From Milan: Bernina Train and St. Moritz Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Milan for a day and soak in some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe, this Bernina Train and St. Moritz day trip offers a well-rounded experience. It combines a scenic train journey across the Swiss Alps, free exploration time in the glamorous resort of St. Moritz, and a comfortable bus ride back to Italy. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on thousands of reviews, this tour is popular for its breathtaking vistas and knowledgeable guides.

What really stands out is the opportunity to ride aboard the famous Bernina Red Train, which takes you through some of the highest railway routes in the Alps, with stunning views accessible even from a second-class carriage. Plus, the visit to St. Moritz, a place synonymous with luxury and charm, is a highlight. A potential consideration is the long duration—12 hours—so this trip suits those eager for a full immersive day of natural beauty and mountain air.

Overall, if you love scenic train rides, picturesque mountain towns, and well-organized tours, this trip is a superb choice. It caters especially to travelers craving authentic Alps scenery without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs themselves.

• Spectacular Train Journey: Ride the Bernina Red Train, one of the highest railways across the Alps, with windows that open for perfect photo opportunities.
• Charming St. Moritz: Enjoy free time to explore this luxury resort, its shops, and charming streets.
• Scenic Route: Travel along Maloja route, passing through Val Poschiavo, Bernina Diavolezza, and Morteratsch Glacier for stunning mountain views.
• Guided Experience: A knowledgeable guide provides commentary throughout, making the day both informative and enjoyable.
• Value for Money: At $153, the tour offers transportation, train tickets, and guided sightseeing, making it a cost-effective way to see the Swiss Alps.
• Long but Rewarding: Though a 12-hour adventure, most reviews highlight the trip’s worth, especially for scenery and organized logistics.

This full-day tour from Milan is designed to maximize your scenic exposure without the stress of independent travel. Starting at Piazza 4 Novembre, near the Milan Central Station, the journey begins early with a comfortable coach ride through Italy’s Lombardy region toward Tirano, a charming border town. Reviews praise the well-organized nature of the trip, with many noting the friendly and informative guides like Hajo, Lina, and Daniel, who speak multiple languages and keep the group entertained and informed throughout.

The stop in Tirano offers about an hour of free time—a perfect chance to stretch your legs, browse local shops, or grab a quick coffee. Travelers note that this part of the trip provides a window into the local Valtellina region, adding a layer of cultural and scenic richness before the train ride begins.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Bernina Red Train segment, which lasts around 2.5 hours. The train’s route is crafted to show off some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Switzerland. It’s worth noting that the train ride is in second class, which is still quite comfortable and allows you to open the windows for that authentic, unobstructed photo experience. Several reviews mention that the views are “amazing” and that the train passes iconic sights like the Morteratsch Glacier and the Landwasser Viaduct.

Traveling from Tirano to St. Moritz, the journey continues to impress. Passengers often comment on how the train snakes through valleys and over mountain passes, offering picture-perfect moments. One reviewer called it a “long, but enjoyable day” with “beautiful scenery” that “makes the trip totally worth it.” The scenic drive from St. Moritz to Maloja Pass offers more mountain vistas, perfect for photography and simply soaking in the Alpine ambiance.

Once in St. Moritz, you gain about 1.5 hours to explore, shop, and walk around this glamorous destination. Many travelers appreciate the chance to visit luxury boutiques or just admire the stunning mountain backdrop. A few reviews highlight the excellent guidance and the lively energy of guides like Simone and Vivian, who kept the group engaged and made sure everyone got the best views and advice.

The return journey, via bus along the Maloja route, offers additional scenic moments. The guide’s commentary was often praised for adding context and making the vistas more meaningful. The trip wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back to Milan, with most travelers feeling they’ve experienced a perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and organized convenience.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Tirano: As a border town, Tirano offers a quaint feel, with local shops and a peaceful vibe. The one-hour stop is enough for a quick walk and photo opportunities.
• Bernina Red Train: This is the heart of the trip. Expect panoramic views, open windows, and dramatic scenery like glaciers, mountain peaks, and viaducts. Although it’s not panoramic first class, the second class is praised for its comfort and the ability to take photos.
• St. Moritz: A small but luxurious Swiss village, perfect for wandering its streets, browsing boutiques, or enjoying the mountain scenery.
• Maloja Pass: The scenic drive along this mountain pass provides a change of perspective, with sweeping vistas that make you appreciate the grandeur of the Alps.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides who skillfully combined informative commentary with humor and local insights. For instance, Daniel’s enthusiasm on the Bernina Express and Lina’s friendly advice made the experience memorable. The fare of $153 includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, and guided commentary, which many agree offers good value compared to booking each element separately.

However, meals and drinks are not included, so packing a snack or a picnic is advisable, especially since the day is long. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, with some flexibility to explore on your own.

This trip is perfect for scenery lovers and those interested in mountain landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple transport links. It’s also ideal for luxury resort fans, given the stop in St. Moritz, a hub of elegance. Because of the long duration and walking involved, it’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with a full day on their feet.

If you’re traveling from Milan and want a hassle-free way to see the Swiss Alps, this tour packs in the highlights while maintaining a good balance between guided commentary and free exploration time. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a memorable alpine adventure.

Do I need a passport for this trip?
Yes, a current valid passport or European ID is required since you cross the border into Switzerland.

Is the train ride in first class?
No, the train is in second class, but many reviews mention that it’s still very comfortable, and the open windows make for excellent photo opportunities.

How long is the total trip?
The entire day lasts around 12 hours, including bus rides, the train journey, and free time in St. Moritz.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or buy something during your free time.

What should I bring?
A passport, jacket, rain gear, and a camera or smartphone for photos are recommended. Be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Can I bring a pet?
Pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and transportation arrangements.

If you’re after a full-day mountain adventure that combines breathtaking train rides, luxury mountain towns, and guided insights, this tour from Milan is a solid choice. The scenic Bernina Red Train and the charming stop in St. Moritz deliver authentic Alpine experiences without the headache of planning each leg yourself. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll get both stunning scenery and engaging commentary, making this more than just a bus and train ride.

While it’s a long day, most travelers find it worth every minute, especially those who love nature, photography, and luxury destinations. The trip’s value lies in the combination of natural beauty, expert guidance, and the convenience of all-in-one logistics. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family, this experience offers a memorable slice of the Swiss Alps in a single, well-organized package.

In short, this tour is perfect for scenery lovers, alpine enthusiasts, and those seeking an efficient way to see Switzerland’s iconic landscapes from Milan. Just pack your camera, a good jacket, and a sense of adventure—you’re in for a spectacular day.