Milan: Bernina and Glacier Train Tickets & Sankt Moritz Tour

A full-day adventure from Milan to the Swiss Alps, the Milan: Bernina and Glacier Train Tickets & Sankt Moritz Tour offers a unique way to experience some of Europe’s most breathtaking railway routes. With a 12 to 13-hour duration, this tour takes you through iconic landscapes aboard the Bernina Red train and the Albula Railway—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting with a comfortable coach transfer from Milan, the trip culminates in a visit to the glamorous Sankt Moritz, where you get a taste of alpine luxury. The tour includes stops at Landwasser Viaduct, Bergün, and Preda, with views that impress even seasoned travelers.

While the scenery and engineering marvels shine brightly, some reviews point out that the long bus ride can be tiring, and organization may vary. Still, this tour remains an excellent choice for those eager to see Swiss mountains and historic railways in one day, especially if you appreciate panoramic train journeys and stunning alpine vistas.

Key Points

• Includes scenic train rides on the famous Bernina and Albula lines, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Visit to Sankt Moritz, called the “Top of the World”, with free time to explore the luxury resort town
• Tour duration spans 12 to 13 hours, starting early from Milan
• Comfortable coach transfer from Milan to St. Moritz and back
• Highlights include crossing the Landwasser Viaduct and passing through charming Swiss villages like Bergün
• Guided experience available in English and Spanish, with knowledgeable guides

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From Milan to the Swiss Alps: Convenient Coach Transfers

This tour begins with a coach pickup from Milan, with four possible meeting points, including the Zani Viaggi Meeting Point and Milan Visitor Center. The coach ride lasts approximately 3.5 hours each way, transporting travelers through scenic landscapes toward the Swiss border.

Despite some comments about the length of the bus ride, the coach offers a relaxed way to reach the mountain railways without the hassle of driving. The transfer is designed to maximize comfort, ensuring you arrive refreshed for the sightseeing ahead.

The return journey mirrors the outbound trip, with drop-off points in Milan, providing convenient access to the city’s main areas. This makes the tour suitable for those staying centrally in Milan and wanting a full-day escape into the mountains.

Exploring St. Moritz: The “Top of the World” Experience

Once in St. Moritz, the tour offers two hours of free time to wander this world-famous resort town. Known for its luxury hotels, upscale shops, and lakeside vistas, St. Moritz provides a perfect place to relax or snap photos of the surrounding peaks.

The town’s reputation as a winter sports hub is complemented by its charming streets and scenic lakes, making it an easy highlight of the trip. Though free time is limited, it still allows a quick stroll through the elegant streets or a coffee break with mountain views.

This visit suits those interested in seeing Swiss luxury and alpine scenery without needing an overnight stay. It’s a chance to experience the elegance and natural beauty that draw visitors from around the world.

Riding the Bernina Red Train Along Swiss Mountain Vistas

The Bernina line is renowned for its spectacular scenery, and riding its red train is a key feature of this tour. The train winds through lush valleys, across high mountain passes, and past picturesque villages, offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

The journey includes crossing the Landwasser Viaduct, an architectural highlight where the train curves over a deep gorge. This crossing is a visual highlight and a favorite among travelers, thanks to its impressive design and dramatic setting.

The train continues through regions like Bergün and Preda, where traditional Swiss architecture and alpine landscapes combine. The entire train ride lasts about 2 hours, delivering unforgettable vistas and engineering marvels.

This part of the tour is ideal for rail enthusiasts and those seeking stunning mountain scenery from the comfort of a vintage train.

The Albula Railway: A UNESCO Heritage Route

Following the Bernina line, the Albula Railway forms the first part of the Glacier line—another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This route takes travelers through gorges, valleys, and charming Swiss villages, with the train climbing through the Albula Pass.

The journey offers spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and forests, with the train passing through tunnels and bridges that showcase Swiss engineering prowess. The highest point on this route is Preda, where the train pauses briefly.

The route then begins a scenic descent toward Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, or Thusis, depending on the itinerary. The ride provides a rich visual experience of Swiss alpine architecture and natural beauty.

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Crossing the Landwasser Viaduct: A Scenic Engineering Marvel

One of the most striking sights of this tour is the Landwasser Viaduct. The train crosses this impressive curved structure over a deep gorge, providing breathtaking views of the landscape below.

This viaduct is a highlight for many travelers due to its architectural design and the dramatic setting amidst mountains and forests. The crossing is about 2 hours into the train journey and offers some of the most memorable moments on the route.

Photographers and scenery lovers will appreciate the opportunity to see this engineering masterpiece up close, complemented by the surrounding natural scenery.

Visiting Bergün and Preda: Swiss Villages on a Scenic Route

The train passes through Bergün, a village known for its traditional Swiss architecture and alpine charm. The village offers a glimpse into local Swiss life and architecture, making it a worthwhile stop during the journey.

Preda is the highest point on the Albula line, and the train pauses here before beginning its descent. The area offers panoramic mountain views and serves as a significant point in the scenic railway route.

Both stops give travelers a chance to see authentic Swiss villages, with Bergün especially noted for its picturesque setting and traditional buildings.

Returning to Milan: End of the Scenic Mountain Journey

After completing the scenic train rides and the visit to Sankt Moritz, the coach departs from Thusis or Chur, depending on the route. The 3.5-hour return trip takes travelers back across the Swiss border to Milan.

This part of the day can be long, but the memories of the train rides and alpine scenery make it worth it. The tour concludes at designated drop-off points in Milan, making it convenient for travelers to continue their journey in the city.

Honest Look at the Tour: Strengths and Limitations

This tour shines in its combination of stunning scenery, historic railways, and the visit to Sankt Moritz. The guides’ knowledge and the panoramic train routes are frequently praised, offering a memorable day in the Swiss Alps.

However, some reviews note that the long coach ride can be tiring, and organization may vary, leading to moments of confusion or dissatisfaction. It’s also worth noting that the itinerary may not include a visit to Chur, despite some expectations, which could be a disappointment for some travelers.

This tour offers an immersive experience of Swiss mountain landscapes and iconic railways, best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and eager to see some of Europe’s most scenic railway routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, including coach transfers, train rides, and free time in Sankt Moritz.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at one of four meeting points in Milan, including the Zani Viaggi Meeting Point and Milan Visitor Center, with drop-offs in the same locations after returning from Switzerland.

What trains are involved in this tour?
The tour features the Bernina Red train on the Bernina line and the Albula Railway, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering panoramic mountain views.

How long is the train journey on the Bernina line?
The train ride along the Bernina line lasts about 2 hours, crossing notable sights such as the Landwasser Viaduct.

What are the main highlights in Sankt Moritz?
You get two hours of free time to explore the town known as the “Top of the World”, famous for luxury, lakes, and mountain scenery.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves some walking and comfort with a lengthy coach ride. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic train journeys and are prepared for a full day.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and Spanish, providing informative commentary during the trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring on the day?
Comfortable clothing, a camera for photos, and perhaps a light snack or drink for the coach rides are recommended.

Is food available during the tour?
The data does not specify meal options, but the free time in Sankt Moritz allows for personal dining or refreshments.

Are there any known issues with the organization?
Some reviews mention that the trip can feel disorganized at times, and the bus ride might be lengthy for some, so flexibility and patience are advisable.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see Swiss mountain railways and scenery in a single day. Its strengths lie in the spectacular train routes and the chance to visit Sankt Moritz, though the long coach journey and occasional organizational hiccups are worth considering.

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