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Looking for the most scenic train ride through the Alps? The Bernina Express is your answer. This 4.5-hour journey connects Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy, traversing 144 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes, 55 tunnels, and 196 bridges. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers unparalleled views through its panoramic windows, including highlights like the Morteratsch Glacier, Ospizio Bernina (the highest station at 2,253 meters), and the iconic Brusio Circular Viaduct.
Key Details at a Glance:
- Route: Chur (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy)
- Duration: ~4.5 hours
- Best Seasons: Summer for lush views, Winter for snow-covered scenery
- Must-See Stops: Landwasser Viaduct, Montebello Curve, Triple Lake View
- Ticket Info: Reservation required; Swiss Travel Pass accepted
- Comfort Options: First Class (2+1 seating, extra legroom) or Second Class (2+2 seating)
Whether you’re planning a summer adventure or a winter escape, this guide covers everything: ticketing, stops, seasonal tips, and onboard amenities. Ready to experience the Alps like never before? Let’s dive in.
How to Travel on the Bernina Express in 2024: Experience the Most Scenic Train Ride in the World
Trip Planning
Planning your Bernina Express trip requires careful attention to tickets, timing, and the iconic stops along this UNESCO World Heritage route. Let’s break down the essentials to help you prepare.
Tickets and Passes
To board the Bernina Express, you’ll need both a valid ticket and a seat reservation. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance through the Swiss Travel System – a must during busy seasons.
Here’s a quick look at the current reservation fees:
| Route | Low Season | Main Season |
|---|---|---|
| St. Moritz – Tirano | CHF 28 | CHF 32 |
| Chur – Tirano | CHF 32 | CHF 36 |
| Bernina Express Bus | CHF 14 | CHF 16 |
Ticket options to consider:
- Swiss Travel Pass: Covers most Swiss public transport, making it a convenient choice.
- Eurail/Interrail Pass: Great for multi-country trips, but keep in mind you’ll still need a seat reservation.
Once your tickets are sorted, it’s time to familiarize yourself with the key stops along the way.
Main Stops and Sights
This 144-kilometer journey is packed with breathtaking sights. Here are a few highlights:
- Landwasser Viaduct: A 65-meter-high bridge spanning a dramatic gorge. For the best photos, sit on the right side of the train when heading south.
- Montebello Curve: Famous for its stunning views of the Morteratsch Glacier. If you have time, you can walk to the glacier viewpoint from Morteratsch station.
- Ospizio Bernina: The highest point of the route, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
- Brusio Circular Viaduct: A fascinating engineering feat, featuring a 360-degree curve that helps the train handle steep gradients.
Best Times to Travel
Each season offers a different experience on this alpine adventure:
- Summer (June–August): Vibrant green landscapes and long daylight hours make it ideal for photography. Keep in mind, though, this is the busiest time of year.
- Winter (December–February): Snow-covered scenery and a quieter atmosphere create a magical experience, even with shorter days.
- Spring/Autumn (March–May/September–November): These months bring mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal changes, making for a more relaxed journey.
For the best views and fewer crowds, consider traveling early in the morning or later in the day.
Travel Tips
What to Pack
Planning a trip on the Bernina Express? Make sure you’re prepared for the changing weather along the route. While summer temperatures at lower altitudes can be mild, it gets cooler as you climb higher. Bring layers, like a lightweight jacket and a warm sweater, to stay comfortable. Don’t forget a camera (with extra batteries and storage) to capture the breathtaking views. Keep essentials like your ticket, seat reservation, and ID within easy reach.
How to Book
Once you’ve packed, here’s how to secure your spot on the Bernina Express:
- Choose the popular Chur–Tirano route (about 4 hours of travel).
- Reserve your seat:
- Book through the official SBB website (www.sbb.ch), the Swiss Travel System app, or at train stations in Switzerland.
- Pick the best seat:
- For incredible panoramic views, especially on the Chur-to-Tirano leg, go for a window seat on the right side of the train.
Train Facilities
The Bernina Express offers modern amenities to make your trip as enjoyable as the scenery. Here’s what you can expect:
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Panoramic Windows | Large windows for uninterrupted views of the landscape. |
| Catering Service | A minibar with snacks and drinks available onboard. |
| Seating | Comfortable, air-conditioned carriages for a relaxed ride. |
| InfoT(r)ainment | Free Wi-Fi and an onboard information system for updates. |
Note: There’s no full dining car on the train. Plan to grab lunch in Tirano during the one-hour stopover.
Route Highlights
Historic Sites
The Bernina Express takes you through a key section of the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway. One standout is the Landwasser Viaduct, a testament to early 20th-century railway engineering. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming stops like St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Poschiavo, each offering a glimpse into Alpine heritage. Another must-see is the Brusio Circular Viaduct, an architectural gem on this historic route.
Landscape Features
The journey is just as much about the breathtaking natural scenery as the historical landmarks. Some unforgettable sights include:
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ospizio Bernina (2,253 m) | The highest point of the route, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks. |
| Morteratsch Glacier | One of the largest accessible glaciers in the Alps, visible near the Bernina Pass. |
| Montebello Curve | A spot for panoramic views of the Bernina massif. |
| Alpine Lakes | Features Lej Pitschen, Lej Nair, and Lago Bianco, each showcasing unique beauty in every season. |
At Alp Grüm station, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, creating a lasting impression of the Alpine landscape.
The alpine lakes – Lej Pitschen, Lej Nair, and Lago Bianco – transform with the seasons. In winter, they become serene icy expanses, while in summer, their mirror-like waters reflect the towering peaks, making them a true visual treat.
First Class vs. Second Class
Class Differences
First Class features a 2+1 seating layout, giving passengers more room and comfort, while Second Class has a 2+2 arrangement. In First Class, you’ll enjoy extra legroom, adjustable headrests, and larger panoramic windows that make the views even more enjoyable.
Here’s a quick comparison of the main features:
| Feature | First Class | Second Class |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Layout | 2+1 configuration | 2+2 configuration |
| Legroom | Extra space with adjustable headrests | Comfortable standard space |
| Window Size | Larger panoramic windows | Standard panoramic windows |
| Service | Complimentary food and drinks served at your seat | Snacks and drinks available for purchase at the minibar |
| Luggage Space | Easier access due to fewer passengers | Standard storage areas |
| Boarding | Priority boarding | Standard boarding |
| Wi‑Fi & Info System | Included | Included |
Both classes offer wheelchair-accessible carriages, but it’s a good idea to contact the railway in advance to ensure proper arrangements. Reservation surcharges are CHF 32 during the low season and CHF 36 in the peak season.
For an even better travel experience, try sitting on the right side of the train when heading from Chur to Tirano for the best landscape views. The schedule also includes a lunch break in Tirano, adding to the convenience of the trip.
Quick Tips and Reminders
Use this checklist to help you plan and enjoy a smooth, stress-free trip:
Booking and Documentation
- Book your seats up to 90 days in advance, especially during the busy summer season.
- Have your Swiss Travel Pass or GA travel card ready for easy access.
Timing and Duration
- The entire route covers 144 kilometers and takes about 4.5 hours.
- In summer, you can extend your adventure to Lugano by hopping on the Bernina Express Bus.
Comfort and Convenience
Pack these essentials to stay comfortable and prepared:
- Clothes for all weather conditions, including layers for sudden changes.
- Camera, extra batteries, and binoculars for capturing stunning views.
- Light snacks and a water bottle to stay refreshed.
- A Swiss-standard power adapter for charging your devices.
Seasonal Highlights
Each season offers something special:
- Summer: Long daylight hours make sightseeing and photography even better.
- Winter: Enjoy serene snow-covered landscapes and quieter trains.
- Spring/Fall: Milder weather and fewer crowds create a relaxed experience.
Key Photo Spots
Don’t miss these iconic locations for the perfect shot:
- Landwasser Viaduct
- Ospizio Bernina
- Brusio Circular Viaduct
FAQs
Where does Bernina Express start and end?
The Bernina Express runs between Chur, Switzerland, and Tirano, Italy, crossing the stunning Swiss Engadin Alps. This 144-kilometer route, part of the Rhaetian Railway, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and takes about 4.5 hours to travel. During the summer, you can extend the trip to Lugano with the Bernina Express Bus.
What is the most beautiful section of the Bernina Express?
Two standout sections make this journey unforgettable:
- The Bernina Pass: At Ospizio Bernina (2,253 m), you’ll witness stunning views of snow-covered peaks, serene alpine lakes, and the impressive Morteratsch glacier.
- The Brusio Spiral Viaduct: Between Poschiavo and Tirano, this architectural marvel helps the train navigate steep gradients with ease.
These highlights showcase the perfect blend of Swiss engineering and breathtaking natural scenery.
