swiss Public Transportation network. So when you book your tickets for the GoldenPass Express, you only have to pay half the price.

*Seat reservations for panoramic trains, including the GoldenPass Express, are exempt from any rail pass-related discounts and must be purchased separately.

Tips to make the most of your scenic journey

  • If you’re a spontaneous traveler who makes last-minute plans or a budget traveler, ride the GoldenPass Express during the off-peak months, between November and April, so you don’t have to reserve a seat.
  • While there are luggage racks at the end of each carriage, they cannot accommodate large suitcases. So, travel light. Carry a backpack with only essentials – phone, wallet, keys, water, snacks, regular medication, etc.
  • For the best views, take a seat on the right side of the train when traveling from Montreux to Interlaken, and on the left side when heading the other way.
  • Ride the GoldenPass Express between late May to August to see the meadows and valleys in full bloom.
  • Order food packages in advance and sample a range of local products, from local cheeses to Valais and Lavaux wines. Order a Breakfast Box if you’re traveling in the morning, and an Apero-Plate Package for afternoon travel.
  • Don’t want to pay extra for the food packages? Don’t worry! You can also carry your own snacks and drinks along for the ride.
  • If you want to see snow-capped mountains, the best time to travel is between mid-December and February. However, there’s no guarantee that you will see snowy landscapes, as most of the ride is at lower altitudes where snow melts quickly, even during winter.

Frequently asked questions about the GoldenPass Express

Can I get off the GoldenPass Express and explore towns along the route?

If you have a seat reservation, you cannot disembark from the train and will have to finish your journey on the same day. Travelers without a seat reservation, however, are free to get off and explore any small towns and alpine villages that catch their eye. You can always catch a later train to continue the rest of your journey.

Where can I find the current timetable for the GoldenPass Express?

Refer here for the updated timings and schedule of the GoldenPass Express.

Is seat reservation mandatory for the GoldenPass Express?

No, it isn’t. You can travel on the GoldenPass Express without a seat reservation. However, if you’re traveling during peak season (May to October), we recommend purchasing one in advance as seats can sell out pretty quickly.

Is the GoldenPass Express suitable for families with young children?

Yes, it is! The picturesque scenery outside their windows is sure to keep your little ones entertained. Children under six can also ride on the GoldenPass Express for free, provided they don’t require their own seats.

How accessible is the GoldenPass Express for travelers with mobility issues?

The GoldenPass Express trains are designed with accessibility in mind. Most carriages have step-free access and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs. However, it's best to contact the railway operator in advance to ensure they can accommodate your specific needs and arrange for any necessary assistance.

Does the GoldenPass Express offer Wi-Fi?

No, there is no Wi-Fi available aboard the GoldenPass Express. However, there will be plenty of astonishing sights demanding your attention and awe that you will barely even think of going on the internet. Spend these three hours reconnecting and immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the Swiss countryside.

What should I bring with me on my GoldenPass journey?

To make the most of your Golden Pass adventure, pack a fully charged camera or smartphone (don't forget a power bank!). Wear sunglasses to combat the glare from snow-capped peaks or glistening lakes. A light jacket or sweater can come in handy, as temperatures can vary in the mountains. Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and some snacks, if you haven’t reserved food packages in advance. And, of course, your valid ticket and any necessary travel documents! Carry a book or download a podcast to keep you company as you pass through long tunnels!

Can I bring my bike on the GoldenPass Express?

No bikes are allowed on the GoldenPass Express. However, some of the non-Express regional trains might allow you to travel with your bike. We recommend checking the SBB website for such details.

Can I cancel or modify my ticket after booking?

Yes, you can cancel your tickets 24 hours before the start of your train journey.