Historic Rail Excursion: A Journey Through the Emmental
Travel enthusiasts and railway history buffs have a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Swiss heritage this June. On June 13, 2026, the “Thurgauer Zug,” featuring the historic salon carriage BODAN, will embark on an excursion from Eastern Switzerland into the picturesque Emmental region.
Itinerary and Route Details
The journey begins early in the morning, departing from Romanshorn at 6:28 a.m. The train will make scheduled stops in Weinfelden, Frauenfeld, and Winterthur. From there, the route continues via Zurich, Aarau, and Olten, traversing the historic Mittelland line toward Burgdorf before entering the Emmental valley.

Upon arrival in Sumiswald, passengers will have a four-hour window to explore the local village center. The visit coincides with the Emmentaler Handwerker-Markt, a market featuring regional specialties and traditional craftsmanship. During this stay, travelers also have the option to take a short excursion on a steam train operated by the historic Emmental railway, running to Wasen, and back.
The return trip offers a scenic route via the museum railway line surrounding the Napf, passing through Huttwil, Willisau, and Wolhusen. Following a brief stop in Lucerne, the train will head back toward Zurich and Winterthur, with the final arrival in Romanshorn scheduled for approximately 8:00 p.m.
Travel Information and Booking
The excursion is organized by the VHMThB Reisedienst. Due to the historic nature of the equipment and limited seating, advance reservation is mandatory. Interested travelers should note the following details:

- Pricing: Tickets start at 115 Swiss Francs for second-class travel.
- Registration Deadline: All bookings must be finalized by June 8, 2026.
- Onboard Amenities: Breakfast service is available for passengers during the journey.
For further information, flyers, and booking inquiries, please visit the official website at www.mthb.ch or contact the VHMThB Reisedienst directly at Florastrasse 16, 8570 Weinfelden, or via telephone at 071 622 95 56.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- Date: June 13, 2026.
- Experience: A blend of historic rail travel in the salon carriage BODAN and cultural immersion at the Emmentaler Handwerker-Markt.
- Flexibility: Optional steam train rides are available during the four-hour stop in Sumiswald.
- Planning: Early registration is essential as capacity is limited.
This excursion provides a rare chance to witness regional Swiss traditions while traveling on a carefully preserved piece of railway history. Whether you are a dedicated rail fan or simply looking for a unique summer outing, the journey through the Emmental promises an immersive look at the region’s cultural and mechanical past.