Full Day Tour in Bernina red train and St Moritz from Milan

If you’re eyeing a trip that combines spectacular mountain scenery with a touch of Swiss luxury, this full-day tour from Milan might catch your interest. It promises a blend of scenic train rides on the iconic Bernina Express, charming Swiss towns, and the glamorous allure of St. Moritz—all in about 12 to 13 hours. While some travelers have loved the views and knowledgeable guides, others have encountered hiccups with bookings and inconsistent experiences.

What we like about this tour is the focus on stunning landscapes and the chance to travel on one of Europe’s most famous train routes, with admission to beautiful spots like Alp Grüm and Diavolezza included. The chance to explore the alpine town of Pontresina and enjoy a good amount of free time in St. Moritz makes it a flexible day for sightseeing.

However, a key consideration is the price—at around $350 per person—and whether the experience delivers value, especially given some reports of booking issues or tour misrepresentation. This tour seems best suited for those who want a taste of Swiss Alps scenery in a day, are comfortable with group travel, and seek a guided experience that hits the highlights.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The Bernina Express offers some of the most scenic train rides in Europe, with panoramic windows and breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Experienced Guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who add context and make the day more engaging.
• Flexible Free Time: The stops in St. Moritz and Lake Saint Moritz provide ample opportunity for personal exploration.
• Booking Reliability: Some travelers experienced issues with reservations, so booking well in advance is recommended.
• Price vs. Experience: While the cost is significant, the included train rides and access to key sights can justify the expense for scenery lovers.
• Group Size: Limited to around 20 travelers, which is nice for a more personal experience.

How the Day Unfolds

Starting Out — From Milan to Tirano on the Bernina Express

Your day kicks off early, meeting at Largo Cairoli in Milan at 7:15 am. The journey begins with the Bernina red train, renowned for its panoramic windows and scenic routes through the Alps. Over the first 1 hour 20 minutes, you’ll pass through picture-perfect landscapes—think lush valleys, quaint villages, and towering peaks. This train ride is the core highlight and justifies the price for many, offering views that are truly hard to beat.

One reviewer, lallk58, called it an “amazing day full of spectacular scenery,” emphasizing the friendly and knowledgeable guide (Alexander) and the amazing views. The train ride itself is smooth, comfortable, and designed for scenery appreciation.

Exploring Tirano and Crossing into Switzerland

After arriving in Tirano, the tour provides a free 1-hour break to explore this Italian town’s charming streets. Tirano is known for its cultural richness, and you might find local cafes and small shops to browse. While some might see this as a quick stop, it does offer a taste of Italian mountain life.

Next, the journey continues on the Bernina Express, crossing back into Switzerland, with another 1 hour 30 minutes of scenic train travel. The route here is celebrated for its stunning alpine vistas, glaciers, and dramatic landscapes. Many reviews talk about the spectacular views, making this part of the trip a real visual treat.

Panoramic Stops — Alp Grüm and Diavolezza

Two highlights are Alp Grüm and Diavolezza, which are free stops with no additional charge. At Alp Grüm, you get incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains—perfect for photos or just soaking in the grandeur of the Alps. Likewise, Diavolezza offers an opportunity to see glaciers and snow-capped peaks close-up, giving you a real sense of the alpine environment.

From reviews, we know that many travelers appreciated these stops. They often mention the stunning scenery and the chance to appreciate nature up close, which adds significant value to the overall experience.

Visiting Pontresina and Free Time in St. Moritz

Next, the tour hits the charming village of Pontresina. Known for its traditional mountain charm and cozy vibe, it’s a great short visit to stretch your legs and enjoy the alpine atmosphere.

The highlight for most is arriving in St. Moritz, where you get around 2 hours and 20 minutes of free time. This allows for a relaxed exploration—whether that’s strolling around, visiting shops, or simply enjoying the mountain views. You might also enjoy sitting by Lake Saint Moritz, which, as some reviews note, is a perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenery.

Returning on the Bernina Express

After your time in St. Moritz, the day wraps up with a return journey on the Bernina Express, lasting about 3 hours. The relaxed pace on the return allows travelers to reflect on their day and enjoy the mountain vistas once again.

Price and Value — Is It Worth It?

Priced at $352.73 per person, the tour isn’t cheap. But considering the inclusion of train tickets, stops at key scenic points, and guided insights, many find the expense justified. The train ride itself is the star, with its panoramic windows and impressive routes making for a memorable experience.

That said, some reviews mention booking issues, with one person noting their reservation was canceled without explanation, and others feeling the reality differed from the description. Careful planning and booking early can help mitigate surprises.

What to Expect for the Price

• Transport: Round-trip scenic train journeys on the Bernina Express, a premium experience.
• Stops: Multiple scenic stops with free time in St. Moritz.
• Guidance: Expert guides that enhance your understanding of the landscape and culture.
• Flexibility: Several hours to explore St. Moritz at your pace.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Starting early at 7:15 am means a long day—bring a comfortable pair of shoes and some snacks.
• Group size: Limited to around 20 people, which makes for a more intimate experience compared to large tours.
• Booking: Reserve well in advance due to the popularity and limited spots.

What Could Be Better?

While the scenery and guides are generally praised, the booking reliability is a concern. There are complaints about cancellations and misrepresented experiences, so if you’re considering this tour, it might be wise to confirm your reservation well ahead of time.

Plus, some might find the price steep, especially given the mixed reviews about tour accuracy. If you’re on a tight budget, researching alternative tours or DIY options might be worthwhile, although they may lack the guided commentary and included stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for scenery lovers who want to see the Swiss Alps from Milan without the hassle of organizing train tickets or transfers. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with group excursions and those who appreciate guided commentary. However, if you’re concerned about booking reliability or seeking a more personal, flexible experience, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Bernina Express and St. Moritz tour offers a wonderful peek into Swiss mountain scenery, guided by knowledgeable hosts and punctuated with breathtaking views. The train rides alone make it worth considering, especially if you love train journeys and alpine vistas.

While it’s not without its bumps—booking issues, the high cost, and some discrepancies in experiences—the core appeal remains strong. If you’re prepared for a long, scenic day, and you love the idea of seeing Switzerland’s iconic landscapes with a group, this tour can be quite rewarding.

Just remember to book early, check reviews if possible, and keep expectations aligned with the scenic promise over luxury or personalized service.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children comfortable with long train rides and outdoor sightseeing should enjoy it, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 12 to 13 hours, including traveling, stops, and free time.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport is required as you cross into Switzerland.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, which is helpful if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking during stops.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan your own snacks and possibly a packed lunch.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

Is the train ride wheelchair accessible?
This detail isn’t specified, so if you have mobility concerns, check with the provider beforehand.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers mention the scenic Bernina Express train rides and the stunning mountain views.

Is it worth the price?
If you value scenic train journeys and want a guided experience, many find it worth it; others might prefer a more DIY approach for less money.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor craving Swiss Alps vistas, this tour offers a compelling way to experience some of Europe’s most renowned mountain scenery—just go in with clear expectations and an early booking plan.