From Milan: Bernina Express and St. Moritz Day Tour

Experience the Swiss Alps with the From Milan: Bernina Express and St. Moritz Day Tour for $141 per person, lasting approximately 8.5 hours.
This tour offers a chance to explore St. Moritz, the renowned alpine resort, along with a scenic ride aboard the Bernina Express, one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys. It includes round-trip bus transportation from Milan to Tirano and St. Moritz, with free time in the luxurious mountain town.

While the tour promises awe-inspiring vistas and Swiss elegance, reviews indicate that the experience can vary, especially regarding the itinerary fulfillment. It’s best suited for those eager to combine natural beauty with Swiss style, and who are comfortable with bus and train travel lasting several hours.

Key Points

• Price of $141 per person includes train tickets and transportation.
• Travel duration from Milan to St. Moritz is approximately 8.5 hours in total.
• The Bernina Express offers one of the most scenic train rides through the Alps.
• Free time in St. Moritz allows for sightseeing and lunch.
• Guided support in English and Spanish helps with boarding and logistics.
• Some reviews note issues with itinerary fulfillment and guide punctuality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Transportation from Milan to the Swiss Alps

The tour departs from Piazza IV Novembre, a central location near the Hotel Gallia. The journey begins with a bus ride lasting about 3 hours from Milan, taking travelers across the border into Switzerland. The bus service is included, making the trip convenient and removing the stress of organizing separate transport.

After arriving at Tirano, the tour transitions to the Bernina Express, a special panoramic train with large windows designed for optimal views of the Alps. The train ride from Saint Moritz to Tirano lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering sweeping vistas of mountain peaks, glaciers, and valleys. The bus then returns to Milan, with a total travel time of roughly 8.5 hours.

Scenic Highlights of the Bernina Express

The Bernina Express is the star of this trip, renowned for its stunning alpine scenery. Passengers enjoy seats in panoramic train cars, specially reserved for optimal sightseeing. The route crosses the Swiss Engadine valley, passes through the Bernina Range, and offers views of glacial lakes, mountain peaks, and charming villages.

The train’s design emphasizes uninterrupted vistas, making it a highlight for lovers of scenic train journeys. However, some reviews mention that the train used may sometimes be a regular train instead of the panoramic version, which could impact the expected sightseeing experience.

Free Time and Activities in St. Moritz

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, the tour provides about 2 hours of free time in this famous luxury resort town. During this period, visitors can explore the town, enjoy lunch, or take in the upscale shops and scenic surroundings. The guide offers a guided tour of the area to help visitors discover points of interest.

It’s a chance to experience Swiss elegance firsthand, with opportunities for photos of lake views, walking along the promenades, or simply relaxing in the alpine atmosphere. The lunch availability is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The Itinerary and Stops: A Closer Look

• Starting at Piazza IV Novembre, travelers board the bus for the 3-hour ride to Tirano.
• In Tirano, the tour includes a guided tour and free time lasting about 3.83 hours.
• The scenic train ride from Saint Moritz to Tirano takes 2.5 hours, showcasing spectacular mountain scenery.
• The return bus ride to Milan spans about 3 hours.
• The entire day wraps up back at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan.

Each stop emphasizes spectacular views and the opportunity to experience Swiss culture and landscape. However, some reviews suggest that the promised itinerary may not always be fully adhered to, with instances of the train journey being replaced by a regular train and skipping some stops.

More Great Tours Nearby

Logistics and Practical Considerations

The tour relies on bus and train transportation, with round-trip travel included. Participants need to bring a passport or valid ID, especially for non-EU travelers. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with altitude sickness due to the mountain elevations.

Meeting points are close to Hotel Gallia, with the activity ending at the same location. The tour offers live guides in English and Spanish, aiding with boarding and providing explanations. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for travelers.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $141 per person, the tour provides train tickets, bus transportation, and guided support. The inclusion of the Bernina Express makes it a unique opportunity to see the Swiss Alps from a panoramic train car, a feature that costs more if booked separately.

However, some reviews warn that the actual experience may fall short of expectations, especially if the train used is a regular train rather than the panoramic version, or if parts of the itinerary are skipped. Despite this, the overall scenery and the chance to relax in St. Moritz are notable benefits.

Limitations and Critical Feedback

Some guests describe the experience as disappointing, citing guide lateness, poor communication, and failure to fulfill the promised itinerary. One review reports taking a regular train instead of the panoramic Bernina Express, with the high ticket prices not reflecting the actual experience.

Travelers should manage expectations and understand that the itinerary might be reversed or altered for operational reasons. It’s especially important to verify if the train journey will be the panoramic version advertised.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits those eager to see the Swiss Alps and enjoy luxury mountain scenery, especially if they want the convenience of organized transportation. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic train rides and free time in St. Moritz, although those seeking a fully guaranteed Bernina Express experience should verify the train type beforehand.

The tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or altitude sickness, and food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy in St. Moritz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include the panoramic Bernina Express train?
The tour promises access to the Bernina Express, but some reviews mention that a regular train may be used instead, which could impact the scenic experience.

How long is the bus ride from Milan to Tirano?
The bus ride lasts approximately 3 hours, crossing the border into Switzerland.

What time should I arrive at the meeting point?
It’s best to arrive at Piazza IV Novembre, near Hotel Gallia, in time for the scheduled start, as the tour begins promptly.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to eat in St. Moritz or bring snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with altitude sickness; children should be prepared for long travel hours.

What language support is available during the tour?
The live tour guide provides explanations in English and Spanish.

What should I bring?
A passport or valid ID is necessary for border crossing.

What if I want to book and pay later?
You can reserve now and pay later, allowing flexibility in planning your trip.

Are there any reviews mentioning the scenery?
Yes, despite some negative feedback, many acknowledge that the scenery during the train ride is spectacular, especially if the panoramic train is used.

What are some potential drawbacks of this tour?
Some reviews warn about guides arriving late, not fulfilling the full itinerary, or using regular trains rather than the panoramic version, which may disappoint travelers expecting a more luxurious experience.

This tour offers an accessible way to enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps with organized transport and guided support. While the scenery can be breathtaking, potential travelers should be aware that it may not always match the advertised experience. Nonetheless, free time in St. Moritz and the spectacular train ride remain key highlights worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby