Private tour to Bernina train & Lake Como. Hotel pick-up

Exploring the Swiss Alps and Italy’s most beautiful lakes can seem like a dream—until you find a well-organized day trip that makes it all happen seamlessly. This private tour, rated 5 out of 5 by recent travelers, promises a full day of scenic vistas, charming towns, and mountain adventures, all with the convenience of hotel pickup in Milan.

What really sets this experience apart is the chance to ride Europe’s most beautiful train—the Bernina Express—and enjoy exclusive insights from knowledgeable guides. However, with a price tag of over $1,200 per person, it’s an investment that’s best suited for those eager to see the Swiss and Italian landscapes in one day without the hassle of planning. For travelers craving stunning scenery, comfort, and a taste of luxury, this trip is worth considering.

One small note—some reviews mentioned that guides could be a bit soft-spoken, which might be tricky for groups eager to soak up stories. Still, the overall smoothness of the transportation and the quality of the sights make it a compelling option for those ready for a big adventure.

Key Points

• Scenic train rides across the Swiss National Park and Engadin Alps offer unbeatable views.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Milan make the day trip comfortable and straightforward.
• Includes a 2nd-class train ticket with open windows to enjoy the landscape.
• Visit the elegant town of St. Moritz and take in its luxurious vibe.
• Option to stop at Lake Como enhances the experience with even more stunning scenery.
• The tour is private, providing a tailored experience for your group.

An Overview of the Experience

This private day trip from Milan is designed for those who want to explore both Switzerland and Italy without the hassle of multiple bookings or navigating unfamiliar transportation. The day begins early with hotel pickup, and from there, the adventure takes off across scenic roads, with an optional quick stop at Lake Como if you choose the added cost.

The highlight for most travelers is the Bernina Express, often called Europe’s most beautiful train. The route is an engineering marvel, climbing up to 2,253 meters, reaching the highest altitude in Europe accessible by rail. The train’s large windows and open-air sections give an exceptional view of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and rugged mountain slopes. It’s a journey that feels like a moving postcard.

The inclusion of a professional guide enriches the experience, providing insights about the places visited. Notably, Daron and Lucy from California praised their guide Mara for her extensive knowledge of the regions and their history, making the trip both informative and engaging. They also appreciated their driver Filippo for smooth handling and punctuality.

The itinerary is flexible in execution, with some stops potentially inverted, but typically includes the charming town of St. Moritz, a famed luxury destination perched at 1856 meters in the Engadine Valley. Here, travelers are free to explore and enjoy the elegant atmosphere, whether by strolling through the town or simply soaking in the views of lakes and mountains.

The Itinerary in Detail

Milan to Lake Como and Beyond

The day begins around 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Milan. The group departs early to make the most of the daylight hours. The journey is broken up with a brief stop at Lake Como, often in Varenna or Lecco, giving travelers a quick taste of Italy’s famous lake. Reviewers mention that this stop, lasting about 45 minutes, is perfect for snapping photos and admiring the scenery without feeling rushed.

Time in St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz after a scenic drive, you’ll have roughly an hour to explore this luxurious alpine town. Built in the 19th century, St. Moritz is synonymous with elegance and exclusivity. Travelers can wander its streets, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and appreciate the stunning landscape of lakes and snow-covered peaks. One traveler noted that the town has a “magnificent landscape,” and the visit offers a lovely mix of natural beauty and sophisticated charm.

The Bernina Express Journey

The true star of this tour is the Bernina Red Train. Departing from St. Moritz in the early afternoon, the train takes us on a roughly 2-hour ride that is often described as breathtaking. The route crosses the Swiss National Park, winding through the Engadin Alps and facing slopes of 70 per thousand, which highlights the impressive engineering involved.

Travelers will get to experience panoramic views through large open windows—an ideal way to take pictures or simply marvel at the scenery. The train reaches 2,253 meters at Piz Bernina, the highest point in Europe reachable by train, making it an experience of both natural beauty and engineering achievement.

The reviews mention that the train journey is considered “the most beautiful in the world,” which sums up the awe-inspiring vistas perfectly. Some travelers, like Michael D., mentioned that the experience was “amazing,” although he did note that his guide’s soft-spoken manner made hearing the commentary a bit difficult.

Return to Milan via Tirano

After the mountain adventure, the tour concludes in Tirano, a quaint Italian town. From here, travelers are whisked back to Milan via private, air-conditioned transportation. This part of the journey is appreciated for its convenience and comfort, ensuring you arrive back in the city in the evening after a full day of exploration.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Stunning Scenic Rides: The Bernina Express’s route crosses iconic Swiss landscapes, and the open windows make it even more immersive. If you love train journeys and panoramic views, this is a must-do experience.

Convenient Transportation: The private pick-up and drop-off from Milan eliminate the stress of navigating public transport or multiple bookings. You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, with bottled water provided.

Expert Guides: As noted in reviews, guides like Mara are highly knowledgeable about the region’s culture and history, enriching your understanding of each stop.

Luxury Towns and Natural Beauty: From the elegance of St. Moritz to the serenity of Lake Como, this trip packs a variety of beautiful sights into one day.

What You Should Consider

Price Point: At over $1,200 per person, this experience is a significant investment. However, considering the included private transfers, expert guidance, and scenic train ride, many travelers find it offers excellent value for a premium day trip.

Guide Volume: Some reviewers mentioned guides spoke softly, which could be a drawback if you prefer more vocal commentary. It might be worth requesting a louder guide or joining with a smaller group.

Timing and Flexibility: The itinerary can be inverted, so if certain stops are more or less appealing depending on your interests, keep that in mind when booking.

Additional Costs: Visiting Lake Como may incur an extra fee, and meals are not included, so plan for some snacks or dining expenses.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for scenery lovers and those eager to experience the Swiss Alps without leaving Italy. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a full day of travel, and it suits travelers who value expert guidance and a luxury experience. If you’re interested in luxury towns like St. Moritz or want to see the highest train point in Europe, this is a great choice.

It’s also suitable for those who enjoy train journeys and want a hassle-free way to see multiple regions in one day. Given the price, it’s better suited for travelers who are willing to splurge for comfort, convenience, and memorable scenery.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Milan, making the start and end of the day effortless.

How long is the entire trip? The trip lasts approximately 10 to 13 hours, depending on timing and traffic conditions.

What’s included in the price? You get private transportation, a professional guide, bottled water, and a 2nd-class train ticket with open windows for the Bernina route.

Can I visit Lake Como as part of this tour? Yes, there’s an option to stop at Lake Como (Varenna or Lecco) for an added cost, providing a scenic lakeside experience.

Is it suitable for children? Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with older kids who can handle a full day of travel.

What should I wear? Dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather, and bring layers if visiting mountain areas.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, so consider packing snacks or planning to dine during stops.

What kind of train ticket is provided? A 2nd-class ticket with open windows, offering excellent views and a comfortable ride.

What if my guide is soft-spoken? Some travelers noted this, so don’t hesitate to ask your guide to speak louder if needed. Guides like Mara are highly knowledgeable, making the effort worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Bernina and Lake Como from Milan offers an exceptional way to experience some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes with minimal stress. From the luxury of hotel pickup to the breathtaking vistas aboard the Bernina Express, every element is designed for comfort and awe. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the combination of private transport, expert guiding, and access to iconic sights makes it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a memorable day.

Perfect for scenery aficionados, train lovers, or anyone wanting to combine Swiss and Italian highlights in one seamless journey, this tour delivers both value and genuine wow moments. The experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury in their explorations.

In summary, if you’re after a guided, scenic, and hassle-free way to explore the Swiss Alps and Lake Como from Milan, this tour hits the mark. Just prepare for a full day, and you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories—and plenty of stunning photos.