William Tell Express

William Tell Express

The William Tell Express connects central Switzerland with the German-speaking regions associated with the legendary Swiss hero William Tell and the Italian-flavored Ticino region, making it a highly recommended panoramic train experience. This route perfectly combines a lake cruise with a scenic train ride and operates only in summer.

Departing from the culturally rich city of Lucerne, you’ll take a nostalgic steamboat cruise on Lake Lucerne—where the story of William Tell took place—and enjoy a meal in the boat’s restaurant. Then, change to a panoramic train in Flüelen, cross the famous Gotthard mountain ridge, and arrive in Lugano. Alternatively, you can switch trains in Bellinzona en route to Locarno.

William Tell Express Route: Lucerne (Luzern) --> Flüelen (Fluelen) --> Gotthard Tunnel --> Bellinzona --> Lugano / Locarno. Operating period: May to October. Schedule: Daily departures at 9:12 AM / 11:12 AM from Lucerne for the lake cruise; arrive in Flüelen at 11:55 AM / 1:55 PM, then transfer to the train departing at 12:16 PM / 2:16 PM; arrive in Locarno at 2:13 PM / 4:13 PM, or via Bellinzona to Lugano arriving at 2:27 PM / 4:27 PM. The whole journey takes about 6 hours.

Wilhelm Tell Express

Must-visit reason: Switzerland’s most worthwhile panoramic train experience

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Switzerland[Switzerland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Cantons of Lucerne and Ticino [Cantons of Lucerne and Ticino]