From Como: St. Moritz and Tirano Trip with Bernina Express

From Como: St. Moritz and Tirano Trip with Bernina Express — A Complete Guide to an Unforgettable Alpine Day

Traveling from the charming lakeside town of Como into the heart of the Swiss Alps offers an experience filled with breathtaking scenery, expert-guided stories, and a taste of Switzerland’s luxury and natural beauty. This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 by hundreds of travelers, is praised for its stunning vistas, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value — though it’s a long day that calls for a bit of stamina.

What we love about this trip? First, the spectacular views from the Bernina Express’s panoramic carriages are hard to beat — you’ll see glaciers, mountain passes, and lush alpine landscapes. Second, the chance to explore St. Moritz, a town synonymous with elegance, offers a taste of Swiss glamour with time for a scenic walk or a quick snack. Third, the journey along the Morteratsch Glacier and crossing the high mountain pass is an adventure that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a postcard.

On the flip side, one consideration is that the trip comprises a lengthy bus and train combination, making it physically demanding for some, especially those with mobility issues or limited stamina. Also, since part of the experience involves riding on a regional train from October 29th to December 13th, scenery might be less panoramic due to shorter daylight hours after December 14th.

This trip is best suited for travelers who love scenic journeys, natural landscapes, and Swiss culture, and who don’t mind a long day of travel with lots of sightseeing. Perfect for adventure lovers, architecture buffs, or anyone seeking a full immersion into the Swiss Alps without overnight stays.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The panoramic Bernina Express train offers some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in the world.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Combines scenic drives, Alpine train rides, and free time in two charming towns, making the most of a long day.
• Expert Guides and Reliable Transport: Guides like Chiara, Tati, and others enhance the experience with insights and humor, while the air-conditioned bus and exclusive train carriages add comfort.
• Value for Money: At $199, this trip includes transport, train tickets, and guided commentary, making it an accessible way to see the Alps.
• Flexible Options: From October to December, the route shifts to regional trains, which still provide fabulous views albeit with less panoramic scenery.
• Some Downsides: The journey involves multiple long transfers, and restroom access on the bus is not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

The Departure and First Leg: Como to St. Moritz

The day kicks off early, with transportation leaving from designated meeting points in Como. The comfortable bus ride to St. Moritz takes roughly 2.5 hours. During this drive, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Lake Como giving way to the Swiss landscape. Many reviewers mention the well-paced schedule; as Dawn shares, “Our guide was fantastic, knowledgeable, pleasant, and had a great sense of humor — he really made the trip.” The guides, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, help set the tone for what’s to come.

Reaching St. Moritz, the wealth of the town’s high-end reputation becomes immediately visible. You’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time to stroll along the lake, browse boutiques, or grab a snack (note: costs are not included). Sophia called it “a wonderful experience,” highlighting how much she appreciated the combination of scenic beauty and the town’s luxurious vibe.

The Scenic Ride on the Bernina Express

After exploring St. Moritz, the highlight of the day begins: boarding the Bernina Express in the panoramic carriage. This train ride is the centerpiece, offering spectacular views that are hard to find elsewhere. Passengers are guaranteed a seat in the special panoramic carriages, so everyone can enjoy the 360-degree vistas.

Traveling through the Morteratsch Glacier is a standout moment. Many reviews, like Lee-Anne’s, mention how the weather can influence the experience — “Fortunately, the weather was brilliant in St. Moritz, which made the scenery even more impressive.” As the train crosses the mountain pass at 2,253 meters, travelers feel a sense of awe as they see snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

The scenic route also passes through charming villages like Poschiavo and the beautiful Val Poschiavo. The estimated 2.5-hour train journey is packed with photo opportunities. According to other travelers, “the views on the Bernina Express surpassed expectations,” making it a truly memorable part of the trip.

Exploring Tirano and Return Journey

Once in Tirano, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore independently. Reviewers mention the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin as a notable stop, but most use this time for a quick walk or to pick up a local snack. The town’s atmosphere is relaxed and authentic, with fewer travelers than the Swiss towns.

The return journey involves another bus ride back to Como, approximately 2.5 hours long. This part can be a bit tiring, but many appreciate the chance to relax and reflect while enjoying the countryside views. As one reviewer, Zerrin, noted, “It was perfect — the guide Monica was very nice and made the trip fantastic.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Details and Practicalities

• Transportation: The bus from Como to St. Moritz and back is air-conditioned, and the guides ensure smooth transitions. You might find some discomfort if you’re not used to long bus rides, but the scenery largely makes up for it.
• Train Ticketing: In the high season, the Bernina Express in second class costs included. However, from late October to mid-December, you’ll ride regional trains, which still offer great views but might have less panoramic glass coverage.
• Guides and Group Size: Many travelers mention guides like Chiara, Tati, and Monica, praising their knowledge and friendly attitude. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a more personal experience.
• Cost and Value: At $199, this tour delivers excellent value. It includes all transportation, train tickets, and the guiding service, saving the hassle of booking these separately.
• What’s Not Included: Meals are not covered, so bring some snacks or plan to buy in towns. Restroom access on the bus isn’t available, which is worth noting for those with small bladders or mobility issues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Switzerland’s natural beauty with minimal hassle. If you appreciate stunning scenery, expert guides, and well-organized itineraries, this trip will satisfy. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with a long day of travel and eager to see the Alps without overnight stays.

Travelers who loved the trip often highlight the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views as key reasons they would recommend it. It’s a good choice if you’re in Como or nearby and want to maximize a single day with a memorable journey through some of Europe’s most iconic landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves long transfers and walking around towns, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for crossing borders, snacks for the journey, and comfortable shoes for walking in towns. Sunscreen and sunglasses are advisable for scenic viewing.

Will I see the full panoramic views in December?
From December 14th onward, the route might be less panoramic due to shorter daylight hours, but you will still enjoy scenic train rides and mountain views.

Are there options to upgrade my train ticket?
No, the included tickets are for second class, and upgrades or reserved seats are not included.

Is there free time in St. Moritz?
Yes, you get about 1.5 hours to explore, walk along the lake, and enjoy the town’s sights and shops.

What is the typical duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts roughly 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. However, you can purchase food and drinks in St. Moritz and Tirano.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip still goes ahead unless there are severe weather conditions. The scenery might be less spectacular in overcast weather, but the train route remains impressive.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

How many people typically go on this tour?
Most reviews suggest manageable group sizes, often around 20-30 participants, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

In The Sum Up
This from Como to St. Moritz and Tirano tour with Bernina Express offers a fantastic way to combine lake-side charm with alpine grandeur. With breathtaking train rides, charming towns, and a well-organized itinerary, it’s a strong choice for anyone eager to see Switzerland’s natural wonders in one day. The guides’ enthusiasm and the scenery’s beauty make it a trip worth considering — just prepare for a long but rewarding adventure.

If you’re seeking a day packed with stunning views, cultural sights, and expert storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, scenic beauty, and a seamless experience without the need for overnight arrangements.

Note: Always check the latest schedule and availability to confirm the route and details, especially around seasonal changes from October to December.

You can check availability for your dates here: