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Bernina Express Train Guide – Route Highlights, Tips, Seasons & St. Moritz Day Trip

19/Nov/2025

Discover the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage train through the Swiss Alps

The Bernina Express train is more than just transportation — it’s a breathtaking journey across the Swiss Alps. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage route, this panoramic train ride connects Switzerland and Italy, offering travelers one of the most scenic rail experiences in the world.

 

History & Significance

  • Engineering marvel: The Bernina railway line crosses 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, climbing to 2,253 meters at Ospizio Bernina.
  • UNESCO recognition: The line was declared a World Heritage Site in 2008 for its cultural and technical importance.
  • Historic roots: Built in the early 20th century, it remains one of the highest and steepest railways in Europe.

 

Route Highlights

  • Landwasser Viaduct: Iconic curved bridge soaring above a deep valley.
  • Morteratsch Glacier: Panoramic views of one of the largest glaciers in the Alps.
  • Lago Bianco: A shimmering alpine lake at the Bernina Pass.
  • Brusio Circular Viaduct: A spiral masterpiece of railway engineering.

 

Bernina Express red train riding on the snow-covered Alps  

 

Onboard Experience

  • Panoramic windows: Designed for uninterrupted views of mountains, lakes, and glaciers.
  • Comfortable seating: Spacious cabins with multilingual audio guides.
  • Food & drink: Snacks and beverages available onboard.

 

Bernina Express Through the Four Seasons

One of the things that makes the Bernina Express unique is that it’s spectacular in every season, each offering a completely different atmosphere.

Winter: A Snow-Covered Wonderland

  • Frozen lakes, icy streams, and crisp white peaks
  • Fairy-tale winter scenery around Ospizio Bernina and Lago Bianco
  • Ideal for combining the train journey with skiing in St. Moritz or Christmas markets in northern Italy
  • Fewer crowds and a magical, quiet atmosphere

Spring: Melting Peaks & Bright Valleys

  • Snow receding from the mountaintops
  • Waterfalls and streams running full
  • Valleys turning green while peaks remain white — an incredible contrast

Summer: Blue Lakes & Clear Sky Views

  • Vibrant turquoise waters of Lago Bianco
  • Bright alpine flowers and clear, warm light
  • Perfect visibility all along the Montebello Curve
  • Ideal for outdoor add-ons like hikes, picnics, or cable-car rides

Autumn: Golden Forests & Crisp Air

  • Larch forests turning yellow and orange
  • Warm light and fewer visitors
  • Beautiful reflections in the lakes around Alp Grüm

 

 Bernina Express red train riding on the Alps during autumn foliage

 

Bernina Express vs. Red Train

Many travelers confuse the Bernina Express with the regular regional "Red Train" (Trenino Rosso) that runs along the same line. Here’s what you need to know:

Bernina Express

  • Large panoramic windows
  • Reserved seating required
  • Full journey narration (seasonal)
  • Designed specifically for scenic tourism
  • Perfect for photography and first-time visitors

Regional Red Train

  • Standard windows (that can open)
  • Not possible to reserve seats
  • Slower pace with the option to hop on/off
  • Often less crowded
  • Cheaper alternative with more flexibility

 

Practical Travel Tips

Book early – Especially in winter holidays and summer weekends.

Choose the right side – Tirano → St. Moritz: sit on the right for the best views

Bring layers – Even in summer, temperatures at Ospizio Bernina can be chilly.

Don’t forget your passport – You’ll cross the Swiss–Italian border.

Check daylight hours – In winter, aim for a morning departure to enjoy full sunlight.

Consider duration - The full Chur–Tirano journey takes ~4.5 hours.

Remember sunglasses – Protect from high altitude glare.

 

Bernina Express red train going through forest in winter with snow covered trees

 

Suggested Itineraries

  • Day trip from Milan: Depart Milan by morning train to Tirano, board the Bernina Express to St. Moritz, enjoy the resort town, then return to Milan in the evening. This itinerary is perfect for travelers short on time who still want to experience the magic of the Alps.
  • Multi-day options: Combine Bernina Express with the Glacier Express or explore Swiss towns like Chur and Davos. Discover Italian/Swiss cuisine, alpine hiking/skiing in St. Moritz.

 

Spotlight on St. Moritz

St. Moritz is more than a stop — it’s a destination in itself. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate by Lake St. Moritz or riding a gondola to Piz Nair, the town perfectly complements the Bernina Express journey.

  • Luxury resort town: Known for glamour, shopping, luxury hotels, and fine dining.
  • Sports capital: Host of two Winter Olympics, with world?class skiing and the famous Cresta Run.
  • Summer charm: Hiking trails, glacier views, and lake activities.
  • Cultural highlights: Segantini Museum, art galleries, and alpine heritage.

 

Ready to experience the Bernina Express for yourself?

We can organize the entire journey — from Milan to St. Moritz and back — tailored to your preferences. Get in touch today to plan your unforgettable Swiss Alps adventure or book on our website for immediate confirmation.