Swiss Alps Bernina Red Train and St.Moritz Tour from Milan

Exploring the Swiss Alps: Bernina Red Train & St. Moritz Tour from Milan

If you’re dreaming of reaching the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning every detail, this Bernina Red Train & St. Moritz tour from Milan might catch your eye. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, it’s a popular choice among travelers looking to combine scenic train rides with charming mountain towns, all in one day.

What makes this tour appealing are two standout features: the iconic Bernina Red Train journey—a UNESCO World Heritage route—and the chance to explore the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz. The combination of a coach ride through Italy and Switzerland plus a scenic train ride through some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes sounds pretty unbeatable.

However, a word of caution: this is a long day, with around 10+ hours spent traveling, so if you’re not a fan of lengthy trips, it’s worth considering whether this suits your style. That said, if you love sweeping mountain vistas, charming Alpine villages, and a well-organized tour, this experience is likely to be well worth your time. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Swiss Alps in one trip without the hassle of separate bookings.

Key Points

• Scenic train journey on Switzerland’s UNESCO-listed Bernina route offers breathtaking views.
• Well-organized day trip including coach transfer from Milan, free time in St. Moritz, and detailed guide commentary.
• Passes through iconic sights like the Brusio spiral viaduct and Bernina Pass, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Long day but rewarding with a mix of bus travel, train ride, and free exploration.
• Good value for the price considering the transport, guided commentary, and the unique scenery.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a full-day itinerary and lengthy travel.

The Full Experience Breakdown

Starting the Day: Milan to St. Moritz by Coach

The journey begins early, with a coach picking you up if you choose the hotel option. The drive from Milan to the Swiss border takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic, but it’s a comfortable ride in air-conditioned vehicles. You’ll notice the scenery gradually change from Italy’s urban sprawl to the stunning mountains of Switzerland, with reviews praising the professionalism and kindness of the driver. One reviewer remarked, “The pickup was just on time. The guide was very gentle and highly connected. The landscapes were fantastic.”

This part of the trip is more about setting the scene and getting you to the mountains, so don’t expect much sightseeing here—rather, it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the changing scenery.

Free Time in St. Moritz

Once in St. Moritz, the tour offers some free time to explore Switzerland’s most glamorous mountain town. You can stroll around the lake, admire the snow-dusted peaks, or browse local chocolatiers—Swiss chocolate is a common highlight for visitors. Keep in mind that the town might be quieter or less lively outside peak seasons, as one traveler noted that “the town of St. Moritz was not in season, so a lot of stores were closed,” but still enjoyed the charming atmosphere.

While food is at your own expense, many travelers find it worth sampling Swiss chocolates or grabbing a quick snack at local cafes. Some reviews mention the high value of the scenery and atmosphere, describing the town as “almost like out of a book.”

The Iconic Bernina Red Train Ride

The highlight of the tour is boarding the Bernina Red Train, often called the “Little Red Train,” which is famous for climbing the Swiss Alps with remarkable engineering. The train’s design allows it to handle steep and winding routes with ease. It’s a historic train, built over a century ago, yet still capable of navigating the cliff-clinging Bernina Pass, which has UNESCO World Heritage status.

Onboard, you’ll pass through some of the most stunning scenery in Europe—glacial lakes, mountain gorges, and towering glaciers. The Ospizio Bernina station, at 2,253 meters above sea level, offers spectacular views of Alp Grum, the Palu Glacier, and Lake Palu. Multiple travelers have raved about the breathtaking vistas, with one saying, “The Bernina Red Train ride is absolutely stunning—breathtaking views all along the way, from alpine lakes to majestic mountain peaks.”

The train’s route includes passing over the spiral Brusio viaduct, famous for its 90-degree curve. As one reviewer pointed out, “You pass over a smaller aqueduct, and the views of the mountains and glaciers are excellent.” The route’s curves and tunnels add to the thrill, making for a memorable train ride.

Arrival at Tirano and Return to Milan

After the scenic ride through the Bernina Pass, you arrive in Tirano, Italy. This brief stop is an opportunity to stretch your legs before heading back. The return journey involves the same train route, offering more panoramic views.

The tour description mentions a “short break in Tirano,” but most reviews indicate that the focus remains on the train ride and scenic views rather than extensive sightseeing time in Tirano. Expect to spend most of your afternoon on the train, soaking in the mountain scenery.

The Final Leg: Milan in the Evening

The journey concludes with a coach ride back to Milan, often arriving late in the evening. The return trip is a good time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. Reviews note that the bus ride back can be long, with some travelers mentioning the duration—around three hours or more. A positive review said, “The bus ride there and back is a little long, but the train ride is very nice.”

What Really Sets This Tour Apart

Many travelers highlight the expert guides and well-organized logistics. For example, one reviewer appreciated the guide “Alejandro,” describing him as “very knowledgeable and funny.” The guides often provide helpful commentary about the region, the engineering marvels of the train, and the scenery.

Plus, travelers appreciate the value for money—for $150.07, you get a full day of transport, guided commentary, and the UNESCO-listed train journey. Considering the cost of separate train tickets or guided tours, this package offers a lot of bang for your buck.

The Practicalities and Considerations

While most reviews praise the overall experience, some highlight points worth considering. The length of the day can be challenging for those who prefer shorter excursions—many reviews mention it’s a full, long day with over 10 hours of activity.

Some travelers mention that seating on the train can be tight, especially if you’re traveling in a group of four without guaranteed seats together. A traveler noted, “Parties of four are not always seated together,” which can be a little disappointing if sharing the experience with loved ones.

The food situation is entirely at your own expense, so packing snacks or a picnic might make the day more comfortable. Weather can also be variable—dress in versatile layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.

One review recounted a less-positive experience, noting they were left behind and couldn’t make contact with the tour operator. While such incidents seem rare, they remind us to double-check pickup details and stay in contact if possible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who love scenic train journeys and want a full-day adventure. It suits those comfortable with lengthy durations and outdoor exploration—no rushing required. It’s perfect for those seeking a taste of Switzerland’s mountain charm, especially if you’re staying in Milan and want a quick escape to the Alps.

If you’re a fan of engineering marvels, stunning vistas, and a well-organized trip with knowledgeable guides, this is a solid choice. However, if you prefer shorter excursions or traveling light, the long day might not be for you.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select that option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Milan. The tour includes transportation to and from the start point.

How long is the coach ride?
The coach trip from Milan to St. Moritz takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic. The return trip also takes several hours.

What’s the best way to ensure I get a good seat on the train?
Seating on the train is assigned in second class, but some reviews mention it can be tight, especially for groups of four. Arriving early or confirming seating arrangements might help.

Are food and drinks included?
No, all food and drinks are at your own expense. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to buy something during your free time in St. Moritz.

Can I bring children?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the full-day length and lengthy train ride. Be sure your kids are comfortable with long rides and outdoor exposure.

What should I wear?
Clothing should be versatile and layered, as mountain weather can change quickly. Practical shoes for walking are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically go on this tour?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
English is always guaranteed, but other languages like Spanish are not guaranteed every day.

Final Thoughts

The Swiss Alps Bernina Red Train & St. Moritz tour from Milan offers a chance to see some of Europe’s most stunning scenery with minimal fuss. It combines the charm of a luxury mountain resort with one of the most scenic train routes in the world, all in a well-organized package.

It’s a good pick for those who value expert guides, breathtaking views, and a full-day adventure. Keep in mind the length of the day and the need for practical clothing, but if you’re up for a long, scenic journey, this tour packs a lot of memorable moments into one trip.

For travelers wanting a balance of guided sightseeing and free exploration, with the added thrill of riding the historic Bernina train, this could be just what you’re looking for. Just plan ahead for the long hours, bring extra batteries or snacks, and prepare for an experience that’s likely to be a highlight of your European trip.

Happy travels, and I hope your Swiss Alps adventure is as beautiful as the views suggest!