Tour Bernina Red Train And St Moritz from Milan

If you’re dreaming of sweeping mountain vistas, alpine charm, and that perfect mix of Swiss elegance and Italian warmth, this tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken it, numerous travelers have raved about its blend of scenery, convenience, and unique experiences.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the breathtaking Bernina Red Train ride offers some of Europe’s most striking panoramas. Second, the free time in St. Moritz allows for leisurely exploration of this upscale alpine town. Third, the option to cruise Lake Como adds a luxurious touch to an already packed day.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the long and busy schedule — it’s a full 13-hour adventure, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a tight itinerary. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced tour, this might feel a bit rushed. But for travelers craving iconic landscapes and a taste of Swiss luxury with minimal fuss, this tour offers serious value.

This experience works particularly well for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning each leg, especially if you’re based in Milan and craving a taste of the Alps and Swiss glamour.

Key Points

• Scenic Train Ride: The Bernina Express route is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for spectacular mountain views.
• Convenient Day Trip: All logistics, from transport to train tickets, are organized, making it a smooth experience.
• Multiple Highlights: Includes a visit to Tirano, free time in St. Moritz, and optional Lake Como cruise.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides provide valuable insights, adding depth to the journey.
• Long Day, Full Value: From dawn to late evening, expect an action-packed itinerary with well-timed stops.
• Authentic Experiences: Reviewers mention the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery as major highlights.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting early in the morning, your journey kicks off in Milan with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach pickup at Piazza IV Novembre. From there, the trip quickly shifts gears from urban Italy to alpine Switzerland as you head towards Tirano, a quaint Italian town sitting at the border.

The Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano is your first stop. This 16th-century basilica, perched at the border, offers a quiet moment of reflection and some photo opportunities. Many travelers enjoy this peaceful pause to appreciate the architecture and the views of the surrounding mountains.

Next, you’ll board the Bernina Red Train, which is often highlighted as the trip’s star. It’s not a first-class panoramic carriage, but second class is perfectly comfortable, with open windows that make it easy to snap photos of waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine valleys. The train climbs up to 7,390 feet (2,253 meters), the highest point in Europe reached by a train, offering views that are often described as “like stepping into a postcard.”

One traveler noted: “The scenery during the Bernina Train ride was absolutely breathtaking—like a living postcard.” Expect to pass through UNESCO-protected valleys, cross mountain passes like Maloja, and witness glaciers and waterfalls from your seat. The train’s slow pace and open windows make it ideal for photography, and many reviews mention the guide’s explanations as helpful in pinpointing peaks and features.

In St. Moritz, you’ll have approximately two hours of free time. This luxurious town is famous for its upscale vibe and stunning lake views. Many visitors spend their time strolling along the lake, window shopping in designer boutiques, or simply soaking in the mountain scenery.

A reviewer shared: “St. Moritz is simply gorgeous, and I loved walking by the lake and enjoying the fresh mountain air.” The town’s charm lies in its blend of elegance and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed walk or some quick souvenir shopping.

The return journey offers a scenic drive along the Maloja Pass, winding down from St. Moritz back to Italy. This part of the trip is often praised for its spectacular views and the way it showcases the dramatic landscape of the Swiss Alps.

For those who opt for the Lake Como cruise, the tour includes a relaxing boat ride on one of Italy’s most famous lakes. Reviewers who added this option said it was a delightful way to end the day, offering a different perspective of the lakeside villas and charming towns.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Bernina Pass
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the alpine valleys of Grisons. The highlight is crossing the Maloja Pass — a winding route that affords sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The Bernina Express train ride through this region is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, largely because of its stunning engineering and scenery.

Travel time: About 2 hours, including stops. Many reviews praise the train for its panoramic windows and the guide’s detailed commentary, which helps you identify mountains and glaciers.

Stop 2: St. Moritz
The highlight here is free time to explore this upscale resort town. Many visitors mention wandering along the lake, snapping photos of the town’s iconic hotels, or indulging in some window shopping. The tour’s flexible schedule means you can enjoy the town at your pace—whether you prefer a leisurely walk, a coffee break, or some quick sightseeing.

Stop 3: Maloja Pass
On the way back, the bus winds along the Maloja route, renowned for its postcard-worthy scenery. Travelers often comment on the breathtaking views of mountain peaks and the winding mountain roads, which add an adventurous touch to the day.

Stop 4: Lake Como (optional)
If you select the cruise option, you’ll glide across the shimmering waters of Lake Como, famous for its opulent villas and lush gardens. Reviewers have appreciated this peaceful cruise, often describing it as a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of travel.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour is operated by AUTOSTRADALE VIAGGI SRL, using a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

The train tickets are second class, which many reviewers find perfectly adequate. Although not a panoramic carriage, open windows and the guide’s commentary help make up for the absence of first-class luxury.

Travel timings are designed to maximize sightseeing, with plenty of rest stops and a well-paced itinerary. Many reviewers highlighted the tour’s efficiency, with one noting it “ticks multiple boxes in one day” while still feeling “well-organized.”

Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable, providing context and answering questions throughout the day. One traveler said, “Our guide Andrea was incredible—fun, friendly, and full of useful information.”

A radio system is provided for easy listening, which helps when traveling in a group, especially in noisy or scenic areas.

Pricing and value: At approximately $142 per person, the tour offers a lot of value—combining transportation, train tickets, guide services, and optional cruise. Many reviews call it “worth every penny,” especially given the stunning scenery and the convenience of having everything organized for you.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Visitors often mention how the tour balances scenic sightseeing with manageable travel time. The train ride is frequently described as the highlight, with many noting how accessible and enjoyable it is—even for families or those less comfortable with long travel days.

One reviewer shared: “Traveling with young children was a worry, but everything went smoothly, and the scenery kept everyone captivated.” This suggests the trip is suitable for a range of ages.

A common tip among travelers is to bring some snacks and drinks, as food isn’t included, and the bus rules prohibit eating on board. Some mention that you should arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start, and having your passport or European ID ready is essential.

Weather can impact the experience; the tour runs in all conditions, but snowy or foggy days might obscure views. Still, most travelers agree that the journey is worth it regardless of the weather, as the scenery remains spectacular.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is perfect for travelers based in Milan who want to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of organizing multiple transport legs. It’s especially suitable for those who value guided experiences with expert commentary, as many reviews point out enthusiastic guides who enrich the journey with insights.

The optional Lake Como cruise provides an extra touch of luxury, making it appealing for couples, families, or anyone looking for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing.

While the day is packed, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and long travel hours. If you prefer slow-paced, relaxed days or are hesitant about long bus or train rides, this might feel a bit rushed.

FAQs

Is transport from Milan included?
No, the tour starts at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, but the coach picks up directly from that point.

How long is the entire tour?
It’s approximately 13 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening return.

Are train tickets included?
Yes, second-class tickets for the Bernina Express from Tirano to St. Moritz (or vice versa) are included.

Can I upgrade to first class?
No, the tickets provided are for second class, but reviews mention that the open windows and commentary compensate well.

Is food provided?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring snacks or buy in Tirano or St. Moritz.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families have enjoyed it, and the scenery keeps young and old captivated.

What should I bring?
Bring passport/ID, comfortable clothes, some snacks, and a camera or phone for photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but poor weather might affect visibility. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs in spectacular scenery, cultural stops, and luxurious touches into one seamless day. The combination of the UNESCO-listed Bernina route, the elegance of St. Moritz, and optional Lake Como cruising offers a well-rounded Swiss-Italian experience.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to see as much as possible without the fuss of planning each detail, and who are comfortable with a full, energetic day. The guides’ knowledge and the stunning vistas make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you’re looking to tick off a bucket-list train journey and enjoy some Swiss luxury.

For anyone craving a scenic, culturally rich adventure just a short trip from Milan, this tour delivers on its promise of unforgettable views and memorable moments.