Tour Bernina Red Train And St Moritz from Milan

Traveling from Milan to the Swiss Alps usually involves complicated logistics and long planning, but this tour aims to smooth out the process and let you enjoy some truly exceptional scenery. This experience promises a scenic train ride on the famous Bernina Red Train, a visit to the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz, and optional cruising on Lake Como, all packaged into one day. If you’re after a memorable mountain adventure with easy logistics, this tour could be just the ticket.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines effortless transportation with breathtaking views, making it accessible for those who want to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning multiple connections. Plus, the opportunity to stop at the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano adds a dash of local culture. However, a possible downside is the long day’s travel—if you’re sensitive to long bus or train rides, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers craving an efficient way to pack several highlights into one trip, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see a lot.

Key Points

• Convenient Day Trip: It bundles coach transport, scenic train rides, and optional Lake Como cruise, making it easy to see multiple highlights in one day.
• Spectacular Scenery: The Bernina Express route is renowned for breathtaking Alps, ice fields, waterfalls, and UNESCO-listed landscapes.
• Comfortable Transport: The luxury air-conditioned coach and second-class train seats ensure a relaxed experience, with commentary via headphones.
• Flexible Options: You can opt for the Lake Como cruise, adding a tranquil boat ride in one of Italy’s most scenic lakes.
• Well-Organized and Reliable: Reviewers praise the smooth operation, knowledgeable guides, and punctuality, which helps make the long day feel manageable.
• Potential Drawbacks: Limited time in St. Moritz and Tirano, and the long travel hours may leave some wishing for more time or a slower pace.

Introduction to the Experience

If you’re looking for a way to uncover the splendors of the Swiss Alps beyond Milan, this tour offers an excellent solution. It’s especially appealing because it packs so much into one day—train rides, mountain scenery, a charming Swiss town, and optional lake cruising. We love that it’s designed for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see the mountains without renting cars or juggling multiple train schedules.

Two aspects stand out in reviews: the stunning scenery during the Bernina Express ride and the knowledgeable guides, who keep you informed and entertained throughout what can be a long day. One reviewer mentioned that the views during the train journey felt like “stepping into a postcard,” which resonates with anyone who’s ever dreamt of crossing those iconic mountain landscapes. The other major highlight is the flexibility—if you choose the Lake Como cruise option, you’ll enjoy a peaceful boat ride on one of Italy’s most picturesque lakes, adding more variety to your trip.

That said, it’s not without considerations. The long hours on the bus and train can be tiring, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to linger in each spot. Also, the trip is quite structured, which might not suit travelers looking for a deep dive into local culture or more time in each destination. But overall, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic escape that’s perfect for a busy schedule, this is a solid choice.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

First Stop: Tirano and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano

Your day begins early in Milan with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach pickup from Piazza IV Novembre. The drive takes you through the Italian and Swiss Alps, with a stop at Tirano, a charming border town. Tirano is small but full of character, and the highlight here is the 16th-century basilica of Madonna di Tirano. Many travelers, like a reviewer who called the trip “well-organized and smooth,” appreciated the chance to stretch their legs, explore briefly, and admire this historical spot.

This stop isn’t just a cultural break; it’s also a practical one, giving you a moment to prepare for the panoramic train ride ahead. The train departs from Tirano, with a second-class ticket that allows you to open the windows and take photos of the spectacular scenery. While some might wish for a higher-class panoramic carriage, the second class still offers incredible views and a comfortable ride.

The Bernina Red Train Experience

Once on board the Bernina Express, you’ll begin a journey that is often described as “stunning” and “like stepping into a postcard.” The train climbs up to 7,390 feet (2,253 meters), crossing the Alps on UNESCO World Heritage-listed tracks. Expect to see glaciers, ice fields, waterfalls, and alpine valleys—images that often stay with travelers long after the trip ends.

We loved the fact that the train’s second-class seats are equipped with headphones, allowing guides to share insights about what you’re seeing. Several reviews mention that the guide’s explanations help you appreciate the scenery even more and make the long ride feel purposeful. One traveler commented on how the views were “absolutely breathtaking,” and another appreciated how the train route offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and engineering marvels.

St. Moritz: Luxurious Swiss Charm

Arriving in St. Moritz, you get about two hours to explore this renowned alpine resort town. It’s a place that oozes luxury—think boutique shops, high-end hotels, and a beautiful lake. Reviewers have enjoyed strolling by the lake or simply soaking in the elegant atmosphere. One person mentioned that their guide was fantastic, very informative and easy to hear, helping them make the most of their time in this chic setting.

If you’re interested in a quick taste of Swiss glamour or want to take photos of the lake, you’ll find plenty to do in this limited window. Some visitors, like the one who called the trip “efficient,” felt that the balance of sightseeing and free time was just right given the full day.

The Maloja Pass and Return Journey

On the way back, you’ll travel along the breathtaking Maloja Pass, winding through mountain scenery on the bus. This route offers a different perspective of the Alps, with many reviewers noting the “stunning views” and “beautiful mountain roads.” It’s a scenic winding descent that provides a peaceful end to your mountain adventure.

Optional Lake Como Cruise

For those who opt in, the trip doesn’t end in St. Moritz. Instead, you might enjoy a one-hour cruise on Lake Como, one of Italy’s most iconic lakes. A reviewer called the boat ride “fabulous,” and it’s a great way to relax and take in the famous lakeside scenery after a day of traveling and sightseeing.

Return to Milan

The tour concludes back at Piazza IV Novembre, making it a highly convenient full-circle experience. The entire day is packed, and many reviews emphasize how well-organized and punctual the trip was, helping travelers feel secure about the long hours involved.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Travelers rave about the spectacular scenery, with many describing it as “unbelievable” and “breathtaking.” Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long journey more engaging. The combination of train, bus, and optional cruise gives a good variety of experiences, satisfying a broad range of interests.

Some reviewers, like one who mentioned “it felt rushed,” suggest that the itinerary might be tight for those wanting more time in each location. Others pointed out minor issues like the lack of signage at the start or long bus rides, but these are minor compared to the overall value.

A few users did note that the train ride isn’t in the panoramic first class, but many found that the second class still offers great photo opportunities. The trip’s price point at around $142 per person is considered a good value considering all included transportation, the scenic train ride, and guide service.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of arranging multiple train trips or driving. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to experience iconic mountain scenery, charming Swiss towns, and a relaxing lake cruise (if you choose). The combination of organized transport, expert guides, and breathtaking landscapes makes it a compelling option for those looking to maximize a single day.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want deeper exploration at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule but still want comfortable transportation and clear explanations along the way.

To sum it up, this trip provides an impressive snapshot of the Swiss-Italian mountains in one well-organized package. It’s a particularly good choice for those wanting a visually spectacular experience with ease and efficiency.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly, many travelers have taken children along and found it manageable. The scenic train ride and short stops can be enjoyable for kids, but keep in mind the long hours and ensure kids are comfortable with bus and train rides.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, especially warm layers—mountain weather can change quickly. Also, pack snacks and drinks since food isn’t included, and be prepared for a full day of travel.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. The meeting point is at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, which is accessible by public transport.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.

Is the train ride in first class?
No, the train ride is in second class. However, it still offers windows that can be opened for photos, and the guide provides commentary via headphones.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours, making it a long but rewarding day out.

If you’re dreaming of mountains, lakes, and charming Swiss towns, this tour offers a solid, well-organized way to see it all without the stress of planning. It’s particularly suitable for those who value scenery, comfort, and a bit of adventure in their guided trips.