Lake Como cruise, St.Moritz and Bernina Red Train

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Milan and see some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery in just a day, this tour might catch your eye. It packs in a lot: a scenic boat cruise on Lake Como, a trip through the Swiss Alps on the famous Bernina Express, and free time in the luxe resort town of St. Moritz. But, as with any adventure, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons before booking.

What we love about this experience is its combination of iconic sights and ease of access. It’s a well-organized way to see both Italy and Switzerland without the hassle of planning multiple transport legs. The views along the Bernina train are often highlighted as a major highlight, and you get a chance to walk around and soak in St. Moritz’s glamorous vibe. However, one possible drawback is that the schedule can feel a bit packed, leading to some rushed moments—something reviewers have pointed out.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a full, scenic day trip that combines lake views, mountain landscapes, and a touch of luxury. If you’re a fan of picturesque vistas and don’t mind a long day, it offers a great value for the price. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and the possibility of some slight delays, as experienced by some guests.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: You’ll witness some of Europe’s most beautiful lakes and mountains.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines a lake cruise, Swiss Alps train ride, and free time in St. Moritz.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable and bilingual, making the experience richer.
• Well-organized but busy: The schedule is tight, so expect a full day with limited downtime.
• Value for money: For around $202, you get transportation, a boat cruise, and scenic train travel.
• Mixed reviews on pacing: Some found it rushed, others loved the seamless flow.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Lake Como: A Lakeside Marvel

Your day starts early, with a luxury coach departing from Milan at 7:15 am. The first highlight is a beautiful morning cruise on Lake Como’s calm waters. Unlike a typical ferry, this is a private boat experience, giving you a chance to admire lakeside villas and charming villages such as Bellagio and Varenna. Guest reviews often mention how the views are absolutely breathtaking, and some appreciate the chance to take fantastic photos from the boat.

One reviewer, Kai_C, called this part of the trip a “major highlight,” emphasizing the joy of cruising on such a tranquil lake and admiring the villas like Villa Balbianello. The boat cruise lasts about an hour, providing a relaxing start before the next leg.

Maloja Pass: A Scenic Bus Ride

After the lake cruise, the tour continues via climate-controlled luxury coach along the winding Maloja Pass. This segment lasts about two hours and offers spectacular mountain scenery as you cross into Switzerland. Guests often note the breathtaking views and how the bus journey itself feels like part of the adventure.

Beware, some reviews mention delays at the start, with the bus being about 20 minutes late, which can cause a chain reaction of tight timings later in the day. The landscape makes any delay worth it, with the Poschiavo valley providing a fairytale backdrop.

St. Moritz: Glitz and Free Time

The tour stops in the famous resort town of St. Moritz for about two hours. Guests have the chance to shop, stroll, or relax in style, soaking in the luxurious atmosphere. Reviewers highlight that their guides left them some free time, which was appreciated, even though some found the overall schedule a bit rushed.

One reviewer mentioned that their guide dropped them at the town center for some independent exploration, which was a nice touch. However, a few guests felt that more time here would have been better, especially if they wanted to explore more leisurely or visit local cafes.

The Bernina Express: A Journey through the Alps

The highlight for many is the train ride on the Bernina Express, considered one of the world’s most scenic train routes. You’ll sit in reserved second-class carriages, with the ability to open windows for prime photo opportunities. The train winds through spectacular landscapes, including lakes with unique names—the White Lake and the Black Lake—offering perfect photo moments.

Guests frequently mention the Brusio spiral viaduct and the Bernina Pass (at 2,253 meters above sea level) as breathtaking sights. The panoramic views, combined with the sound of the train softly snaking through mountains, make this one of the trip’s most memorable moments.

A guest, Henry_G, called the Bernina ride “magical” and said it was a “must-do”. The train journey lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll be treated to fantastic scenery suitable for photography and relaxation.

Tirano: The Final Stop

Arriving in Tirano, you get an hour to last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading back to Milan. Some reviews mention that this final stop is a perfect way to wind down, with enough time to explore or pick up souvenirs.

The return journey is via bus, and although some guests experienced delays due to traffic or driver rest breaks, the tour provides a full day of scenic highlights.

Transportation and Logistics

The entire day runs on a luxury air-conditioned coach, which is appreciated, especially given the early start and full schedule. Guided by a bilingual guide, you’ll receive commentary in English and Spanish, enhancing your understanding of the sights.

The train journey is second class, offering a panoramic experience even without first-class luxury. While some reviews note that this train isn’t the luxury panoramic carriage, you can open windows to take photos and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Most travelers find the schedule well-organized, but a few mention feeling rushed—not surprising given the packed itinerary. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately is a good idea.

Value and Cost

At $202.44 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package: coach transport, boat cruise, guided walks, and a scenic train ride. For those wanting an efficient way to see iconic sights in a single day, this price point is reasonable, especially considering the included activities and the convenience of door-to-door transport (although hotel pickup isn’t included).

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many guests praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Francesca, for example, was described as “fantastic” and “informative”. Conversely, some reviewers noted issues with timing, with a few mentioning the bus being late or feeling the schedule was too tight.

The scenery consistently emerges as the star of the show, with many travelers describing the views as “breathtaking” and “magical”. The train ride frequently receives praise, with guests loving the ability to capture photos and enjoy the landscapes from comfortable seats.

One reviewer mentioned the lack of air conditioning as a downside, but most seemed to find the overall experience worth the early start and long day.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is a great pick for those who want a packed but manageable day of scenic highlights without the hassle of planning individual transport. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Milan and want to see both Italian lakes and Swiss Alps in one go. The train ride and lake cruise offer some of the most picturesque experiences in the area, making it worth considering despite the long hours.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or extra time in towns like St. Moritz, this might feel a little rushed. Also, keep in mind that the schedule can be impacted by traffic or delays, so flexibility is key.

Travelers who value stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and good value will find this tour offers a memorable, scenic day out that showcases the best of Lake Como and the Swiss Alps.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Autostradale Bus Stop in Milan. Make sure to arrive about 15 minutes early.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 13 hours, from early morning departure to late evening return.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for all weather conditions, as the train ride offers open windows for photos, and it can get chilly in the mountains.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a group tour with a fixed schedule. While you’ll have some free time in St. Moritz, additional customization isn’t available.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that it’s a long day with some walking involved. Children who enjoy scenic views and long outings will likely love it.

What transportation is used?
Luxury coach for the entire day, with a scenic train ride on the Bernina Express route.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s best to bring snacks or plan to buy in St. Moritz.

In essence, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic journey through some of Europe’s most iconic landscapes. With breathtaking views, expert guides, and the thrill of a Swiss mountain train, it’s perfect for travelers eager for a visually spectacular yet manageable day trip from Milan. Just keep in mind the schedule’s pace, and you’ll have a memorable experience.