From Milan: Bernina Red Train & Lunch with Mountain Views

If you’re dreaming of soaring mountain peaks, glittering glaciers, and charming alpine villages, this full-day tour from Milan to the Swiss Alps might just be your perfect getaway. It combines the thrill of a cable car ascent to Diavolezza with a scenic journey aboard the Bernina Red Train, all topped with a delicious high-altitude lunch.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular views at every turn, second, the smooth organization that ensures a stress-free day, and third, the opportunity to enjoy authentic Swiss cuisine amid awe-inspiring surroundings.

That said, it’s a long day — around 12 hours — so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of travel and are eager to explore multiple highlights in one trip. If you love mountain scenery, historic train rides, and authentic local food, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Vivid mountain vistas fill your view throughout the day, especially during cable car and train rides.
• Well-organized itinerary ensures smooth transitions between stops, with detailed commentary from guides.
• Authentic alpine lunch at Diavolezza Lodge offers hearty dishes like Pizzoccheri, accompanied by stunning panoramic views.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site designation emphasizes the cultural and natural significance of the Bernina line.
• Expert guides provide valuable insights in both English and Italian, enhancing your understanding of the scenery and history.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure offers peace of mind for flexible planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning. It’s a hefty 12-hour journey, but with such a diverse lineup—mountain peaks, scenic railways, and alpine cuisine—it feels like multiple trips rolled into one.

The adventure kicks off early from a central Milan meeting point, Piazza della Repubblica. From there, you’ll travel by luxury coach through Italy’s scenic landscapes, crossing borders into Switzerland, with a quick pass-by of St. Moritz, giving you a glimpse of the famed resort town’s grandeur.

The highlight begins when you arrive at Bernina Diavolezza station, where you’ll hop onto a short, 12-minute cable car ride to Diavolezza Lodge, perched at 2,978 meters. This ascent is nothing short of stunning, offering sweeping views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and jagged ridges. Travelers consistently mention how “the cable car ride is stress-free and enjoyable,” with the scenery leaving a lasting impression.

The Magic of Diavolezza

Once at the top, you’re free to explore or simply soak in the panoramic vistas. The views here are a major draw—some reviewers describe Diavolezza as a “paradise,” with “magnificent alpine scenery.” The lodge itself offers a cozy spot to relax before lunch, which is served at the high-altitude Berghaus Diavolezza Lodge.

Lunch is a hearty affair featuring Pizzoccheri—a traditional Swiss dish made with buckwheat pasta, melted cheese, potatoes, cabbage, garlic butter, and sage. Reviewers have praised the meal as “much better than expected,” with excellent presentation and attentive service. Many note that the experience of eating such authentic food amid mountain surroundings adds a special touch to the day.

The UNESCO World Heritage Railway Journey

After lunch, the tour continues with a ride aboard the Bernina Red Train, a highlight for many. This panoramic train passes through ancient stone bridges, lush valleys, and charming mountain villages, all in a two-hour journey that travelers describe as “spectacular.” The train’s UNESCO World Heritage status underscores its significance as an engineering marvel and cultural treasure.

During the ride, you’ll appreciate the detailed commentary, which enhances the experience by offering insights into the landscape and history. The train ride provides a relaxed way to take in the scenery, giving your camera plenty of opportunities to capture the peaks and valleys.

Returning to Milan

Following the train journey, you’ll stop in Tirano for a brief break. Some reviews mention enjoying a little free time here to stroll or grab a quick snack. Then, it’s back on the bus for the 2.5-hour journey to Milan, closing a full, enriching day.

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What We Love About This Tour

Expert Guidance: The guides, such as Raffaele and Salvatore, are praised for their helpfulness and depth of knowledge, pacing the day well and making sure everyone catches the best sights.

Authentic Food: The lunch at Diavolezza Lodge offers more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, with hearty, traditional dishes that perfectly complement the alpine surroundings.

Stunning Views: Whether you’re on the cable car or the train, the scenery is consistently breathtaking. Multiple reviews highlight just how “magnificent” and “amazing” the landscapes are, making every moment picture-worthy.

Seamless Organization: The itinerary flows smoothly, with clear scheduling and efficient transfers. Reviewers repeatedly mention how “on time everything was,” allowing them to savor each part of the day without stress.

The Practical Side

At $225 per person, this tour delivers excellent value, considering the included train ride, cable car tickets, scenic drives, and the high-altitude lunch. It’s a well-rounded package for those who want a full day of Swiss mountain magic without the hassle of self-organizing transport or tickets.

The long hours might be a challenge for some, but the comfort of the coach, the engaging guides, and the awe-inspiring sights make it worthwhile. It’s also a great way to tick off multiple bucket list items—mountain views, UNESCO railway, authentic cuisine—all in one trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a lover of mountain landscapes, scenic train rides, and cultural experiences, this trip hits all the marks. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a full day and want a stress-free, guided experience. It’s particularly suited to those eager to see the Swiss Alps from different angles, enjoy hearty alpine food, and learn about the region’s UNESCO heritage.

Keep in mind, it’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues, given the cable car and walking involved at high altitudes. But if you’re comfortable with a long day on the go, it offers a memorable, authentic Swiss adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes travel by luxury coach from Milan to Diavolezza, as well as the Bernina Red Train ride from Bernina Diavolezza to Tirano and back to Milan.

How long is the overall trip? The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, from Milan departure to return, making it a full-day activity.

What should I bring? A valid passport or ID is required, especially since you cross the Swiss border. Dress warmly, especially if visiting at high altitude, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are meals included? Yes, a traditional alpine lunch at Diavolezza Lodge is part of the tour, with options like Pizzoccheri. Drinks are paid for separately.

Does the tour operate in both English and Italian? Yes, guides provide commentary in both languages, enhancing understanding for diverse groups.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors? It suits most travelers comfortable with a long day and some walking, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How scenic are the train and cable car rides? Both are highly scenic, offering unobstructed views of glaciers, peaks, and valleys that make for incredible photo opportunities.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Italian? Absolutely. Guides speak English and Italian, and reviews praise their helpfulness and clarity.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to explore the Swiss Alps from Milan, combining the thrill of a cable car ascent with a scenic UNESCO train ride and a hearty lunch at high altitude. The combination of breathtaking views, cultural significance, and well-organized logistics makes it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic alpine experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate stunning scenery, authentic cuisine, and engaging guides. Be prepared for a long but rewarding day that promises memories you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Switzerland, this journey makes the Alps accessible and unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: