From Milan: Bernina Express Train and St. Moritz Tour

If you’re dreaming of the Swiss Alps without spending days on a journey, this day trip from Milan offers a tempting escape. It combines the comfort of a bus ride with the thrill of riding the legendary Bernina Express through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Switzerland. While it’s a long day—about 14 hours—it’s packed with memorable sights, charming towns, and photo opportunities that make it well worth the journey.

What really makes this tour shine are three things: the chance to relax and take in spectacular mountain views from two comfortable modes of transport, the opportunity to wander the elegant streets of St. Moritz at your own pace, and the chance to sample famous Swiss chocolates. That said, some travelers noted that the experience can be hindered by issues like seat allocation and transportation delays, so it’s worth considering these factors. This trip is best suited for those who love scenic travel, aren’t overly concerned with luxury class on the train, and want an authentic taste of Switzerland in a single day.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: Expect incredible views of lakes, mountains, and alpine villages.
• Flexible stops: Free time in Tirano and St. Moritz allows for personal exploration and photos.
• Great value: The tour combines bus, train, and sightseeing for a fair price.
• Authentic experience: Second class tickets with panoramic windows open the door to genuine Swiss vistas.
• Potential downsides: Some reviews highlight seating and transportation issues, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking a full-day Swiss adventure, scenic travel lovers, and those who enjoy free time in charming towns.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Scenic Journey from Milan to the Swiss Alps

This tour offers a wonderful mix of comfort and adventure, starting early from Milan and heading toward Tirano. The bus ride, roughly two hours from Milan or Bergamo, takes you through the Italian landscape before crossing into Switzerland. You’ll want to have your camera ready because the scenery on the way is quite charming, with rolling hills and quaint villages.

Once in Tirano, you’ll have about 30 minutes to stroll around. This small Italian town isn’t a major tourist hub but offers a chance to breathe in the local atmosphere and perhaps grab a quick coffee before the next stage. The highlight, of course, is the Bernina Express train ride.

Riding the Bernina Express – Second Class with Panoramic Windows

Boarding the famous red Bernina Express is where the magic begins. This train is renowned for its sweeping views of the Alps, glaciers, and lakes. The second class tickets provide reserved seats and large panoramic windows that open, giving you the chance to stick your head out and snap those classic mountain shots. Many reviews celebrate this aspect, noting how open windows mean you can feel the mountain air and get photos that truly capture the scenery.

However, some travelers felt disappointed if seated in the non-opening window areas. The choice of second class is actually a bonus for many because it offers great views without the hefty first-class price tag. It’s a comfy way to experience these iconic vistas, especially given the affordable fare of $129.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

As you wind through the Swiss Alps, expect to see shimmering lakes, snow-capped peaks, and lush valleys. The White Lakes and pristine mountain landscapes are the star attractions of this ride. The tour notes that the views are not only beautiful but also worth capturing from multiple angles—hence the importance of having your camera charged and ready.

We’ll mention that some reviewers, like Giovanna from the US, expressed disappointment about not getting the ceiling-to-floor panoramic windows they expected. But overall, the open window seats tend to be a hit, allowing for those Instagram-worthy shots.

Disembarking in St. Moritz – Free Exploration

Arriving in St. Moritz, you’ll find a town famous for its luxury appeal and scenic lakes. With about 2.5 hours of free time, you can wander the streets, browse boutique shops, or stop for lunch at your leisure. Many travelers appreciate the chance to explore at their own pace, soaking in the ambiance of this glamorous Swiss resort.

You might find locals enjoying a stroll along the lake or popping into cafes for a hot chocolate—simple pleasures in a place that feels both elegant and welcoming. Remember, the tour doesn’t include food, so plan accordingly if you want a meal or snacks.

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Returning to Milan – A Long but Scenic Drive

After your time in St. Moritz, the return journey by bus takes around three hours. The route back offers more mountain scenery, and some reviews suggest that the driver, although experienced, occasionally drove a bit fast or jerkily, causing discomfort for sensitive passengers. It’s worth being prepared for a potentially bumpy ride, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

The bus drops you back at the initial departure points, including Bergamo, Milan, or Lecco, closing a day full of captivating landscapes.

The Experience — What’s Included and What’s Not

For the $129 price, the tour covers round-trip transportation by bus, a driver, and a travel coordinator to keep things running smoothly. The highlight, of course, is the Bernina Express ticket in second class, with reserved seating and panoramic windows.

However, meals and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy in towns is advisable. Some reviews mentioned that a snack or small refreshment could elevate the experience—an easy way to add value on a long day.

Real-Life Insights from Travelers

Reviewers’ comments shed light on what you might encounter. Marina from Chile, for example, suggested that adding snacks would be a simple way to improve the trip, hinting at a small gap in the experience. Meanwhile, Julie from the UK appreciated the scenic views and the comfort of the reserved seats, despite some frustration over seat allocation.

Giovanna’s review highlights an important point: if you’re expecting ceiling-to-floor panoramic windows, double-check your seat assignment. She also expressed her disappointment with the guides’ communication, which underscores the importance of managing expectations around the seating arrangement and the overall organization.

A few critical reviews mention transportation hiccups—drivers getting lost or driving aggressively—which can detract from the enjoyment. It’s a reminder that long bus journeys always have some unpredictability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is particularly well-suited for scenery enthusiasts, travelers on a budget, and those looking for a quick Swiss fix without spending multiple days or a fortune. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a long day and want to combine the comfort of bus travel with the thrill of train riding through the Alps.

However, it might not be ideal for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone sensitive to bus motion, given the long hours in transit and some uneven driving.

In sum, the From Milan: Bernina Express Train and St. Moritz Tour offers a great way to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes in a single day. The combination of bus rides, a scenic train journey, and free time in a glamorous alpine town makes for a memorable experience. The second class train seats with open windows are a highlight, providing authentic views and photo opportunities at a reasonable price.

While some logistical issues and seating quirks have been noted, these rarely overshadow the stunning scenery and charming stops. If you enjoy scenic travel, aren’t overly concerned with luxury class, and want a taste of Swiss elegance and nature, this tour fits the bill.

This trip delivers excellent value, especially considering the transport and sightseeing included. It’s best for adventure-loving travelers who are happy to spend a full day on the move and cherish breathtaking mountain vistas.

FAQ

Is the Bernina Express ticket included in the tour price?
Yes, the ticket for the Bernina Express in second class with reserved seats and panoramic windows is included in the $129 price.

Can I choose to ride from St. Moritz to Tirano instead of Tirano to St. Moritz?
Yes, the journey can be in either direction depending on availability, but it doesn’t change the experience or scenery.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy in the towns.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, charged smartphone, jacket, cash, and credit card are recommended. Remember, the open windows can be chilly or dusty depending on the weather.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or recent surgeries due to the long hours and bus travel.

What are the departure times?
From Milan, departures are at 7:00 AM; from Bergamo at 6:10 AM; and from Lecco at 7:55 AM. Be sure to arrive on time and check your meeting point details.

Whether you’re after jaw-dropping scenery, a taste of Swiss luxury, or just a robust adventure, this tour makes a fine choice for a day trip from Milan. Just pack your camera and patience, and you’ll come home with some spectacular memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: