Switzerland is a paradise for train enthusiasts, offering more than just scenic rail journeys. From historic steam railways to interactive museums, the country preserves its rich railway heritage in unique and engaging ways. Explore seven must-visit railway museums and historic lines that showcase Swiss engineering, culture, and adventure.
1. Albula Railway Museum – Bergün
The Albula Railway Museum in Bergün/Bravuogn is a fascinating destination for train enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Officially opened on June 2, 2012, the museum is housed in a renovated arsenal building originally constructed between 1917 and 1919. It is dedicated to the Albula Railway Line, part of the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Exhibits and Highlights:
- Miniature Model of the Albula Line (O scale, 1:45):
Created by Bernhard Tarnutzer, the model features detailed replicas of tunnels, viaducts, and stations as they appeared during the 1950s–1960s. Visitors can watch miniature trains run through Alpine landscapes and even operate some sections themselves, making it interactive for both adults and children. - Historic Locomotive “Crocodile” RhB Ge 6/6 I #407:
This iconic electric locomotive is displayed at the entrance and allows visitors to experience a virtual train journey, providing insight into the engineering and operation of historic Swiss trains. - Interactive and Multimedia Exhibits:
The museum presents historical plans, films, and topographical simulations that showcase the construction of tunnels and viaducts through steep Alpine terrain. Visitors learn how engineers overcame challenges like avalanches, extreme gradients, and harsh winters. - Historic Artifacts Collection:
With over 400 items, including original construction tools, station clocks, and engineering documents, the collection illustrates the evolution of the Albula Line and its impact on the surrounding region. - Children’s Section – “Clà Ferrovia”:
An educational, interactive tour designed for young visitors teaches the basics of railway operation and construction in a fun and engaging way.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Bahnmuseum Albula, Bergün/Bravuogn, Switzerland
- Open daily, except November
- Easily accessible from the Bergün/Bravuogn train station on the Albula Line
2. Blonay–Chamby Museum Railway – Montreux
The Blonay–Chamby Museum Railway is a unique open-air railway museum located near Montreux, in the canton of Vaud. Founded in 1968, this museum preserves historic Swiss locomotives, rolling stock, and heritage rail lines, offering visitors a chance to experience Switzerland’s railway history firsthand. The museum operates on a narrow-gauge track (1,000 mm), allowing enthusiasts to ride trains that have been in service for over a century.
Key Highlights and Experiences:
- Historic Steam and Electric Locomotives:
The museum boasts an impressive collection of operational steam engines from the early 1900s and historic electric locomotives, including examples from the Chemin de fer Vevey–Les Pléiades line. Visitors can see these locomotives in action during regular rides along the 3.5 km track. - Rideable Heritage Trains:
Guests can board authentic heritage trains, experiencing the same routes that were used for regional transport decades ago. The train passes through picturesque vineyards, forests, and small Swiss villages, offering a scenic journey through the Vaud countryside. - Interactive Workshops and Exhibits:
The museum features workshops where visitors can learn about railway maintenance, signaling, and model building. Special events, such as steam festivals and themed rides, allow visitors to see historic locomotives in full operation. - Miniature Railway Displays:
In addition to full-size trains, the museum includes model railway layouts depicting local landscapes and historical railway stations. These detailed miniatures illustrate Swiss engineering and design from the early 20th century. - Visitor Experience:
The museum is family-friendly, with activities designed for children, guided tours by knowledgeable volunteers, and seasonal events like Christmas-themed train rides. There is also an on-site café and souvenir shop featuring railway memorabilia.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Blonay–Chamby Museum Railway, Montreux, Switzerland
- Open from April to October (check the official schedule for events)
- Easily accessible by public transport or car, with parking available
3. Dampfbahn-Verein Zürcher Oberland (DVZO) – Zürcher Oberland
The Dampfbahn-Verein Zürcher Oberland (DVZO) is a historic steam railway located in the Zürcher Oberland region, northeast of Zurich. Founded in 1968, the DVZO preserves and operates heritage steam and electric locomotives along the Rapperswil–Hinwil line, providing visitors with an authentic journey into Switzerland’s railway past.
Key Highlights and Experiences:
- Historic Steam Locomotives:
- Locomotives like the C 5/6 “Elephant” steam engine, built in 1913, and the HG 3/4 283, built in 1914, are regularly operated on special weekends.
- Visitors can witness these machines in full action, including authentic steam whistle sounds, puffing smoke, and mechanical levers.
- Heritage Electric Locomotives:
- The DVZO also operates historic electric railcars, including the BDe 4/4 104 from the 1920s, demonstrating the evolution of Swiss railway technology.
- Rideable Heritage Trains:
- The line runs 14 kilometers through the picturesque Zürcher Oberland, passing lush meadows, rivers, and traditional Swiss villages.
- Seasonal themed rides, such as Christmas steam rides and summer vintage excursions, give passengers an immersive experience of historic Swiss rail travel.
- Workshops and Restoration Projects:
- DVZO has an active workshop where visitors can see restoration of vintage carriages and locomotives.
- Examples include restoring the historic Pullman coach from 1925 and maintaining wooden passenger cars from the early 20th century.
- Educational Exhibits and Guided Tours:
- Interactive displays show how steam engines work, with explanations of boilers, pistons, and valve gear.
- Guided tours detail the history of the Rapperswil–Hinwil railway line, originally opened in 1876, and its role in connecting rural communities.
Visitor Information:
- Location: DVZO, Rapperswil/Hinwil, Switzerland
- Open for special steam weekends, mainly from May to October
- Tickets available online or at the station; recommended to book for themed rides
4. Furka Steam Railway (Dampfbahn Furka-Bergstrecke) – Valais/Uri
The Furka Steam Railway (Dampfbahn Furka-Bergstrecke, DFB) is a historic narrow-gauge steam railway traversing the Swiss Alps, connecting Realp (Uri) to Oberwald (Valais). Originally opened in 1926, the line was replaced by a tunnel in 1982 but was revived by dedicated volunteers in 1992 to preserve its heritage. Today, it is one of the most scenic steam railways in Switzerland.
Key Highlights and Experiences:
- Historic Steam Locomotives:
- Locomotives like HG 3/4 4 (built 1913) and HG 4/4 9 (built 1920) operate regularly, powering wooden and steel passenger coaches.
- Visitors can see authentic steam operations, including firing the boiler, controlling pistons, and observing mechanical valve gear.
- Spectacular Alpine Route:
- The 18 km route passes over historic viaducts, through mountain tunnels, and along glaciers like the Rhone Glacier.
- Highlights include the Belvédère Viaduct and panoramic views of the Urseren Valley.
- Heritage Carriages:
- The train features original wooden carriages from the 1920s–1930s, meticulously restored to preserve the authentic travel experience.
- Passengers can ride in open-air or enclosed cars, ideal for photography and alpine sightseeing.
- Interactive Workshops:
- Volunteers demonstrate maintenance, track restoration, and locomotive operation, giving visitors insight into the engineering challenges of alpine railways.
- Special events, such as steam festivals and photography days, allow visitors to get up close to the locomotives.
- Visitor Information:
- Operates June to October, depending on snow conditions.
- Tickets can be purchased online or at Realp station. Guided tours are available for groups.
5. Schinznacher Baumschulbahn (SchBB) – Aargau
The Schinznacher Baumschulbahn (SchBB) is a unique miniature railway located in Schinznach-Bad, Aargau, offering an engaging experience for families, train enthusiasts, and hobbyists. Originally built in 1972 by the local Baumschule (tree nursery) for transporting plants, it was later transformed into a heritage railway for public enjoyment.
Key Highlights and Experiences:
- Rideable Miniature Railway:
- The railway operates on a 600 mm gauge and covers several kilometers within the nursery grounds.
- Visitors can ride small-scale steam and diesel locomotives, including restored engines from the 1950s and 1960s.
- Historic Locomotives:
- Examples include the Schöma diesel locomotive built in 1954 and miniature steam engines modeled after early Swiss industrial trains.
- Locomotives are fully operational, allowing visitors to experience authentic driving and coupling techniques.
- Educational and Interactive Displays:
- The SchBB showcases the history of industrial and miniature railways in Switzerland, with informative panels about railway gauges, engineering, and plant transport.
- Workshops allow children and adults to learn basic track maintenance, signaling, and locomotive operation.
- Special Events and Festivals:
- The railway hosts steam weekends, children’s days, and holiday-themed rides, where visitors can enjoy interactive activities and photography opportunities.
- Model railway enthusiasts often participate, showcasing miniature layouts inspired by Swiss towns and industrial sites.
- Visitor Experience:
- The track runs through scenic tree nursery landscapes, ponds, and small bridges, making each ride picturesque.
- On-site amenities include a small café, picnic areas, and souvenir shops with railway memorabilia.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Schinznacher Baumschulbahn, Schinznach-Bad, Switzerland
- Open seasonally, mainly from April to October
- Accessible by car, with nearby public transport options
6. Swiss Museum of Transport – Lucerne
The Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) in Lucerne is Switzerland’s largest museum dedicated to all forms of transportation, including railways, aviation, automobiles, and space travel. Opened in 1959, it offers a comprehensive and interactive experience for visitors of all ages, highlighting the development of Swiss transport technology.
Key Highlights and Railway Exhibits:
- Historic Locomotives and Carriages:
- Features original steam engines like the C 5/6 “Elephant” locomotive (built 1913) and electric locomotives such as the Re 4/4 I (built 1946).
- Visitors can explore early 20th-century passenger carriages, including restored wooden coaches and dining cars.
- Interactive Railway Exhibits:
- Includes a large-scale model railway layout depicting Swiss cities, alpine passes, and iconic lines like the Gotthard and Albula Railways.
- Hands-on activities let visitors operate signals, switches, and miniature trains, providing an educational yet fun experience.
- Multimedia Presentations:
- Film screenings and simulators demonstrate the history of Swiss railway engineering, including tunnel construction, viaducts, and mountain railways.
- Exhibits explain innovations like rack-and-pinion railways and early electric traction systems.
- Special Themed Areas:
- The Children’s Traffic World lets kids learn about rail, road, and air safety in a playful setting.
- Temporary exhibitions often feature historic railway artifacts, photography, or anniversaries of famous lines.
- Visitor Experience:
- The museum spans several buildings with restaurants, cafés, and a planetarium for a full educational experience.
- Accessible via Lucerne public transport or by car, with ample parking available.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Swiss Museum of Transport, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Open daily, except December 25th
- Tickets available online or at the museum
7. Zürcher Museums-Bahn – Zürich
The Zürcher Museums-Bahn (ZMB) is a historic railway museum located near Zürich, dedicated to preserving Switzerland’s railway heritage. Founded in 1969, the museum operates a collection of vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and freight wagons, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the golden age of Swiss rail travel.
Key Highlights and Experiences:
- Historic Steam Locomotives:
- The museum features classic steam engines such as the C 5/6 “Elephant” (built 1913) and the HG 3/4 283 (built 1914).
- These locomotives are operational on special occasions, giving visitors the experience of real steam travel with all the sights, sounds, and smells.
- Vintage Electric Locomotives:
- Includes the Re 4/4 I (built 1946) and Ae 3/6 I (built 1921), showcasing the evolution of electric rail travel in Switzerland.
- Visitors can see original pantographs, control panels, and early electrical equipment up close.
- Rideable Heritage Trains:
- The ZMB operates regular rides along a narrow-gauge track through scenic areas outside Zürich, including historic stations and bridges.
- Special events like Steam Sundays and Christmas rides allow visitors to experience fully restored carriages from the 1920s and 1930s.
- Workshops and Restoration Projects:
- The museum maintains a workshop where restoration of wooden passenger cars, freight wagons, and locomotives is carried out.
- Notable projects include restoring a Pullman dining car from 1925 and refurbishing historic signal equipment.
- Educational Exhibits:
- Informative displays explain railway history, signaling systems, and mechanical engineering.
- Visitors can learn about the development of Swiss narrow-gauge lines, the transition from steam to electric traction, and historic rail safety measures.
- Visitor Experience:
- Family-friendly, with hands-on activities for children such as miniature train operation and interactive workshops.
- The museum also hosts photography days, allowing enthusiasts to capture locomotives in action.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Zürcher Museums-Bahn, Zürich, Switzerland
- Open for special events and weekends, mainly May to October
- Accessible by public transport, with parking available
Conclusion – All Aboard the Fun Train!
If you think Switzerland is just chocolate and mountains, think again! Railway Museums and Historic Lines in Switzerland prove that trains can be magical, thrilling, and even a little mischievous. From miniature Albula trains that might steal your snacks to Furka steam engines puffing like caffeinated dragons, every ride is an adventure. Kids, adults, and overly enthusiastic grandparents can enjoy hands-on workshops, historic locomotives, and scenic routes that might make you whistle along. So grab a conductor’s hat, hop on a vintage carriage, and remember: in Switzerland, even trains have a sense of humor!