I'll be visiting Lucerne for a few days but then heading to Milan Italy to catch a train to Florence. I would like to take the scenic train but skip the boat portion. I've done some research and Rick Steves says you can just book a train from Lucerne to Lugano. How do I make sure the train is one that has the panoramic views or do they all have that option? If I use SBB.ch and book the train running from Lucerne to Lugano will I get the same route as the Wilhelm Tell express ( minus the boat) or will I be in a standard train with normal windows? Any advice on how to book this would be appreciated. Thanks!
Posted by
Green Bay
21140 posts
If you go to www.sbb.ch, book either the 11:18 or 13:18 departures. Select 1st class seat, next page you will see an option for "panoramic coach" and click on that, then proceed to the payment page.
You will change trains in Bellinzona as the WT continues to Locarno.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you for your response. I tried what you said and that didn't work. There was no option for "panoramic coach". Any thoughts? I clicked all the way through check out just before putting in credit card information and didn't see anything.
Posted by
Green Bay
21140 posts
Here is how it went.
First page specify start (Luzern) and end point (Milano Centrale) plus via (Fluelen) and date and time, then enter.
Second page shows available trains. Click on Fare/Buy on either the 11:18 or 13:18.
Next page confirm single ticket (one way) and click next.
Next page click on 1st class, your age category, and whether you have half fare card (none?). Click Next.
Next page shows price. Click on "Proceed to Booking"
Next Page shows reservation info. You will see this
Compartment and seat requests Luzern - Bellinzona
Below you will see "No Preference" and "Panoramic Coaches" Click on that and proceed.
When I do that for a random date in September, I get a message that seat reservations are not available. Why I do not know. You can always email SBB from their contact page. They are very responsive.