Tour Bernina Red Train And St Moritz from Milan

Experience the Scenic Beauty of the Bernina Red Train from Milan for $142.19

This day trip from Milan costs $142.19 per person and lasts approximately 13 hours. It combines coach transport, a round-trip Bernina Red Train ticket, and visits to Tirano and St. Moritz, offering a convenient way to explore the Swiss-Italian Alps. The tour is operated by AUTOSTRADALE VIAGGI SRL and is perfect for those eager to see stunning mountain landscapes without the hassle of planning complicated logistics.

The trip features a professional bilingual guide and headphones for easy listening, ensuring clear explanations throughout. You can also opt to add a Lake Como cruise for an extra touch of luxury. With high praise for its organization and scenic views, this tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Alpine elegance.

Key Points

• Price of $142.19 includes coach transport, train tickets, and guided tours
• Duration of about 13 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening return
• Visit Tirano, a charming border town with a historic basilica
• Ride the Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz, reaching an altitude of 7,390 feet, on a UNESCO-listed route
• Option to cruise Lake Como or explore St. Moritz at leisure
• Guided in English and Spanish, with headphones for clear narration

Starting Point and Morning Pickup in Milan

The tour departs from Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, near the Gallia Hotel. Travelers meet 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure timely boarding. The comfortable air-conditioned coach takes you on a scenic drive toward the Swiss border, setting the tone for a day of stunning views and smooth logistics.

The early start allows for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The coach trip is designed to maximize time in each destination, with rest stops along the way to stretch and take photos. Since food and drink are not allowed on the bus, bringing snacks or eating beforehand is recommended.

Exploring Tirano: Italy’s Alpine Gateway

The first stop is Tirano, a picturesque border town famous for its 16th-century basilica, the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano. This stop lasts about two hours, giving ample time to explore the charming streets, admire the historic architecture, or visit the basilica. The town provides a scenic Italian alpine setting that feels like a step back in time.

This visit offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the quiet beauty of Tirano before boarding the train. The basilica, standing at the border, is a notable highlight for architecture and history buffs. The stop is well-organized, allowing enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Riding the Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz

The core experience is the Bernina Red Train, a second-class ticket that allows open windows for photos on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed route. The train climbs up to 7,390 feet, making it the highest point reached by trains in Europe. The journey passes through alpine valleys, crossing the Maloja Pass and showcasing spectacular mountain panoramas.

This train ride is praised for its breathtaking scenery, with reviews mentioning how the views resemble a postcard. The train’s panoramic windows and the ability to open the second-class windows give unobstructed photo opportunities of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. The train trip is designed to be comfortable and scenic, ideal for photography and appreciating nature’s grandeur.

Free Time in St. Moritz: Luxury and Leisure

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you gain about two hours to explore this luxury alpine resort town. Visitors can stroll along the lake, known for its chic atmosphere and stunning vistas, or visit the boutique shops. The town’s sophisticated charm is evident in its architecture, cafes, and high-end stores.

The free time allows for a relaxed visit, with suggestions to enjoy the scenery or indulge in some window shopping. The tour ensures enough flexibility to accommodate different interests, whether you prefer sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing by the lake.

Optional Lake Como Cruise

Travelers who select the Lake Como option experience a cruise on the famous lake during the return journey. This extra activity is highly praised in reviews, with many noting it as a delightful addition to the trip. The cruise offers scenic views of lakeside villas, lush gardens, and charming towns.

The cruise lasts about an hour, providing a peaceful and luxurious way to end the day. This optional upgrade is a popular choice for those wanting a touch of elegance and a different perspective of the region’s beauty.

Journey Over the Maloja Pass and Return to Milan

The Maloja Pass marks the return route from St. Moritz back to Milan. The bus journey along this route lasts about two hours and showcases sweeping mountain vistas. The winding roads reveal the rugged beauty of the Swiss Alps, with many stops for photos and appreciation.

The tour concludes back at the Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, typically in the evening. The entire experience offers a well-paced mix of scenic train rides, charming towns, and alpine vistas, making it a comprehensive day trip.

Practical Details: Transport, Guides, and Group Size

The tour is operated with a professional bilingual guide, who explains the sights in English and Spanish. Guests are provided with headphones to listen clearly during explanations. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

The coach is air-conditioned, and the tour includes admission tickets for the train and attractions. You should bring your passport or European ID for border crossings, and be prepared for all weather conditions, especially winter.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Since food and drinks are not allowed on the bus, bringing snacks for the journey is wise. The train ride in second class allows you to open windows for photos but does not offer first-class panoramic carriages. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early for departure to avoid missing the bus.

The tour is praised for its organization and timeliness, though some reviewers note that the day can feel rushed, especially if you want more time in St. Moritz or Tirano. The guided narration is generally well-received, with many mentioning the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides.

Final Thoughts on the Bernina Red Train and St. Moritz Day Trip

This 13-hour tour offers a great combination of scenic train rides, charming towns, and mountain vistas all in one day. It provides an excellent way for travelers based in Milan to experience Swiss Alps without complicated planning. The optional Lake Como cruise adds an extra layer of luxury, making the trip even more memorable.

While the tour is well-organized and praised for its stunning views, the second-class train tickets and tight schedule may not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace. The scenic train ride and free time in St. Moritz are highlights that make this trip worthwhile for lovers of nature and stylish mountain resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers coach transport, second-class train tickets, a bilingual guide, headphones, and admission to stops like Tirano and St. Moritz.

Can I upgrade to first class on the train?
No, the train tickets are second class only, but you can open windows for photos during the ride.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the trip is family-friendly, especially with the scenic train ride and relaxed stops.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring passport or European ID, warm clothing for cold weather, snacks (since food isn’t allowed on the bus), and camera for photos.

Is the Lake Como cruise included?
The cruise is an optional upgrade and must be selected when booking.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; however, if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How long do I have in St. Moritz?
You get around two hours for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing by the lake.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride from Tirano to St. Moritz takes approximately 2 hours.

Are there rest stops during the coach journey?
Yes, the coach makes stops for rest and photo opportunities along the route.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start; within 24 hours, the full amount is non-refundable.