From Como – Alpine Wonders Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina Train

Exploring the Swiss Alps from Lake Como: A Day of Mountain Majesty and Scenic Train Rides

Travelers looking for a day trip that combines breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic alpine dining, and a legendary train journey will find this tour from Como to Diavolezza and the Bernina Express offers plenty of memorable moments. It’s a well-balanced experience that prioritizes scenic views, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure, all wrapped into around 12 to 13 hours.

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the inclusion of the cable car ride to Diavolezza, which takes you nearly 10,000 feet up into the Swiss Alps. The panoramic vistas of glaciers and rugged peaks are genuinely spectacular and a highlight for anyone who loves mountain scenery. The Bernina Red Train then continues the journey through UNESCO-listed landscapes, offering a different perspective on these alpine regions.

However, there’s a small caveat worth considering: the entire day involves quite a bit of travel and elevation change, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day and some physical activity. The price point—around $226—may seem high, but when you factor in the included transport, meals, and iconic train ride, many see it as good value for a full day of unforgettable scenery.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of natural beauty, scenic transportation, and a touch of Swiss culture. It’s perfect if you want a guided yet independent experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and awe-inspiring views.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect sweeping vistas of glaciers, peaks, and valleys from the cable car and train.
• Authentic Lunch: Enjoy a high-altitude meal at Diavolezza Lodge, featuring local flavors like Pizzoccheri.
• Iconic Train Journey: The Bernina Red Train offers panoramic windows to soak in UNESCO World Heritage scenery.
• Efficient Transport: Organized bus transfers from and back to Como simplify logistics.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable assistants enhance the experience with insights into the landscapes and region.
• Limited Mobility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility restrictions.

The Day in Detail: What to Expect

Starting in Como
The adventure kicks off early in Como, with a convenient pickup at the B&B HOTEL in the city center. From here, you’ll hop onto a comfortable GT bus that whisks you across the border into Switzerland. The drive itself is part of the scenic allure, with views of lakes and alpine terrain setting the tone for the day ahead.

Diavolezza – The Mountain Jewel
Once you arrive at Diavolezza, you’ll ascend nearly 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) via cable car. This part of the trip is the true highlight—imagine standing at the top, looking out over the Morteratsch Glacier and rugged peaks that seem to stretch endlessly. The cable car ride itself is smooth and offers excellent photo opportunities, especially for those who love panoramic shots.

Kathleen_R, a recent traveler, described this experience as “we felt like we were on top of the world,” emphasizing how the weather can strongly influence the day’s mood. If the sky is clear, the views are unmatched and will likely leave you breathless. The lounge at Diavolezza offers a cozy spot for lunch, with a menu featuring local specialties like Pizzoccheri—a hearty pasta dish with a unique flavor that many find delightful.

Exploring Diavolezza
Guests can opt for a leisurely stroll around the summit, soaking in the unspoiled beauty or simply standing spellbound by the glaciers and jagged peaks. The guide or assistant (Monica, as one review notes) shares insights about the region, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Boarding the Bernina Express
After the mountain visit, it’s time to board the Bernina Red Train, which departs from Diavolezza’s stop for Tirano. The train journey lasts about two hours and is often described as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Thanks to the large panoramic windows, you’ll get sweeping views of snow-dusted peaks, turquoise lakes like Lake Bianco, and charming villages dotting the landscape.

One traveler noted how “the large windows in the carriages are designed to offer a full view of the landscape,” making it easy to settle in with a camera or simply soak up the scenery. The train climbs to the impressive Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters, one of the highest points accessible by railway in Europe, which is a feat in itself.

Arrival in Tirano and Return to Como
The end of the train journey is in Tirano, a quaint Italian town with a relaxed vibe, perfect for a quick stroll or an espresso break if time permits. From there, a comfortable bus takes you back to Como, arriving in the evening after a full day of mountain and rail adventure.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Considerations
From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often sharing interesting tidbits about local geology, history, and the region’s culture. One reviewer appreciated Monica’s expertise, noting she “had a lot of knowledge on different subjects that she shared.”

The tour’s value lies in combining transportation, a scenic meal, and a legendary train journey all in one package. For around $226, you get an opportunity to see some of the most striking landscapes in the Swiss Alps and northern Italy without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or routes yourself.

Timing & Group Size
With a maximum of 50 travelers, the experience remains somewhat intimate, though it can feel busy at peak times. The schedule is tight but well-structured, ensuring you spend ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Starting early helps maximize daylight and photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear.

Things to Keep in Mind
– Make sure to bring your original passport or valid ID, as border crossings are involved.
– The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility limitations due to the high-altitude cable car and walking involved.
– The entire day involves a lot of sitting and some walking, so comfortable shoes and layers are recommended.
– Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack for sun, wind, or rain.

Why This Tour Works for Certain Travelers

This experience appeals most to those who love scenic landscapes and don’t mind a long day of travel. The guided aspect, combined with independent exploration at Diavolezza and the train ride, makes it suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of structured activities and free time to absorb the views.

If you’re a photographer or nature enthusiast, the vistas from the cable car and train will likely be some of your most treasured memories. The included lunch at high altitude adds a nice touch of local flavor, though some may wish for more dining options or a longer time at each stop.

This tour may not be perfect for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or those with limited mobility, but for adventurous souls eager to tick off a bucket list journey through the Swiss Alps, it offers a solid and scenic day out.

The Sum Up

For anyone craving panoramic mountain views, iconic rail journeys, and an authentic alpine lunch, this trip from Como to Diavolezza and the Bernina Express delivers quite a lot in a single day. The combination of spectacular scenery, expert guides, and seamless transportation makes it a great choice for travelers who want a full, visually stunning experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the long duration and physical demands might not suit everyone, those who embrace the adventure will find themselves rewarded with unforgettable vistas and a real sense of having explored some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes.

In short, this tour is best suited for curious, scenic-loving travelers who don’t mind a full day on the move and are eager to see the Swiss Alps from multiple vantage points—by cable car, train, and on foot.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes bus transfers from Como to Diavolezza, then from Tirano back to Como, making logistics straightforward.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers the bus transfers, cable car ticket to Diavolezza, lunch at the high-altitude lodge, the Bernina train ticket, and assistance from guides fluent in English and Italian.

How long is the total tour?
Expect around 12 to 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility limitations due to the cable car and walking involved.

What kind of lunch is provided?
A set meal at Diavolezza Lodge, with options like Pizzoccheri, a regional pasta dish.

How scenic is the train ride?
The Bernina Express is renowned worldwide for its panoramic windows and UNESCO-listed scenery, including glaciers, lakes, and mountain villages.

What’s the best weather for this tour?
Clear days are ideal for maximizing the views, but mountain weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be prepared.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary balances time for sightseeing, lunch, and the train ride, though it’s a full day with limited free time.

Do I need my passport?
Yes, you must bring your original passport or a valid ID, as you cross international borders during the trip.

This adventure offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and iconic transportation—perfect for those eager to see some of Europe’s most stunning mountain scenery in one memorable day.