From Milan: Bernina Red Train & Lunch with Mountain Views

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss Alps on a day trip isn’t just about crossing borders — it’s about diving into a stunning landscape of towering peaks, shimmering glaciers, and charming alpine villages. This guided tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 by travelers, offers a well-rounded day of scenic train rides, mountain adventures, and authentic Swiss cuisine. We’re especially drawn to the combination of a breathtaking cable car ascent to 3,000 meters and the chance to enjoy delicious alpine food at high altitude.

One standout feature of this tour is the Bernina Red Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which promises a scenic journey through dramatic valleys and historic mountain scenery. However, the whole day is quite packed, with around 12 hours of travel, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days on the road. If you’re craving an authentic, immersive experience that combines natural beauty with culture, this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain vistas from the cable car and train ride
• Expert guides who provide helpful insights in both Italian and English
• High-altitude lunch featuring hearty Swiss dishes with panoramic views
• Efficiently organized itinerary balancing sightseeing, travel, and leisure
• UNESCO World Heritage Site journey with iconic Swiss railways
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with long hours and unaccompanied exploration

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of scenic travel and culture, making it a standout choice for those who want to see the Swiss Alps without spending days on the road. Starting early from Piazza della Repubblica in Milan, the journey kicks off with a 70-minute coach ride through Italian and Swiss landscapes. The friendly, bilingual assistant on board helps set expectations and shares tidbits about what’s ahead, easing the long transit.

The Scenic Drive to St. Moritz and Bernina Diavolezza

After nearly two hours on the bus, travelers pass by the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz, famous for its winter sports scene and luxury ambiance. Although a brief pass-through, the drive offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys—a teaser for what’s to come. The highlight begins when you arrive at Bernina Diavolezza, a stop where you can stretch your legs, take photos, and soak in the landscape.

The Cable Car Ascent to Diavolezza Lodge

Boarding the cable car is the first real thrill. The ride up to Diavolezza Lodge takes just 12 minutes but feels much longer thanks to the spectacular views of glaciers, peaks, and expansive alpine scenery. We loved the way the cable car glides smoothly over the rugged terrain, giving you an unobstructed view of the towering mountains. Once at 2,978 meters, you’re greeted by a panoramic vista that stretches across the Alps, making it hard to focus on just one peak.

Reviewers consistently praise the stress-free, enjoyable cable ride, with one noting that it’s “much better than expected,” especially given the long bus rides beforehand. The high altitude and fresh mountain air instantly make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Lunch at the Diavolezza Lodge

The highlight for many is the lunch at Berghaus Diavolezza, served at over 3,000 meters. The menu features Pizzoccheri, a traditional Swiss alpine dish made with buckwheat pasta, melted cheese, potatoes, cabbage, and seasoned with garlic butter and sage. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect after the ascent. Reviewers describe it as “great,” with “presentation being excellent,” and a “much better meal than expected,” which is a testament to the quality and authenticity of the food.

The lodge provides a relaxed atmosphere with spectacular views from every window. Many travelers find this meal a moment of genuine satisfaction amid their mountain adventure, feeling genuinely connected to the alpine culture.

Return to Bernina and the UNESCO World Heritage Line

After lunch, you can explore the surrounding area or simply enjoy the stunning vistas. Then, it’s back on the cable car for a quick descent, followed by a two-hour panoramic train ride aboard the Bernina Line. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this train journey is a true highlight, offering views of ancient stone bridges, lush valleys, and quaint mountain villages.

Travelers have told us that the train ride is “spectacular,” and the views are “magnificent,” with some reviewers noting the train’s professional narration and smooth, comfortable ride. It’s a chance to sit back and absorb the scenery without fatigue.

Stop in Tirano and Return to Milan

The final leg takes you to Tirano, a small Italian town where you get about 30 minutes of free time. It’s enough to browse local shops or grab a quick snack before heading back to Milan. The bus ride back, lasting around 2.5 hours, completes the day with relaxed reflection on the mountain adventures.

Why This Tour Works Well

The combination of scenic transportation—the cable car, train, and bus—makes this a visually stunning day. The expert guides, like Raffaele, stand out for their engaging and multilingual commentary, enhancing your understanding of the landscapes and local culture. Reviewers have appreciated the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the long day more enjoyable.

The value here is clear: for $225, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, a high-altitude lunch, and a UNESCO-listed train journey. Many mention that the lunch and views surpassed their expectations, making this a worthwhile splurge for scenery lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Practical Considerations

While the tour includes many highlights, it is quite full — with around 12 hours from start to finish. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a long day on the go. The unaccompanied exploration at Diavolezza and Tirano allows for some flexibility, but travelers should be comfortable with self-guided walking and limited free time.

Note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as the ascent involves unassisted walking and the cable car’s capacity may not accommodate mobility aids. Also, bring your passport or ID, as it’s required for border crossing and identification purposes.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Milan offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, authentic Swiss cuisine, and historic rail travel. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers looking to experience the Alps in a single, well-organized day. The stunning views from the cable car and train, combined with the delicious alpine lunch and friendly guides, make it a memorable adventure.

Perfect for those who love scenic travel, culture, and a touch of luxury, this tour packs a lot into a manageable day. While it’s a long journey, the value of the views and experiences makes it worth every hour.

If you’re after an authentic Swiss mountain experience with effortless logistics and knowledgeable guiding, this trip delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, all transportation from Milan to Diavolezza and back, including the bus, cable car, and Bernina train, is included in the $225 price.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Milan in the evening.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring your passport or ID card for border crossing purposes, and dress for the mountain weather — layers, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advisable.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with long hours and walking. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

Can I explore the area on my own at Diavolezza?
Yes, at Diavolezza, you have free time to explore and enjoy the views on your own before returning to the cable car.

What food is included?
A traditional alpine lunch featuring Pizzoccheri is included, served at the Diavolezza Lodge with excellent presentation and authentic flavors.

What are the main highlights I should look out for?
Expect breathtaking mountain panoramas, a UNESCO-listed train journey, a scenic cable car ascent, and a hearty Swiss meal at high altitude.

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the Swiss Alps while traveling comfortably from Milan. Its blend of scenic transportation, cultural experiences, and jaw-dropping vistas makes it perfect for anyone eager to add a mountain adventure to their European itinerary.