Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is a scenic train journey that traverses the breathtaking landscape of the Swiss Alps. Stretching from Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland, it covers a distance of 122 kilometers, offering an unforgettable experience. Passengers are treated to panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes as the train winds its way through steep valleys and tight curves. The Bernina Express is one of the top things to do while visiting Switzerland and for good reason. It is not only one of the top scenic train rides in Switzerland but in the world!
your visit
Planning your trip
If you are planning to do the whole length of the train it takes about 4 hours. You can also do a portion from Tirano, Italy to St. Moritz, Switzerland which is about 2.5 hours. Many people decide to make their whole trip about the stops along the way as there are several towns, great skiing and more along the journey. I found a couple blogs that talked about DIY the whole thing by yourself in a day but seemed very tight and a very long day with multiple transfers between buses. You can also take day tour trips that help coordinate the day for you including the scenic train. This is what we elected to do when we chose to do a day tour from Milan, Italy including boat tour of Lake Como and the Bernina Express from Tirano, Italy to St. Moritz and then back to Milan in one day.
First stop Tirano, Italy
Tirano is a charming town that serves as final or initial stop of the Bernina Express. It has narrow streets, historic buildings and the beautiful Basilica of Madonna di Tirano. There are several bakeries, restaurants and souvenir shops. Our tour guide recommended buying souvenirs here rather than St. Moritz as cheaper. The Chiesa Di Santa Perpetua is a small chapel about 2.2 km from the Basilica of Madonna and takes about 32 minutes hike or 5 minute drive and gives views over Tirano. If you have time to explore this may be worth it but on day tour no time. We explored the chapel and stopped in a bakery to get some snacks for the train ride!
Next stop getting on the train
We were with a group so we had a dedicated train for our group. I had read a lot of blogs and advice recommending to sit on the left side of the train when going from Tirano to St. Moritz. Honestly, after having done it, I really think either side is beautiful so I wouldn’t get into too much of a worry about which side but make sure to try and snag a window seat. Our tour was on the second class train. This allows you to pull down the windows to take pictures. The panoramic train has open windows all around but you cannot pull them down. I would recommend the second class for that reason!
Highlights of the Ride
Brusio Circular Viaduct
The first impressive part of the journey from Tirano to St. Moritz is this incredible circular viaduct. It features a spiral design that allows the train to gain or lose altitude gradually. It provides a captivating view as the train circles around itself.
La Prese and Lago di Poschiavo
Next up on the journey is passing by the Lago di Poschiavo (Lake Puschlav) on the right side of the train. Even during the winter months this lake’s waters can often be seen. This area is known for its organic herbs and flowers.
Poschiavo, Cavaglia and Alp Grum
The journey begins to ascend up into the alps. As it does it passes through some unique little towns and areas. Poschiavo is the capital of Valposchiavo and boasts Renaissance style buildings. Cavaglia is about 1,700 above sea level has rock formations from the Cavaglia Glacier Garden and finally Alp Grum Station has a great panorama with a restaurant.
Ospizio Bernina and lago Bianco
This is the highest point on the Bernina Express at 2,253 meters above sea level. It is located at Lago Bianco. Lake Bianco is a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The train passes close to its shores, offering a serene and scenic view. During our visit, in winter, the lake was completely frozen and covered by snow. Kite surfers took advantage of the wind over this frozen lake.
Morteratsch
Situated near Pontresina, the Morteratsch Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Eastern Alps. Passengers on the Bernina Express can catch a glimpse of its icy expanse from the train. It can be reached via foot in approximately 50 minutes. After the glacier, the train climbs Montebello Curve toward Pontresina a tourist destination for climbers.
St. Moritz, switzerland
St. Moritz, located in the Engadine Valley of Switzerland, is a renowned Alpine resort town that exudes elegance and luxury. Famous for its glamorous reputation, it has been a preferred destination for the elite. St. Moritz offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities during winter, while the picturesque Lake St. Moritz provides a stunning backdrop for various water sports and activities in the summer. The town is also known for its upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Wrapping up the day
After our free time in St. Moritz, we were reunited with our day tour bus where we started our journey back to Milan, Italy. We passed by some towns, waterfalls and lakes on our journey back.
