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

If you’re dreaming of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and charming alpine villages, a day trip from Milan to St. Moritz with the iconic Bernina Red Train might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a taste of Switzerland’s spectacular scenery without the hassle of an overnight stay. This tour offers a mix of scenic train rides, leisurely city explorations, and mountain vistas—all packed into about 11 hours.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it combines luxury transportation and guided sightseeing. The reserved Bernina Red Train tickets ensure you’re not stuck fighting for a seat, and the guide’s insights make everything more engaging. Plus, the chance to wander through St. Moritz’s elegant streets and peek into Tirano’s historic center makes it feel like a full, authentic day of discovery.

One thing to keep in mind is the long coach rides—the day involves a fair amount of sitting, which might feel tiring if you’re not used to extended travel. Plus, free time in each destination is somewhat limited, especially in Tirano and St. Moritz, so if you’re a slow explorer or love taking your time, you might find it a bit rushed.

This tour suits those who want to see sweeping alpine landscapes without the fuss of planning every detail. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors, outdoor lovers, or anyone who appreciates a good combination of train travel, scenery, and cultural exploration. If you’re up for a full day of mountain beauty and don’t mind the busy schedule, this trip is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lush valleys throughout the journey.
• Comfortable Transport: The coach is air-conditioned, making the long rides more bearable, though some reviews note AC issues.
• Effortless Travel: Reserved Bernina Red Train tickets simplify the experience, so you avoid lines and last-minute hassles.
• Guided Insights: A knowledgeable guide keeps you informed about the sights, history, and local culture.
• Limited Free Time: In certain stops like Tirano and St. Moritz, free exploration might feel brief.
• Value for Money: At $104, it’s a fair price considering the scenic train rides, guided experience, and multiple stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey from Milan to the Alps

Starting from Milan’s Porta Garibaldi station, the day kicks off early, typically around 7:15 AM. You’ll hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that whisks you through the Lombardy region. As we’ve seen in reviews, the scenery along the way is a highlight—leafy vineyards, charming villages, and glimpses of Lake Como appear as you leave the city behind.

This part of the trip really sets the tone. We loved the way the coach glided through the countryside, offering casual, scenic views that help you settle into the day. It’s a relaxed start that prepares you for the stunning mountain vistas ahead.

The Bernina Pass and Scenic Views

One of the most memorable parts is passing through the Bernina Pass, renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery. The coach stops here briefly, giving you a chance to soak in the views. Expect snow-capped peaks and glaciers, especially if you’re traveling in the colder months.

Some reviews mention the experience of the train ride itself—the Bernina Red Train has open windows for optimal viewing, letting you truly feel immersed in the alpine environment. Although the train isn’t the official Bernina Express, it still provides a similar experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Travelers have described this segment as “absolutely exquisite,” with some noting that the weather and snow conditions can make it even more special. One reviewer shared that the train ride was “so beautiful that everyone should see it at least once,” which captures how impactful this part of the trip can be.

Exploring St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz, you get about 2 hours of free time. This is enough to walk around the glacial lake, snap some photos of the iconic scenery, and peek into the town’s high-end boutiques. The area’s reputation for luxury shopping and refined atmosphere is evident, and many reviewers mention the town’s timeless elegance.

We liked the way the guide pointed out highlights and offered tips for exploring independently. Some reviews appreciated the beautiful scenery and the chance to walk along the cobbled streets, soaking in the mountain air and alpine charm.

However, a few travelers noted that the free time could be a tad short, especially if you want to indulge in a leisurely lunch or do some shopping. Still, for most, it’s enough to get a taste of this world-famous resort.

The Swiss Alps Sightseeing

After St. Moritz, the tour continues into the Swiss Alps for more sightseeing. This phase often involves scenic stops, photo opportunities, and just soaking in the panoramic views. Expect moments to truly marvel at the towering peaks, glaciers, and shimmering lakes.

The reviews repeatedly mention how breathtaking the scenery is, with some saying they felt like they were “stepping into a postcard.” The combination of coach rides and open-window train sections makes it easy to capture the stunning landscape.

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Tirano and Its Charm

The final stop is Tirano, a charming Italian town with a historic feel. You get about 45 minutes of free time to explore. Many enjoy strolling through its cobbled streets, visiting local markets (where you can sample regional foods), and learning about its history from the guide.

Some reviewers described Tirano as “adorable,” with quaint shops and friendly locals. It’s a nice contrast to the more upscale St. Moritz and offers a glimpse into Italy’s Alpine culture.

Returning to Milan

After Tirano, you jump back onto the coach for the 2.5-hour return trip. The journey home is a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenery one last time. Some reviews mentioned the long coach ride as a minor downside, with a few wishing for more frequent stops or shorter travel times.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $104, the transportation, guided service, and reserved train tickets are valuable inclusions. The tour makes it easy to see the highlights without worrying about logistics, which many travelers find worth the price.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan for a quick lunch in Tirano or St. Moritz. The tour also doesn’t offer hotel pickup or drop-off, so you need to make your way to the starting point at Porta Garibaldi station.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a great blend of scenery, culture, and relaxation for a very reasonable price. The views from the train and coach are genuinely spectacular, and the guide’s insights add depth to the experience. Most travelers agree it’s a well-organized and enjoyable way to experience some of Switzerland’s most famous landscapes.

That said, it’s a long day with significant coach time and limited free exploration in each location. If you’re someone who prefers slow-paced sightseeing, it might feel a bit rushed. But for those wanting a packed, scenic adventure with minimal planning, this trip hits the mark.

The reviews reflect consistent praise, especially for the friendly guides and the breathtaking scenery. Just be prepared for the possibility of some minor issues like AC problems or short free times, which most travelers still find worth it.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re visiting Milan and want to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of arranging multiple tickets and transportation, this is a reliable choice. It’s ideal if you’re an outdoor lover, a train enthusiast, or simply craving some mountain majesty. It’s also a good pick for first-time visitors who want an overview of the region’s beauty in one day.

While the day is busy, it’s manageable for most travelers with good mobility. But if you are sensitive to long periods of sitting or need more time to explore each stop, consider whether the schedule suits your style.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, families with older children who enjoy scenic train rides and walking will likely find it enjoyable. Keep in mind there’s a fair amount of walking, and strollers or large luggage aren’t permitted.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins in front of the main entrance of the Porta Garibaldi Train Station in Milan. It’s easy to reach by metro (M2 line) or taxi.

How long are the coach rides?
The total coach time is about 5.5 hours, including the trip to the Alps and back. Most of it is comfortable, but it’s a long day for some.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy a meal during free time.

What should I bring?
A passport, comfortable shoes, and possibly a camera. If traveling in winter, layers are advisable. Large luggage or strollers are not allowed.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
No, the itinerary is fixed. Free time is scheduled, but it might feel brief, especially in Tirano and St. Moritz.

Is the train experience authentic Bernina Express?
No, the train is the Bernina Red Train, which offers similar scenic views with open windows but isn’t the official Bernina Express.

How scenic is the train ride?
Most reviews praise it as “absolutely breathtaking,” with open windows allowing for incredible photo opportunities.

What if I want more time in each town?
You might need to look for private tours or multiple-day options, as this trip focuses on highlights within a packed schedule.

Final Takeaway

If you’re looking for a day brimming with spectacular mountain views, effortless travel, and a taste of Swiss luxury, this tour from Milan hits all the right notes. It’s especially great for first-timers or those eager to tick off the Swiss Alps from their bucket list without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for a long, busy day— the views and experiences are more than worth it.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Italy for the first time, this trip offers a solid way to see the Alps, enjoy scenic train rides, and indulge in some of the best mountain scenery Europe has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: