From Como – Alpine Wonders Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina Train

If you’re considering a day trip from Lake Como that combines incredible mountain views and a touch of Swiss charm, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a scenic cable car ride, a delicious high-altitude lunch, and a ride on the famous Bernina Express, all within roughly 12 to 13 hours. While it has some standout moments, it’s worth examining what makes it worth the cost and where it might fall short.

We like that this experience offers breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks—perfect for nature fans—and the chance to enjoy local cuisine in a mountain lodge. The inclusion of the Bernina red train, a UNESCO-listed route, adds a special, postcard-worthy touch. However, one aspect to keep in mind is the length of the day, which can feel quite packed, especially if you prefer more relaxed outings.

This tour works best for those who love mountain scenery, are comfortable with long days of travel, and want a mix of sightseeing and culture. It’s not specifically tailored for travelers with mobility issues, but if you’re up for a full day of exploration and stunning views, this could be a memorable addition to your Lake Como trip.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and glaciers from Diavolezza
• Inclusive lunch at high altitude, offering local mountain cuisine
• Iconic Bernina Train ride, a UNESCO World Heritage route with panoramic windows
• Efficient transport arrangements from Como and back, making it a hassle-free day trip
• Moderate length, but full of busy sightseeing and travel
• Good for those who love mountains, scenic train journeys, and photo opportunities

What to Expect from the Tour

This trip kicks off with a comfortable bus ride from Como to the base of the cable car station. The journey itself is smooth, with an English and Italian-speaking assistant along to help and share some insights. Once at the cable car station, you’ll ascend nearly 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) to Diavolezza Lodge, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views and a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air.

The Diavolezza Stop: A Mountain Marvel

Climbing aboard the cable car, you’ll be transported to Diavolezza Mountain, a spot renowned for its commanding views of the Morteratsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. The station itself offers a vantage point that makes it easy to understand why this is a favorite among mountain lovers. Expect postcard-perfect scenes of snow, ice, and jagged peaks.

Once at the top, you can choose to relax, snap photos, or take a leisurely walk around. The highlight here is undoubtedly the view of the glaciers and valleys, which are truly awe-inspiring. The included two-hour stop allows enough time to soak it all in, take plenty of photos, and enjoy the lunch at the Diavolezza Lodge, where local dishes like Pizzoccheri are served.

As one happy traveler put it, “We felt like we were on top of the world. It was wonderful! The weather was great, and the included lunch was a new and delicious experience.”

The Bernina Express: A Panoramic Journey

After descending from Diavolezza, the adventure continues aboard the Bernina red train. This iconic train is known for its panoramic windows, making it an ideal way to see the Alps from a comfortable seat. The train journey from Diavolezza to Tirano takes about two hours, during which you’ll pass through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes.

Expect views of glittering glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages as you climb to the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters. The train’s design maximizes landscape visibility, so you’ll want to keep your camera handy. The route also passes notable sights like Lake Bianco and other alpine features that make this ride a real highlight.

Practical Details About the Trip

The entire experience is organized with transportation from Como and back, so you don’t need to worry about logistics. The bus ride is comfortable and runs smoothly, with the added benefit of an assistant who can answer questions and enrich your understanding of what you’re seeing.

The tour is priced at about $226.29 per person, which includes all transportation, cable car tickets, lunch, and the train journey. While this might seem steep, it covers a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and meals—making it a fairly good value compared to booking all these separately.

What Are the Downsides?

While the views are undeniably stunning, the tour’s length and pace might be a concern for some. It’s a long day—about 12 to 13 hours—and involves a good amount of travel and walking, which might be tiring for travelers with limited mobility. In fact, the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues, given the nature of mountain ascents and some walking involved.

Some reviewers note that the day can feel quite busy, especially with tight schedules. If you prefer more time to relax and enjoy each spot at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed. Also, the trip doesn’t include additional services or stops beyond the main itinerary, so it’s all about the highlights without many opportunities for spontaneous exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for mountain lovers and scenery enthusiasts who want to see some of the most spectacular views in the Alps without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs. If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day that combines high-altitude views with a scenic train ride, this tour checks those boxes.

It’s also ideal if you’re keen on learning from knowledgeable guides who share insights, as one reviewer highlighted how much Monica knew and how she enhanced the experience. The included lunch at the lodge is a bonus for those wanting a taste of local mountain cuisine amid stunning surroundings.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a solid way to experience the Swiss Alps’ grandeur, especially if you’re short on time but craving memorable mountain scenery and a scenic train ride. The panoramic cable car to Diavolezza is a real highlight, delivering views that will stay with you long after the day ends. The Bernina Express adds a touch of elegance and wonder, showcasing the stunning landscapes from the comfort of a train.

While it’s an action-packed day, it’s perfect for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions and are eager to see some of the most photogenic spots in the region. The guides’ knowledge, the spectacular vistas, and the overall convenience make this a worthwhile choice—just be prepared for the full schedule.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and Swiss charm, this trip could be just right. But if you prefer more relaxed, less structured days or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options or shorter outings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared towards adults and those comfortable with long days of travel. It’s not specifically designed for young children or travelers with mobility issues, so consider this if you’re traveling with little ones.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation by bus from Como to Diavolezza, a cable car ticket to Diavolezza, lunch at the mountain lodge, and a train ticket on the Bernina Express from Diavolezza to Tirano, plus transport back to Como.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is around 12 to 13 hours, from the start at Como to returning back in the evening.

Can I customize or extend this experience?
This is a pre-organized, guided tour, so there isn’t much room for customization. It’s designed as a full-day, fixed itinerary.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, travelers are advised to carry their original passport or a valid identification document, as it’s a cross-border trip into Switzerland.

Is the weather a concern?
Weather can vary in the mountains, so it’s wise to dress in layers and bring rain gear if forecasted. The views are best on clear days, but the experience can still be enjoyable in overcast weather.

What if I don’t want to take the train?
The train is part of the organized experience, so opting out isn’t typically an option. The train ride is a highlight of the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the trip depends heavily on scenic views, poor weather could impact your experience. The tour operator offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, which allows you to reschedule or get a full refund if weather conditions are unfavorable.

In all, this From Como to Diavolezza and Bernina tour offers a rewarding taste of the Swiss Alps. While it’s not perfect for everyone, especially those seeking a more relaxed pace or traveling with mobility limitations, it’s a solid pick for anyone eager to see some of the most iconic mountain scenery and enjoy a memorable train journey.