Bernina Express from Milan: Tours, Routes, and What to Know Before You Go
Bernina Express from Milan: Tours, Routes, and What to Know Before You Go
Traveling on the Bernina Express from Milan is one of the most popular ways to experience this iconic Alpine railway, especially for visitors short on time or new to Switzerland. While the panoramic Bernina Express itself does not depart directly from Milan, guided tours and combined itineraries make it easy to reach the Bernina route in a single day.
These tours typically combine coach travel with scenic train segments, allowing travelers to experience UNESCO-listed landscapes, dramatic viaducts, glaciers, and alpine lakes without complex planning. For many visitors, Milan serves as a convenient and well-connected gateway to the Bernina Express experience.
It’s important to note that most Bernina Express tours from Milan use the Bernina Red Train, the regular regional service operating on the same UNESCO-listed Bernina Railway. While the panoramic Bernina Express train itself runs only a few times per day, regional trains allow tours to maintain flexible schedules and reliable connections. The scenery is exactly the same, as both trains follow the identical route across the Alps.
Why Take the Bernina Express from Milan?
Taking the Bernina Express from Milan is one of the most practical ways to experience this iconic Alpine route, especially for travelers who prefer a guided and well-organized journey. Since the panoramic Bernina Express does not depart directly from Milan, tours bridge the gap by combining comfortable transfers with scenic train segments along the Bernina route.
Here’s why Bernina Express tours from Milan are so popular:
Types of Bernina Train Tours From Milan
Because there is no direct Bernina Express departure from Milan, most full-day tours include scenic travel on the Bernina Red Train rather than the panoramic Bernina Express. This approach allows travelers to experience the full Bernina route while keeping travel times manageable within a single day.
Full-Day Bernina Train Tours from Milan
These are the most popular options and typically include coach transport from Milan to Tirano or another access point, followed by a scenic train ride on the Bernina route.
Typical duration: Approximately 11 to 13 hours round trip
What’s included: Coach transfers from Milan, Bernina train tickets (often regional services on the Bernina route), guided commentary, and free time in St. Moritz
Best for: First-time visitors, travelers staying in Milan, and those wanting a complete Alpine day trip
Bernina Train Tours from Milan via Lake Como
These tours combine two iconic destinations in one day: Lake Como and the Bernina railway.
Typical duration: Approximately 13 hours
What’s included: Luxury coach transport, a Lake Como boat cruise, Bernina train ride from St. Moritz, and guided assistance
Best for: Travelers looking for variety, scenic contrasts, and a premium sightseeing experience
Bernina Red Train Round-Trip Tours from Milan
These tours use the regional Bernina Red Train and are designed as a complete loop starting and ending in Milan.
Typical duration: Approximately 12 to 13 hours
What’s included: Round-trip coach transport from Milan, regional Bernina Red Train tickets (usually 2nd class), guided support, sightseeing time in St. Moritz, and sometimes additional stops such as a Swiss chocolate house
Best for: Travelers who prefer flexibility, photography-friendly trains, and a balanced mix of guided travel and free exploration
Top-Rated Bernina Express from Milan Tour Options
Top Bestseller Bernina Express Ticket
Official Bernina Express panoramic train tickets with mandatory seat reservations, panoramic windows, onboard Wi-Fi, and UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery:
Bernina Express Ticket + Seat Reservation
80+ Reviews
€86.63
Headout
“A once-in-a-lifetime experience. The climb up to the Bernina Pass is unforgettable. Booked early on Headout and everything was seamless.” – Mark, April 2025
Best Handpicked Bernina Express Tour Options
Guided Bernina route tours departing from Milan, Tirano, and St. Moritz using regional Red Bernina trains, combining scenic rail rides with sightseeing stops and free time:
From Milan: Bernina Train Guided Tour to St. Moritz
2.5K+ Reviews
€92
GetYourGuide
“Absolutely stunning train journey! Well worth the money! Lots of snow but would love to do it again in spring/summer […]” Ian, Jan. 2026
From Milan: Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Tour
5.5K+ Reviews
€175
GetYourGuide
“Incredible trip, the Bernina route was breathtaking. The blue sky and sun made everything more beautiful….”
Bernina Red Train: Roundtrip from Milan
60+ Reviews
€149
Tiqets
“Wonderful experience through the alps. Roberto was very polite and our driver was fantastic. It’s a long day but the views are spectacular and very much worthwhile doing.” Anonymous, Jul. 2025
From Tirano: Bernina Train to St. Moritz
250+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Do it without fear!!! I loved it so much. Beautiful views. I don’t regret it and it’s totally worth it. We came with my grandmother who is in a wheelchair and it was super simple!! I loved it so much” Maryane, Feb 2024
From Saint Moritz: Bernina Train to Tirano
90+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Excellent experience, beautiful landscapes! Insuperable”
Affordable Alternatives to Bernina Express Tickets
Regional Bernina Red Train tickets on the same UNESCO-listed route, offering flexible departures and great views; please note this is not the Bernina Express panoramic train:
Red Bernina Train Ticket
150+ Reviews
€30.50
Headout
“[…]This experience must be lived, not heard or seen in pictures. It must be seen with your own eyes, not with someone else’s…” Nicolae, Jan. 2026
Bestselling Train Pass Options
Swiss rail passes providing unlimited train travel across Switzerland, including the Bernina route, with flexible travel days and mobile access. Seat reservations are not included and must be booked separately.
Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
310+ Reviews
€285.70
Headout
“Excellent option and savings! Everything works very well […]A 100!!! It has discounts and free tickets at many attractions.”
Interrail Switzerland Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train
200+ Reviews
€200.31
Headout
“[…] The Interrail Swiss pass was very easy to use. I did not have to stress about buying tickets at all. It is also a mobile pass, so that was also convenient.” Ines, Nov. 2024
Popular Products Related to Bernina Express
Useful add-ons such as airport transfers, Lake Como cruises, and Swiss attractions often paired with Bernina train journeys:
Malpensa Airport T1/T2 (MXP): Transfer to/from Milan Center
6.3K+ Reviews
€10
GetYourGuide
“We traveled by bus on Terravision. Fantastic carriers. The buses are very luxurious, clean and spacious. The staff is polite and communicative. Top professionals. […]” Ljupco, Jan. 2026
Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket
9K+ Reviews
€18
GetYourGuide
“We liked everything. The audio guide was clear and informative. The company was generous with the samples they provided. Not too crowded. Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon.” Julie, Jan. 2026
Bellagio: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
1.1K+ Reviews
€29
GetYourGuide
“Really loved this tour, super simple to book, clear directions to the meeting point & lots of language choices for the audio tour. […]“ Carly, August 2025
Other Top-Rated Swiss Train Tickets & Options
Popular Swiss scenic train experiences and mountain railways beyond the Bernina route, including Glacier Express, Jungfraujoch, and Gornergrat:
Glacier Express (Ticket with Seat Reservation): Zermatt to/from Chur/St. Moritz
€195.53
Headout
“Really loved this tour, super simple to book, clear directions to the meeting point & lots of language choices for the audio tour. […]“ Carly, August 2025
Top Bestseller Bernina Express Ticket
Official Bernina Express panoramic train tickets with mandatory seat reservations, panoramic windows, onboard Wi-Fi, and UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery:
Bernina Express Ticket + Seat Reservation
Travel one way on the Bernina Express between Chur, St. Moritz, and Tirano with a reserved seat in 1st or 2nd class. Ride in air-conditioned panoramic coaches with free Wi-Fi, USB plugs, and the InfoT(r)ainment audio app while enjoying UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery. An optional Bernina Express Bus connects Tirano and Lugano with advance reservation required.
“A once-in-a-lifetime experience. The climb up to the Bernina Pass is unforgettable. Booked early on Headout and everything was seamless.” – Mark, April 2025
Best Handpicked Bernina Express Tour Options
Guided Bernina route tours departing from Milan, Tirano, and St. Moritz using regional Red Bernina trains, combining scenic rail rides with sightseeing stops and free time:
From Milan: Bernina Train Guided Tour to St. Moritz
Join a guided day tour from Milan to Tirano by coach, then travel on the regional train along the Bernina route from Tirano to St. Moritz. Experience the UNESCO-listed railway, stop at Alp Grüm for Palü Glacier views, admire alpine lakes and peaks, and enjoy free time in St. Moritz before returning to Milan.
“Absolutely stunning train journey! Well worth the money! Lots of snow but would love to do it again in spring/summer […]” Ian, Jan. 2026
From Milan: Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Tour
This 13-hour day trip from Milan includes luxury coach transport, a scenic Lake Como cruise, free time in St. Moritz, and a pre-booked Bernina Red Train ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano. Experience serene alpine lakes, high mountain views along the UNESCO-listed Bernina route, and time exploring the elegant Swiss resort town on this full-day adventure.
“Incredible trip, the Bernina route was breathtaking. […] We just wish we had more time for lunch in St Moritz, but we understand considering the train schedule. Otherwise, excellent crew, visit locations and transportation.” Cristina, March 27, 2024
Bernina Red Train: Roundtrip from Milan
Join a full-day roundtrip tour from Milan, traveling by coach to the Bernina route and riding the regional Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz. Cross the UNESCO-listed railway via the Brusio Viaduct and Bernina Pass, enjoy alpine scenery, visit a Swiss chocolate house, and explore St. Moritz before returning to Milan in comfort and style.
“Wonderful experience through the alps. Roberto was very polite and our driver was fantastic. It’s a long day but the views are spectacular and very much worthwhile doing.” Anonymous, Jul. 2025
From Tirano: Bernina Red Train Ticket to St. Moritz
Experience the regional Bernina Red Train with a one-way or roundtrip train ticket from Tirano to St. Moritz, available in first or second class depending on your selection. Enjoy leisure time to explore the beauty of St. Moritz at your own pace during the breaks between transfers. Please note that you’ll need to arrange your own transportation for both arrival to Tirano and return.
“Do it without fear!!! I loved it so much. Beautiful views. I don’t regret it and it’s totally worth it. We came with my grandmother who is in a wheelchair and it was super simple!!👏🏻👏🏻 I loved it so much” Maryane, Feb 2024
From Saint Moritz: Bernina Train to Tirano
Experience the Bernina Red Train with a roundtrip ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano, offering second or first-class options. Take your time exploring the charming Tirano during the transfer. Keep in mind, you’ll be responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from St. Moritz.
“Excellent experience, beautiful landscapes! Insuperable” GetYourGuide traveler, Dec 2023
Affordable Alternatives to Bernina Express Tickets
Regional Bernina Red Train tickets on the same UNESCO-listed route, offering flexible departures and great views; please note this is not the Bernina Express panoramic train:
Red Bernina Train Ticket
Travel on regular regional trains between Chur, St. Moritz, and Tirano, following the same UNESCO-listed Bernina Line as the Bernina Express. Enjoy frequent departures, flexible travel, and large opening windows ideal for photography. Please note this ticket is not valid on the Bernina Express panoramic train, which requires a separate booking and mandatory seat reservation.
“[…]This experience must be lived, not heard or seen in pictures. It must be seen with your own eyes, not with someone else’s…” Nicolae, Jan. 2026
Bestselling Train Pass Options
Swiss rail passes providing unlimited train travel across Switzerland, including the Bernina route, with flexible travel days and mobile access. Seat reservations are not included and must be booked separately.
Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
This all-in-one travel pass gives you unlimited access to Switzerland’s public transport, including the breathtaking Bernina Express route (seat reservation not included). It covers scenic train rides, lake cruises, city transport, and 500+ museums. Travelers also enjoy up to 50% discounts on popular mountain excursions like Titlis and Pilatus.
Important: Only valid for residents outside Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
“Excellent option and savings! Everything works very well […]A 100!!! It has discounts and free tickets at many attractions.“ Mariana, May 2025
Interrail Switzerland Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train
Designed for European residents, the Interrail Switzerland Pass offers unlimited train travel across Switzerland for any 3 to 8 selected days within one month. Travel freely on the national rail network in 1st or 2nd class without fixed dates, enjoying flexible itineraries and seamless mobile access. Seat reservations are required on selected trains.
“[…] The Interrail Swiss pass was very easy to use. I did not have to stress about buying tickets at all. It is also a mobile pass, so that was also convenient.” Ines, Nov. 2024
Popular Products Related to Bernina Express
Useful add-ons such as airport transfers, Lake Como cruises, and Swiss attractions often paired with Bernina train journeys:
Malpensa Airport T1/T2 (MXP): Transfer to/from Milan Center
Travel comfortably between Malpensa Airport (Terminal 1 or 2) and Milan city center with a direct shared bus transfer. Enjoy air-conditioned coaches with free Wi-Fi, generous luggage allowance, and flexible tickets valid all day. Skip costly taxis and relax knowing you can catch the next available bus if you miss your departure.
“We traveled by bus on Terravision. Fantastic carriers. The buses are very luxurious, clean and spacious. The staff is polite and communicative. Top professionals. […]” Ljupco, Jan. 2026
Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket
Discover the world of Swiss chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum with an interactive, audio-guided visit. Learn about cocoa’s journey from bean to bar, admire the iconic 9-meter chocolate fountain, explore modern production exhibits, and enjoy unlimited tastings of Lindt’s finest creations inside this immersive chocolate experience.
“We liked everything. The audio guide was clear and informative. The company was generous with the samples they provided. Not too crowded. Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon.” Julie, Jan. 2026
Bellagio: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
Cruise Lake Como on a shared boat tour departing from Bellagio and admire iconic villas from the water. Sail past Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Isola Comacina while enjoying panoramic views of lakeside gardens and historic estates. An onboard audio guide app brings the scenery to life during this relaxed sightseeing cruise.
“Really loved this tour, super simple to book, clear directions to the meeting point & lots of language choices for the audio tour. […]“ Carly, August 2025
Other Top-Rated Swiss Train Tickets & Options
Popular Swiss scenic train experiences and mountain railways beyond the Bernina route, including Glacier Express, Jungfraujoch, and Gornergrat:
Glacier Express (Ticket with Seat Reservation): Zermatt to/from Chur/St. Moritz
Travel one way on the Glacier Express between Zermatt and Chur or St. Moritz with a guaranteed seat reservation in 1st or 2nd class. Ride aboard panoramic, air-conditioned coaches with free Wi-Fi, USB plugs, and access to the InfoT(r)ainment audio app. Enjoy a slow, scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, passing highlights like the Rhine Gorge and Landwasser Viaduct.
Round-Trip Train Tickets to Mount Gornergrat from Zermatt
Ride the iconic Gornergrat cogwheel train on a round-trip journey from Zermatt to Gornergrat at 3,089 meters. Enjoy priority boarding for the best views toward the Matterhorn as you travel through alpine landscapes. At the summit, take in panoramic views of 29 peaks, including the Matterhorn and Dufourspitze, and explore Europe’s highest-altitude shopping and viewing areas.
“Surreal. The beauty is beyond human imagination. Any word used to describe the beauty of Swiss Alps is an understatement. The train ride was very comfortable.” Sujoy, Sep. 2025
From Interlaken: Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Round-Trip Train Tickets
Travel round trip from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe by train, choosing the Eiger Express gondola via Grindelwald or the historic rack railway via Lauterbrunnen. Enjoy access to the Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace, Alpine Sensation, and snow-covered Plateau, with a scheduled descent seat time and optional seat reservations available to reduce waiting during peak periods.
“It is the best family travel experience we had. All the staff are amazing. Very accommodating and very friendly. The view is SPECTACULAR! […]” Sheryl, Nov. 2025
Distance & Travel Routes: Milan to the Bernina Express
Although Milan is not directly on the Bernina Express route, it is well connected to several key starting points used by Bernina Express tours. The journey typically combines coach or train travel from Milan with a scenic rail segment on the Bernina route.
Milan to Tirano
Tirano is the most common access point for Bernina Express tours from Milan. The distance is approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles), and travel time is usually around 2.5 to 3 hours by coach or car. Tirano serves as the southern gateway to the Bernina Line, where the alpine railway journey begins.
→ Continue reading to explore more about Tirano.
Milan to St. Moritz
St. Moritz lies about 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Milan. Reaching it by coach generally takes between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, depending on road and weather conditions. Many tours include sightseeing time in St. Moritz, making it both a destination and a key stop along the Bernina route.
→ Learn more about St. Moritz here.
Milan to Chur
Chur is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles from Milan) and is less commonly used for day tours due to the longer travel time. Reaching Chur by train usually takes over 4.5 hours with connections. For this reason, Chur is more often used as a starting point for independent Bernina Express journeys rather than Milan-based tours.
Visitor Tips for Taking The Bernina Express from Milan
To get the most out of your journey, keep these practical tips in mind:
Is Taking the Bernina Express from Milan Worth It?
For many travelers, taking a Bernina Express tour from Milan is absolutely worth it. It allows you to experience one of Europe’s most scenic railways without changing hotels or managing complex connections. While the day can be long, the reward is a dramatic transition from urban Italy to high Alpine landscapes in a single journey.
These tours are especially valuable for first-time visitors, travelers on short itineraries, and those who prefer guided, well-structured experiences. You won’t need to worry about reservations, transfers, or timing, and you’ll still enjoy the highlights of the Bernina route. If convenience, scenery, and efficiency matter to you, starting your journey of the Bernina Express from Milan is a smart and rewarding choice.
