Company information
SBB is the main rail operator in Switzerland. SBB is the backbone of the Swiss public transport system, and day-to-day rail operations are the basis of what we do. SBB has been transporting people and freight for more than 100 years. By doing so, we are making an important contribution to the quality of life and competitiveness in Switzerland. We want to continue this success story, even in times when the entire economy and society, including the mobility industry, are undergoing profound changes. We will therefore continue to fulfil our responsibility towards public transport and Switzerland in future.
Tourist-oriented trains/lines
Gotthard Panorama Express
In 1882 the Gotthard railroad started operating and is since then regarded as the fastest connection between Northern and Southern Europe. With the opening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel in 2016, traffic on the historic mountain route became less. To preserve this iconic masterpiece of art in engineering with its spiral tunnels and bridges, as well as the region surrounding the Gotthard itself, in spring 2017 the Gotthard Panorama Express was launched.
The Gotthard Panorama Express connects the two attractive regions Lake Lucerne and the mediterranean Ticino and is an experience like no other. The trip begins by boat in Lucerne with a three-hour trip with views of majestic alpine peaks. Upon arrival at Flüelen, on the south bank of the lake, passengers board the Gotthard Panorama Express. Since 2020, there is also a possibility to start the Gotthard Panorama Express from Arth-Goldau, whose station is also the point of departure for the rack-railway to Mount Rigi. On board passengers will be welcomed by specially trained multilingual guides from the region who will be pleased to give information about the highlights during the ride. Thanks to the panorama coach with 1st class seats and large windows, the breath-taking landscape along the journey can be enjoyed comfortably and with a good view.
Operating Hours
The Gotthard Panorama Express operates during the summer season – from Easter to mid-October.
The exact timetable can be found at
www.sbb.ch/en/gotthard-panorama-express
Travel Route
Lucerne-Lugano (Lucerne-Flüelen by boat, Flüelen-Bellinzona-Lugano by panoramic train)
Arth-Goldau-Lugano (Arth-Goldau-Bellinzona-Lugano by panoramic train)
Unique experience
- Spectacular boat trip across Lake Lucerne, from Lucerne to Flüelen passing places from Switzerland’s early history, such as Rütli, Tell’s Chapel, the Schiller Stone or Treib.
- Multilingual travel guide on the panorama train.
- Reserved seat in the 1st-class panorama coach.
- The train has a photography coach with windows that can be opened; ideal for taking photos.
- Travel guide brochure with information on the sights of interest along the route.
- Loudspeaker announcements and visual presentation of the history of the origins of the Gotthard Railway.
- Snacks and WIFI on board available
Special tickets
In addition to a valid travel ticket in 1st class, a supplement is payable. The supplement includes the seat reservation. The supplement is payable by any passenger with an individual seat, including children and holders of reduced-price tickets.
GRAND TRAIN TOUR OF SWITZERLAND
The Gotthard Panorama Express is part of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. This route combines the most beautiful panoramic lines into one unique route. The journey takes you to the most delightful Swiss cities, through picturesque Alpine resorts, and to numerous landmarks. Also, a variety of mountain excursions are excellent companions for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.
Explore more: www.myswitzerland.com
