Bernina and Glacier Train Two Routes in One Day from Milan

Taking a train through the Swiss Alps sounds like a dream, but doing it in one day from Milan? That’s quite the feat. This tour promises a scenic journey along two of Switzerland’s most breathtaking rail lines—the Albula Line (part of the famed Glacier Express) and the Bernina route—packed into around 13 hours. While this isn’t a multi-day adventure, it offers a deep dive into some of the most stunning landscapes Switzerland has to offer, all from the comfort of a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and train.

What makes this experience appealing? First, you get to see UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Albula Line, renowned for its engineering marvels and picturesque vistas. Second, the ride includes iconic sights such as the Landwasser Viaduct and Albula Pass—perfect for photography buffs. Third, the tour ends in Sankt Moritz, a resort town famous for its lakes and mountain scenery, providing a solid dose of luxury and charm. However, one key consideration is that this tour is technically a single train experience with some misleading wording about “two routes,” which could confuse travelers expecting a Bernina and Glacier Express combo.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic train rides, want a taste of Swiss landscapes without multiple days, and enjoy the convenience of a guided day trip. It’s ideal for those flying into Milan and craving a quick escape into the Alps.

Good To Know

• Unmissable UNESCO sites: The Albula Line features engineering masterpieces and stunning scenery.
• Breathtaking vistas: Expect panoramic mountain views, lush valleys, and iconic viaducts.
• Convenient package: Includes train tickets, guide, and transportation back to Milan.
• Limited time at stops: Focused mainly on the train journey, with a brief visit to Sankt Moritz.
• All-weather attire recommended: Variable weather conditions mean packing adaptable clothing.
• Tour clarity: The “two routes” phrase may be misleading—this is primarily one scenic train experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Milan

Your day begins early in Milan, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into an air-conditioned vehicle. The journey into Switzerland is smooth, and most travelers appreciate the comfort of the coach, especially after a long flight or morning in Milan. While the tour doesn’t specify hotel pickup, it’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The Albula Line

Once in Switzerland, the real adventure kicks off with the train ride along the Albula Line, celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is the first leg of the famous Glacier Express, known for its engineering brilliance and striking landscapes. As the train departs Chur, the scenery unfolds with lush green valleys dotted with Swiss villages, meandering rivers, and towering mountain peaks.

Travelers will notice the route’s impressive viaducts and tunnels, notably the Landwasser Viaduct, a curved masterpiece spanning a deep gorge that’s frequently photographed. The train then crosses through Bergün, a village renowned for its traditional Swiss architecture and alpine charm. Here, you’ll glimpse the quintessential Swiss mountain town, often described as postcard-perfect.

Ascending the Albula Pass

The train climbs through the Albula Pass, offering jaw-dropping views of forests and rugged peaks. This section is often highlighted in reviews for its scenic beauty, and the panoramic vistas are perfect for snapping photos. The high point of the journey is Preda, the highest stop on this line, before the descent toward Sankt Moritz begins.

The Descent into Sankt Moritz

After reaching Preda, the train winds downward into Sankt Moritz, a luxury resort town that has hosted winter Olympics and is famed for its lakes and mountain scenery. While two hours might seem brief, this stop offers a taste of Swiss elegance, and many travelers enjoy strolling around or just soaking in the views before heading back.

Return to Milan

Post-visit, travelers are transferred back by coach to Milan, completing a full, immersive day of scenic travel. The return journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on the stunning landscapes seen along the way.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

Included in the Price

• Professional guide: Knowledgeable and helpful, guiding you through the day.
• Air-conditioned vehicle: Comfort during the transfer from Milan and back.
• Train tickets (2nd class): For the Albula Line and Bernina routes, ensuring you experience the scenery in comfort.
• Bilingual tour: Usually in English, but check if Spanish is available on your day.

Not Included

• Food and drinks: Pack your own picnic or snacks if you want to dine en route.
• Hotel pickup/drop-off: Not provided, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Additional Considerations

• Weather: Conditions can vary widely—layered clothing is advisable.
• Passport: A valid passport is required since you cross borders.
• Timing: The schedule might shift due to traffic or organizational needs.
• Group size: The tour caps at 50 travelers, keeping it manageable but lively.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

One review points out that the tour is essentially a single scenic train ride, with the “two routes” phrase potentially confusing. You’ll be picked up in Milan and transported to Switzerland, where you’ll experience the Albula Line—a highlight noted for its engineering and views. The tour does not include a separate Bernina Express ride, which might disappoint those expecting two separate train routes.

Another traveler mentions that the experience is overall good but notes that the title can be misleading, clarifying that it’s “a ONE train experience” rather than two. This is an important detail for those hoping for multiple train rides.

The scenic aspect is what stands out most. Reviewers praise the Landwasser Viaduct, the ascent through Albula Pass, and the picturesque villages, which altogether make the journey feel like a moving postcard. Many appreciate the convenience of the guided tour, especially the transportation back to Milan, saving the hassle of logistics.

However, some mention that there’s limited time to explore Sankt Moritz, making this more of a quick scenic highlight than an in-depth visit. Still, for many, that’s enough to justify the cost and effort.

The Value of the Tour

At roughly $163 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Swiss mountain scenery without the need for multiple train tickets or overnight stays. The inclusion of round-trip transportation and a guide adds value, especially for those unfamiliar with Swiss train systems or who want a hassle-free day trip.

The train journey itself, with its panoramic windows and engineering marvels, provides excellent photo opportunities. While short, the stop in Sankt Moritz gives just enough time to enjoy the atmosphere and scenery before heading back.

For train enthusiasts or those seeking a snapshot of Swiss Alps, this tour offers a compelling and convenient option. It’s particularly suited for day-trippers based in Milan wanting a scenic escape or travelers pressed for time but eager to experience iconic Swiss landscapes.

The Sum Up

This tour is a solid choice for those who want a taste of Swiss mountain scenery on a manageable schedule. The focus on the Albula Line means you’ll experience some of the most striking engineering and vistas in the Alps, all with the convenience of guided transport from Milan. If you’re expecting to ride both the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express in one day, note that this is primarily a single scenic train experience with one leg of the Glacier route.

Travelers who love panoramic views, charming villages, and a smooth, guided experience will find this trip offers excellent value. The brief stop in Sankt Moritz is perfect for soaking in the Alpine atmosphere without the commitment of a multi-day stay. Just remember that expectations should be aligned with the fact that this is mainly a scenic train ride, not an extensive Swiss tour.

Overall, whether you’re a train lover, a landscape enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day trip from Milan, this journey offers a satisfying mix of natural beauty and engineering brilliance—at a price that’s reasonable for the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour a combination of two trains?
No, it’s primarily a single scenic train ride along the Albula Line, which is part of the Glacier Express route. The “two routes” in the title can be misleading.

What is included in the tour?
You get train tickets (second class), transportation by coach between Milan and Switzerland, and a professional guide. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

How long is the train ride?
The main train journey along the Albula Line lasts several hours, with a focus on the scenic ascent and descent through the Alps.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Weather can vary significantly in the mountains, so packing versatile, layered clothing is recommended. The tour might be canceled for poor weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Can I expect free time in Sankt Moritz?
The stop is about two hours, offering a chance to explore the town’s lakes and scenery, but not enough for a full sightseeing tour.

Is a passport required?
Yes, a valid passport is necessary since the tour crosses Swiss borders.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you should bring your own snacks or plan to purchase food during the stop.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, ensuring a manageable and social experience.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, travelers are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 49 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this scenic day trip.

In summary, this guided train tour from Milan offers a scenic, straightforward way to experience Swiss mountain beauty and engineering marvels in one day. It’s perfect for those who prioritize ease and comfort, with a focus on spectacular views and memorable landscapes. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just craving a quick escape into the Alps, this trip delivers plenty of visual reward, albeit with some limitations on duration and diversity of stops.