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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters

Three-day train loop from Lucerne through St. Gallen to Rhine Falls

Illustration of Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters

Switzerland Travel Centre's Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Stunning Waters is a 3-day, 2-night independent rail journey through the heart of northeastern Switzerland. Starting in Lucerne on the shores of Lake Lucerne, travellers board the Voralpen Express on Day 2 for a scenic 2-hour 15-minute ride to St. Gallen, passing views of Mount Rigi and the Rapperswil dam. The route continues through Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen, where Rhine Falls awaits as the centrepiece of the journey. Along the way, visitors discover the UNESCO-listed abbey district in St. Gallen and explore Lucerne's historic old town. Nights are spent in both cities. This package suits first-time rail travellers, budget-conscious explorers, and independent travellers who prefer unscheduled time to wander and discover rather than guided group activities.

What to know before you look closer

  • Day 1 is unguided arrival; you arrange your own transport to Lucerne
  • The itinerary offers an optional summer boat journey from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen; confirm availability when booking
  • No meals, sightseeing tickets, or guided tours are mentioned as included

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Lucerne

    Arrival in Lucerne

    You travel to Lucerne by public transport. Take the opportunity to explore the old town and other sights of the city.

  2. Day 2railovernight: St. Gallen

    Ride on the Voralpen Express

    You travel on the Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen and enjoy the view. You have time in St. Gallen to discover the city. Trip time: approx. 2h 15min

  3. Day 3

    Return journey from St. Gallen via Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen

    Travel from St. Gallen via Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen, from where you start your return journey by public transport or extend your stay. In summer, you can also travel from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen by boat.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 1Explore Lucerne's old town on the shore of Lake Lucerne
  • Day 2Ride the Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen, viewing Mount Rigi and the Rapperswil dam across the lake
  • Day 3Visit Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, Europe's largest waterfall

Also sold by

The same itinerary is listed by more than one company. Prices and inclusions can differ; compare before booking.

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. The Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen and continuing rail travel to Schaffhausen are included. Day 1 arrival in Lucerne and the final leg from Schaffhausen onward use public transport you arrange separately.
Which trains are used?
The Voralpen Express (2nd class, approximately 2 hours 15 minutes from Lucerne to St. Gallen) is the named train. The route also uses regular rail connections from St. Gallen via Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen.
Where do I stay?
Night 1 in Lucerne, night 2 in St. Gallen. Hotel names and star ratings are not specified in the operator's outline.
Is this tour guided?
No. Switzerland Travel Centre provides the itinerary and accommodations, but exploration of cities and sights is independent.
What is the best time to visit?
The operator mentions a summer boat option from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen, suggesting summer is an option; specific departure dates are not listed.

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