Lake Como, Swiss Alps and Bernina train. From Milan

Discover the Beauty of the Swiss Alps and Lake Como on a Day Trip from Milan

This full-day tour offers an excellent way to explore some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of planning. For $203.19 per person, travelers enjoy around 13 hours of sightseeing, including guided visits, round-trip transfers, and an iconic train ride on the Bernina Express. The tour departs from Milan’s central meeting point at Hotel Gallia and takes you through Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the Bernina mountain railway. While the itinerary can start or end in Tirano instead of St. Moritz, most travelers find the journey seamlessly smooth and highly scenic.

A standout feature is the train ride on the Bernina Express, known as the highest train in Europe, which offers uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The tour also includes a visit to Lake Como with leisure time for photos, shopping, or sampling desserts. Guided by knowledgeable leaders, this trip is ideal for those eager for a taste of Switzerland’s natural beauty paired with Italian charm.

Key Points

• Price: $203.19 per person for a full-day experience
• Duration: About 13 hours, with flexible start and end times
• Includes: Round-trip transfers, train tickets, guided tours, free time in Lake Como
• Highlights: Scenic train journey on the Bernina Express, visits to Lake Como and St. Moritz or Tirano
• Notes: No hotel drop-off or pick-up; weather-dependent; most suitable for travelers comfortable with long days of sightseeing

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Milan

The tour begins at Piazza Duca d’Aosta 9, at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, where you meet your group. From here, an air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away on the approximately 1-hour drive to Lake Como. The transfers are included, and the group size is limited to 35 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The tour includes round-trip transfers, meaning the journey back to Milan concludes at the same meeting point, with no hotel drop-off or pick-up.

Travelers should note that the duration of transfers is approximate and depends on traffic and weather conditions. The tour operates in all weather, so dressing appropriately is advisable, especially for the mountain railway segments. Children are welcome when accompanied by adults, but pets are not permitted on this tour.

Visiting Lake Como: The Charm of Lecco and the Lakeside Views

The day kicks off with a scenic drive through the landscape of Lake Como, one of Italy’s most famous lakes. The stop involves visiting Lecco, a town located on the southeastern branch of Lake Como, where visitors walk along the lake promenade. This creates an excellent opportunity to snap photos of pristine waters and surrounding mountains.

The itinerary also mentions that the stop could be in another village on Lake Como, giving some flexibility depending on the day’s schedule. With about one hour allocated for this leg of the trip, travelers can enjoy the calm beauty of the lakeside, explore local shops, or sample desserts. The admission is free, focusing on outdoor sightseeing and leisure.

Experience the Maloja Pass and the Scenic Transition to Switzerland

After Lake Como, the tour continues through the Maloja Pass, a mountain route that marks the transition from Italy into Switzerland. This segment offers glimpses of the mountain scenery that sets the stage for the next major highlight: St. Moritz and Tirano. The pass itself is known for its dramatic landscapes and winding roads, making it a favorite for photography and sightseeing.

Travellers should prepare for some hairpin turns and elevations reaching up to 2,253 meters, the highest point reached by a train in Europe during the Bernina Express ride. The pass offers a change of scenery from lakes to mountain slopes, reinforcing the impression of traveling through the diversity of nature in a single day.

The Bernina Express: The Most Beautiful Train Journey in the Alps

The Bernina Express, often called the highest train in Europe, is a key feature of this tour. During this scenic ride, travelers enjoy second class tickets with openable windows, which allow for unobstructed views and great photo opportunities. The route climbs slopes of 70 per thousand as it ascends to 2,253 meters, weaving through spectacular mountain scenery.

Described by many reviews as the most beautiful train in the world, the Bernina train offers a breathtaking perspective of the Swiss Alps. The train is well-known for its diversity of landscapes, from glaciers and snowy peaks to lush valleys and charming villages. This segment typically lasts around two hours, providing plenty of time to marvel at the mountain vistas and take photos.

St. Moritz or Tirano: Exploring Swiss Elegance or Alpine Charm

Depending on the schedule, the tour arrives either in St. Moritz or Tirano in the evening. In St. Moritz, you can stroll through its luxurious streets and admire the discerning atmosphere of this renowned Swiss resort town. It’s perfect for sampling desserts or doing some shopping. The town is known for its chalets, upscale shops, and spectacular mountain backdrop.

If the itinerary concludes in Tirano, travelers can enjoy the gorgeous architecture of its historic church and explore a smaller, more traditional Italian mountain town. The free time in Tirano is an opportunity to experience the local culture before heading back to Milan.

Returning to Milan in the Evening

The tour concludes with a return journey to Milan, arriving back at the original meeting point in Piazza Duca d’Aosta. The scheduled arrival time is in the evening, allowing for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The program may be inverted, so the sequence of stops can change based on logistical needs, but the overall experience remains consistent.

Travelers should be aware that the tour does not include hotel drop-off or pick-up, so planning transportation from the meeting point is recommended. The long day of travel and sightseeing makes this tour best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule.

The Tour Experience: Guides, Comfort, and Flexibility

This tour is led by a professional tour leader who is praised for their knowledge and helpfulness in reviews. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers, and the second-class train tickets provide an authentic rail experience with openable windows.

While the itinerary may be inverted or slightly modified, the core highlights — lakes, mountains, and scenic train rides — remain unchanged. The tour is designed to offer ample free time in Lake Como but notes that there is no guaranteed free time in St. Moritz, so the focus is on sightseeing and the train journey.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those seeking scenic beauty and unique train rides. It suits travelers comfortable with a full day of activity and long transfers, as the itinerary spans multiple locations and mountain routes. The guided nature and small group size (max 35 people) foster a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for families, couples, or friends eager for a mountain adventure with minimal planning.

Final Thoughts on the Swiss Alps, Lake Como, and Bernina Express Tour

This full-day trip from Milan offers a beautiful combination of lakes, mountains, and iconic rail travel. The Bernina Express stands out as a highlight, providing breathtaking views and a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the highest train in Europe. The inclusion of free time in Lake Como and the charm of St. Moritz or Tirano add variety and local flavor.

While it doesn’t include hotel transfers or extensive free time in St. Moritz, the tour’s value lies in the scenery and the seamless logistics. It suits those who want an efficient yet in-depth look at the Swiss Alps paired with Italian lakeside scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transfers from Milan, second-class train tickets with openable windows, a professional guide, and free time in Lake Como.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; travelers should plan to purchase meals or snacks during free time.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately for mountain weather.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Will I have free time in St. Moritz?
No, free time in St. Moritz is not guaranteed; the schedule focuses on sightseeing and the train journey.

What is the maximum group size?
The group is limited to 35 travelers for a more comfortable experience.

Is there a hotel drop-off?
No, the tour does not include hotel drop-off or pick-up. The return is back at the original meeting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start.

Where do I meet the tour guide in Milan?
At Piazza Duca d’Aosta 9, at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia.