Glacier Express, Swiss Alps & Lucerne Tour | From Basel
At a glance
Glacier Express, Swiss Alps & Lucerne Tour | From Basel is a 10h small-group experience in Basel, Switzerland, operated by Tours of Switzerland. Travellers rate it 4.2 out of 5 across 90 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $552.27 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Glacier Express Seat Reservation, Meet and Greet at Basel SBB (Instructions will be sent after booking), Standard Rail Pass.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 6 stops in one well-planned itinerary
- Wheelchair accessible
Quick facts
- Duration
- 10h
- Group
- Small group, up to 15 travellers
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure aboard the Glacier Express, traversing Switzerland’s stunning terrain in style. Indulge in a gourmet meal during this 8-hour journey through Chur, Andermatt, and Lucerne, capturing breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the Rotsee. Conclude with a charming mini-tour of Lucerne’s Old Town, Chapel Bridge, and the iconic Lion Monument’s Head.
What's included
What's included
- Glacier Express Seat Reservation
- Meet and Greet at Basel SBB (Instructions will be sent after booking)
- Standard Rail Pass
- Local Guide
Not included
- Lunch (can be purchased by card on the Glacier Express)
- Gratuities
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 2h
Your guide will meet you at the Basel train station.
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Stop 2 · 3h
Begin your journey in true Swiss style with a scenic train ride to Switzerland’s oldest city, Chur, with over 5,000 years of history. Along the way, hear stories about the landscapes, cultural heritage, and traditions of the cantons you pass.
In Chur, board the legendary Glacier Express and settle into your modern panoramic carriage. Learn fascinating insights about the train’s rich history and how it became one of the world’s most iconic rail journeys.
* Between October 11 and December 6, the Glacier Express does not operate. During this period, we offer the same scenic route with an additional stop in a Swiss Alpine Village. -
Stop 3
Begin your memorable ride aboard the Glacier Express, an ultra-sleek train boasting an end-to-end experience connecting a total of 291km (181 miles) inland. Settle into your dedicated first-class seats to enjoy the train's steady pace, allowing ample opportunities to absorb the ever-changing panoramic views of southern Switzerland on your way to Andermatt. Receive insightful commentary unraveling rich Swiss traditions and the Express's operational history. Anticipation builds as you approach the Oberalp section, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and fresh alpine scenery. Capture the perfect picture of architecturally pleasing bridges, where you'll reach the highest altitude of the tour. Before your next discovery, indulge in a gourmet lunch (depending on the option booked) served at your seat so you don't miss a moment of the incoming views.
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Stop 4 · 2h
At your next stop, depart the Glacier Express at Andermatt, a traditional Swiss village in the heart of the Ursen Valley, and board another cozy train. Your voyage proceeds towards the world-famous city of Lucerne, where you'll make an exciting stop. Our guide will embellish the next leg of your journey with shared secrets about forming the Swiss Confederation. Gain significant insights into the admirable endurance displayed by the Swiss guards, enabling you to connect with the discoveries made later on the tour.
Next, reach the lake of four cantons, commonly recognized as Lake Lucerne. The vast expanse encapsulates iconic Swiss beauty with a backdrop of pure sparkling water and deep mountain ranges. It's a sight you're sure to remember. -
Stop 5 · 2h
Arriving at the blissful city of Lucerne, the final discovery of the tour, the guide will lead you through the medieval Old Town while providing an engaging context of the region's historical and cultural heritage. Enriched with perfectly preserved gothic architecture surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the tour through Lucerne’s Old Town will instantly transport you to the Middle Ages, giving a taste of what life was like all those years ago!
This segment of the tour additionally offers the chance to encounter famed heritage sites, including the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) — the world’s oldest surviving bridge, and the Lion Monument — an intricate 19th-century rock carving commemorating the Swiss Guards that lost their lives during the French Revolution in 1792. -
Stop 6 · 1h
After a full day of adventure, you will return safely to Basel
Meeting point
Meet the representative inside the main hall of the Basel SBB next to the benches close to the escalators, and in front of the Migros Flower shop.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Glacier Express, Swiss Alps & Lucerne Tour | From Basel take?
The experience lasts about 10h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $552.27 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Glacier Express Seat Reservation; Meet and Greet at Basel SBB (Instructions will be sent after booking); Standard Rail Pass; Local Guide.
Where does it start?
Meet the representative inside the main hall of the Basel SBB next to the benches close to the escalators, and in front of the Migros Flower shop.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English, Spanish.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.2 out of 5 across 90 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Basel.
