Tour Bernina Red Train And St Moritz from Milan

When it comes to scenic escapes from Milan, few experiences match the magic of riding the Bernina Red Train and exploring St. Moritz. For around $142, this full-day adventure packs a lot into roughly 13 hours, taking you across the border into Switzerland, through breathtaking mountain scenery, and into the heart of one of Europe’s most glamorous resorts. Included in the package are coach transport from Milan, a round-trip Bernina Express ticket, and a stop in Tirano to visit the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano—a pretty 16th-century basilica right at the border.

What we love about this trip is how it simplifies what could otherwise be a logistical headache into a seamless, well-organized journey. You get to sit back, relax, and soak in the views that make this route famous—think ice fields, waterfalls, and towering peaks. Plus, the free time in St. Moritz gives you a chance to stroll the iconic lakeside town and peek into its chic boutiques. For those who purchased the upgrade, a cruise on Lake Como is the perfect way to cap off the day.

A small consideration is that the train ride is in second class, so panoramic windows are open for photos but not in a dedicated panoramic carriage. Also, because schedules might shift to optimize the experience, the train route may run from Tirano to St. Moritz instead of the other way around. Nevertheless, this trip is best suited for travelers eager for stunning scenery, easy logistics, and a taste of Swiss elegance—all wrapped into one long but rewarding day.

Key Points

• Scenic Train Journey: The Bernina Express is one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world, with UNESCO recognition, climbing over 7,000 feet and offering incredible mountain vistas.
• Comprehensive Day Trip: It combines coach transport from Milan, a stop in Tirano, and free time in St. Moritz, with optional Lake Como cruise for added luxury.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano offers a glimpse into local religious heritage, while St. Moritz provides a taste of Swiss high life.
• Well-Organized and Accessible: The tour runs smoothly, with bilingual guides, headphones for easy listening, and a manageable group size.
• Value for Money: For around $142, you get transportation, a scenic train ride, and free time—an excellent package for seeing the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning.
• Mixed Feedback on Guides: While many praise the guides for their knowledge, some reviews note that instructions could improve, especially regarding logistics and language.

What the Tour Offers and Why It Matters

This tour is a carefully curated way to experience the Swiss Alps in one day, starting early from Milan and ending back in the evening. The core of the experience is the Bernina Red Train, a UNESCO World Heritage route known for its breathtaking panoramas. Traveling in second class, you’ll be able to open the windows and capture the stunning scenes of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine villages—something that many reviews highlight as the highlight.

The coach ride from Milan is more than just transportation; it’s a chance to relax while crossing the Italian border into Switzerland, passing through the Maloja Pass and other scenic points. In Tirano, you’ll visit the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano, a charming basilica that offers a quiet moment before the mountain adventure begins.

Once in St. Moritz, you’ll have about two hours to explore. Many travelers love strolling by the lake, admiring the luxury hotels, or shopping in the high-end boutiques. For those who opt for the Lake Como cruise, it’s a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Bernina Pass and the Mountain Climb

Your journey begins with a 2-hour coach ride through the alpine valleys of Grisons. This stretch is packed with dramatic views of snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and rushing waterfalls. The bus route includes a pass through the Maloja Pass, which many reviews describe as “breathtaking.” This part of the trip sets the tone with its striking scenery and fresh mountain air. Travelers report feeling both relaxed and awestruck by the sweeping vistas.

Stop 2: Tirano and the Sanctuary

In Tirano, you’ll have time to visit the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano. This 16th-century basilica at the border offers a peaceful pause and a chance to soak in local religious architecture. Reviews highlight how this stop adds a cultural dimension to the trip—”a pretty basilica standing at the border between Italy and Switzerland,” as one traveler put it. This isn’t just a transit point; it’s an authentic slice of local charm.

Stop 3: The Bernina Express Ride

The core of the day is the Bernina Red Train journey. It’s described as “one of the most scenic train journeys in the world,” and for good reason. Your second-class ticket allows you to lean out the open windows and snap photos of glaciers, rushing waterfalls, and mountain peaks. The train climbs to over 7,390 feet—the highest point reached by any European train—before descending into St. Moritz.

Multiple reviews praise the guided commentary and the quality of the scenery—”the views are stunning,” “like stepping into a postcard.” Some mention that the train ride feels rushed, but most agree it’s a very efficient way to see a lot of scenery in a short time.

Stop 4: Free Time in St. Moritz

Once in St. Moritz, you get around two hours to explore. Many travelers love walking along the lake, visiting local shops, or simply enjoying the luxurious atmosphere. Some reviews specifically mention how knowledgeable guides and good organization made their visit smooth and enjoyable.

Optional Lake Como Cruise

If you’ve booked the Lake Como upgrade, your day concludes with a relaxing cruise across the lake’s shimmering waters. This is a highlight for many—”cruising in Lake Como was the cherry on top,” one reviewer said. It offers a peaceful end to a busy day of mountain vistas and alpine towns.

Transportation and Group Size

The luxury air-conditioned coach ensures comfort throughout the long day. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere and allows for easier interaction with guides. Many reviews mention the professional bilingual guides—fluent in English and Spanish—who are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The train ride in second class may limit some panoramic views compared to first class, but the open windows compensate. A helpful detail from reviews is the provision of radio systems so everyone can hear the guide clearly—a big plus for engagement.

Practical Considerations

While this tour offers fantastic scenery and ease, a few things are worth noting. The train route may sometimes run from Tirano to St. Moritz, depending on schedule adjustments, which might slightly change your experience. Also, food and drinks are not included, and eating on the coach is not permitted, so bringing snacks is advisable.

Most travelers find the long day worthwhile, but it is physically demanding—be prepared for a full schedule and some early mornings. Weather can also be unpredictable; some reviews suggest dressing warmly, especially in winter.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

From genuine traveler quotes, you get a sense of what makes this trip special. Ginalyn_T described it as “a wonderful experience exploring the beauty of Switzerland,” emphasizing the breathtaking scenery. EMERSON_M praised the guide—”Danielo is a great guide”—highlighting how knowledge and friendliness enhance the trip.

Some reviews pointed out minor issues, like chaotic meeting points or long bus rides, but these are outweighed by the overall positive impressions—many call it “well-organized” and “efficient.” The value for money is frequently praised, especially given the included transportation, train ride, and free time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to nature lovers, train enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a taste of Swiss luxury without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, enjoy guided tours with informative commentary, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. If you’re traveling with family, many reviews mention how smooth and enjoyable the experience was, even with children.

However, if you prefer more free time or want to stay longer in one place, this might feel a little rushed. Also, those requiring first-class train experiences or wishing for more gourmet options might want to consider alternatives.

This Bernina Red Train & St. Moritz tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic train travel, cultural stops, and luxury leisure. It’s a fantastic way to tick off the Swiss Alps from your travel list with minimal fuss. If you value stunning vistas, professional guides, and easy logistics, this trip is a winner.

It’s best suited for those who want a full-day adventure filled with photo opportunities and authentic alpine charm, all bundled into a worry-free package. For travelers who enjoy guided experiences and want to maximize their time in the mountains, this tour offers resonant memories and great value.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. Meeting points are in central Milan, specifically Piazza IV Novembre, which is near public transportation.

What is the price for this tour?
The cost is approximately $142.19 per person, including transportation, train tickets, and guide services.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride in second class lasts about 2 hours, climbing to the high point at 7,390 feet. The overall day is around 13 hours, including stops and free time.

Is the train in panoramic first class?
No, the train is in second class, but open windows help you capture the scenery. You’ll also receive a radio system to listen to the guide’s commentary.

Can I visit Lake Como during this tour?
Yes, there is an option to cruise Lake Como if you select the upgrade. Without the upgrade, you’ll return directly to Milan after St. Moritz.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring snacks, a camera, and dress warmly—especially in winter—since weather can be cold and unpredictable. Food and drinks are not provided or allowed on the bus.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Many reviews mention traveling with children, and most find it manageable. The scenery and relaxed pace make it enjoyable for families, though long hours may be tiring for very young kids.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if severe weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This comprehensive tour offers a smooth, scenic, and culturally rich way to explore the Swiss Alps from Milan, perfect for those craving stunning landscapes and effortless travel.