From Milan: Bernina Train and St. Moritz Day Trip

Planning a day trip from Milan that combines scenic train rides, Swiss elegance, and alpine landscapes? This popular tour offers just that, and while we haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a fantastic way to explore a side of the Alps without overnight fuss.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to ride aboard the iconic Bernina Red Train, known for its incredible views and engineering marvels. Second, the visit to St. Moritz, a resort famous for its luxury and charm, gives you a taste of Swiss high life. Third, the well-organized itinerary includes both scenic train travel and flexible free time to explore. A notable consideration? The train isn’t in the panoramic class, meaning you’ll be in standard 2nd class with open windows—great for photos, but not quite the panoramic experience you’d get on some more expensive trains.

This trip suits those craving spectacular scenery without the hassle of multiple days away, perfect for travelers who enjoy sightseeing combined with cultural touches. If you’re after a relaxed, well-paced day with excellent guides, this tour could be ideal.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 6 Best Tours & Experiences In St Moritz.

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Key Points

Stunning train journey on the Bernina Red Train through the Swiss Alps
Flexible free time in the glamorous resort of St. Moritz
Comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
Affordable value at around $153, considering scenic views, guided tours, and transportation
Moderate duration of 12 hours makes it accessible for most travelers
Potential for change in itinerary to improve experience is a notable point

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Looking for more options in St Moritz? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting from Milan

The adventure begins at the BusForFun Fermata Milan Centrale, a convenient central pickup point. The coach ride to Tirano usually takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic, but travelers consistently note the comfort of the bus and the professionalism of the driver. Once in Tirano, you get a one-hour free walk to explore or shop, which is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking up local vibes.

Tirano and the Swiss Border

Tirano is a charming border town, and reviews highlight its appeal for a quick stroll and local shopping. Some travelers mention that guides like Hajo make sure everyone stays together and gets valuable insights during this stop, providing a smooth transition to the train ride.

The Bernina Red Train Experience

The highlight for many is the train journey from Tirano to St. Moritz. Traveling in 2nd class, you’ll have the windows open, allowing unfiltered views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lush valleys. Although it’s not the panoramic carriage, comments from travelers like Gaynor note how “taking the red train from Tirano to St Moritz was amazing, with fantastic views.”

Travelers frequently mention the remarkable landscapes, including the Morteratsch Glacier, Landwasser Viaduct, and the dramatic Maloja route. One reviewer, Charlie, describes it as “an amazing day,” emphasizing the “breathtaking scenery” and friendly guides like Daniel, who narrate the journey in multiple languages, making every stop informative and engaging.

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Scenic Stops Along the Route

The tour typically includes passing by Val Poschiavo, Bernina Diavolezza, and Morteratsch Glacier—each offering incredible photo opportunities. The actual train itinerary can vary, sometimes starting from St. Moritz to Tirano or vice versa, depending on operational needs, but the views remain spectacular regardless.

There's plenty more to explore in St Moritz

Arrival and Free Time in St. Moritz

Once in St. Moritz, most travelers report enjoying 1.5 hours of free time. You can stroll around the elegant streets, browse boutique shops, or simply soak in the luxurious mountain air. Many reviews, such as Petras Simona’s, reflect on “unforgettable landscapes and very well-trained guides,” which makes exploring worry-free.

Guide insights from reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Anna or Lina, who share lots of local tidbits to enhance your visit. The town’s charm lies in its mix of upscale boutiques and mountain tranquility, perfect for a quick but memorable visit.

The Return via Maloja Pass

Your journey back includes a scenic drive through the Maloja Pass, renowned for its stunning vistas. Travelers appreciate the comfort of the bus, with excellent drivers like Cossimo handling the zigzag mountain roads safely, and guides providing commentary along the way.

Ending back in Milan

The tour concludes at the original meeting point, with many noting that the entire day’s schedule is well-paced. While the trip is long at 12 hours, reviews confirm it’s “totally worth it,” especially for those eager to tick off a scenic train ride and visit one of Switzerland’s most glamorous resorts.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Scenic Bernina Red Train

The train ride is the core of this experience. Passengers consistently comment on how “the views are breathtaking,” with open windows allowing for great photography and an immersive experience. While not the panoramic class, the 2nd class seating still offers excellent visibility, with some reviewers mentioning that the train’s open windows helped capture the landscape perfectly.

The Charm of St. Moritz

Many travelers are surprised by how much they enjoy the free time in St. Moritz. It’s not just about luxury shopping; it’s about experiencing a mountain resort that feels both sophisticated and authentic. It’s a nice contrast to Milan’s hustle, with the fresh alpine air and stunning scenery.

The Guides and Organization

Reviews highlight guides like Hajo, Lina, and Daniel, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and multilingual. They help make the long day manageable and fun, sharing interesting facts and keeping everyone engaged. The buses are comfortable, and the schedule is tight but flexible enough to allow a relaxed exploration.

Value for Money

At $153 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, transportation, guides, and a scenic train ride—a solid package considering the cost of individual train tickets and guided tours in Switzerland. Many reviewers mention excellent organization and knowledgeable guides, which enhance perceived value.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Bring your passport or European ID as it’s required for border crossing.
The train ride is in second class with open windows, so bring rain gear or jackets if the weather is unpredictable.
Infants under 2 travel free but must sit on a parent’s lap.
You might find the itinerary changing slightly to optimize the experience; this flexibility helps ensure scenic highlights are prioritized.
Confirm your start time and check availability ahead of time, as tours typically last 12 hours.
It’s not wheelchair accessible, so consider this if mobility is an issue.
The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective way to experience the Swiss Alps with minimal fuss. The combination of a scenic train ride, free time in a glamorous resort, and a comfortable coach makes it ideal for excitement-seekers and photo enthusiasts alike.

If you’re after a balanced mix of travel, sightseeing, and leisure in one day, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good guides, well-organized schedules, and stunning landscapes without the need for overnight stays.

However, if you’re seeking a panoramic train experience or want to explore St. Moritz in more depth, consider whether more specialized or longer trips might suit you better. Likewise, if you have mobility issues, this might not be ideal due to the mountain roads and walking involved.

This tour offers a memorable slice of Swiss alpine beauty, wrapped up in a well-run, enjoyable package that many travelers rave about. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for an impressive day trip from Milan with guaranteed scenic moments and expert guidance.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus is included, making the journey comfortable and convenient.

Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, a valid passport or European ID is required on the day of travel for border crossing.

What class is the train ride?
The train is in 2nd class, with open windows to maximize scenic views and photo opportunities.

Can I have a window seat?
Travelers, including solo ones, generally get window seats, especially during quieter travel seasons, as noted in reviews.

How long is the free time in St. Moritz?
Most travelers have about 1.5 hours to explore, shop, or take photos in the town.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Infants under 2 travel free but must sit on a parent’s lap. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so consider mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, a rain jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking around St. Moritz.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food locally.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule might change slightly, especially the train departure point, to optimize the experience and scenery.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

In essence, this tour balances stunning views, expert guides, and smooth organization at a reasonable price, making it a top pick for anyone wanting a taste of Swiss mountain luxury on a day trip from Milan.