From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train

From Milan: Lake Como Cruise, St. Moritz & Bernina Red Train – An In-Depth Review

Traveling from Milan to see the Swiss Alps and iconic lakes may sound like a big day, but this 13-hour tour offers a well-curated experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural stops, and effortless transportation. With luxury coach travel, a private boat cruise on Lake Como, free time in St. Moritz, and a scenic ride on the Bernina Red Train, this trip packs a lot into one day. Rated at 4.6/5 from over 4,800 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this journey as memorable as it is picturesque.

One of the aspects we really like is how smoothly everything is organized, from the transportation to the sightseeing stops. The combination of lakes, mountains, and charming towns makes this tour perfect for those who want a taste of Switzerland and Italy without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The highlight? The Bernina Red Train—a bucket-list rail journey that offers some of the most stunning views in the Alps.

However, keep in mind that with such a packed schedule, long days and early starts are part of the package. Plus, meals are not included, so you’ll want to come prepared with snacks or plan for some off-tour dining. This experience best suits travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, comfortable group tours, and don’t mind a full day of exploring. It’s particularly ideal for those short on time but eager to see the highlights of this region.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Day Trip: Combines lake cruise, Swiss Alps train ride, and sightseeing with transportation included.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of lakes, glaciers, and mountain peaks, with many opportunities for photos.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Lina, Andrea, and Nicoli are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury coach, earphones for commentary, and pre-booked train tickets ensure a smooth experience.
• Flexible Stops: Free time in St. Moritz allows for shopping, strolling, or just soaking up the glamorous atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $199, this tour offers a lot of diverse experiences packed into a single day, with highly positive reviews supporting its value.

A Full Breakdown of the Day

Starting Point & Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins at the BusForFun Fermata in Milan’s Piazza 4 Novembre, near the Hotel Gallia. While this location is straightforward, reviewers have mentioned some initial confusion with signage, so arriving a little early and watching for tour-specific signage or staff can save stress. Once onboard, you’re greeted with comfortable seating and earphones to better hear your guide, which is appreciated especially when traveling through mountain roads or busy towns.

Lake Como: A Private Boat Cruise at Sunrise

Once you arrive at Lake Como, the magic begins. The tour features a private boat cruise, which is often regarded as a highlight. The boat ride lasts about an hour, during which you’ll see charming villages like Bellagio and some of the area’s famous villas. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful it is to start the day on the lake before the crowds arrive, with travelers describing the experience as “magnificent” and “fabulous.”

Travelers like Nicky appreciated the guide’s warmth and attentiveness, noting that the boat trip was a “magnificent day.” The early morning timing means you can enjoy calm waters and stunning sunrise views, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Scenic Drive Through Maloja Pass

Leaving Lake Como, the journey continues along the Maloja route—a winding mountain road that offers sweeping views of lush valleys and snow-capped peaks. This segment provides a real sense of transition from Italian lakes to Swiss mountain scenery. The drive is generally smooth, with drivers like Angelo praised for their skillful navigation through tight mountain roads.

St. Moritz: Glamour and Free Time

Next, you arrive in St. Moritz, a luxurious resort town famous for its winter sports and high-end shopping. The stop here is approximately 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to explore. Reviewers appreciated the free time to walk, shop, or grab a coffee, but some noted that many shops can be closed depending on the time of year, which could be a letdown if you’re expecting a full shopping spree.

Guides like Lina have been praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing tips on the best places to visit or where to find local chocolates and souvenirs. This stop is ideal if you want a quick taste of Swiss elegance and stunning alpine vistas.

The Bernina Red Train: A Journey Through the Alps

The star of the tour is undoubtedly the Bernina Red Train. Pre-booked in 2nd class, the train ride from St. Moritz to Tirano takes about two hours. Despite being in second class (not panoramic), you’re free to open the windows for incredible photos. This segment is a favorite among reviewers, with many describing it as “out of this world.” The train ascends to over 2,256 meters above sea level, passing glaciers, mountain peaks, and unspoiled valleys.

Travelers like Ruth and Danika mention how the visuals are unforgettable, with Danika calling it “probably one of the best experiences of my life.” The train’s route covers scenic stops like Morteratsch Glacier and Bernina Diavolezza, both offering photo opportunities and awe-inspiring views.

Returning Via Val Poschiavo & Final Stops

After the train journey, the bus awaits to take you back through Val Poschiavo, another scenic route filled with dramatic landscapes. The drive back to Milan, with the driver skillfully navigating the mountain roads, allows you to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, with many reviewers praising the professionalism of both guides and drivers.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation & Logistics

The luxury coach offers a comfortable ride with air conditioning and reclining seats. Earphones provided by the tour allow for clear commentary from guides, which many reviews highlight as a plus. The whole day is tightly scheduled, but the organization is generally praised, with timings meticulously planned—though some reviews mention minor delays or the need to adapt the itinerary for weather or traffic.

The Itinerary & Highlights

• Lake Como: Private boat cruise, scenic villages, early morning tranquility.
• Maloja Pass: Winding mountain roads with breathtaking views.
• St. Moritz: Free time in an elegant Swiss town.
• Bernina Red Train: Unforgettable train journey across glaciers and mountain peaks.
• Additional Scenic Stops: Morteratsch Glacier, Bernina Diavolezza, Val Poschiavo.

What’s Included & Not

For $199, the price provides transportation, a professional guide, earphones, a lake cruise, and pre-booked train tickets. Not included are meals and drinks, so packing snacks or planning to buy something on the go is recommended. Some reviews suggested that providing bottled water could add value, especially on such a long day.

What to Bring

The tour advises travelers to bring a passport or European ID, warm clothing, and rain gear, considering the variable mountain weather. The train ride allows window openings, so dress comfortably and wear suitable shoes for walking around St. Moritz and scenic stops.

Accessibility & Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and assistance dogs are the only pets allowed. Infants can join for free but must sit on a parent’s lap, with no dedicated seat.

Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Love

Many guests praise guides like Lina, Andrea, and Nicoli for their knowledge and approachable manner. Lina, in particular, draws high praise for her detailed explanations and friendly attitude, making the tour feel personalized. Several reviewers mention how safe and skillful the driver Angelo is, especially on mountain roads that can seem intimidating to the untrained eye.

The scenery remains the main draw—pictures of the Swiss Alps, the calm waters of Lake Como, and the luxurious charm of St. Moritz all contribute to the appeal. Reviewers like Bruno and Mary Ann emphasize how the views and the opportunity to take photos kept them engaged throughout the long day.

Some mention the value for money, noting that for $199, they experienced a well-organized day packed with diverse landscapes, cultural stops, and scenic train rides. Considering the inclusions and positive reviews, most agree that it’s a worthwhile expense.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for those who love scenic landscapes and want a taste of Swiss luxury without the hassle of navigating themselves. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy group tours, comfortable transport, and memorable photo opportunities. The mix of lakes, mountain passes, and alpine trains makes it an attractive option for photos, sightseeing, and experiencing Swiss culture briefly.

If you’re short on time but craving a full day of drama-free sightseeing with knowledgeable guides and stunning views, this tour will suit you well. However, if you’re sensitive to long days, early mornings, or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider a different option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?
Infants can join for free but must sit on a parent’s lap. The tour is generally geared toward adults and older children, given the long hours and mountain terrain.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the stops, especially in St. Moritz.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or European ID, warm clothing, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes. A camera or smartphone for photos is highly recommended.

How long is the train ride on the Bernina Red Train?
The train journey lasts approximately two hours from St. Moritz to Tirano, offering fantastic mountain views in 2nd class, with windows you can open for photos.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

What happens if the boat cruise is canceled?
Some reviews mention cancellations due to traffic delays, with full refunds offered. Even if the boat ride is canceled, the rest of the tour still provides a memorable experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This full-day tour from Milan combines some of Europe’s most iconic vistas—Lake Como, the Swiss Alps, and the glamorous town of St. Moritz—delivering memorable moments for scenic lovers and culture seekers alike. With expert guides, smooth transportation, and breathtaking views, it’s a well-rounded escape into the natural and luxurious beauty of the region.