From Milan: Bernina and St. Moritz Day Tour by Scenic Train

If you’re considering a day trip from Milan into the Swiss Alps, the Bernina and St. Moritz scenic train tour is definitely worth a look. It promises a full day of jaw-dropping scenery, historic rail routes, and a taste of luxury mountain life—all for a reasonable price of around $119 per person.

What we really appreciate about this tour are two things: first, the spectacular train ride along one of Switzerland’s most famous UNESCO-listed routes, and second, the quality of the guides who seem genuinely committed to making your day memorable. On the flip side, it’s a long day, and the bus ride back can feel pretty lengthy, which is something to keep in mind if travel fatigue is a concern.

This tour tends to suit travelers who love scenic travel, don’t mind long days, and want a hassle-free way to tick two Swiss highlights—St. Moritz and the Bernina route—off their list. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even part of a family that appreciates beautiful landscapes and effortless logistics, this trip can be a strong choice.

Key Points

• Spectacular Train Journey: The Bernina route is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and is officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• Includes Round-Trip Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned bus from Milan takes care of the logistics.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Total duration is about 12–13 hours, with plenty of time to explore each stop.
• Flexible Starting Points: You can begin your journey from several locations, depending on availability.
• Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users: Due to the nature of the train and bus stops, it may not be accessible for everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off early in the morning from Milan, with pick-up points that vary based on your chosen booking option. You’ll hop aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach—an important perk given the length of the drive. The ride to Switzerland is roughly 3 hours, during which your guides usually keep things lively with interesting facts or tips for your day ahead.

From the start, it’s clear this isn’t just about the train ride; the entire day is structured to maximize your scenic exposure while keeping it relaxed. Many reviewers have praised the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Monica, who are both informative and attentive. As one traveler put it, she was “an amazing wealth of knowledge,” making the long journey feel engaging rather than tedious.

St. Moritz: The Jewel of the Alps

Once you arrive in St. Moritz, you get about two hours to explore this world-famous resort town. While some might wish for more time, most appreciate the opportunity to wander around the elegant streets, take photos of the stunning mountain backdrop, or grab a quick bite. Several reviews highlight how pleasant and uncrowded St. Moritz is during shoulder seasons, making it easier to enjoy without the usual tourist rush.

The Bernina Pass & Scenic Train Ride

Next, you’ll board the Bernina red train, which is often regarded as the highlight of the trip. The route climbs over 1,800 meters, crossing glaciers, gorges, and tunnels through some of the most impressive mountain scenery in Switzerland. The train itself is designed for panoramic viewing, though some reviews suggest opting for the panoramic train if possible, for the best views.

Travelers have commented on how “beautiful” and “breathtaking” the scenery is. One person mentioned that the views “brought me back to Heidi,” evoking that classic Swiss mountain vibe. The train crosses steep inclines and offers extraordinary vistas from both sides—so, if you can choose your seats, try for the right side during the glacier and lake sections.

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The Return and Final Stretch

After the train ride, you’ll hop back on the bus for the roughly 3-hour drive back to Milan. While some reviews note that the return trip can be a bit long, most agree that the views along the way make up for the fatigue. The bus is generally comfortable, and the guides keep spirits high with stories and tips for your next adventures.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For the price, you’re getting a solid deal. The Bernina ticket in 2nd class grants ample comfort and viewing opportunities. The round-trip transportation from Milan is reliable, and the guides are usually praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in Tirano or St. Moritz is a good idea. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up, so you’ll need to arrange your start point, although the meeting points are conveniently located.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport or ID card as you’ll cross borders.
• Carry a jacket—mountain weather can be unpredictable.
• Pets and large luggage are not permitted, so travel light.
• The train isn’t suited for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if necessary.

Real Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a picture of a highly enjoyable day. Many travelers rave about their guides—like Amy, who called Monica “the perfect guide,” and others highlight how knowledgeable and friendly guides made the trip smooth and fun.

Viewpoints are consistently described as “amazing” or “breathtaking,” with many noting that the trip exceeded expectations. Some wish for a bit more flexibility—perhaps stopping at a railway stop to explore longer—but overall, the consensus is that the experience is worth the long day.

A few people mentioned that the bus ride back can be tiring after a full day, but many found that the scenery and the train ride made it worthwhile. A traveler enthusiastically said, “I would do it again,” and others recommended upgrading to panoramic seating for even better views, if available.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience is highly rated, a few reviews mention that the train carriages can get cramped when full. Also, the long bus ride back could be more comfortable with some extra breaks or shorter routes, but these are minor compared to the overall beauty of the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those who love scenic travel and are happy with a long day out. It suits travelers eager to see the Swiss mountains without the hassle of planning train tickets or transfers themselves. The guided aspect adds comfort and insight, which is perfect if you prefer a well-organized tour.

It’s also great for people interested in UNESCO sites or iconic mountain resorts. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and doesn’t include meals, so if you’re planning a full day, pack snacks or plan to eat in Tirano or St. Moritz.

Final Thoughts

This Bernina and St. Moritz day tour offers a memorable way to experience Swiss landscapes from the comfort of a coach and scenic train. The journey’s highlights—stunning glaciers, mountain vistas, and a luxurious resort town—are well worth the long hours. The guides’ friendliness and expertise shine through, making even the lengthy bus rides feel engaging.

For those who value breathtaking scenery, hassle-free logistics, and the chance to see a UNESCO-listed route, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a taste of Swiss mountain elegance in a single day, without the complications of independent travel.

If you’re comfortable with a full-day itinerary and long drives, and you’re drawn to majestic mountain views, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip from Milan.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Tirano or St. Moritz, where some stops are possible.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The full day lasts about 12 to 13 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and train rides.

Can I start the tour from different locations?
Yes, the tour offers several starting points depending on availability, including various meeting points in Milan.

Is the train ride scenic?
Absolutely. The Bernina route is considered one of the most beautiful in Switzerland, passing glaciers, gorges, and mountain tunnels.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, children who enjoy scenic train rides and mountain views generally find it enjoyable. Check your group’s needs before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a jacket for mountain weather, and possibly snacks or a small amount of cash for extra purchases.

Can I do this trip if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the train and bus setup.

How are the guides rated?
Very highly. Many reviews mention guides like Monica and others for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.

Is it worth the price?
Most travelers say yes—considering the scenery, guide quality, and convenience, it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a scenic Swiss adventure that’s well-organized and full of stunning vistas, this Bernina and St. Moritz tour might just be that perfect, memorable day you’re after.

You can check availability for your dates here: