From Milan: Bernina and St. Moritz Day Tour by Scenic Train

From Milan: Bernina and St. Moritz Day Tour by Scenic Train

This full-day journey offers a chance to see some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery without the hassle of planning it all yourself. For $119 per person, you’re transported from Milan in a comfortable air-conditioned bus to the starting point of the Bernina Railway, one of the most famous and visually stunning train routes in the world. Over roughly 12 to 13 hours, you’ll travel through towering mountain passes, past glaciers, and through Swiss villages, ending at the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz. Depending on availability, your train ride can begin from Thusis, Tirano, or St. Moritz, with each option offering its own highlights.

Two things we particularly love about this trip are the spectacular scenery visible from the train, including the UNESCO-designated Bernina route, and the well-organized transportation that makes a complex journey seem effortless. The inclusion of a professional guide adds depth to the experience, making the ride not just picturesque but also educational. A possible consideration is the long travel time, especially the return trip from Tirano to Milan, which may feel a bit tiring after a full day on the go. This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, enjoy train journeys, and want to combine the convenience of guided travel with the thrill of Swiss alpine scenery.

Key Points

• Scenic Train Ride: Experience the Bernina route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with extraordinary views of glaciers and mountain gorges.
• Visit to St. Moritz: Get a taste of this world-famous resort town, perfect for strolling, window shopping, or enjoying a quick meal.
• Flexible Departures: Start from various locations depending on availability, making it adaptable to your plans.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing your understanding of the scenery and local culture.
• Value for Money: The tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets in 2nd class, and a guide, making it a good deal for a comprehensive Swiss Alps experience.
• Long but Worthwhile: With about 6 hours of travel and stops, the day is full but packed with breathtaking sights and experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Swiss Scenic Journey from Milan

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss Alps might seem like a logistical challenge, but this tour makes it straightforward. The day begins with a round-trip bus transfer, ensuring you don’t have to worry about navigating borders or train schedules. The bus ride itself is just a part of the adventure, offering a comfortable, air-conditioned space where you can relax as the scenery begins to change. The itinerary provides a balance—about three hours on the bus each way—giving you ample time to soak in the landscapes and have some light conversation with your fellow travelers.

The Train Journey: The Heart of the Tour

The highlight for many is the Bernina Red Train, which climbs more than 1,800 meters up the Alps, making it the steepest railway journey in the world. The train’s panoramic windows offer sweeping views, but if you’re considering an upgrade, some reviews suggest that opting for the scenic roof carriage would elevate your experience. The route is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why—marvel at glaciers, towering mountain peaks, and steep gorges that seem to defy gravity.

Your guide, such as Monica, often shares insightful commentary about the route, highlighting points of interest like tunnels passing under colossal mountains and the engineering marvels that make this route possible. Many travelers mention how the views are unforgettable and feel like stepping into a picture book.

The Stops: St. Moritz and Tirano

In St. Moritz, you’ll have about two hours to explore this luxurious Swiss resort. As one reviewer noted, “St. Moritz is beautiful, as is the Bernina Express route,” and the town offers a quick glimpse into Swiss high society. Whether you prefer to wander, do some shopping, or grab a bite, there’s enough time to appreciate the alpine atmosphere.

The itinerary also includes a panoramic train ride through the Bernina Pass, where the train travels through tunnels and over bridges with incredible vistas. Some reviews mention that more time exploring the Swiss town or the railway stops could improve the experience, but overall, the breathtaking scenery tends to overshadow this.

On the return leg, many travelers comment on the comfort of the bus transfer back to Milan, though some found the journey length tiring, especially from Tirano. Still, the views of the Alps from the bus are often described as “worth every minute.”

What Travelers Say: Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Reviews paint a picture of a tour that’s well-loved for its expert guides and stunning scenery. Amy, who booked last minute, called the guide Monica “the perfect guide” who was “very informative” and attentive. Don appreciated the “amazing views” and the guide’s knowledge of the area, which helped him take the best photos. Ellie highlighted Angelo and Victor’s professionalism and smooth coordination.

Many reviews also mention the value for money, especially considering that the tour includes train tickets, transportation, and guided commentary. The experience seems to resonate with travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and organized logistics.

Some travelers suggest that upgrading the train carriage or spending a little more could enhance the experience, particularly for those seeking panoramic views or more comfort on the train. Others point out that the long travel times mean this isn’t ideal if you prefer shorter, more relaxed day trips, but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

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Practical Details and Tips for Your Swiss Day Trip

The tour departs from several Milan meeting points, with the exact location depending on your booking. The entire day lasts around 12 to 13 hours, so packing snacks and a jacket is advisable. The round-trip transportation in a modern, air-conditioned bus makes the journey comfortable, but beware—luggage and large bags are not allowed on the train**.

While the guide speaks both English and Spanish, it’s helpful to carry your passport or ID, as border crossings into Switzerland require valid travel documents. The train ride itself is in second class, but some reviews mention that the scenic roof carriage could be a worthwhile upgrade if you can.

Note that the itinerary might change based on train availability, and the journey could start from St. Moritz to Tirano instead of the other way around. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets are not allowed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for scenery lovers, train enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a well-organized, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re someone who appreciates mountain vistas and alpine towns and doesn’t mind a full day on the move, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for travelers comfortable with a long day, manageable walking, and a bit of time in high-altitude environments.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful way to see the Swiss Alps from Milan without the need to navigate complicated train schedules or border crossings independently. The spectacular Bernina route, combined with time in St. Moritz, makes for a memorable day filled with breathtaking views and interesting stops. The guidance from knowledgeable guides like Monica or Angelo adds richness to the trip, making it more than just a scenic ride.

While the day is long and the itinerary busy, the value packed into this experience—including transportation, train tickets, and expert commentary—makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to combine Swiss mountain scenery with ease and comfort. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a full schedule and are looking to tick off a major Swiss highlight in one go.

For anyone craving a train journey through the Alps, with the chance to explore a glamorous resort town and see glaciers and gorges firsthand, this tour delivers a memorable adventure. Just remember to pack your camera and a sense of wonder!

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package includes round-trip transportation from Milan, second class train tickets on the Bernina route, and a professional guide to enrich your experience.

Can I choose where to start the journey?
Yes, depending on availability, your train journey can start from Thusis, Tirano, or St. Moritz, with options tailored to your preferences.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy in St. Moritz or Tirano is advisable.

How long is the bus ride?
The bus transfer is about 3 hours in each direction, making the total travel time roughly 6 hours, but these are split with scenic stops and the train ride.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with a long day and some walking, but it may not be ideal for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Do I need a visa or special documents?
A valid passport or ID is required for border crossing into Switzerland. Travelers should check visa requirements beforehand, but most EU and Schengen area visas are sufficient.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID, jacket, and possibly camera. Since luggage is not allowed on the train, travel light.

What about the weather?
Weather can change quickly in the mountains—bring layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Would I recommend this trip?
Absolutely—if you want an easy, guided way to see the Swiss Alps’ most breathtaking sights with a comfortable, well-organized approach, this tour is a compelling choice, especially for first-time visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: