From Como – Alpine Wonders Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina Train

From Como – Alpine Wonders Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina Train: A Practical, Authentic Mountain Escape

If you’re looking to add a high-altitude adventure to your Lake Como trip, this tour offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery and cultural experience. This full-day excursion takes you from the charming lakeside town of Como into the Swiss Alps, with highlights including a cable car ride to Diavolezza, an Alpine lunch, and a scenic ride on the Bernina Express. While the experience can be long and somewhat structured, the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides make it worthwhile.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with easy-to-follow logistics. The included cable car trip to Diavolezza offers sweeping vistas of glaciers and peaks, and the Bernina train journey showcases some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes—all in one day. Plus, the presence of a friendly, experienced guide enhances the experience by providing insights into the sights.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s pace can be quite tight, especially for those who prefer more time at each stop. Also, the price point might seem high for some, but when you factor in all transportation, meals, and panoramic views, it does offer good value.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic journeys, appreciate expert commentary, and want to tick off a Swiss Alps experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after an authentic adventure that combines mountain majesty with ease of access, this could be a good fit.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of glaciers, peaks, and valleys from both the cable car and train.
• Inclusive Experience: The ticket price covers transportation, meals, and guided commentary.
• Authentic Alpine Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Diavolezza Lodge, typically featuring local dishes like Pizzoccheri.
• Unesco-listed Landscapes: The Bernina Express offers a scenic journey through a World Heritage site.
• Group Size: The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, balancing sociability with comfort.
• Guide Expertise: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, adding context to the sights.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

How the Tour Starts and Ends

The day kicks off at the B&B HOTEL Como City Center, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The tour wraps up back at the same meeting point after a full day of mountain and train adventures. The transportation is by GT Bus, a reliable way to cover the distance comfortably, letting you relax rather than worry about driving.

The Journey to Diavolezza

The highlight for many is the cable car ride from Como to Diavolezza. As you ascend nearly 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet), you’ll get a sense of how dramatic the landscape change is—lush lakes and valleys give way to rugged, snow-capped peaks. The cable car ticket is included, and the ascent takes around two hours—plenty of time to soak in the views and snap photos.

Reviewers have praised the guide’s knowledge, noting that Monica, in particular, shared interesting tidbits that enriched the experience. Kathleen R. summed it up, saying, “We felt like we were on top of the world. The weather was great, and the lunch was delicious.” Expect to see the Morteratsch Glacier and a breathtaking panorama that makes the climb worthwhile.

The Alpine Lunch at Diavolezza Lodge

Once at the top, you’ll enjoy a lunch at the Diavolezza Lodge, situated at a vantage point with commanding views of the Swiss Alps. It’s a chance to savor local cuisine while admiring glaciers and mountain peaks. The included meal often features Pizzoccheri, a hearty Swiss-Italian pasta dish, which reviewers found both tasty and filling.

The Bernina Express Journey

After lunch, the tour continues aboard the famous Bernina Red Train. This route is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering one of Europe’s most scenic train rides. The large panoramic windows let you fully appreciate the snow-blanketed mountains, shimmering glaciers, and quaint villages along the way.

The journey from Diavolezza to Tirano lasts about two hours. Highlights include crossing the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters, passing Lake Bianco, and traversing iconic bridges. The train’s design maximizes your view, making it a favorite part of the trip for many travelers.

The Return to Como

After arriving in Tirano, your group will board a bus for the return leg back to Como. The entire experience spans roughly 12 to 13 hours, so it’s a full day, but packed with memorable sights.

Analyzing the Value

At $226.29 per person, this tour covers quite a bit—transport, cable car, train, and lunch. When considering that the Bernina Express alone is a premium experience, plus the guided commentary and convenience, the price is reasonable. It eliminates the hassle of booking separate tickets and navigating public transport on your own.

However, the length of the day might be a consideration if you prefer more relaxed, flexible sightseeing. Some reviewers mentioned the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want more time at each spot. Also, the group size maxes out at 50, which balances social interaction with comfort but means it’s not a super intimate experience.

The Guides and Reviews

Guides receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge. Kathleen R. highlighted Monica’s expertise, which added a lot of value. Tour reviews mention that the views are truly spectacular and that the ascent is worth every minute.

What Might Be Missing

While the tour is comprehensive, some travelers could find the included meals and stops somewhat limited—if you’re a foodie, you might crave additional dining options or longer exploration time. Also, because the experience is structured, it might not appeal to those seeking spontaneous adventures.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers eager to see the Swiss Alps without the need to organize transportation or deals. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic train journeys, spectacular mountain vistas, and guided experiences that enrich the sightseeing.

It’s also great for visitors who enjoy mountain scenery and are comfortable with a full, potentially tiring day. If you’re traveling with family or friends who want a hassle-free way to tick off the Alps from their bucket list, this tour has the structure and highlights to deliver.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Swiss mountain beauty, combining a cable car ascent with a scenic train ride through UNESCO-listed landscapes. The inclusion of a traditional Alpine lunch adds a cultural touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Guides like Monica help elevate the experience with their expertise, and the panoramic views are genuinely stunning.

While the day’s pace can be brisk, the overall value is solid—transport, meals, and immersive views included. It’s best suited for travelers who want a curated, impactful mountain adventure with minimal fuss.

If your goal is to see iconic Swiss landscapes, enjoy expert narration, and have a memorable day away from the lakeside, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your transportation from Como to Diavolezza, the Bernina train ride, and the return bus are all included.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, making it a full-day commitment.

What’s the meal like at Diavolezza?
You’ll enjoy an included lunch at the lodge, typically featuring local dishes such as Pizzoccheri—hearty and satisfying, with a view.

Are guides available to explain the sights?
Yes, the tour provides an English and Italian-speaking guide who shares insights throughout the day.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, balancing social interaction with comfort.

Do I need my passport?
Yes, you should bring your original passport or an equivalent valid document for identification purposes.

This outing offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, ease of access, and cultural flavor. Perfect for those wanting a taste of Swiss Alpine grandeur with the convenience of guided logistics.