From Milan: St Moritz & Alps Day Trip with Bernina Red Train

Planning a day trip from Milan that combines jaw-dropping mountain scenery, a touch of elegance, and a historic train ride? This St. Moritz & Alps day tour with the Bernina Red Train offers just that. It’s a full 11-hour adventure that covers some of the most scenic corners of the Swiss Alps, including the Bernina Pass and the charming town of Tirano. The journey is smooth, the views are postcard-perfect, and the experience is carefully curated to give you a taste of Swiss sophistication along with breathtaking natural beauty.

One thing we really love about this tour is the combination of diverse experiences—starting with a comfortable coach ride through Lombardy, continuing with a spectacular train journey, and concluding in the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz. It’s a fantastic way to see a lot in a single day without feeling rushed. However, a possible consideration is the timing and length of stops—some reviews mention that free time in St. Moritz and Tirano can feel a bit short, especially if you’re hoping to explore more deeply.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic train rides, picturesque towns, and mountain landscapes, as well as those interested in a taste of Swiss luxury without the high price tag. If you’re okay with a long day of travel and a good amount of walking, it’s a pretty good deal for the scenery and experiences packed into one day.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Pass through Bernina Pass, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes.
• Comfortable journey: Travel in a private, air-conditioned coach with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• Iconic train ride: The Bernina Red Train offers large windows and open-air sections for unobstructed views.
• Free time: Two hours in St. Moritz and nearly an hour in Tirano for exploring and enjoying local cuisine.
• Authentic experiences: Visit Tirano’s medieval streets and markets, and enjoy a walk around St. Moritz’s glacial lake.
• Good value: At around $104, including train tickets and guided commentary, it offers a lot for the price.

The Journey Begins: From Milan to the Swiss Alps

The adventure kicks off early, meeting at Porta Garibaldi, conveniently located just outside Milan’s Porta Garibaldi Train Station. The meeting point is straightforward—look for a guide holding a “City Wonders” sign next to Briccocafé. From there, you’ll board a private air-conditioned coach for the roughly three-hour drive north.

The coach ride itself is more than just transportation; it’s a scenic preview of what’s to come. As you ascend through Lombardy, expect to pass charming villages, lush vineyards, and glimpses of Lake Como while your guide provides interesting tidbits about the region’s history and landscape. The highlight of this part is the approach to Bernina Pass, where the scenery shifts dramatically to towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and snow-dusted peaks.

Travel tip: Bring a camera and some snacks—you might want to capture the mountain views from the coach or just relax and enjoy the ride.

Crossing Bernina Pass: The Gateway to the Alps

The Bernina Pass is the star of the journey. The coach stops for about 30 minutes here, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the mountain vistas. Reviewers praise this part for its spectacular views, with one mentioning that the snow, especially if you’re visiting early in the season, creates an almost surreal backdrop.

You’ll see glaciers, mountain peaks, and pristine lakes from the coach and the train. Several reviews note the weather was perfect when they visited, with clear skies making the alpine scenery even more striking. Some travelers found the pass “exquisite,” with one reviewer describing the scenes as “the most beautiful I’ve ever seen,” emphasizing how memorable this part of the trip is.

Exploring St. Moritz: Elegance by the Lake

Arriving in St. Moritz, you’ll have about 2 hours of free time. This is enough to stroll along its famous glacial lake—a favorite spot for capturing photos—and wander through elegant cobbled streets lined with high-end boutiques. Many reviews highlight how impressive the town’s “timeless elegance” is; a perfect mix of luxury and Alpine charm.

While some felt that the free time could be longer, most appreciated the opportunity to wander at their own pace, grab a coffee, or browse the upscale stores. The atmosphere is refined but welcoming, and you’ll see why this is one of Europe’s most iconic resort towns. The scenery here is calm and beautiful, ideal for those who enjoy a mix of nature and luxury.

The Bernina Red Train: A Moving Panorama

The highlight for many is the train journey from St. Moritz to Tirano. You’ll board the Bernina Red Train, which features large windows and open sections, allowing unobstructed views of the stunning landscape. Some travelers loved being able to open the windows for even better photos—an experience that adds a visceral element to the scenic grandeur.

Onboard, your guide shares insights into the engineering marvel of this historic train, which has been operating for decades. The train winds through the Valtellina Valley, crossing more glaciers and mountains, offering breathtaking panoramas that change with every turn. Reviewers describe this as “absolutely exquisite,” with one mentioning that the snow was touching the train windows during their ride, creating an almost fairy-tale atmosphere.

Tirano: A Medieval Charm and Local Flavors

After about an hour-long train ride, you arrive in Tirano, a quaint town with a deep history. You’ll have 45 minutes of free time here, enough to explore its medieval streets and pop into local markets. Many reviews mention that Tirano’s charm is enhanced by its small size and friendly atmosphere, with some travelers recommending a quick visit to its historic center or a taste of local tapas.

Some guests mentioned that this part of the tour could be better with longer free time, but overall, it’s enough to soak in the town’s character and maybe try some regional cuisine before heading back.

Return Journey: Scenic and Relaxed

The coach ride back to Milan takes approximately 2.5 hours. While some reviewers noted that the return journey felt long—especially if tired from the day’s activities—others appreciated the comfort of the coach and the scenic drive through the mountains as the sun set.

A few travelers suggested that more frequent stops or a bathroom on the bus could improve the experience, but most agreed that the overall day was well-organized and memorable.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers transportation in a private coach, train tickets, and an English-speaking guide. The inclusion of reserved train seats with open windows is a lovely touch, enabling you to enjoy the stunning views without worry.

Not included are food and drinks, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase something during your free time in Tirano or St. Moritz. The tour doesn’t provide hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll meet at Porta Garibaldi Station, which is easily accessible by public transport.

Important considerations: The tour involves a fair amount of walking, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers. Also, remember to bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for varying weather conditions in the Alps.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, guides like Hajo, Marina, and Salvatore receive high praise for their professionalism and knowledge, making the long day feel engaging and informative. Travelers appreciated how guides shared stories and insights, turning a scenic trip into an educational experience.

Many reviewers also loved the scenic train ride, describing it as “magical,” “exquisite,” and “breathtaking.” The ability to open the train windows or touch snow during the ride was a highlight for many, adding an interactive element to the scenery.

Some guests mentioned minor issues, like the bus’s AC problems or short free time, but these didn’t overshadow the overall positive impressions. The value for money was repeatedly highlighted—considering the included train journey and guided commentary, most found it a worthwhile expense.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip from Milan to the Swiss Alps is an excellent choice for scenery lovers, train enthusiasts, and those seeking a taste of Swiss luxury in a manageable, single-day adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see iconic mountain vistas without the hassle of overnight bookings or complicated logistics.

Travelers who enjoy guided experiences will appreciate the knowledgeable guides, while those craving authentic local flavors and picturesque towns will find Tirano and St. Moritz charming and rewarding. The inclusion of the Bernina Red Train adds a special touch that elevates the entire journey, turning it into a memorable highlight of your European travels.

However, if you prefer more time to explore each stop or have mobility limitations, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most, it offers a solid balance of comfort, scenic beauty, and culture—all in one impressive day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The tour involves quite a bit of walking and is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or those needing special assistance.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a private, air-conditioned coach, train tickets on the Bernina Red Train, and an English-speaking guide for the entire day.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so it’s advisable to bring some snacks or purchase food during your free time in Tirano or St. Moritz.

How long is the train ride?
The train journey from St. Moritz to Tirano lasts around two hours, offering spectacular views through open windows and ample photo opportunities.

What is the best time of year to go?
While the tour runs year-round, the scenery changes with the seasons. Early spring or late autumn might have less snow, while winter offers snow-covered peaks and possibly colder weather.

How long is the free time in each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours in St. Moritz and approximately 45 minutes in Tirano, enough for quick sightseeing and shopping but not for extensive exploration.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather can impact the views, especially in the mountains. Clear days will give you the best experience, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

This St. Moritz & Alps day trip from Milan offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, luxury, and Swiss charm—perfect for a day when you want to witness some of Europe’s most spectacular alpine scenery without the need for overnight stays.