From Milan: Bernina Express Train and St. Moritz Tour

Traveling from Milan to Switzerland for a day of breathtaking views and alpine charm might sound ambitious, but this tour makes it surprisingly manageable and rewarding. For $130 per person, you get a round-trip journey that combines comfortable bus travel, a scenic train ride on the famous Bernina Express, and some time to explore the luxurious town of St. Moritz. Guided by friendly staff and led by the iconic red train, this experience offers more than just pretty pictures — it’s a genuine taste of Swiss mountain life.

What sets this tour apart is the spectacular scenery you’ll witness along the way, from turquoise lakes to towering mountains. We loved how the train’s panoramic windows allowed us to get close to the landscape, and the flexibility to explore Tirano and St. Moritz at our own pace. The only real consideration is that seating arrangements and some organizational hiccups can impact the comfort — but overall, it’s a worthwhile adventure for lovers of mountain scenery and Swiss culture.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, don’t mind a bit of a group setting, and are looking for an affordable way to visit the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning train tickets or transfers themselves. If you’re curious about beautiful landscapes and charming towns, this trip could be a highlight of your European travels.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The journey features turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and sweeping valleys.
• Authentic Swiss Experience: You get time to wander St. Moritz and Tirano at your own pace.
• Great Value: For $130, the combination of bus, train, and time in Switzerland offers solid value.
• Second Class Comfort: Panoramic windows that open, making for excellent photo opportunities.
• Some Organizational Variability: Seating and timing may vary, and reviews mention some frustrations.
• Ideal for Scenic Enthusiasts: Perfect for travelers eager to see the Alps without a multi-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins early in the morning, departing from Milan with a comfortable bus ride that offers a glimpse of the Italian countryside before crossing into Switzerland. The drive itself is a calm, scenic prelude to what awaits. Once in Tirano, Italy, you’ll have about 30 minutes to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or browse local shops. This small window is enough to get a quick sense of the town, but don’t expect time for a full sightseeing tour.

From Tirano, the highlight begins — the Bernina Express. This iconic red train, one of the most celebrated railway journeys in Europe, takes you through some of the most stunning parts of the Swiss Alps. The train’s panoramic windows are designed to maximize views, and many carriages have windows that open, allowing you to feel the mountain breeze and take unfiltered photos. This is a key feature that reviewers love, especially compared to higher-class options with non-opening windows. The route itself is famous for crossing the Bernina Pass, with striking vistas of glaciers, mountain peaks, and shimmering lakes.

Onboard, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride through pristine valleys and alongside brilliant turquoise lakes, such as the White Lakes. The journey is relaxed, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and capture memories. Expect the train to be second class, which offers reserved seats and the panoramic windows, but no fancy extras. Many travelers report that the second class is preferable because of the open windows and the ability to stick your head out for photos.

The train concludes in St. Moritz, a town famous for its luxury reputation and alpine beauty. Once there, you’re free to wander for as long as you like — maybe enjoy a leisurely lunch, browse boutique shops, or just take in the mountain views. Some travelers mention that the town is quite upscale, which adds to the experience if you’re looking for a taste of Swiss elegance.

After your exploration, you’ll board the same Bernina Express route back toward Tirano, then continue by bus back to Milan. The return trip offers another chance to admire the scenery, often in the late afternoon.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What Makes the Journey Special?

What truly elevates this tour is the combination of bus and train that brings you from urban Milan into the heart of the Swiss Alps. The train’s famous red carriages are a visual treat, and the open windows provide an immersive experience of mountain air and panoramic views. Travelers love the scenery, describing it as “beautiful,” “stunning,” and “breathtaking,” with some noting the lakes and mountain peaks as highlights.

The Stops and Exploration

In Tirano, we found the 30-minute stop to be just enough to get a quick feel for the town — quaint, with a mix of Italian and Swiss influences. It’s a good chance to buy some Swiss chocolates or to snap a few photos of the colorful streets. In St. Moritz, there’s more time to relax and explore, making it worth it for those who savor wandering through charming towns with alpine scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Seating and Comfort

Many reviews highlight the importance of seat choice. The tour’s second class panoramic train has reserved seats that are comfortable and come with large panoramic windows. The windows that open are a real plus, making it easier to take Instagram-worthy photos and enjoy the mountain air. Some travelers, however, expressed frustration with seating assignments, wishing they could choose seats near the front or in quieter areas.

Food and Extras

The tour does not include food or drinks, so bringing snacks, water, or a packed lunch is advised — especially since the trip lasts most of the day. Tasting Swiss chocolates is encouraged at the stops, and many travelers enjoy this as a memorable part of the trip. One critic suggested that including at least a small snack could further improve the experience.

Organizational Aspects

The tour’s timing is quite tight — with early departures from Milan and limited time in each town. This suits travelers who prefer a structured day, but some reviews mention logistical hiccups, such as pre-assigned bus seats and delays. The company’s flexibility seems limited, but overall, most travelers appreciated the scenic payoff.

What’s Not Perfect?

While the scenery is undeniably stunning, some travelers noted drawbacks. Several reviews mention organizational issues: like being herded into specific seats, or delays during the return journey caused by bus driver errors. One reviewer said, “the driver got lost several times,” leading to a 35-minute delay and some discomfort. Another comment mentioned feeling rushed and overwhelmed, especially during the bus transfer.

It’s worth noting that although the train journey is a big highlight, not everyone will get the perfect seat or smooth experience. If you’re sensitive to noise or like specific seating arrangements, consider arriving early or asking about seat assignments in advance.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for scenic lovers, those who want a taste of the Swiss Alps without committing to a multi-day tour. It’s also perfect for luxury travelers interested in a quick but indulgent escape, especially given the panoramic train experience. However, if organizational issues or seating arrangements are a concern, travelers who prefer more control over their experience might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a fascinating blend of Italy and Switzerland — all packed into one day. The Bernina Express provides a window into some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain scenery, and the stops in Tirano and St. Moritz give a glimpse of local Swiss charm and elegance. While there are some quirks, like seating arrangements and delays, the visual payoff is more than worth it.

For travelers who love photography, mountain vistas, and experiencing authentic Swiss towns without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those seeking a cost-effective way to see the Alps, with the understanding that some organizational bumps might occur.

If you’re prepared for a day of gorgeous views, a bit of a group atmosphere, and the thrill of riding the iconic Bernina Express, this trip can be a memorable highlight of your European journey. Just pack comfortable shoes, some snacks, and your camera — and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers find it enjoyable, it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, as some walking and standing are involved.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for the train, to secure your seat. The tour is available to book and pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, a jacket, cash, a credit card, and charged smartphone are essentials. Bringing snacks is also wise since food isn’t included.

Can I choose my seat on the train?
Seating is pre-assigned in second class, and some reviews mentioned dissatisfaction with seat location. It’s best to arrive early or inquire about your seat at booking.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the second class offers reserved seats with panoramic windows and openable sections — many travelers find it quite comfortable and scenic.

Will I have enough time in St. Moritz?
Yes, you have some free time to explore, eat, or shop. However, the total time depends on the day’s schedule, so plan accordingly.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or recent surgeries, due to the nature of travel and walking involved.

You can check availability for your dates here: