Furka Line Steam Train - Valais

Nostalgic journey with spectacular views

Furka Line
 
About Furka Line Steam Train

Available: June - September

Example travel costs

Single journey: 2nd class 80 Sfr, 1st class 130 Sfr

Return journey: 2nd class 160 Sfr, 1st class 260 Sfr

This journey must be pre-booked with us, as far in advance as possible.

This wonderful line stretching 17.8 km, is one of the most spectacular train routes in Switzerland. Originally built as part of the Glacier Express route over the Furka Pass it was replaced by a tunnel opened in 1982 which now allows the Glacier Express to operate all year.

With this section of line no longer needed, as all Glacier Express trains use the new tunnel, it was planned to close this section of the line. However, with fantastic local support, the Furka Pass and the cogwheel steam railway is once again available to enjoy.

Get your holiday quotation today

Contact us to book your holiday

Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com


Highlights

The scenic journey

This historical rolling stock now operates from Realp to Oberwald and passes the impressive Rhone Glacier which gave the original railway route the name 'Glacier Express'.

The steam train starts in Realp (1,546m) in the canton of Uri and crosses the Furkareuss river via the Wyler Bridge. You'll go through three tunnels and up over the Steffenbach folding bridge, which is dismantled each winter, and start an ascent with a crossing over the Steinstafel viaduct and a stop at Tiefenbach.

From here we enter the 1,874m long tunnel to the highest station at Furka 2,160m. Another stop at Muttbach-Belvédère and then views of the Rhone Glacier. The train descends to Gletsch station and finally to Oberwald (1,366m) in the Valais canton. 

To enjoy this wonderful experience we recommend a stay in Andermatt (closest to Realp) or Brig (closest to Oberwald). All tickets and reservations can be included in our arrangements.

Refreshments

On the Furka steam train, drinks are not sold during the train journey due to time and space constraints.

However, most trains stop at Furka station for 20 minutes and you can buy a drink from the station café. There is also a pleasant café bar at Realp railway station.

Furka timetable 2024

2024 dates are confirmed as:

Thursdays-Sundays between 20 June and 29 September

Seat reservations are compulsory and early booking is recommended.

Main steam train service

10.20 depart Realp - arrive 12.35 Oberwald

13.50 depart Oberwald - arrive 16.15 Realp

Additional steam services may operate on certain dates and there are also standard diesel trains running on the route on all days of operation. 

Planning your journey

- Check the dates you are in Switzerland with timetable shown above
- Decide one way or return travel on the Furka Line (we can provide connecting ticket)
- Choose the number of nights in Brig or Andermatt
- 1st or 2nd class travel

Early booking is recommended


Directions

The closest resort to the Furka Line is Andermatt. From here there are regular trains to Realp mainline station, then a short 5 minute walk to the steam train station. 

You can also enjoy the Furka Line from Brig - travel to Oberwald station in around 1 hr 20 minutes on the mainline train, with departures every hour.

 

Request your holiday quotation

Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com

Heritage steam trains Furka Line

More excursions in the region

The mountain excursions are second to none in this beautiful region. The excellent network of cable cars and funiculars will transport you to a wide choice of delightful sightseeing areas with spectacular views. Wherever you choose to visit, you will find unforgettable alpine landscapes.

View more

Your choice of resorts

Summer in the Aletsch Glacier region

Our Valais resorts include Zermatt and Saas-Fee, both picturesque villages perched high up in the Alps. Closer to sea level is the historic trading town of Brig, with access to scenic rail journeys, lovely walks and the amazing Aletsch Glacier. 

View more

Furka train video