Milan: Bernina and Glacier Train Tickets & Sankt Moritz Tour

If you’re dreaming of Swiss mountains, iconic railroads, and a taste of luxury in the Alps, this tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally been on it, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. It’s a full-day adventure that promises stunning scenery, impressive engineering feats, and a chance to walk around the glamorous town of St. Moritz.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines two of the most famous mountain train routes in the world — the Bernina and Glacier lines — into one seamless trip. The chance to ride the legendary red train along the Bernina line offers a view you won’t forget, and crossing the Landwasser bridge on the Glacier line is a highlight for many. Plus, the afternoon in St. Moritz gives you some free time to explore this upscale Swiss resort.

One thing to consider is the long duration and travel time. The trip totals around 12 to 13 hours, including coach transfers, so it’s definitely a full day that can be tiring. Some reviews mentioned that the bus ride to Bernina can feel a bit lengthy and tedious, especially if you’re not a fan of long road trips. This experience tends to suit travelers who love scenic train journeys and can handle a packed day of sightseeing.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic Swiss train adventure with incredible mountain views and a taste of luxury, this tour might be just right. It’s especially good for those who appreciate well-planned itineraries and are okay with a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Scenic train routes: The Bernina and Glacier lines are among the most beautiful and engineer marvels in the world.
• Beautiful stops: Includes a visit to St. Moritz, perfect for exploring or relaxing in style.
• Impressive engineering: Crosses the famous Landwasser Viaduct and other stunning structures.
• Full-day experience: Around 12-13 hours, including coach travel, so plan for a long but rewarding day.
• Guided commentary: The tour guides are generally appreciated for their knowledge and helpfulness.
• Mixed reviews on organization: Some travelers found the trip a bit disorganized or lengthy, so manage expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey kicks off from Milan, with several convenient meeting locations, including the Zani Viaggi Meeting Point and the Milan Visitor Center. Once everyone is gathered, a comfortable coach whisks you away through the Italian and Swiss countryside, a ride that takes about 3.5 hours. It’s a long bus ride, but the scenery you see along the way can be quite lovely, especially as you approach the Swiss Alps.

Arrival in St. Moritz

Your first stop is the famed St. Moritz, a town renowned for its luxury, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. You’ll have roughly two hours of free time, which is enough to stroll through the town’s pretty streets, visit the lakes, or simply soak in the mountain views. Several reviewers mention that the guides are friendly and informative, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The Bernina Line — Riding the Red Train

The highlight for many is the Bernina Red train ride, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This train is famous for its bright red color and the incredible landscapes it passes through. Expect to see panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, lush valleys, and quaint villages. The train track itself is a marvel—climbing steeply, crossing bridges, and winding through valleys, all while providing some of the most striking mountain vistas you’ll encounter.

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Crossing Landwasser and Other Landmarks

The train then crosses the Landwasser Viaduct, an architectural feat that many travelers find unforgettable. Sitting there, watching the train glide over the bridge high above a gorge, is quite the photo moment. The route continues through charming villages like Bergün, known for authentic Swiss architecture, before reaching Preda—the highest point of the line.

Scenic Descent and Return

From Preda, the train begins its gentle descent toward Chur, passing through gorges, lush forests, and more impressive engineering structures. You’ll then head back to the coach, which will bring you through the Swiss countryside toward your return to Milan. The entire train journey takes about two hours.

Additional Stops and Travel Time

Along the route, there’s a brief 15-minute break in Thusis, giving you a chance to stretch or grab a snack. From there, a lengthy coach ride (another 3.5 hours) takes you back to Milan, completing a long but scenic day.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Travelers like María Dolores from Spain found the trip to be “totally recommendable” and praised the fantastic guide Angelo and driver Marcello, noting the breathtaking views of the frozen lakes and the unforgettable landscapes. She called it a “fabulous day”.

Francisco from Honduras summed it up simply as “beautiful,” which speaks to the visual impact of the scenery.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some travelers, like a reviewer from Brazil, pointed out that the bus ride to Bernina can be lengthy and tiring, and mentioned some disorganization or lack of clarity in the itinerary. One traveler advised aiming to arrive directly at Bernina station to skip some of the long bus segments, hinting that the journey can sometimes feel a bit drawn out.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the experience includes transportation, train tickets, a guide, and free time in St. Moritz. Considering the cost of train ticket alone can be quite high, especially for scenic routes like Bernina, the price for this all-inclusive day trip often represents good value, particularly for those looking to tick off a bucket list experience without the hassle of planning each leg.

The fact that it’s a full-day tour with guided commentary means you’re getting more than just transportation—you’re gaining insights into this spectacular part of Switzerland, making the price worthwhile for many.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers who are big fans of scenic train rides and want a structured way to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s suited also for those who enjoy a full itinerary and don’t mind a long day filled with views, stops, and travel. If you’re a luxury traveler or a train enthusiast, you’ll likely find plenty to love.

That said, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find some parts of the trip a bit tiring. It’s also worth noting that some reviews mention organizational shortcomings, so it’s best approached with flexible expectations.

The Sum Up

For anyone with a passion for spectacular mountain scenery and iconic railways, this tour offers a chance to see two of Switzerland’s most famous routes in one day. The experience is particularly compelling if you enjoy train journeys that blend engineering marvels with breathtaking landscapes. The visit to St. Moritz adds a touch of luxury and local charm, rounding out the day.

While it’s a long, packed day, many travelers find the payoff—stunning views, memorable train crossings, and expert guides—absolutely worth it. This tour suits those who are comfortable with a full schedule and want to maximize their Swiss mountain experience without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves.

In sum, if you’re after a scenic adventure that combines comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of Swiss elegance, this trip deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 12 to 13 hours, including coach transfers, train rides, and free time in St. Moritz.

Where does the tour start?
It begins from various locations in Milan, such as the Zani Viaggi Meeting Point or the Milan Visitor Center, with a typical pickup around 4 AM to 4:30 AM depending on the option.

What’s included in the price?
You get coach transportation from Milan to Switzerland and back, tickets for the Bernina and Glacier train routes, and a guide in English and Spanish.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the trains are well-maintained, and the scenic routes are designed to maximize comfort and views. The Bernina train’s bright red cars are especially iconic.

Can I skip parts of the trip?
The itinerary is structured, but some travelers suggest arriving directly at Bernina station to avoid longer bus rides, which might offer more comfort.

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically geared toward children, the experience is generally suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic train rides. Keep in mind the long day may be tiring for younger kids.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

If you’re after a scenic, well-organized day exploring Swiss mountains via some of the most celebrated trains, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip to Europe. Just remember, packing some snacks and patience will help you enjoy every breathtaking moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: