Scenic Trains versus regular trains

From Luzern to Interlaken it doesn't really matter which type of train you take. If you're planning on using one of the Swiss Passes, it covers both types of trains. But from Zweisman to Montreux the scenic train is worth the upgrade to first class for the special panoramic seats in the front carriage. When the train arrives at the steep mountaintop above Montreaux you get commanding views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding region as the train slowly zig zags it's way down to the city; these special seats enhance all of that. It's essential that you reserve these seats in advance via the official site: http://www.goldenpass.ch

Thanks, I will check that out. Do you know anything about William Tell. Some people have posted that it was not all that great. Thanks

You're welcome. Sorry I've never done the William Tell. Forgot to mention that the Golden Pass originates in Luzern and ends in Montreux. The line is broken into different segments with different equipment used on each section: Luzern-Interlaken, Interlaken-Zweismann, Zweismann-Montreux.

From Luzern to Interlaken it doesn't really matter which type of train you take. I disagree a little. There are three ways from Luzern to Interlaken. I think what Michael S is speaking about is the normal train and the fancy train on the narrow gauge train via Brunig Pass. In that case, he and I agree, although I always save money on P-P by using the normal trains. There is a third way, which is even cheaper and faster, and uses standard gauge SBB full size trains via Bern which go along the flatlands. I don't suggest that unless you are sceniced out on the Brunig Pass route. There's actually a 4th way, via the slow local train and the Emmental - the valley of the Em river. Its unlikely that a tourist would do that route.

I was indeed referring to normal train vs fancy train. That's what I thought Nancy was referring to based on the title of the topic.

Yes, regular versus scenic is what I was asking. If I buy Saver Pass aren't all trains covered? I went on the website for the Golden Pass and when I get to choosing a seat for 9/3/2012, it gives a $5 charge, is this just for the reservation.? It doesn't ask whether I have a pass or not. Sorry but I'm confused, I'm sure this train ride would cost a lot more than $5 if I didn't have a pass.

The saver pass indeed covers both types of trains. On the Zweismann-Montreax segment seat reservations are optional on the scenic train, but a smart idea during September. The 5 chf reservation charge is for the standard seats (first and second class). The special "VIP Grand Vue" seats I was referring to are 15chf and are only available on the 12:25 train out of Zweismann. These would be seats 85,87,83,81 and are still available. I'm assuming you will be purchasing a second class pass, so if you opt to make seat reservations in the first class section of the train (like the VIP Grand Vue), you will have to pay an "upgrade" to pay the difference. You can do this at any Swiss Rail station. If you want to stick to second class, you can just hop on the train with your pass.