From Milan: St Moritz & Alps Day Trip with Bernina Red Train

Imagine leaving behind Italy’s urban charm and stepping into the icy grandeur of the Swiss Alps—all in one day. For $104, this 11-hour adventure whisks you from Milan’s Porta Garibaldi to high-altitude wonderlands, with highlights like the spectacular Bernina Pass, the luxurious vibe of St. Moritz, and the quaint charm of Tirano. Guided by engaging experts, you’ll ride on the iconic Bernina Red Train, explore alpine towns, and enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of scenic transport and cultural exploration. The train ride, especially with the open windows on the Bernina route, offers jaw-dropping views you can’t get from a car or bus. Plus, wandering through St. Moritz’s elegant streets and browsing its high-end boutiques feels like stepping into a winter magazine. The included guide makes all the difference, sharing stories and tips that turn a good day into a memorable one.

One possible drawback? The long coach rides—about 5.5 hours in total—can test your patience, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more leisurely exploration. Also, the short time in each stop means you need to be selective about what to see and do. But if you’re after a condensed, luxurious taste of the Swiss Alps, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, efficient planning, and culture. If you’re okay with a busy day and want to see some of the most iconic Swiss scenery without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodations, this trip is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery from the Alps, glaciers, and mountain passes
• Expert guides enhance the experience with stories and insider tips
• Convenient transportation from Milan, including reserved train tickets
• Time in St. Moritz for shopping, strolls, and enjoying the lakeside ambiance
• Shorter stops mean you’ll need to prioritize what to see
• Good value for an all-inclusive day trip with train rides and guided tours

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Day Trip Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

We begin in Milan’s Porta Garibaldi station, a familiar hub for many travelers, making it easy to meet your guide just outside the station, in front of Briccocafé. The group size tends to be manageable, with a private air-conditioned coach that whisks you through Lombardy’s pastoral landscapes. This is important because the coach ride sets the tone—comfortable and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of lakes, vineyards, and villages whizzing past.

The Journey to the Alps

As you ascend from Milan, the scenery quickly shifts. We loved the way the coach moves from urban streets to open fields, then into the mountains. The highlight here is the Bernina Pass, famous for its dramatic vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. We were told that the views are so good you might find yourself gazing out the windows for most of the drive. From reviews, we see that many travelers appreciated the scenic views on the way, which make the long ride worthwhile.

Bernina Red Train Ride

Once you arrive in Tirano, the real thrill begins. You’ll board the Bernina Red Train, a historic steam-looking train with open windows, perfect for snapping photos and feeling the mountain air. The ride through the Valtellina Valley is often praised for its breathtaking landscape—wildly rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and twisting rail tracks. This train part is what makes the tour truly special.

While some reviews note that the train is just a red train and not the famous Bernina Express, the ride still offers stunning visual splendor. Travelers consistently mention how memorable it is to lower the windows and really feel like you’re part of the landscape, not just a passenger. The train’s engineering marvels—narrow tunnels, high bridges—are a testament to Swiss ingenuity, and many find this part of the trip a highlight.

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Exploring St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz, you’ll have about 2 hours of free time. The town is elegant and refined, but also accessible. We enjoyed wandering the cobbled streets, shopping in high-end boutiques, or simply sitting by the glacial lake with a hot drink. Many reviews highlight this section as a favorite—the scenery along the lake, surrounded by snow-tinged mountains, creates a postcard-perfect setting.

The guide usually offers tips on what to see, and the free time allows for individual exploration. Some travelers mention wishing for a bit more time, but the two-hour window is a reasonable compromise considering the full day of travel.

The Charm of Tirano

Next, it’s time to visit Tirano, a picturesque Italian town with a historic center. Your guide will share its stories and background, enriching your visit. You’ll have about 45 minutes here—enough for a quick stroll through narrow streets, some local snacks, or a peek into markets. Several reviews share how Tirano’s medieval feel and authentic Italian flavor add a charming contrast to the Swiss Alps.

Return Journey

The trip concludes with a comfortable 2.5-hour coach ride back to Milan. While some travelers note the return is long, it’s a good opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. Keep in mind, the long hours in transit can be tiring, but many see it as part of the adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Beyond the obvious scenic beauty, our favorite features are the well-organized logistics and knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and fun. Many reviews praise guides like Maya, Salvatore, and Amato for their professionalism, storytelling skills, and ability to keep the group engaged. Their insights turn what could be just a sightseeing trip into a storybook experience.

The reserved train tickets with open windows are a thoughtful touch, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting tickets last minute or missing out. The comfortable coach and sufficient stops give a good balance of travel and exploration, especially given the full day involved.

Food and Additional Costs

One thing to consider is that food and drinks are not included. While there are opportunities to buy snacks or lunch in Tirano or St. Moritz, you’ll want to bring some snacks on the bus or plan for a quick meal. A few reviews mentioned the lack of a toilet on the coach, so packing a small bottle of water might be wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a full-day adventure that combines scenic train rides, mountain views, and charming towns without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind long coach rides and want a balanced mix of guided commentary and free exploration. The tour is also suited for those who appreciate luxury and comfort—the coach is air-conditioned, and the scenery is unbeatable.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

For $104 per person, the tour offers remarkable value—combining transportation, guided insights, and unforgettable scenery. Reviewers often mention the stunning views, the professional guides, and the memorable train ride as the biggest highlights. The opportunity to see a glacial lake in St. Moritz, walk cobbled streets, and experience the engineering marvel of the Bernina Pass makes this a well-rounded Swiss alpine experience.

However, remember the long coach hours and limited time in each destination. If you’re a traveler who prefers a slow-paced, in-depth exploration, this might feel rushed. But if you’re after a snapshot of Swiss Alps splendor, this day trip hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned coach transport from Milan to the Swiss Alps and back, along with reserved Bernina Red Train tickets.

How long is the coach ride?
The total coach time is approximately 5.5 hours—about 3 hours to reach Bernina Pass, plus the return journey.

Do I need to buy tickets separately?
No, the train tickets are included, with open windows on the St. Moritz Tirano route, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without extra charges.

How much free time do I get in St. Moritz and Tirano?
You get about 2 hours in St. Moritz and 45 minutes in Tirano to explore, shop, or relax.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a light jacket. Food and beverages are not included, so pack snacks if needed.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not quite. It involves a good deal of walking and is not recommended for those with mobility issues or needing wheelchair assistance. No baby strollers or large luggage are allowed.

What is the scenery like?
Expect dramatic mountain vistas, glaciers, alpine lakes, and winding train tracks. The views are widely praised as unforgettable.

Can I see snow on this trip?
Depending on the season and weather, snow may be visible, especially around Bernina Pass. Some reviews wished the train stopped to touch or see snow, which isn’t possible on this route.

Is the tour flexible?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

Would I repeat this trip?
Many travelers say yes—it’s a “trip of a lifetime,” and several reviews express a desire to do it again when visiting the Alps in summer or winter.

Final Thoughts

This From Milan to St. Moritz & the Alps tour offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular scenery, cultural highlights, and comfortable logistics. It’s a perfect pick for those who want to enjoy the Swiss Alps without the complexity of independent travel, especially if experiencing the Bernina Red Train is a bucket-list item.

The guided commentary, combined with breathtaking vistas and the elegant atmosphere of St. Moritz, makes it a memorable day out. Yes, it’s a long day, but many agree that the stunning views and seamless organization make it worth every minute. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a train enthusiast, or someone who simply wants a taste of Swiss luxury, this trip won’t disappoint.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a value-packed, scenic, and guided way to see the Swiss Alps from Milan, this tour fits the bill. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy organized day trips, are flexible with timings, and want to carry home some truly breathtaking memories of mountains, lakes, and charming towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: