
Yes, travelling through the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland in direction of Italy is faster and more efficient. But using the old Gotthard Tunnel and is the scenic option.
Tu use the scenic route and the old tunnel, make sure to take train which starts Erstfeld and termitates at Bellinzona or the other way round. Erstfeld is key. If you start at Arth-Goldau you might end up on the Eurocity train to Venice St. Lucy (Venezia Santa Lucia).
The line is operated by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
I did this excursion from Zug, where my sister lives.

Switzerland’s national railway operator SBB CFF FFS carried a record number of passengers in 2025, achieving both unprecedented demand and the highest punctuality levels ever…
I turned 45 in June. I have this tradition – when possible – of not being in Belgium for my birthday. From Sweden in 2013…
I turned 45 in June. I have this tradition – when possible – of not being in Belgium for my birthday. From Sweden in 2013…
The return of a direct night train between Brussels and Milan has been welcomed by Back On Track Belgium as an important step in rebuilding…
The return of a direct night train between Brussels and Milan has been welcomed by Back On Track Belgium as an important step in rebuilding…