Lake Como cruise, St.Moritz and Bernina Red Train

Thinking about a day trip that combines Italy’s stunning lakes with the Swiss Alps? This tour promises just that — a full day from Milan packed with scenic views, charming towns, and an iconic train ride. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but after reviewing the details and traveler feedback, we can give a clear picture of what to expect.

One thing we love about this experience is how it makes two countries’ highlights accessible in just one day — no need for weeks of planning. Plus, the Bernina Red Train offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you can imagine, with panoramic vistas that will stay with you long after the day ends. On the flip side, a common concern seems to be timing — some travelers mention feeling rushed or experiencing delays.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure that hits the highlights of Lake Como and the Swiss Alps, this tour tends to suit travelers with a full day to spare and a love of natural beauty. It might be less ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or extra time in each destination. Still, for those wanting to tick off multiple breathtaking spots in one go, this tour can be a solid choice.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines lakes, mountains, and a scenic train ride in a single day.
• Beautiful Views: Expect stunning vistas, especially during the Bernina train journey.
• Guided Convenience: Professional bilingual guides help you navigate each stop.
• Time Management: Tours are well-structured but can feel rushed; punctuality is key.
• Cost-Effective: For around $202, you gain multiple highlights including cruises, train rides, and guided tours.
• Mix of Towns & Nature: From glamorous St. Moritz to peaceful lakeside villages, there’s variety.

The Full Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Out in Milan

Your day kicks off bright and early at 7:15 am at the Autostradale Bus Stop in Milan. The tour provides luxury, air-conditioned coach transport, which is a nice touch on a long day. Travelers report that most of the time, the buses are comfortable, though there are exceptions — one reviewer mentioned the absence of air conditioning, which made the trip pretty hot. Still, the ride from Milan is about 13 hours, so keep in mind that it’s a long day.

Lake Como Cruise

The first highlight is the morning cruise on Lake Como. This is a real standout part of the trip. You board a private boat to drift around the tranquil waters, getting close-up views of colorful lakeside villages and opulent villas, including the famous Villa Balbianello. Travelers consistently praise this segment — one reviewer calls it a “joy and major highlight.”

While the cruise itself is an hour long and free of charge, it sets a peaceful, scenic tone for the day. Several reviews mention that this is a must-do for lovers of picturesque landscapes. While weather can be a factor — the review mentions missing the boat ride due to poor weather — it’s a risk worth considering.

Maloja Pass & Swiss Alpine Scenery

Next, the bus winds its way along the Maloja Pass, a route praised for its breathtaking views. This part of the journey lasts around two hours and offers a taste of the Swiss Alps’ majesty. The scenery is often described as “breathtaking” and “stunning” — a real treat for photography lovers.

Travelers note that this drive is smooth, though some mention the bus was slightly late at the start, which added to the feeling of a somewhat rushed schedule later on. That said, most find it worth the brief wait.

Free Time in St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz, the town’s reputation as a glamorous ski resort is evident. You get about two hours of free time to explore, shop, or simply soak in the luxury ambiance. Many reviews highlight that the guides leave travelers in the town to wander on their own, which works well for those who enjoy independent exploration.

However, a few travelers found this too rushed, wishing for more time to enjoy the scenery and shops. One reviewer pointed out that the guide left them in the center, which made it tricky to find the meeting point later. Still, if you’re a fan of high-end towns, you’ll appreciate the chance to stroll through St. Moritz’s elegant streets.

The Bernina Express — A Scenic Train Journey

The most celebrated part of this tour is the Bernina Red Train ride. You’ll board a reserved carriage, which offers spectacular views through large windows that you can open for photos. The route takes you through the Poschiavo valley, past two lakes (white and black), and across the Brusio spiral viaduct. Travelers often describe this as “magical” and “breathtaking” — a true highlight for any scenic train enthusiast.

You’ll ascend to Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters above sea level, witnessing alpine landscapes that look like a postcard. The train ride is just about an hour and a half, but many agree it’s worth every minute. Some reviews mention that the train might start from Tirano going back to St. Moritz if needed, depending on the day.

Final Stop in Tirano

After the train ride, you’ll arrive in Tirano, where you’ll have about an hour for last-minute shopping or exploring. It’s a charming town, perfect for a quick stroll and some souvenirs. Then, it’s time to head back to Milan, where the coach drops you off at the starting point.

Overall Value and Experience

For a price of around $202, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the most beautiful spots in Italy and Switzerland. The inclusion of a private boat cruise, guided walking tour, scenic train ride, and free time in St. Moritz makes it a package that covers a lot in one day.

Traveler reviews underscore that the guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience smoother. The train ride gets rave reviews, with many describing it as a “must-do” and “incredible.”

However, the timing can sometimes be tight. Several reviews mention feeling rushed or dealing with delays. One reviewer, for example, felt the tour was “beautiful but rushed,” and a few experienced issues like late pickups or bus delays. Also, the train ride is in second class, which is still comfortable but not the panoramic, first-class experience some might expect.

What You Need to Know Before Booking

• Duration: About 13 hours — a long day, but packed with sights.
• Price: $202.44 per person, which covers transportation, cruise, guided tours, and the train ride.
• Best for: Travelers who love scenery, don’t mind long days, and want a guided experience.
• Limitations: The tour is quite structured, so if you prefer slow exploration, it might feel rushed.
• Weather considerations: The tour operates in all weather conditions, though poor weather might affect the experience, especially the boat cruise.
• Transportation: Comfortable, climate-controlled coach, with a maximum group size of about 50.

The Bottom Line

This tour makes a fantastic day out for those eager to see a mix of lakes, mountain panoramas, and Swiss charm without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a solid choice for travelers who enjoy guided tours, scenic train rides, and picturesque towns. While some reviews flag issues with timing and comfort, most agree that the sights and experiences outweigh these minor hiccups.

It works best for those who want to hit multiple highlights in one day and are comfortable with a full schedule. If you’re seeking a relaxed, unhurried exploration, or extra time in each spot, consider whether this packed itinerary suits your style.

Whether you’re a first-timer to the region or just want a dependable, scenic day trip from Milan, this tour offers a good balance of comfort, views, and variety. Just stay flexible and ready to enjoy some truly mesmerizing scenery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy scenic views and train rides generally find it enjoyable. Keep in mind, it’s a long day with lots of moving parts.

What is included in the tour?
The package covers luxury coach transportation, a 1-hour private boat cruise on Lake Como, guided walking tour and free time in St. Moritz, and a 2nd class train ticket on the Bernina Express route. Headphones are also provided for the guide.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy in towns.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Autostradale Bus Stop in Piazza IV Novembre, Milan. Be there at least 15 minutes early.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather, but if the weather is poor enough to cancel the boat cruise or affect the experience, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I upgrade the train experience?
Yes, you can opt for a first-class upgrade on the Bernina train, which might offer more comfortable seating and additional amenities.

What are the main drawbacks?
Some travelers report feeling rushed, delays, or issues with timing. Also, the train is in second class, so panoramic views in first class are not guaranteed unless selected as an upgrade.

Is this trip worth the price?
Considering the included experiences and scenic highlights, most find it offers good value, especially given the convenience of guided transport and multiple experiences in one day.

If you’re craving a day filled with stunning scenery, charming towns, and a memorable train ride without the stress of planning, this tour might just be the ticket. Just remember to pack patience and your camera — you’re going to want to capture these views.