From Lake Como: Bernina Red Train Tour to St. Moritz

From Lake Como: Bernina Red Train Tour to St. Moritz — An In-Depth Look

Imagine leaving the lush shores of Lake Como in Italy and crossing into Switzerland for a day packed with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and memorable scenic train rides. For around $1,307 per person, you gain access to an all-day, private round-trip experience that takes you from your cozy hotel in Lake Como to the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz, with plenty of stops to enjoy the scenery along the way.

The tour begins with the convenience of private hotel pickup, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport. After a roughly 2-3 hour drive to Tirano, you’ll hop aboard the famous Bernina Red Train, a one-of-a-kind ride that reaches Europe’s highest point accessible by train. The journey is a feast for the senses — think towering glaciers, serene lakes, and villages clinging to the mountainsides. The day culminates with free time in St. Moritz, where you can stroll the lakeside, soak up the opulence, or check out the local sights.

Two things stand out about this experience: First, the spectacular panoramic views offered by the Bernina Red Train. It’s not just a train ride; it’s a moving showcase of the Swiss Alps’ grandeur. Second, the personalized nature of the tour, with private transfers and a flexible itinerary. We appreciated the ease of travel and the chance to explore at our own pace, especially at Lake Silvaplana, where wind-driven kitesurfers put on a lively show.

A possible consideration is the long drive from Lake Como to Tirano, which can take 2-3 hours depending on your hotel location. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides, this might be something to plan around. However, the scenic drive is part of the adventure, and the comfort of a private transfer helps make it manageable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love spectacular scenery, appreciate a luxurious yet authentic experience, and want to visit two iconic Alpine destinations without the hassle of planning multiple connections. It’s particularly appealing for those eager to combine the Italian and Swiss Alps or to indulge in a day of scenic beauty with minimal stress.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Train Ride: The Bernina Red Train offers some of the most panoramic views in Europe, reaching the highest point accessible by train.
• Convenient Private Transfers: From your Lake Como hotel to Tirano, the round-trip transport is seamless, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Flexible Free Time in St. Moritz: Explore the famous lakeside town at your leisure, with options like lakeside strolls or watching kitesurfers.
• Highlights Include Lake Silvaplana & Acquafraggia Falls: Two beautiful natural sights, with the falls excluding August and weekends.
• Authentic Alpine Experience: Cross the Maloja Pass on your return trip, experiencing the lush forests and mountains between Italy and Switzerland.
• Personalized & Private: The entire experience operates private group, ensuring more comfort and a tailored pace.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

The Journey Begins — Pickup and Drive

Your day starts with a pickup at your Lake Como accommodation. The tour offers six pickup points, including Como, Bellagio, Lecco, and Milan, making logistics easier no matter where you’re staying. The vehicle is private, comfortable, and run by an English-speaking driver, who will be your guide for the drive. Expect a rough 2-3 hour ride to Tirano, where the scenery transitions from Italian lakes to Swiss mountains.

The drive itself is part of the experience — winding roads through charming towns, fields, and forests, with commentary from your driver if you choose to engage. Be sure to bring warm clothing and a windbreaker, especially for the train ride and mountain stops, as weather at higher altitudes can change quickly.

Boarding the Bernina Red Train

Once in Tirano, you’ll swap your bus for the famous Bernina Red Train, which is a one-way ticket to stunning vistas. This first-class ticket grants you access to one of Europe’s most scenic railway routes. The train’s panoramic windows and elegant design make it easier to soak in every detail of the landscape, from towering glaciers to tranquil lakes.

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The Scenic Ride to St. Moritz

As the train snakes upward, the views become more dramatic. You’ll pass through picturesque villages and tiny hamlets, crossing over lakes like Lake Silvaplana. We loved the way the train tracks cling to mountain slopes, giving you a real sense of the mountainous terrain.

The train reaches its highest point at the Ospizio Bernina station, where the altitude is high enough to see glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Here, you might find yourself reaching for your camera — this is one of the most visually arresting parts of the trip. The ride is roughly 2 hours, but it feels much shorter thanks to the stunning scenery outside.

Free Time in St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz, the tour includes free time for exploration. Whether you prefer to enjoy a lakeside stroll, sip a coffee in a local café, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this upscale resort town, you’ll find plenty to do. The reviews highlight the town’s charm and natural beauty, making it easy to see why it’s a favorite among travelers.

Optional Stop at Lake Silvaplana and Acquafraggia Falls

A highlight for many is the visit to Lake Silvaplana, renowned for its wind and the vibrant kitesurfing scene on windy days. Watching the colorful kites dart across the sky is a lively counterpoint to the serene mountain views.

Later, your driver takes you to the Acquafraggia Falls. While this stop is excluded in August and weekends, it’s generally a fantastic photo opportunity, with waterfalls tumbling amid lush greenery.

The Return Trip — Crossing the Maloja Pass

On the way back, you’ll cross the Maloja Pass, a scenic mountain route filled with lush forests and panoramic vistas. This winding road, with views of the Swiss Alps, provides a fitting end to your day of alpine exploration.

Analyzing the Value

The price of $1,307 might seem steep at first glance, but consider what’s included: private transportation, first-class train tickets, and the flexibility of free time in St. Moritz and at the scenic stops. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off means you don’t have to worry about logistics, which is a big plus.

The reviews indicate the experience is well worth the cost, with travelers praising the knowledgeable driver and the stunning views. One reviewer described their day as “amazing” and “so perfect,” emphasizing how smooth and informative their guide was.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book early: The tour’s popularity means slots can fill up fast, especially in peak season.
• Bring layers: Weather can change quickly at higher altitudes, and mornings or late afternoons might be cooler.
• Have your passport ready: Necessary for crossing the Swiss border.
• Plan your arrival: Long bus rides can be tiring, so arrive rested and prepared for a full day.
• Expect no guide on the train: Your driver provides basic info, but for detailed explanations, consider doing some reading ahead of time about the Bernina route and St. Moritz.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for scenery lovers, train enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious yet authentic Swiss-Italian mountain adventure. If you enjoy picture-perfect vistas, charming villages, and the thrill of a scenic train ride, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or navigating complex routes.

However, if you’re sensitive to long drives or require wheelchair access, this might be less suitable, as the tour involves some lengthy transfers and physical limitations are not accommodated.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a beautiful blend of scenic train travel, natural beauty, and cultural charm. The private round-trip transfer removes much of the logistical stress, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy the stunning alpine views. The combination of luxury transportation, spectacular vistas, and free time in St. Moritz makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an immersive day in the Swiss Alps.

If you’re looking for a way to experience the Swiss mountains without the complexity of independent planning, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers craving an easy, comfortable, and visually spectacular day that covers the highlights of this iconic region.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Lake Como to Tirano?
The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your hotel location and traffic. It’s a scenic journey through Italian and Swiss countryside.

Does the train ride include a guide?
No, you will have the train ride on your own with a first-class ticket. Your driver will provide basic information about the area before boarding.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or European ID, warm clothing, and a windbreaker, especially for the mountain stops and train ride where weather can be unpredictable.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. It requires some walking and the ability to handle a full day of sightseeing.

Can I customize my free time in St. Moritz?
Yes, you can explore at your own pace during the free time, whether that’s walking around the town, visiting the lake, or relaxing at a café.

Is the tour available year-round?
The tour operates seasonally, but specific stops like the Acquafraggia Falls are unavailable in August and on weekends, so check availability for your travel dates.

In all, this tour is a superb way to turn a day into an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most stunning mountain scenery, with the comfort of private transport and the thrill of a scenic train adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: