From Milan: Bernina Train, Swiss Alps & St. Moritz Day Trip

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss Alps on a single day might sound ambitious, but this tour makes it not only feasible but truly unforgettable. Combining a scenic Bernina Express train journey with free time in the glamorous town of St. Moritz, it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, luxury, and cultural charm. The company behind it, TAOTRAVEL, has crafted an adventure that appeals to those craving spectacular landscapes with a touch of Swiss elegance, all while keeping the experience accessible and well-organized.

One of the things we love most about this trip is how seamlessly it blends stunning train rides with sightseeing and leisure time. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the Bernina Red Train, often called “the most beautiful train in the world,” which takes you up to 2,253 meters. Yet, a possible challenge is the long day’s itinerary—it’s quite packed and involves a lot of traveling, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule. This trip is perfect for travel enthusiasts eager to experience the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning or overnight stays.

If you’re a lover of scenic journeys, mountain vistas, and a taste of Swiss luxury, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, value-packed day that delivers on breathtaking views and memorable moments. Just keep in mind the need for comfortable shoes and a good camera—this is one of those experiences that’s best enjoyed with a sense of adventure and curiosity.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenic Train Ride: The Bernina Express offers panoramic views and the chance to open windows for photos.
• Luxury in St. Moritz: You’ll get free time to explore the upscale resort town, perfect for shopping, strolling, or just soaking in the views.
• Expert Guides & Commentary: Knowledgeable guides, like Alejandro and Maria Cristina, add depth and personality to the trip.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: From Lake Como to the top of the Alps, the route is thoughtfully planned, with breaks and scenic stops.
• Value for Money: At $120, the combination of train rides, transfers, and guided commentary provides excellent value.
• Full-Day Adventure: The 12-hour duration packs in a lot, making it suitable for those who want an immersive experience.

The Journey Begins: From Milan to St. Moritz

Starting from either the TAOTRAVEL meet point or an alternative location, the day kicks off with a comfortable coach ride that lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a relaxed start and a chance to admire the lakeside scenery of Lake Como. Just a quick stop en route allows for a coffee break and scenic photos of the lake—a perfect warm-up for what’s to come.

The coach then continues through the Swiss countryside, passing by Colico Piano for a brief 15-minute refreshment, and then on through the dramatic Maloja Pass. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms into charming alpine scenery, with majestic mountains and lush valleys framing your view. Reviewers often mention how the entire drive feels like a countdown to a mountain adventure, with many highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers.

Exploring St. Moritz: The Epitome of Alpine Elegance

Once in St. Moritz, you’re given about 1 hour and 45 minutes for free time. This is enough to get a feel for the town—famous for its luxury boutiques, exquisite hotels, and the scenic Engadin lakes. Many travelers mention spending this time wandering the streets, enjoying the crisp mountain air, and sampling Swiss hot chocolate or chocolates from renowned pastry shops.

The reviews are full of praise for the guides, especially Maria Cristina, who was described as “very helpful and friendly”, making the visit feel warm and personal despite the town’s upscale reputation. Some visitors recommend trying local treats and taking photos of the frozen lake, which adds a magical touch to the experience. Keep in mind that the town itself is small, so an hour and a half may feel a little tight if you want to explore every shop or take photos at a leisurely pace.

The Iconic Bernina Line: “The Most Beautiful Train in the World”

Boarding the Bernina Red Train is undeniably the trip’s centerpiece. This historic train climbs steep gradients of up to 7%, with the spectacular Alp views unfolding through open windows, which many reviewers appreciate for the opportunity to snap photos without glare. The train reaches up to 2,253 meters at the Ospizio Bernina station, crossing glaciers, mountain passes, and picturesque valleys.

A reviewer mentioned the “breathtaking views” and how the journey on the train was “like passing through a painting.” The train’s design and windows are tailored to maximize scenery, making it a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike. The ride from St. Moritz to Tirano lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes and offers numerous scenic photo stops—though, as one reviewer pointed out, you may want to get your photos early as the train can be crowded later in the day.

Along the way, a few short stops like Morteratsch Glacier and Ospizio Bernina provide additional photo opportunities and a chance to stretch. The pass by Ospizio Bernina and the glacier are often praised for their untouched natural beauty, which adds a sense of adventure and awe.

The Return: From Tirano to Milan

After the train journey, you’ll enjoy a short break in Tirano, where some visitors suggest grabbing a quick snack or simply taking in the view before heading back. The coach ride back to Milan lasts about 2.5 hours, with many reviewers describing the scenery on the return as equally stunning. The trip typically concludes at the original meeting point, wrapping up a full day of exploration.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The included features—second-class train tickets, air-conditioned coach, English-speaking guide, and round-trip transfers—offer a solid package for the price of $120. The exclusions are meals and drinks, so packing a snack or planning to buy something in St. Moritz or Tirano might be wise.

Travelers consistently praise the guides, like Alejandro and Mara, who bring humor, knowledge, and a sense of safety to the journey. One reviewer called it a “well-organized trip,” highlighting how the guides managed timing and kept everyone engaged.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with long days and moving around. Make sure to bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and an open mind for a day full of visual treats.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip offers stunning mountain scenery, the chance to ride one of the most scenic railways in the world, and a taste of Swiss luxury—all in one day. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting a hassle-free way to see the Alps without overnight stays. The guide-led format ensures you’re well-informed and comfortable, while the flexible itinerary allows for some free exploration.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might feel a tad rushed. The long day involves a fair amount of traveling and walking, so be prepared for a full schedule.

This tour provides excellent value for money, delivering breathtaking views, engaging guides, and a unique experience that captures the essence of Swiss mountain beauty. Whether you’re visiting Milan for a quick escape or seeking a memorable mountain adventure, it’s a superb choice that balances convenience, scenery, and a touch of luxury.

FAQs

Do I need a passport for this trip?
Yes, a current valid passport or I.D. card (if you’re from the Schengen area) is required for travel between Italy and Switzerland.

Are hotel pickups available?
No, the tour starts from designated meeting points, such as TAOTRAVEL’s chosen locations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly geared towards children, it’s suitable for most ages unless mobility is a concern. Kids might enjoy the train ride and scenery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with your passport or ID. Bringing a camera or smartphone for photos is a good idea.

Can I open the train windows?
Yes, the train tickets include opening windows, allowing for glare-free photography and fresh mountain air.

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

How long is the train ride?
The scenic Bernina Express journey from St. Moritz to Tirano lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible and doesn’t permit pets or smoking in the vehicle.

What is the typical schedule?
Start times vary; check availability to see the options. The entire day lasts approximately 12 hours.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Bernina Express day trip from Milan offers a fantastic way to experience some of the most beautiful scenery the Swiss Alps have to offer—without the need for overnight stays or complicated planning. Whether you’re snapping photos of glaciers, indulging in Swiss chocolates, or simply marveling at mountain vistas, this tour promises a memorable adventure packed into one scenic day.