From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train

From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train — A Detailed Review

If you’re in Milan and craving a taste of Switzerland’s stunning mountain scenery coupled with Italy’s lakeside charm, this tour offers quite the package. For about $199 per person, you’ll spend roughly 13 hours exploring Lake Como, experiencing the Bernina Red Train, and strolling through the elegant town of St. Moritz. With a mix of boat rides, scenic drives, and mountain railways, this trip is a feast for the eyes and the camera.

What we love most? First, the early morning private boat cruise on Lake Como—watching the sunrise over the water and seeing the lakeside villas and charming villages without the crowds is magical. Second, the Bernina Red Train journey—climbing high into the Alps with panoramic views, glaciers, and snow-dusted peaks leaves you breathless.

One thing to keep in mind: the itinerary can change to ensure the best experience, meaning the train might depart from Tirano or St. Moritz depending on conditions. Also, this tour is quite long—and involves a lot of moving parts—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full, busy day.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see some of the most beautiful mountain and lake scenery in one day, especially if you’re short on time but eager for an authentic Swiss-Italian experience. If you enjoy scenic train rides, picturesque villages, and guided excursions, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Private boat cruise on Lake Como, Bernina Red Train through the Swiss Alps, and free time in St. Moritz.
• Transport: Comfortable luxury coach, scenic mountain drive, and second-class train tickets.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insights, and audio headsets help you hear clearly.
• Flexible Experience: Itinerary may adjust for optimal views and conditions, especially regarding train routes.
• Includes: Lake cruise, train ticket, guided tour in St. Moritz, and scenic drives.
• Not Included: Meals and drinks, so plan to bring snacks or purchase during stops.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out in Milan

We begin the day with a convenient pickup at BusForFun Fermata Milano Centrale, located near Piazza 4 Novembre. The coach is modern, spacious, and designed for a long day of travel, with amenities like Wi-Fi and charging ports. The departure is early to maximize our time away, and the guide is ready to fill us in on what’s ahead.

First Stop: Lake Como — Serenity in the Morning

Within about an hour, we arrive at Lake Como, one of Italy’s most iconic lakes, famous for its charming villages and lush villas. We loved the way the early morning light cast a gentle glow over the water and the surrounding mountains. This is when the private boat cruise kicks off, giving us a tranquil chance to see the lakeside scenery without the usual crowds.

Our guide, Lina, shared interesting tidbits about the villas and the history of the area, making the experience more meaningful. The boat cruise feels exclusive—almost like having the lake to yourself—highlighting the beauty of villages like Bellagio and the dramatic shoreline dotted with historic villas. Reviewers often mention how this peaceful start makes the trip special, with one saying, “the boat trip was beautiful,” and another noting that being on the lake before anyone else felt like “it was just you.”

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Scenic Drive Through the Alps to St. Moritz

After the cruise, we hop back onto the coach for the scenic drive along the Maloja route. This part of the journey offers sweeping views of mountains, waterfalls, and alpine forests. It’s a slow, winding road, so you’ll want to soak up the scenery from your window seat. The drive itself feels like a highlight, especially for those who enjoy mountain vistas and authentic Swiss landscapes.

Time in St. Moritz — Glitz and Charm

St. Moritz is a favorite for its luxurious reputation, but it’s also a place of genuine charm. You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours of free time to explore the town, pop into shops, or simply stroll around. Many reviews praise the guide’s recommendations, and some mention that, despite some shops closing early or on certain days, the town’s atmosphere is captivating. One traveler said, “It was great to see so many beautiful places,” emphasizing that even a short visit here offers a taste of Swiss elegance.

The Highlight: Bernina Red Train Adventure

The real showstopper is the train ride aboard the Bernina Red Train. We loved the way the train snakes through the mountains, climbing up to 2,256 meters above sea level. The second-class ticket means windows can be opened, giving us perfect opportunities for photos—something many reviewers appreciate. The views over glaciers, snowy peaks, and alpine lakes are breathtaking.

Our guide explained how the Bernina line is one of the highest railways in the Alps, and the experience truly feels like traveling through a different world. Passengers often comment that the stunning scenery makes the journey unforgettable; a reviewer said, “the Bernina train leaves you speechless.”

Passing By the Glaciers and Valleys

On the way back, the coach passes by the Morteratsch Glacier, with its impressive ice formations, and the Diavolezza mountain, known for its dramatic cliffs. These moments add depth to the trip, giving you a real sense of the scale and grandeur of the Alps.

Return to Milan

After the train ride, our bus waits to take us back along scenic routes through the valleys and mountains, returning to Milan in the evening. The entire day is packed, but the comfort of the coach and the guided narration make it manageable. One reviewer noted that timings work well, and the experience is smoothly organized from start to finish.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transport & Comfort

The luxury coach is equipped for comfort during the long day. With Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and charging ports, it’s designed to keep you comfortable. Since it’s a full-day trip, be prepared for a lot of sitting, but also for the chance to enjoy the scenery outside your window.

Guided Tour & Audio System

The professional tour guide uses radios and headsets, ensuring you won’t miss the interesting facts and stories along the way. From local history to mountain facts, the guides are well-informed and engaging. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated this, with one saying, “the devices were so efficient and we never had trouble hearing.”

Timing & Flexibility

The trip duration is approximately 13 hours, so a good level of stamina and preparation are recommended. The itinerary may be adjusted, especially for the train, to provide the best possible views and experience.

What to Bring

Pack passport or European ID, warm clothing, and rain gear—mountain weather can be unpredictable. No pets are allowed, except assistance dogs. Also, consider bringing snacks or water since meals are not included, and the stops are limited.

Cost & Value

At $199, this tour offers great value considering the multiple modes of transportation, guided insights, and exclusive experiences like the private boat and scenic train. Many reviews praise the value for money, especially since the train ticket and boat ride are pre-booked, removing hassle and ensuring smooth logistics.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with descriptions like “Fabulous Lina and Angelo were brilliant team work,” and “Simona was incredibly friendly, enthusiastic, and made the journey enjoyable.” The stunning views of lakes, mountains, and glaciers receive frequent compliments, with some saying, “The scenery is out of this world,” and “Unforgettable experience.”

A common theme in reviews is that, despite the long hours, the tour feels well-paced. Over 4,800 reviews give it an average rating of 4.6/5, which reflects overall satisfaction. Travelers also appreciate the smooth organization and how the guide makes the trip both fun and informative.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers note the absence of toilet facilities on the coach, which can be inconvenient for a long day. A few mention that shops and restaurants in St. Moritz might close early, so plan accordingly. Also, since the train is in second class, panoramic views are available, but you won’t have the luxury of a first-class carriage.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits scenery lovers eager for iconic lakes and alpine vistas, train enthusiasts, and those looking for a full-day, all-in-one experience of Swiss and Italian beauty. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long travel days and who appreciate guided tours to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it offers a great balance of guided insights, stunning landscapes, and cultural moments.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Milan is a well-rounded way to explore some of the most photogenic corners of Italy and Switzerland in just one day. The combination of a private lake cruise, scenic mountain drive, and the Bernina Red Train makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s especially appealing if you want to see mountains, lakes, and charming towns without the stress of arranging transportation and tickets yourself.

While it’s a long day with limited time in each stop, the expert guides, comfortable transportation, and breathtaking scenery make it worth every minute. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting Europe and craving a mountain adventure, this trip offers a good dose of the Alps’ majesty and Lake Como’s tranquility—an authentic experience you’re unlikely to forget.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 13 hours, from departure in Milan to return in the evening, making it a full-day adventure.

What modes of transportation are used?
You’ll travel by luxury coach, private boat, and a second-class scenic train, each providing different perspectives of the landscape.

Is the train ride panoramic?
No, the train is in second class, but you can open the windows to take photos and enjoy the views.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, warm clothing, rain gear, and possibly snacks, as meals are not included.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets are not allowed, except assistance animals. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Whether you’re after breathtaking mountain vistas, a luxurious lakeside experience, or a taste of Swiss elegance, this tour from Milan delivers it all with style and ease. It’s a day packed with remarkable sights, expert guides, and memorable moments—all at a very reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: