Bernina Red Train, Swiss Alps & St Moritz From Milan

If you’re considering a day trip from Milan to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps and the luxurious vibe of Saint Moritz, this tour might catch your eye. It’s highly rated, with an average of 5.0 stars from over 1,500 reviews, and most travelers recommend it. While it promises a scenic train ride and a glimpse into one of Switzerland’s most famous resorts, it’s worth digging into what you actually get—and what you might want to watch out for.

We love how this tour combines stunning train travel with a taste of Swiss luxury, providing a quick escape into the mountains without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The Bernina Express route, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a real highlight—known for jaw-dropping views of alpine peaks and glaciers. Plus, the free time in Saint Moritz allows for some spontaneous shopping or pastry tasting, which many reviews say is a real treat.

On the flip side, the long bus ride and the potential for weather-related surprises could be a consideration. Some travelers have found the journey lengthy, and the views can be obscured if windows get dirty or if the weather turns poor. Still, for those craving scenic vistas and a taste of Swiss high-end getaways, this trip offers a lot for the price.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure with scenic train rides, are comfortable with a large group, and are interested in experiencing the Swiss Alps and Saint Moritz without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. If you’re keen on picturesque landscapes and don’t mind a packed schedule, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenic Journey: The Bernina Express boasts UNESCO World Heritage status, and travelers praise the views along the route.
• Convenient Day Trip: It offers hassle-free round-trip transportation from Milan, saving you planning time.
• Free Time in Saint Moritz: Plenty of opportunity for shopping, pastry tasting, or wandering the luxury town at your own pace.
• Weather Considerations: Cloud cover or rain can impact the experience, especially since much of the tour relies on scenic views.
• Long Bus Ride: The journey involves several hours on a coach, which might be tiring, especially for those with limited patience or mobility issues.
• Tour Guides and Reviews: Many reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides and smooth organization, though some mention bus comfort issues and route changes.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Milan

Your adventure kicks off early in Piazza Duca d’Aosta, where you’ll meet your group. The day begins with a comfortable coach ride to Saint Moritz, with a quick stop for breakfast and coffee near Lake Como. We loved how this brief pause offers a moment to enjoy the scenery and stretch before the day intensifies. The route along Lake Como is a beautiful way to kick off the journey, setting the tone with peaceful waters and mountain scenery.

Stop in Piantedo and Maloja

Next, the coach makes a short stop in Piantedo for another quick breakfast break—15 minutes that give you a chance to refresh and take some photos. Then, it’s on to Maloja, a scenic area where the landscape begins to shift into Swiss territory. The drive through this region is generally praised for its verdant, mountainous vistas, which will prepare you for the upcoming Swiss Alpine experience.

Saint Moritz

Arriving in Saint Moritz, you’re given about 90 minutes to explore. This tiny town is famous worldwide for its elegance, high-end shopping, and winter sports, but it’s also worth a walk just for its charming streets and lakeside views. Travelers appreciate the free time here, although some note shops might be closed if it’s off-peak season (like late fall). One reviewer said, “The town of Saint Moritz was beautiful but all but a handful of stores were closed for the season,” so keep that in mind if you’re visiting outside the main tourist months.

The Bernina Red Train Experience

In early afternoon, the real star of the show begins: the Bernina Red Train. With a second-class ticket that features openable windows, you’ll settle in for around 2 hours and 20 minutes of scenic travel. Many reviews rave about this leg, calling the train ride “remarkable,” “spectacular,” and “a Kodak moment at almost every turn.” The route takes you up to 7,390 feet (2,253 meters), making it the highest point trains can reach in Europe, and the views are truly unforgettable.

Traveling from Saint Moritz to Tirano, the route crosses dramatic mountain ridges, lush valleys, and glaciers—perfect for photo lovers. Several reviews mention the side of the train matters: “sit on the right for better views,” someone said. The train’s UNESCO status hints at its historical and scenic importance, making it a highlight for many.

Return Route and Final Stops

After the train ride, you arrive in Tirano, a small town in Italy, where the bus picks you up for the return journey. The entire train segment is a key part of this experience, and many travelers emphasize how the views surpass their expectations. One traveler raved, “The scenery was incredible!!! Loved the train ride,” and others appreciated the explanations provided along the way.

Back to Milan

The day ends with a coach ride back to Milan, arriving around 7:15 pm. The return journey, as some reviews point out, involves about two and a half hours on a bus. While some found the bus comfortable, others mentioned tight seats and minimal legroom. A couple of reviews have noted that the route back does not pass directly near some hotels, so plan accordingly if you’re staying nearby.

What You’ll Actually Experience

The journey starts early, with a pickup from central Milan, setting you off with scenic views of Lake Como and the Swiss mountains. The stops are quick but meaningful—giving you a taste of the landscape and a bit of local flavor. The focus is on combining bus transportation with scenic train travel, letting you enjoy the best of both worlds.

The highlight is unquestionably the Bernina Express ride—a true bucket-list experience for lovers of trains and mountain scenery. Many reviews mention how the vistas from the open windows make it feel like a moving postcard, and a few suggest sitting on certain sides of the train for optimal views.

Free time in Saint Moritz is a flexible segment for personal exploration, shopping, or grabbing a pastry. Keep in mind that if you’re visiting outside peak season, some shops might be closed, so don’t expect a full shopping spree year-round.

The return trip is mostly on the bus, which can be lengthy. Some travelers have found this tiring, especially if the bus seats are narrow or if the weather isn’t cooperating. Still, the overall payoff—stunning scenery and a memorable train ride—tends to overshadow these inconveniences for most.

What’s Worth Knowing

Price vs. Value: At roughly $161 per person, this is a significant investment, but many feel it’s justified by the scenery, convenience, and the unique train experience. For those who want a hassle-free way to combine Italy and Switzerland in one day, it’s a solid option.

Guides and Organization: Reviews often mention friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. The explanations onboard the train and by guides help put the scenery into context, making the views even more meaningful.

Weather and Seasonality: Be prepared for the possibility of rain or snow, especially in shoulder seasons. Some reviews note that weather can impact visibility, so if you’re expecting clear mountain vistas, check the forecast and be flexible.

Group Size: With a maximum of 45 travelers, this is a relatively intimate group, allowing for some personal interaction. However, during peak season, it can feel crowded at points, especially on the train.

Transport Comfort: While the coach is air-conditioned and generally rated as safe, some reviews mention narrow seats and a lack of legroom. If you’re tall or prone to discomfort on long bus rides, consider this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love train journeys and scenic landscapes, this trip is likely to wow you. It’s great for travelers who enjoy guided tours but also value free time to explore on their own in Saint Moritz. The tour’s focus on mountain vistas, Swiss luxury, and easy logistics makes it appealing for those who prefer not to plan every detail.

However, if you dislike long bus rides or are traveling with very young children, this may be less ideal. The tour is designed for adults and older travelers comfortable with a full day’s schedule. Also, those seeking a peaceful, leisurely day might find the itinerary a bit packed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an impressive combination of scenic train travel, luxurious mountain views, and free time in Saint Moritz. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, especially praising the guides, the vistas, and the overall organization. While some travelers found the bus ride long and the weather unpredictable, the spectacular scenery and the unique Bernina Express route tend to overshadow these minor inconveniences.

For anyone wanting a practical, memorable way to see the Swiss Alps from Italy—without the stress of self-organizing transport—this trip is worth considering. It’s especially suited to those who value stunning vistas, expert guides, and a hassle-free experience.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and the train ride, with the bus journey taking about 6 hours in total.

What is included in the ticket?
Your package includes a second-class train ticket with open windows from Saint Moritz to Tirano, round-trip coach transfers from Milan, and a knowledgeable tour guide, among other amenities.

Can I buy food during the trip?
Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food during your free time in Saint Moritz.

Is there a recommended side of the train to sit on?
Yes, several reviews suggest sitting on the right side of the train for the best views during the Bernina ride.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for a full day outdoors. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so layers, good walking shoes, and rain gear are advisable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the long hours and bus ride might be tiring for little ones.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 56 days ahead, as this popular tour tends to fill up quickly.

This tour is a solid choice for those craving scenic beauty and Swiss highland luxury in a single day. It’s a well-organized, scenic adventure—perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Just keep in mind the length of the bus ride and possible weather impacts, and you’ll be set for a memorable day high in the Alps.