Gotthard Panorama Express - Lucerne

A great experience of history come alive: The journey leads from Ticino along the historic Gotthard panoramic route to Lucerne. Welcome to the original Switzerland!

Starting at Lugano or Bellinzona, the journey takes travellers from the Mediterranean south right through the heart of Switzerland – and the Gotthard tunnel built in 1882 – over die Alps towards the north. En route, the church of Wassen can be seen from three different angles; thanks to the bold railway layout with its many loop tunnels it has become world-famous.

On a steamboat, passengers seamlessly continue via Flüelen across Lake Lucerne. Many locations steeped in history such as the Rütliwiese, the Schillerstein and Tell Chapel greet guests with their original Swiss charms. In the evening, Lucerne harbour – located right next to the famous Chapel Bridge – welcomes the travellers. And by the way: The journey can easily be travelled in the opposite direction, too.
Apart from the many sights, passengers enjoy special presentations about history, myths and legends around Gotthard during this historic journey through time. Last but not least, the culinary aspect will not be neglected: Guests may indulge in warm meals on the steamboat or enjoy snacks and beverages on the train.

Facts

Route:

Lugano/Bellinzona to Flüelen by train. Flüelen to Lucerne by steamboat or modern motor vessel “Diamant”. The journey can also be travelled in the opposite direction.

Distance:

182 km

Duration:

approx. 5 h 30 min

Excursion tips

• Castles of Bellinzona – UNESCO World Heritage site
• San Salvatore – local mountain und “Sugarloaf” of Lugano
• Lake Lugano Cruises
• Pilatus – Lucerne’s legendary local mountain
• Rigi – the queen of the mountains

Food & Beverage

• Aboard the boat, delicious meals as well as snacks and beverages are available
• On the panoramic train, snacks and beverages can be purchased as well and service at the passenger’s seat is available
• Souvenirs can be obtained on the boat as well as the panoramic train

Timetable

The Gotthard Panorama Express runs from 18 April to 18 October 2020, Tuesdays through Sundays.

Exact departure and arrival times

Gotthard Panorama Express does not operate during the winter season. However, a journey on the Gotthard panoramic route is still possible by changing trains in Erstfeld. This passage does not include the presentations about history, myths and legends around Gotthard.

Ticket

This route is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) and GA travelcard.
Book Swiss Travel System tickets

The Gotthard Panorama Express train offers only 1st class on the Gotthard route between Flüelen and Lugano. Bookings in 2nd class are not available.

Reservation

On the train a surcharge of CHF 16 per person is charged on the panoramic train between Flüelen and Lugano. Travellers with a 2nd class ticket also need a class upgrade. 
Go to reservations

Offer

From CHF 285.- per person in a double room
Train ticket Place of residence/Swiss border – Lucerne – Lugano – Place of residence/Swiss border, 1 overnight, breakfast buffet, seat reservation in Gotthard Panorama Express
Valid 18.04. - 18.10.2020

Book now

Brochure

Fascinating and comprehensive information around the Gotthard Panorama Express, featuring highlights and relevant facts and figures, can be downloaded here:
PDF brochure