During a webinar held on 31MAY, Swiss Travel System AG, Switzerland’s rail network operator, discussed a rising demand for panoramic train tours accredited to the country’s expansive natural scenery.
Switzerland currently offers several panoramic train journeys that are highly regarded for providing passengers with large windows and open-air observation platforms.
According to Danielle Hug, Coordination Manager Overseas Markets at Swiss Travel System, these journeys attract tourists from around the world who wish to experience the country's scenery in a unique way. However, she said the surge in demand has presented notable challenges, ranging from booking difficulties and limited availability, to luggage-related issues, as the popularity of these experiences continues to soar.
"As we are heading into the summer season, we have received lots of feedback and requests regarding the exceptionally high demand for panoramic trains from agents and tour operators around the world," said Hug.
Swiss Travel System was joined by representatives from GoldenPass Express, Luzern Interlaken Express, Glacier Express, Gotthard Panorama Express and Bernina Express to discuss the current booking situation and offered suitable alternatives to alleviate the situation. The webinar also stressed the importance of collaboration among industry professionals, with a goal of equipping travel agents and tour operators with effective strategies to navigate the surging demand successfully.
After disclosing current challenges, Swiss panoramic train partners highlighted alternative routes and solutions they plan to offer in the coming season. They also encouraged early planning and booking, enabling agents to secure seats in advance and expand options for their clients. Additionally, representatives suggested exploring off-peak travel periods, which offer greater availability and exclusive experiences for travellers.
