Brienz Rothorn Railway
Ride a historic steam train up the Swiss Alps for breathtaking views of Lake Brienz and surrounding peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Brienz Rothorn Railway
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic steam train up the Swiss Alps for breathtaking views of Lake Brienz and surrounding peaks.
"One of the most beautiful train rides in Switzerland, a truly magical journey back in time."
🎯 Choose Your Train Wisely
Opt for steam trains for the authentic experience; diesel trains can be smoky and unpleasant.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
To guarantee a seat on the outside, arrive at the station early to be at the front of the queue.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Steam Locomotive Ride
Brienz to Rothorn Kulm
Experience a journey on one of Switzerland's last operational steam rack railways, a truly nostalgic trip.
+1Panoramic Summit Views
Rothorn Kulm
Marvel at sweeping vistas of Lake Brienz and the surrounding Alps from the mountain's peak.
Alpine Meadows and Forests
Along the railway route
Enjoy the scenic passage through lush meadows dotted with cows and dense alpine forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Steam Train Adventure
+1Weather & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Choose Your Train Wisely
Opt for steam trains for the authentic experience; diesel trains can be smoky and unpleasant.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
To guarantee a seat on the outside, arrive at the station early to be at the front of the queue.
☁️ Check Mountain Weather
Summit views can be obscured by clouds; check conditions before you go.
💰 Swiss Travel Pass Discount
Consider the Swiss Travel Pass for potential discounts on your ticket.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Choose Your Train Wisely
Opt for steam trains for the authentic experience; diesel trains can be smoky and unpleasant.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
To guarantee a seat on the outside, arrive at the station early to be at the front of the queue.
☁️ Check Mountain Weather
Summit views can be obscured by clouds; check conditions before you go.
💰 Swiss Travel Pass Discount
Consider the Swiss Travel Pass for potential discounts on your ticket.
🚶 Hike Down for Views
Enjoy a scenic hike down from a mid-station for a different perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Brienz Rothorn Railway offers a unique and historic steam train experience with stunning alpine views. While the steam locomotives are a highlight, some visitors are disappointed by the presence and fumes of diesel trains on certain departures. The summit views are consistently praised, though the on-site restaurant is considered average.
"Unique experience!
They have different types of train- diesel steam and normal diesel. The steam is fun but a bit noisy and smelly:)
There was thick clouds in the middle but it was very clear on top of the mountain!"
Taka M
"Worth paying for (especially if you get 50% off with SwissPass), fantastic scenery, one of the highlights of my trip.
But there is a negative - the company has about 4 steam trains (great, as advertised) and 1 diesel train. The steam train is a little smoky but it’s the authentic traditional method. The diesel train produces choking diesel fumes which are very unpleasant and spoil the experience. If you’re on the diesel train try to sit far away from the engine. The company should replace the diesel train with a steam one, make it electric, or just run fewer trains.
It’s possible to see the views and stand up to take photos even if you don’t get the best seats - but if you want to sit on the outside make sure to get to the station early to be at the front of the queue.
The food in the restaurant at the top is OK but not great - typical canteen fast food."
Guy _
"The views along the way and at the summit are amazing. A major disappointment, however, was the diesel locomotive on the uphill journey at 8 AM — it smelled bad and didn’t have a pleasant sound. It would be helpful to indicate which departures use diesel, as most people would prefer to avoid it. With the diesel locomotive, the ride itself has no value."
Marek Cerman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Brienz Rothorn Railway station (Brienz BRB) is conveniently located right opposite the main SBB train station in Brienz. You can easily reach Brienz by train from major Swiss cities like Interlaken or Lucerne.
Yes, the railway is easily accessible by public transport. Trains connect Brienz to the wider Swiss network, and the station is a short walk from the railway's departure point.
While there is parking available in Brienz, taking the train is highly recommended for the full Swiss experience and to avoid parking hassles.
The journey takes about an hour, climbing 7.6 kilometers with gradients up to 25%. You'll pass through forests and meadows, with stunning views unfolding as you ascend.
Yes, in addition to the steam train, there's a cable car that also goes up to Rothorn Kulm, which operates year-round, unlike the steam railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but expect to pay around CHF 70-80 for a round trip. Discounts may be available with the Swiss Travel Pass. Booking in advance is advised, especially for steam train departures.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, particularly if you want to ride on the historic steam locomotives, as they are very popular and have limited capacity.
The railway typically operates from June to October, with varying departure times. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, the railway operates both historic steam locomotives and diesel trains. Many travelers prefer the steam trains for the authentic experience, though they can be a bit noisy and smoky.
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass often provides a significant discount (around 50%) on the Brienz Rothorn Railway, making it a more affordable option.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Rothorn Kulm, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, take short hikes, and dine at the restaurant. It's a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the alpine scenery.
Absolutely! The train stops at intermediate stations, allowing you to disembark and enjoy various hiking trails, from gentle walks to more challenging routes.
Sit on the outside of the carriages for the best views and photo opportunities. Arriving early at the station helps secure these prime spots.
Yes, children often find the steam train experience magical. The journey through the mountains and the unique train itself are usually a hit with younger visitors.
The restaurant at the summit offers typical canteen-style fast food. While convenient, it's generally considered average in quality.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best photo opportunities are from the outside of the carriages, especially on the ascent, and from the summit at Rothorn Kulm. Capture the train against the stunning alpine backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow over the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the train or distant peaks.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, be mindful of other passengers and avoid blocking views or using flash photography in enclosed spaces.
Yes, you can often get close to the steam engine at the station before departure, allowing for detailed shots of this historic machinery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets for the steam train to maximize the nostalgic experience. While the diesel trains are functional, the steam engines offer a more enchanting atmosphere for younger travelers. Arriving early can help secure seats with good views, ensuring everyone in the family has a memorable experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early morning and late afternoon light can create stunning photographic conditions. The summit at Rothorn Kulm provides expansive panoramic views, perfect for wide-angle shots. Don't forget to capture details of the historic steam engine itself – it's a piece of living history.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
These trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, often accompanied by the gentle sounds of cowbells. It's a perfect way to combine a scenic train journey with an active outdoor experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Steam Experience
+3While the steam trains are the main draw, the railway also operates diesel trains. Some travelers have noted that the diesel fumes can be unpleasant and detract from the experience, recommending to opt for steam departures whenever possible. The company's commitment to preserving this historic mode of transport is evident, offering a unique glimpse into early railway travel.
This unique operation is not electrified, relying solely on its steam engines for propulsion. The 7.6-kilometer route winds through picturesque alpine landscapes, offering passengers stunning views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains. It's a journey that appeals to history buffs, train enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable scenic adventure.
+1Summit Views and Alpine Activities
Beyond the views, Rothorn Kulm serves as a gateway to various alpine activities. You can embark on short hikes directly from the summit or from intermediate stations along the railway line. These trails offer opportunities to explore alpine meadows, encounter grazing cows, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The restaurant at the top provides a place to refuel, though reviews suggest it offers basic, canteen-style fare.
For those seeking a different perspective or an alternative to the steam train, a cable car also ascends to Rothorn Kulm. This modern option provides a quicker ascent and operates year-round, offering a contrast to the historic railway experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit