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Glacier Express train too hot in summer?

Posted by (California) on

I’ve been excitedly planning to take the Glacier Express in late July but just read a review on a travel site that made it sound a bit miserable:

“The route of the Glacier Express is simply stunning and with a direct train covering much of the scenic Swiss landscapes the train has a lot going for it. The food and drink available to purchase was on the expensive side, but was well presented and delicious. The train itself was modern and tastefully decorated on the inside. What brought the Glacier Express down was the greenhouse-like conditions which was not pleasant in the heat of the summer and the cramped seating in Second Class.” (They ended up getting off the train early rather than finishing the route.)

Anyone have a similar experience taking it in summer?

Posted by
17284 posts

Not the Glacier Express, but we have ridden a few trains in Italy in September (2022 and 2023) that were pretty warm if one was sitting on the side exposed to the sun. Many trains have shades that pull down to protect one from direct sun in that case, but that would block the views on a scenic train like the GE.

Posted by
5493 posts

Sounds like the down side to the glassed-in in Panoramic trains. Are there regional trains running this same route, that use traditional train cars? I know for the Bernina Express route, we rode the regional trains, which were not crowded at all, and the windows even opened, altho in summer one would probably prefer the air conditioning. I hope this is an alternative.

Posted by
9 posts

Thanks for replies! Yes, there are regional trains on the same route. The downside to them is what may actually be an upside: they don't have the panoramic glass windows that go over part of the ceiling. I'll have a rail pass so no difference in price other than the seat reservation.

If anyone's done the route on a regular train, I'd love to hear what they think!

Posted by
33628 posts

I've done all the Swiss scenic railways over the years and never been moved to pay for the named trains or the exclusive tilted wine glass. Same tracks, same views, no glare, no greenhouse heat, no sold out, same speed, they even stop the same places that the fancy trains stop to pass - there is only one track most of the way except passing places and the local trains stop and let passengers off and on, the fancy trains stop and don't open the doors.

I, personally, take the local trains any day.

Posted by
21026 posts

If you check the schedule, the regular trains have actually slightly less travel time between, say, St Moritz and Zermatt.

Disadvantages: You have to change trains 4 times along the way, at Reichenau-Tamins (short cutting Chur), Disentis-Muster, Andermatt, and Visp. There are no food or beverage services on any of the trains, so pack a lunch and drinks for the trip, or stopover for an hour along the way for something to eat.

Advantages: No expensive seat reservation fee. Heat should not be a problem as the trains are not crowded and you can just switch sides if the sun is bothering you.

Posted by
9 posts

Thanks again for more replies! I think I'll do the local trains.

Given that, I think I'd like to break the trip by staying overnight somewhere along the route. Any suggestions from people who know that route of good places to do that? I'd be interested in villages or towns that are scenic and walkable. No need for any big attractions -- just a nice place to break the trip, get out and walk, spend the night etc. Thanks!

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