From Milan: Bernina Express Train and St. Moritz Tour

Discover the Scenic Journey from Milan to Switzerland with the Bernina Express and St. Moritz

This 14-hour tour from Milan offers an unforgettable journey into the Swiss Alps, combining bus travel, a scenic train ride, and free time in the elegant town of St. Moritz. For $129 per person, you get to enjoy the spectacular Bernina Express, renowned for its panoramic windows and thrilling route through some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. The experience is ideal for those who love stunning mountain views, lake scenery, and charming Swiss towns.

While the tour promises remarkable vistas and a relaxed pace, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight issues with seat allocation and transportation reliability. Still, the overall experience remains a solid choice for adventure seekers and scenery lovers, especially if you appreciate cultural stops and delicious Swiss chocolates.

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Key Points

• Includes round-trip bus transportation from Milan and second class Bernina Express tickets.
• Travel time is approximately 14 hours with free time in St. Moritz.
• Scenic route features Alpine lakes, mountains, and charming towns like Tirano.
• Panoramic train carriage offers open windows for great photo opportunities.
• Stops in Tirano and St. Moritz allow for self-guided exploration.
• Not included: food and drinks, so bring cash or credit card for meals.

From Milan to Tirano: The Journey Begins with Comfort

The tour departs from Bergamo, Milan, or Lecco, with early start times around 6:10 AM to 7:55 AM. After gathering, the bus ride to Tirano lasts about 2 hours, providing a comfortable window to admire the passing scenery or prepare for the scenic train leg.

This initial leg sets the tone for the day, as the bus crosses Italian landscapes before entering Switzerland. Travelers are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, jackets, and cameras to make the most of the sightseeing stops and panoramic views ahead. The meeting points vary depending on the booking option, so travelers should confirm their exact location in advance.

Tirano: Brief Stop in a Swiss-Italian Town

In Tirano, the group has about 30 minutes to explore this historic town. Known for its scenic beauty and Italian influence, Tirano serves as the gateway to the Bernina Express route. During this stop, visitors can walk around, take photos of the town’s architecture, or browse local shops. It is a good moment to buy Swiss chocolates or souvenirs before boarding the train for the next leg, which lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Riding the Bernina Express: Panoramic Views and Unique Carriage Experience

The highlight of the tour is the Bernina Express, a famous red train celebrated for its panoramic windows and open carriage design. The train travels along second class reserved seats, which feature large, panoramic windows that can be opened, allowing passengers to feel the mountain air and capture striking photos.

Travelers get to see Alpine lakes, white lakes, and sweeping mountain vistas as the train winds through the Swiss Alps. The route is carefully crafted to showcase scenic drives, mountain passes, and picturesque valleys. The train ride itself lasts about 2.5 hours, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the stunning landscape and make memories with photos.

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Arriving in St. Moritz: Free Time to Explore and Shop

Once in St. Moritz, the tour offers approximately 2.5 hours for self-guided exploration. This elegant town sits at 1,856 meters above sea level and features luxurious shops, cafés, and scenic spots around the Engadine lakes. Visitors are free to walk around, take photos, and enjoy lunch at their own pace.

The town’s reputation as a glamorous destination makes it perfect for those interested in shopping, strolling, or simply soaking up the mountain atmosphere. It is also an excellent opportunity to taste Swiss chocolates, which are available for purchase, adding a sweet touch to the experience.

The Return Journey: Same Route Back to Milan

After spending time in St. Moritz, the group boards the bus for the return trip to Milan, which takes about 3 hours. The journey back offers more scenic views, with some reviews noting that driving through mountain curves can be a bit unsettling for sensitive travelers, and the driver’s speed might cause discomfort.

The tour concludes at the original departure points, with drop-off locations in Bergamo, Milan, or Lecco. Be sure to confirm your pickup spot and consider the long day ahead when planning your evening.

Seat Class and Train Carriage Details

The Bernina Express reservation is in second class, which features reserved seats and large panoramic windows that open, allowing travelers to stick their heads out for incredible photos. Many agree that second class offers better value than first class, which has larger windows but fixed panes and higher prices.

The train’s design enhances the scenic experience, but some reviews mention dissatisfaction when passengers find themselves in non-panoramic, non-opening windows—so paying attention to seat allocation is advisable.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, cash or credit card for purchases, and a jacket for the train ride. Since food and drinks are not included, packing snacks or buying chocolates in Tirano can keep energy levels up.

Travelers should also check seasonal temperatures and dress appropriately, especially in colder months. The early departure times mean you should be prepared for a long day, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or recent surgery.

Potential Challenges and Notable Limitations

Some reviews highlight seat allocation issues and displeasure with the transport experience. For example, some passengers felt their seats were assigned unfairly or could not access the panoramic windows they expected.

There are also reports of driver misnavigation and speeding, which could impact the comfort of the return trip. It’s recommended to read the terms carefully and be prepared for a busy, sometimes imperfect, but still rewarding, day out.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for scenery enthusiasts, photographers, and luxury shopping fans who want a full-day Swiss adventure from Milan. It suits those who enjoy train rides and lake views, and don’t mind a long day with some logistical hiccups.

It is less suitable for families with mobility limitations or people seeking a more relaxed pace without early mornings or travel days. But overall, the spectacular landscape and the charm of St. Moritz make it a memorable trip.

Final Thoughts on the Bernina Express and St. Moritz Tour from Milan

This 14-hour excursion offers a rich mix of mountain scenery, historic towns, and luxurious alpine atmosphere. The Bernina Express stands out as a key highlight, especially with its open panoramic windows and scenic route through the Swiss Alps.

While some logistical issues have been noted, the overall experience remains compelling for those interested in mountain landscapes and Swiss culture. For $129, this tour presents a practical way to see Switzerland without overnight stays, making it an attractive option for day travelers with an appetite for beautiful vistas and charming towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bernina Express ticket included in the tour price?
Yes, the Bernina Express second class ticket is included as part of the package.

Can I choose my seat on the train?
Seats are reserved in second class, but some reviews indicate that seat allocation may be pre-assigned, with better views in certain areas.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The scenic train ride along the Bernina Express route, with open windows for photos and mountain air, is the standout feature.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring snacks or plan to buy in Tirano or St. Moritz.

How long is the train ride on the Bernina Express?
The train ride lasts about 2.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the views.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or recent surgeries.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, cash or credit card, a jacket, and charged smartphone.

What time does the tour start and end?
Departure times vary from 6:10 AM to 7:55 AM, and the total duration is about 14 hours.

Will I have free time in St. Moritz?
Yes, approximately 2.5 hours allow for exploration, shopping, and photos.

What if I want a quieter train experience?
Choosing second class offers reserved seats with panoramic, open windows, which many find more enjoyable than first class options.

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