GoldenPass Train Guide 2026 – The Scenic Montreux ↔ Interlaken Ride

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Tip: treat GoldenPass as a scenic transfer day rather than “just transport”.

“GoldenPass” is best understood as a scenic rail concept linking contrasting Swiss landscapes. Many travellers use it to connect the Lake Geneva shoreline (Montreux) with the alpine base of Interlaken, turning what could be a simple transfer into one of the most memorable parts of a Switzerland itinerary.

• Ideal if you want photos and views on a moving panorama.
• Great for couples: relaxed pace and changing scenery.
• Family-friendly: comfortable train travel with flexible stops.

The classic use-case is the scenic ride between Montreux and Interlaken. It’s often the best-feeling transition between “lake Switzerland” and “Alps Switzerland”.

• Perfect start: after a Montreux promenade day and Chillon Castle.
• Perfect finish: Interlaken as a base for lakes and mountain excursions.
• Wider itineraries: you can combine it with Lucerne in a train-heavy route.

Planning mindset: GoldenPass is part of the itinerary experience, not just a commute.

Travel times depend on the exact connection, transfer points and your chosen schedule. As a practical planning rule for 2026:

• Expect roughly 3–4 hours for Montreux ↔ Interlaken in many typical connections.
• Add 30–60 minutes buffer time if travelling with kids or heavy luggage.
• If you want a photo stop or a café break, keep the day flexible.

Pro tip: avoid scheduling a major mountain excursion immediately after arrival in Interlaken.

1) Ticket vs seat reservation

In Switzerland, a standard train ticket often gets you onboard. However, on popular scenic services and peak travel days, a seat reservation can be the difference between “any seat available” and a guaranteed window seat (especially for families who want to sit together).

2) When is a reservation worth it?

• July–August and weekends (higher demand).
• When your priority is panoramic views and filming.
• If you’re a family and need adjacent seats.

3) Swiss Travel Pass

If you’re travelling with a Swiss Travel Pass, many segments may be covered, but you may still need to pay separately for seat reservations when required. See Tripmoo’s full breakdown here: Swiss Travel Pass guide »

On a scenic ride, the real upgrade is a window seat and a relaxed plan. Because scenery changes continuously, the best general strategy is:

• If filming is important, prioritize window seating.
• For families, aim for adjacent seats or a small group seating setup.
• On busy days, don’t rely on “getting lucky” with a window at the last minute.

Note: there isn’t a universally “best” side for the entire ride — landscapes vary across the route.

• Travel lighter if you can: one large suitcase + one day bag beats multiple pieces.
• Pack simple snacks and water, especially when travelling with kids.
• Keep transfers realistic (avoid tight change times when you have a stroller).
• Make Interlaken arrival your “end of day” when possible — not the start of a big activity block.

GoldenPass days are often the best days to slow down and enjoy Switzerland without rushing.

Pricing depends on season, class, and whether you have a pass. The most practical way to budget is:

• No Swiss Travel Pass: plan for a mid-to-high train cost on scenic routes.
• With Swiss Travel Pass: many rides may be covered, but seat reservations can still add a small extra cost when required.
• Families: calculate for 2 adults + kids + seat reservations (if needed), not just per-person ticket estimates.

For a full explanation of coverage, discounts and what to expect: Swiss Travel Pass guide »

Scenario 1: Montreux → Interlaken (best scenic transfer)

• Days 1–2: Montreux (promenade + Chillon Castle).
• Day 3: GoldenPass to Interlaken.
• Days 4–6: Interlaken, lakes and mountain excursions.

Scenario 2: “Views day” (no pressure planning)

• Start early to reduce crowds and maximize daylight.
• Allow one relaxed stop only (coffee/photo break).
• Keep the evening easy on arrival.

Scenario 3: Families

• Minimize transfers where possible.
• Reserve seats to keep everyone together.
• Pick a departure time that matches kids’ energy (post-breakfast often works well).

• Expecting a guaranteed window seat without a reservation on peak days.
• Booking a big mountain activity immediately after Interlaken arrival.
• Planning tight transfers with heavy luggage or a stroller.
• Assuming every connection is identical year-round (seasonal variations are normal).

If you want Switzerland’s scenery with minimal effort, the GoldenPass is a top choice: it turns your transfer from Lake Geneva into an alpine journey. Prioritize a window seat, keep your day flexible, and avoid stacking a heavy activity right after arrival. If you’re using a Swiss Travel Pass, simply double-check whether a seat reservation is needed for your chosen connection.