From Milan: Bernina Train, Swiss Alps & St. Moritz Day Trip

Explore the Swiss Alps with the Bernina Train Day Trip from Milan

This 12-hour guided day trip from Milan offers an incredible opportunity to experience the Swiss Alps, starting with a scenic journey on Europe’s highest-altitude train, the Bernina Red Train. The tour begins at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia and takes you through picturesque landscapes, mountain passes, and the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz, all in one seamless day.

The highlight is the Bernina Train ride, renowned as “the most beautiful train in the world”, which climbs to 2,253 meters and showcases glaciers, alpine valleys, and unspoiled natural scenery. After exploring St. Moritz, known for its elegance since the 19th century, the trip concludes with a return to Milan by coach. This tour suits travelers seeking stunning scenery, luxury destinations, and a comfortable, guided experience.

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Key Points

• Full-day trip from Milan, lasting 12 hours, with a well-structured itinerary
• Scenic train ride on the Bernina Red Train, reaching 2,253 meters altitude
• Free time in St. Moritz for sightseeing, shopping, and photos
• Comfortable coach transportation with experienced English-speaking guides
• Opportunity to capture photos through opening windows on the train
• Tour may operate in reverse order, from St. Moritz to Tirano

Starting Point at Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan

The tour departs from Excelsior Hotel Gallia, located at Piazza quattro Novembre corner with Piazza Duca d’Aosta. The meeting point is convenient, just next to the hotel, with precise coordinates (45.48567581176758, 9.20146656036377). From there, a coach ride of about one hour takes travelers through the Italian countryside, passing Lake Como briefly, which offers a glimpse of its scenic shoreline.

This initial transfer sets a relaxed pace, and the coach remains comfortable for the entire journey, making it suitable for most travelers. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

Scenic Drive and Lake Como View Passing

The drive from Milan toward the Swiss border includes a quick five-minute pass by Lake Como, a region famous for its stunning lakeside villages and mountain views. Although there is no stop during this pass, travelers can enjoy the scenery from the coach as it glides past this iconic lake.

After the Lake Como pass, a 20-minute break at Colico Piano allows for restroom breaks or a quick snack, before continuing the approximately 95-minute coach ride toward the Swiss Alps. The journey is broken up into manageable segments, with scenic views and opportunities for photos.

Cross into Switzerland at Maloja Pass

En route, travelers pass through the Maloja Pass, a scenic mountain pass that offers impressive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The pass itself takes about 10 minutes to cross, providing a quick but memorable landscape glimpse before arriving in St. Moritz.

This resort town sits at 1,856 meters above sea level, and its elegant atmosphere has attracted visitors since the 19th century. During the 100-minute free time in St. Moritz, visitors can explore the town’s high-end shops, take photos of the Engadin lakes, or relax in the luxurious surroundings.

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St. Moritz: An Icon of Elegance and Alpine Beauty

In St. Moritz, the tour offers a chance to stroll through a destination known for its luxury and breathtaking mountain scenery. The town’s famous lakes, including the St. Moritz Lake, provide stunning backdrops, and the town’s history as a luxury retreat is evident in its architecture and atmosphere.

Guided by a live English-speaking guide, visitors receive insights into the town’s history and current attractions. The free time allows for sightseeing, shopping, and a chance to enjoy the crisp mountain air. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own pace, with recommendations for open shops and restaurants provided during the visit.

The Bernina Red Train: Journey to Tirano

At the heart of the tour is the Bernina Red Train, which departs from St. Moritz for a scenic 2.33-hour ride to Tirano. This historic railway climbs steep gradients of up to 7%, making it one of the most spectacular train routes in Europe.

The train reaches a maximum altitude of 2,253 meters, offering panoramic views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and lush valleys. The open windows on the train are appreciated for taking glare-free photos of the stunning landscapes along the way. Passengers can enjoy the scenery through the comfortable carriage, taking in the diverse landscapes of the Bernina Pass and Poschiavo.

Passing through the Bernina Pass and Poschiavo Valley

During the train journey, the route passes through notable areas such as the Bernina Pass and Poschiavo. These locations are distinguished by their natural beauty and geological significance. The pass by the Bernina Pass provides striking mountain vistas, while the Pass by Poschiavo showcases peaceful lakes and traditional villages.

Travelers experience the technical marvel of the railway as it climbs steeply, navigating gradients that challenge even modern engineering. The views from the train create lasting memories, with many appreciating the photo opportunities during this part of the journey.

Arrival in Tirano and Return to Milan

Once in Tirano, the tour takes a quick 10-minute break before boarding the coach for the journey back to Milan. The return trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with scenic views along the way, and the entire experience concludes with an arrival back at Excelsior Hotel Gallia in the evening.

The itinerary might be reversed, with the train ride from Tirano to St. Moritz operating on some dates, so flexibility is built into the schedule. The overall timing ensures travelers can make the most of their day without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: What to Bring and Important Notes

Travelers should be sure to pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the spectacular scenery. Since the train ride allows opening windows, it’s advisable to bring water for hydration during the day.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible and pets are not allowed. Plus, there are no smoking areas, and travelers with electric wheelchairs cannot participate. It’s recommended to carry a valid passport or I.D. card, especially given the crossing into Switzerland.

The duration of transfers can vary depending on traffic, and the itinerary might be inverted on certain dates, with the route from St. Moritz to Thusis instead of Tirano.

Highly Praised Guides and Comfortable Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, particularly praising Maja and Cristina Maria for their professionalism, friendliness, and organization. The guides are praised for providing clear explanations, useful tips, and making the journey enjoyable.

The bus driver is noted for being skilled and professional, ensuring a safe and smooth ride. Many travelers mention the warm atmosphere created by the guides, making this full-day adventure feel both relaxing and well-managed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those seeking scenic landscapes without the hassle of navigating transport themselves. It’s perfect for luxury lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. The free time in St. Moritz allows for personalized exploration, making it suitable for both casual travelers and those wanting a bit of luxury.

While the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with back problems, most others will find the comfortable coach, breathtaking views, and expert guides make this a worthwhile adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Bernina Train & St. Moritz Day Trip

The combination of a stunning train journey, luxurious Alpine town, and scenic mountain vistas makes this tour stand out. The 4.8-star rating from 164 reviews reflects high satisfaction, especially praising the guides, view quality, and value for money.

The full-day format balances sightseeing with relaxation, and the flexibility of route options adds to its appeal. While the transfer times are long, the spectacular scenery and professional guidance make it a rewarding experience for most travelers.

This tour offers a beautiful slice of Switzerland from Milan, combining luxury, nature, and engineering marvels in a memorable day. It’s particularly suited for those who want to maximize scenery and enjoy an effortless journey through some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the train ride on the Bernina Red Train comfortable?
Yes, the train offers a comfortable experience with panoramic windows and the option to open windows for photography.

How long does the free time in St. Moritz last?
You get about 100 minutes to explore, shop, and enjoy the town at your own pace.

What should I bring for the day trip?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and water are recommended items to pack.

Can I participate if I am in a wheelchair?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

What happens if the itinerary is inverted?
The route may operate in reverse, with the train journey starting from Tirano to St. Moritz on certain dates.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers; however, those with back problems may find it less comfortable.

Are pets allowed on this trip?
No, pets are not permitted.

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

This Bernina Train & St. Moritz day trip from Milan offers a well-organized, scenic, and luxurious experience, perfect for anyone looking to see the Swiss Alps with ease and comfort.

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