Milan: Bernina Express Train Ride to St. Moritz Day Trip

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss Alps on the Bernina Express offers a journey that’s as much about spectacular scenery as it is about comfortable travel. This full-day tour, priced at around $185 per person, promises an unforgettable experience through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes, crossing mountain passes, and visiting the charming resort town of St. Moritz.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you’ll get to experience one of the most scenic train routes in the world — the Bernina Express — which is famous for its engineering marvels and stunning vistas. Plus, the opportunity to explore St. Moritz, a luxurious mountain escape, adds a touch of sophistication. However, the entire day involves a fair amount of travel, so it’s not ideal for those seeking a slow, relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, scenic scenery enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of Swiss mountain elegance without the hassle of planning multiple transits. If you love breathtaking vistas, a bit of history, and a well-organized itinerary, this trip could be a highlight of your Alps experience.

Key Points

• Scenic journey on the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express offers breathtaking views and engineering marvels.
• Visit to St. Moritz provides time for leisurely exploration, shopping, and enjoying Swiss treats.
• Crossing the Bernina Pass and the Brusio helical bridge showcase some of the most iconic Swiss landscapes.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned coach ensures a stress-free travel experience.
• The full-day itinerary balances train rides, sightseeing, and free time, making it suitable for curious explorers.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to the nature of the train and walking involved.

The Journey Begins in Milan

Starting from Piazza della Repubblica, the tour kicks off early in the morning with a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned coach. The two-hour transfer from Milan is smooth, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead. This part of the journey is more about setting the stage — you’ll be traveling in comfort while listening to your guide share tidbits about the route and the Swiss Alps to come.

A common comment from past travelers highlights how the coach’s large windows allow for glimpses of Italian and Swiss countryside, making the transition from city to mountain backdrop seamless. Plus, the guide’s commentary is often appreciated for enhancing the experience with interesting facts and humor.

The Bernina Express: A UNESCO Masterpiece

The highlight of this trip is undeniably the Bernina Express train ride. Departing from Tirano, the train is equipped with panoramic windows designed for spectacular viewing. Expect to see dramatic mountain peaks, lush valleys, and charming villages.

One review noted, “The views from the train are simply mind-blowing — you can see the snow-capped peaks, the winding rail lines, and the Brusio spiral bridge all in one go.” The train crosses the Bernina Pass, which reaches over 7,000 feet, offering sweeping panoramas that are hard to match anywhere else in Europe.

Traveling through the UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll also have the chance to witness impressive feats of engineering, such as the Brusio helical bridge, where the tracks spiral around in a perfect helix. The actual ride is comfortable, with many passengers finding the open windows a perfect way to fully soak in the scenery. Some guests mention that early in the journey, the train’s windows can fog up if the weather is cold, so dressing warmly is advisable.

Exploring St. Moritz

Once you arrive in St. Moritz, the tour offers about 2.5 hours of free time, which is enough to stroll around the lake, browse upscale boutiques, or grab a hot chocolate in a cozy café. Past travelers appreciated the relaxed pace here, describing it as a perfect balance to the busy train ride.

Many noted that St. Moritz feels like a winter wonderland even outside the ski season — with charming streets, luxury brands, and stunning vistas. The town’s atmosphere of refined elegance is palpable, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of nature and luxury.

Some travelers shared that the local hot chocolate was a delightful treat, providing a warm comfort after the chilly train ride. Browsing the boutique stores also offers a chance to pick up Swiss souvenirs, which many consider a fun way to extend the experience.

The Scenic Descent and Crossings

After exploring St. Moritz, the journey continues back on the coach, heading towards the Bernina Train Line for another scenic ride. The route takes you through the Engadin Valley, showcasing lush mountains and charming villages.

Travelers often mention how the views during this part of the trip are equally impressive, offering a different perspective of the Swiss landscape. The train crossing the Bernina Pass is particularly notable — people love watching the spectacular switchbacks and the winding tracks carved into steep slopes.

On the way back, there’s a brief stop in Tirano for about 30 minutes — enough for a quick refreshment or a snack. Past reviews reveal that some travelers appreciated this break, as it gives a moment to stretch before the final leg of the coach journey back to Milan.

Comfort, Convenience, and Practicalities

The entire experience is designed for ease. The air-conditioned coach makes the transfer comfortable, especially during warmer or colder days. The tour includes a tour guide on board who helps navigate the day and shares insights in English and Italian, which many travelers found helpful.

A key point noted in reviews is that the tour departs from Milan and is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as some walking and train boarding involve uneven surfaces or stairs.

The full-day duration (around 13 hours) means you need to be prepared for an early start and a full day of travel, but most feel the scenery and the experiences are well worth the effort. The tour offers skip-the-line train tickets, which can save you time and hassle.

Value and Considerations

While $185 feels like a significant investment, the value comes from not only the spectacular scenery but also the convenience of organized transport, guided explanations, and the chance to see some of the most iconic Swiss landscapes with minimal planning. Several reviews mentioned that the train ride alone, with its engineering marvels and views, justifies the cost for many.

However, it’s worth noting that meals are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy in St. Moritz might be wise. Also, those who prefer a relaxed, unstructured day might find the schedule a bit tight, but for most, it hits the perfect balance of sightseeing and free time.

The Sum Up

This trip offers a beautiful combination of scenic train journeys, mountain vistas, and a touch of Swiss luxury in St. Moritz. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of multiple tickets or complicated logistics. The Bernina Express provides an up-close look at engineering brilliance and natural beauty, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience the region.

While it’s not a tour for those with limited mobility or those seeking a very relaxed day, it’s an excellent choice for adventurous travelers, scenery enthusiasts, and anyone eager to tick off a UNESCO World Heritage site from their travel bucket list. The balance of guided commentary, free exploration, and scenic riding ensures you’ll come away with plenty of visual treasures and stories to tell.

In short, this tour delivers value, comfort, and stunning views — a perfect Alpine adventure for a day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of train boarding and walking involved.

How long do we spend in St. Moritz?
You will have approximately 2.5 hours to explore the town, walk around the lake, browse shops, or enjoy a drink.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing (especially if traveling in colder months), and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not part of the package, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during your free time in St. Moritz.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, spring and summer offer lush landscapes and pleasant weather, whereas winter showcases snow-covered peaks.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the Bernina Express is equipped for comfort, with panoramic windows and open windows recommended for better views, weather permitting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who provides this tour?
It is operated by BOLOGNA TOUR & BEST ITALY TOUR, rated 4.4 out of 5 by travelers.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 13 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a live tour guide accompanies the trip, providing commentary in English and Italian.

This Bernina Express day trip from Milan is a well-rounded way to enjoy the Swiss Alps, blending breathtaking scenery with comfort and convenience. Perfect for those who want a memorable, visually stunning day without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.