Glacier Express Excellence Class Review: Worth the Splurge? Ultimate Guide to Deciding

Hop on board with me as we dive into the lavish world of the Glacier Express Excellence Class, a truly one-of-a-kind adventure through the Swiss Alps. Picture this: you’re nestled in a cozy, plush seat, sipping on a glass of fine Swiss wine, as the most breathtaking scenery you can imagine rolls by. This isn’t just any train ride; it’s the definition of luxury on train tracks, where every detail, from the gourmet dining to the exclusive lounge, is curated to offer you an unparalleled travel experience.

In this blog post, I’m thrilled to take you behind the scenes of what many call the ultimate train journey. Whether you’re a die-hard travel enthusiast or in search of that unforgettable trip, the Excellence Class on the Glacier Express will deliver the most glamorous train ride experience . We’re talking about a service so top-notch, you’ll feel like royalty from the moment you step on board. So, let’s embark on this spectacular journey together and discover what makes the Glacier Express Excellence Class not just a mode of travel, but a destination of sheer opulence and breathtaking beauty. Fasten your seatbelts, because this is going to be a ride to remember!

How to book Excellence Class

So you’re ready to book the train ride of a lifetime, it should be just that easy to book a train ticket right? Well, from my experience it was pretty confusing booking the excellence class ticket and understanding the price .

There are 2 different things to “book”, 1. the SBB 1st class train ticket and 2. The Excellence Class service. When booking excellence class on their website you will be automatically be purchasing a 1st class SBB Train ticket ($272 CHF) along with the excellence class service ($470 CHF). You will choose your seat (we sat in seats 51 &52), and then at this point you will be asked for any discounts you may have (if you purchased a Swiss Travel Pass but that information at this step). Anddd your done 🙂 Total trip is…. $742 CHF (AKA $853 USD/ticket!!), read on if you want to really know if I thought this trip was worth the high ticket price.

Tips for booking the Glacier Express Excellence Class:

• Book as far in advance as you can. They open up the schedule 2 months in advance from departure. We booked on December 3rd 2023 for our train ride on February 6th 2024 and we got the last two seats…
• We sat in seats 51 & 52 which I thought had better views the entire ride than the other side of the train. I will say the other side of the train had views of the famous Landwasser Viaduct tunnel which is probably what most people think of when googling the Glacier Express. I was able to get good views of the tunnel because we sat by the bar and was able to catch it from the back window.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for food accommodations if you are lactose or gluten free. They have menus specific for these allergies but don’t always have those ingredients on board. If you have a severe allergy I would reach out in advance so they can prepare.

The Journey

Taking a ride on the Glacier Express Excellence Class is like stepping into a different world, where luxury and the stunning beauty of the Swiss Alps come together in perfect harmony. From the moment you step on the rolled out red carpet (yeah it doesn’t get more lux than that) and sink into your plush seat, you’re treated to a visual feast through the huge panoramic windows, offering unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes.

But it’s not just about the views. This 8 hour journey pampers you with gourmet meals that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, all served up with a level of personal service that makes you feel truly special. It’s more than just a train ride; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Switzerland has to offer, from Zermatt all the way to St. Moritz. For anyone looking to add a splash of luxury to their Swiss adventure, the Glacier Express Excellence Class is an absolute must-do. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about savoring every moment of the journey in style.

Food

Riding the Glacier Express Excellence Class isn’t just about the stunning views—it’s a full-blown feast for the senses, especially when it comes to the food. Imagine sitting back in your plush seat, sipping on a glass of fine Swiss wine, as you’re served dish after delicious dish, each more mouthwatering than the last. The chefs onboard really know their stuff, creating menus that are a true reflection of the Swiss landscapes you’re chugging through. Think local cheeses, freshly baked breads, and dishes that tell a story of the regions you pass. And let’s not forget about the wine pairings! It’s dining in the lap of luxury, with the Swiss Alps as your backdrop. Trust me, every bite and every sip on the Glacier Express Excellence Class is a moment to savor.

The menu we had on our ride February 6th 2024

• First Course: Amuse-bouche. Mini beef tartare, mini quiche and nuts
• Second Course: Swiss-smoked Trout
• Third Course: Pea & Mint Soup with dried Alpine blossoms
• Fourth Course: Filet of Swiss beef with truffle & potato mash
• Fifth Course: Regional Cheese Plate
• Sixth Course: Chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream

Tip: I mentioned before, do not hesitate to let the staff know you have a food allergy. I personally am dairy free (and mostly gluten) but I asked to sub the cheese plate for vegan cheese. Unfortunately they did not have any on board like they normally would but that’s okay because I got some sorbet instead 🙂 If you want to make sure your food allergies are accommodated I would reach out ahead of time so that the chef and staff can prepare.

Was the Glacier Express Excellence Class worth the splurge?

So you might be thinking, do I think a $853 USD train ride was worth it…?? The Glacier Express Excellence Class doesn’t just transport you from Zermatt to St. Moritz; it takes you on an unforgettable journey of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking beauty, making every moment worth the investment. If you’re seeking an unparalleled travel experience that combines the best of Swiss landscapes with luxury travel, the Glacier Express Excellence Class is, without doubt, a journey you won’t regret embarking on. Absolutely this experience was worth the splurge. Thank you for coming along on the journey! If you’re curious how we spent 3 days in St. Moritz check out my next blog post here <3