Tour Bernina Red Train And St Moritz from Milan

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss-Italian border for a day packed with stunning scenery, historic towns, and luxury resorts sounds like a tall order — but this Bernina Red Train and St. Moritz tour makes it surprisingly manageable. Whether you’re a lover of scenic train rides, mountain vistas, or charming lakeside towns, this tour promises a comprehensive experience that ticks multiple boxes in one day.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines easy coach transport from Milan with a scenic Bernina Express journey through UNESCO-protected Alpine routes. Plus, the chance to walk through St. Moritz, visit the Madonna di Tirano Sanctuary, and optionally cruise Lake Como makes it a well-rounded adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a long day — approximately 13 hours — so you’ll want to be prepared for a full itinerary and some early starts. While some reviews mention the tour might feel rushed, most highlight the efficient way it packs so much into one day. This tour suits travelers eager to see a slice of Swiss Alps with minimal fuss, especially those who appreciate scenic train rides and picturesque towns.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The Bernina Express route offers some of Europe’s most breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Effortless Logistics: Combining coach transport with train travel simplifies the logistics of visiting these remote spots.
• Authentic Experiences: Stops include the Madonna di Tirano Sanctuary and free time in St. Moritz to explore and soak in the atmosphere.
• Optional Lake Como Cruise: Perfect for those looking to add a luxurious touch to their day.
• Guide Quality: Well-rated guides enhance the experience with informative commentary and helpful tips.
• High Value: For around $142, this tour offers a mix of transportation, sightseeing, and free time — making it a good deal for a comprehensive day trip.

The Journey Begins: From Milan to Tirano and Beyond

Our adventure kicks off early in Piazza IV Novembre, right next to the Gallia Hotel. The air-conditioned coach instantly feels like a relief after the early morning wake-up, and it’s a comfortable way to cover the roughly 2.5-hour drive to Tirano, a charming Italian border town.

During the ride, your guide will introduce the day’s itinerary, answer questions, and start building excitement. Most reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides, with some mentioning guides like Danielo and Clara, who are both noted for their enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer even highlighted how their guide explained upcoming scenery so well that it felt like traveling with a friend rather than a tour guide.

Visiting Tirano: A Pretty Border Town with Historical Charm

The stop in Tirano isn’t just a quick photo op. You’ll have some time to explore this cute town, known for its historic buildings and vibrant piazzas, before boarding the Bernina Express. The highlight here is the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano, a basilica dating back to the 16th century. Reviewers appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque setting, making it a meaningful prelude to the scenic train ride.

Riding the Bernina Red Train: The Heart of the Experience

Boarding the Bernina Red Train is where the experience shifts into high gear. The train journey itself is often described as the most breathtaking part of the day, with many reviewers commenting on the spectacular mountain vistas, ice fields, and waterfalls visible through large windows and open carriage doors (since you’re in second class, not panoramic, but with windows you can open).

The route climbs up to 7,390 feet (2,253 meters) — the highest altitude reached by any train in Europe — and crosses the Maloja Pass and other scenic highlights. The UNESCO World Heritage status isn’t just a badge; it reflects the extraordinary engineering and natural beauty along this route. Several reviews mention how the views are “like stepping into a postcard,” with others noting how the guide’s commentary made the scenery even more engaging.

Free Time in St. Moritz: Exploring a Swiss Icon

Once in St. Moritz, you’re granted roughly two hours of free time. This is enough to stroll along the lake shores, check out the chic shops, or grab a coffee at a local café. Reviewers commonly mention how the town’s atmosphere feels luxurious but welcoming, with some enjoying photos by the lake’s famed promenade.

One reviewer noted, “St. Moritz is beautiful, and the free time allowed was just enough to take a quick walk and soak in the mountain air.” Another added that the town is perfect for those who love a blend of outdoor scenery and high-end shopping.

Optional Lake Como Cruise: A Luxurious Addition

For those who opt for the Lake Como extension, the day includes a boat cruise on this famous lake. It’s a perfect way to wind down after the mountain adventure, with most reviewers describing the cruise as peaceful and scenic. This optional feature adds a touch of elegance and is highly recommended if you want a more relaxed finish to your day.

The Return Journey: From Maloja Pass to Milan

On the way back, the bus winds down the breathtaking Maloja Pass, with many travelers remarking on the incredible landscape views during this descent. While some reviews mention the bus ride can be long, they also appreciate the scenic beauty visible from the window and the fact that the bus driver handles mountain roads skillfully.

The tour concludes back in Piazza IV Novembre, with many feeling satisfied that this was a day well spent. The overall organization receives praise, with some noting how well the timing worked, although a few mention that some stops felt a bit rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of transportation and sightseeing is what makes this trip particularly valuable. The coach ride from Milan is comfortable and allows you to relax while your guide sets the scene. The Bernina Express route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, and the reviews consistently highlight how stunning and photo-worthy the views are.

The guide’s commentary is a highlight for many, with reviewers praising guides like Andrea and Clara for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Clear communication and helpful tips — such as reminding travelers to bring food or explaining the train schedule — make the day smoother.

The free time in St. Moritz and optional Lake Como cruise offer a good balance between guided sightseeing and personal exploration. The value for money is high, considering the included train ticket, coach transport, and guided tour.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts early, so be prepared for a long day. It’s ideal for those who want to see a lot with minimal hassle.
• Weather: Operating in all weather conditions, pack warm clothes if visiting in winter or cooler months — some reviewers mention the need for warm layers.
• Food and Drinks: No food or drinks are allowed on the bus, so bring snacks or have breakfast before departure.
• Comfort: The coach is described as comfortable, but the bus ride back can be lengthy and bumpy — good to bring a travel pillow or a jacket.
• Group Size: Limited to 50 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere and easier logistics.
• Documents: Bring a valid passport or European ID, especially when crossing borders.
• Booking: The tour is popular, booked over 10 times last week alone, so early booking is advised.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for scenery lovers, train enthusiasts, or anyone looking to visit the Swiss Alps without the hassle of independent planning. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a comprehensive taste of the region’s highlights. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find value here, especially those who appreciate guided tours with meaningful commentary.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, scenic, and well-organized day trip that combines multiple experiences into one, this tour fits the bill nicely. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried exploration, a longer stay in St. Moritz or Lake Como might suit you better.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers with families have found it manageable, especially since the coach is comfortable and the stops are not overly long. However, keep in mind it’s a long day, and young children may get tired.

Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, a valid passport or European ID is required since the tour crosses the Italy-Switzerland border.

Can I upgrade to first class on the Bernina Express?
No, the ticket included is second class, which still offers large windows and the option to open them for photos. The tour does not mention an upgrade option.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, and food or drinks are not allowed on the bus. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Tirano or St. Moritz.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if weather conditions are too poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, youll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride itself is part of a route with UNESCO status, and the exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s a significant highlight that lasts for a few hours, offering plenty of time for sightseeing and photos.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned; the price covers coach, train tickets, and guide services. Food, drinks, and optional cruise are extra.

This tour offers a well-balanced day of mountain scenery, charming towns, and luxurious lakeside views, all served with expert guidance and thoughtful organization. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to experience the Swiss Alps without the complications of independent travel — especially if you’re pressed for time but craving the beauty of this region.

While it’s a full day, most reviewers agree that the scenery, the train ride, and the overall ease make it worth every penny. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, breathtaking vistas, and a comfortable pace that covers diverse highlights in one memorable outing.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Milan, this trip can add a special touch to your European adventure — a true highlight for those who love scenic journeys and authentic mountain towns.