From Como: St. Moritz and Tirano Trip with Bernina Express

From Como: St. Moritz and Tirano Trip with Bernina Express

This full-day tour from Como offers a chance to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Swiss Alps. For $199 per person, travelers enjoy 13 hours of scenic travel, including a ride in the guaranteed panoramic carriage of the Bernina Express. The trip combines comfortable bus transfers, a scenic train journey, and free time in St. Moritz and Tirano, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Swiss Alps experience in one day.

The tour’s standout feature is the Bernina Express train ride, which takes travelers through impressive landscapes like the Morteratsch Glacier and across a mountain pass at 2,253 meters. The efficient transportation and knowledgeable tour leaders ensure a smooth experience. However, the journey involves long coach rides and may have limited daylight scenery in winter months, which are worth considering for those with mobility concerns or shorter days.

This tour is especially suitable for scenery lovers, train enthusiasts, and day-trippers eager to combine Swiss Alpine beauty with the convenience of organized transport. With high praise for guides and scenery, it remains a popular choice among travelers exploring the Como region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic journey in a panoramic carriage along the Bernina Express route
• Visit the charming town of St. Moritz with free time to explore
• Travel across the Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass
• Includes transportation by air-conditioned coach from Como and Bernina Express second-class tickets
• Flexible booking with full refund available up to 24 hours in advance
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to long coach rides and walking stops

Scenic Ride in the Panoramic Bernina Express Carriage

A major highlight of this trip is the Bernina Express train ride, where travelers sit in guaranteed panoramic carriages designed to maximize views of the Alps. The train journey showcases spectacular landscapes, including the Morteratsch Glacier and the mountain pass at 2,253 meters. During the regional train segment from October 29th to December 13th, windows can be opened to capture extraordinary photos of the scenery, an extra perk for photography fans.

This scenic route is praised for its stunning vistas and the smooth ride in a designated panoramic carriage, making it an ideal way to see the Alpine landscape in comfort. The route passes through Poschiavo before arriving in Tirano, offering a glimpse into both Swiss and Italian environments.

Free Time in St. Moritz to Explore or Relax

In St. Moritz, travelers find about 1.5 hours for independent exploration. The town is famous for its luxury atmosphere, with options to stroll along Lake Como, visit local shops, or indulge in sweet treats at patisseries (costs not included). The opportunity to walk along the lake or browse the boutiques makes this stop versatile for different interests.

The weather in St. Moritz is often favorable, but travelers should be aware that conditions can vary, and the reviews note that brilliant weather can change the experience. The free time is designed to be flexible, letting visitors tailor their visit at their own pace.

Discover Tirano’s Italian Charm and the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin

The Tirano stop provides about 45 minutes for independent sightseeing. Travelers can explore highlights such as the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin, which offers a peaceful stroll and a chance to appreciate the local architecture. The town’s quaint streets and relaxed atmosphere contrast with the Swiss Alps, providing a different cultural experience.

The walk in Tirano is leisurely, perfect for those wanting a brief taste of Italian life before returning to Como. The return journey by bus takes about 2.5 hours, giving time for rest after the sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Organized Transportation and Group Experience

Transportation is organized with air-conditioned coaches traveling from Como to St. Moritz and back. The buses follow scenic routes that offer beautiful views of Lake Como and the surrounding countryside. The tour leader is present on board, providing commentary and guiding the group through the day’s activities.

The guide’s expertise is frequently praised in reviews for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the overall experience. The lively and professional guides make the long travel segments more enjoyable. The driver skillfully navigates Swiss mountain roads, even in challenging weather conditions, to ensure safety.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Timing

The tour departs from two different meeting points in Como, with both options starting early in the morning. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes before departure. The activity concludes back at the original meeting points in the late evening, after a full day of exploration.

The timing is designed to maximize daylight scenery, but in shorter winter days, some views might be less visible. The regional train segment from October 29th to December 13th may feature partially obscured views due to limited daylight, but windows can be opened for photos.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes bus transportation from Como to St. Moritz, second-class Bernina Express tickets (regional train from October to December), guaranteed panoramic seats, and a tour leader. The return trip also features bus transportation back to Como.

Not included are reserved seat upgrades, meals, and the bus restroom, which is not available. Travelers should bring their passports or ID cards, as they are necessary for border crossings between Switzerland and Italy.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to the long coach rides and walking at stops. The full-day schedule involves multiple stops and some walking, making it better suited for those comfortable with extended periods of travel and standing.

Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

The main strength of this trip is its combination of scenic train travel and Swiss Alpine towns in one day. The spectacular views along the Bernina Express route are a major draw, complemented by free time in St. Moritz and Tirano.

A notable limitation is the long coach rides—about 5 hours in total— which may be tiring for some. Plus, winter months may limit certain scenic views, especially after December 14th, when daylight hours shorten. Despite these factors, the tour receives consistently high ratings, especially for guides and scenery.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a great way to see the Swiss Alps without the need for overnight stays or complicated travel arrangements. It suits scenery lovers, train fans, and organized trip enthusiasts who enjoy guided experiences. The value for money is evident, with a well-organized itinerary and excellent reviews praising the knowledgeable guides.

However, travelers should be prepared for a long day and limited mobility options. If comfortable with coach travel and seeking breathtaking views in a single day, this trip is a reliable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bernina Express journey scenic?
Yes, the Bernina Express offers spectacular views of the Alps, Morteratsch Glacier, and mountain passes, especially in clear weather.

What is included in the price?
The price includes bus transfers, second-class train tickets on the Bernina Express, guaranteed panoramic seats, and a tour leader. Meals and seat upgrades are not included.

Can I visit St. Moritz and Tirano independently?
Yes, the free time in both towns allows for self-guided exploration, shopping, or relaxing, depending on your interests.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Because of long coach journeys and walking stops, this tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility difficulties.

When should I bring my passport?
A passport or ID card is mandatory for border crossings between Switzerland and Italy.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip depends heavily on weather for scenic views, and cloudy or rainy days may obscure some scenery. The coach provides comfortable transport regardless of weather.

This tour from Como combines scenic train travel, charming towns, and breathtaking mountain landscapes—a memorable way to explore the Swiss Alps in a single day.

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