Brienzer Rothorn Steam Railway
Ride a historic steam cogwheel train up the Swiss Alps for breathtaking views of lakes and peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Brienzer Rothorn Steam Railway
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic steam cogwheel train up the Swiss Alps for breathtaking views of lakes and peaks.
"This train is a must!! Arrive 45-30min early to get a good seat and sit on the left side."
🎯 Sit on the Left Side!
For the best views on the ascent, snag a seat on the left side of the train.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
Aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to secure a good seat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Steam Train Journey
Brienz to Rothorn Kulm
Ride a vintage steam cogwheel train up the scenic Swiss Alps for unparalleled mountain and lake views.
Rothorn Kulm Summit Views
Rothorn Kulm
Marvel at 360-degree panoramas of surrounding peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush valleys.
Alpine Wildlife Spotting
Rothorn Kulm
Keep an eye out for charming Swiss cows grazing and other unique alpine wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets Early!
Weather Watch is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sit on the Left Side!
For the best views on the ascent, snag a seat on the left side of the train.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
Aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to secure a good seat.
Brienz Rothorn Railway
☕ Enjoy Summit Cafes
Grab a drink or snack at the cafes at Rothorn Kulm and soak in the scenery.
🚶♀️ Explore the Summit
Allow 1-2 hours at the top to walk around and enjoy the peaceful nature.
Brienzer Rothorn
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sit on the Left Side!
For the best views on the ascent, snag a seat on the left side of the train.
⏰ Arrive Early for Seats
Aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to secure a good seat.
☕ Enjoy Summit Cafes
Grab a drink or snack at the cafes at Rothorn Kulm and soak in the scenery.
🚶♀️ Explore the Summit
Allow 1-2 hours at the top to walk around and enjoy the peaceful nature.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change quickly; bring layers for warmth.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brienzer Rothorn Steam Railway as an unforgettable highlight of their Swiss trip, cherishing the unique steam train experience and the stunning mountain vistas. The friendly staff and the opportunity to connect with nature are frequently mentioned positives. Some note that return tickets can sell out quickly, and summit views are weather-dependent.
"Amazing! Totally worth it. Try to plan so that it's not too cloudy and foggy at the top of the mountain so you can enjoy the view. There are a couple of Cafe's at the top. Give yourself 1-2 hours to enjoy the view before the return trip."
Hussein Mhanna
"This train is a must!! Arrive 45-30min early to get a good seat and sit on the left side closest to the entrance to get the best views. The train takes you to the top of the mountain and you can get off and enjoy beautiful views and walk around and see the beautiful cows and enjoy nature. They also have a restaurant where you can have cold beer. They are so friendly at the restaurant! During our time here we really felt close to nature and felt such peace and calmness. It’s a must do activity!"
Liz Morales
"I have to say that it is a very worthwhile experience. It is recommended to stay on the mountain for a while so that you can overlook the entire lake! also! The staff are really patient and kind! ! I accidentally left my headphones on the train and they helped to keep it until I was coming back!!! Sincerely appreciate it which makes me love Swiss 🥹"
RY F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Brienzer Rothorn Steam Railway is located in Brienz, Switzerland. You can reach Brienz by train from major Swiss cities like Interlaken or Lucerne. The station for the steam railway is conveniently located near the Brienz train station.
Yes, there is parking available in Brienz, though it can get busy during peak season. It's recommended to check local parking options in advance.
Absolutely! The Swiss public transport system is excellent. You can easily reach Brienz by train, and the steam railway station is a short walk from the main Brienz train station.
The closest major international airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), which is well-connected by train to Brienz.
While the historic nature of the train presents some challenges, efforts are made to accommodate visitors with mobility issues. It's best to contact the railway directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you purchase a round trip or a one-way ticket, and if you have any Swiss Travel Passes. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Brienzer Rothorn Steam Railway website, or in person at the ticket office in Brienz. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for return trips.
Yes, one-way tickets are available, but return tickets often sell out first. If you plan on coming back via a different route, ensure you have confirmed transport options.
The operating season typically runs from late May to mid-October, with specific daily schedules varying. Always check the official website for current operating hours and dates.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and holders of certain rail passes like the Swiss Travel Pass. Check the official website for details on eligible discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Rothorn Kulm, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, explore walking trails, spot alpine wildlife like cows, and dine at the mountain restaurant.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours at the summit to fully appreciate the views and explore the area.
Yes, there are cafes and a restaurant at Rothorn Kulm where you can enjoy refreshments and meals with a view.
You're likely to see Swiss cows grazing peacefully on the mountain pastures. Keep an eye out for other alpine birds and small mammals.
There are various walking paths. Some are gentle strolls, while others are more challenging mountain hikes. The main area around the station is easily accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos of the train and the landscapes.
You can capture stunning shots of the vintage steam train against the backdrop of the Alps, panoramic mountain vistas, and charming Swiss scenery.
The entire journey offers incredible photo opportunities. Sitting on the left side on the way up provides continuous scenic views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Yes, you can take photos inside the historic carriages, capturing the vintage charm and the fellow passengers' experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Try to secure seats on the left side for the best views during the ascent, and arrive early to ensure everyone gets a good spot. Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are cafes at the top, having your own can be convenient for little ones. The relatively short time spent at the summit (1-2 hours) is usually perfect for keeping children engaged without them getting restless.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times for photos are during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and dramatic. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Don't forget to capture the details of the historic train carriages and the charming Swiss scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Steam Power
Riding this historic train is more than just transportation; it's a journey back in time. The carriages themselves are beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century travel. The journey provides a unique perspective on the engineering marvels of the past and the dedication required to maintain such a heritage railway.
Visitors often rave about the unforgettable experience of the steam train itself, even if the weather at the summit isn't perfect. It's the journey, the sounds, and the sights that make it so special.
Summit Views and Alpine Serenity
At the summit, you can explore the surrounding area, take short walks, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. It's a fantastic spot for photography, with endless opportunities to capture the majestic alpine scenery. You might even spot some of the local wildlife, such as the iconic Swiss cows grazing peacefully on the mountain pastures.
While the views are the main draw, the summit also offers amenities like cafes and a restaurant. These provide a perfect place to relax, refuel, and soak in the incredible surroundings. Remember to check the weather forecast, as fog can obscure the views, but even then, the journey through the clouds can be an experience in itself.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit