Embarking on a scenic 13-hour day trip from the picturesque town of Como, travelers can witness the breathtaking Alpine landscapes and experience the iconic Bernina Express train. Traversing the Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass, the journey offers unparalleled panoramic views from the train’s carriages. After exploring the upscale streets of the chic resort town of St. Moritz, visitors can then discover the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin in Tirano, a 16th-century basilica showcasing Renaissance architecture. This captivating itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
Key Points
- Scenic day trip from Como to St. Moritz and Tirano, highlighting the Bernina Express train ride through the stunning Alpine landscape.
- Explore the chic town of St. Moritz, known for its upscale boutiques, restaurants, and breathtaking mountain views.
- Ride the iconic Bernina Express train, crossing the Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the Alps.
- Visit the town of Tirano and its Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin, a 16th-century basilica with Renaissance architecture.
- Enjoy the return bus trip from Tirano to Como, taking in the scenic views along Lake Como.
Tour Overview
This 13-hour day trip from Como to St. Moritz and Tirano allows travelers to ride the Bernina Express train through the stunning Alpine scenery.
The panoramic carriages provide the perfect vantage point to discover the beauty of the Alps along the scenic route.
The itinerary includes a visit to the town of St. Moritz, where visitors can explore freely, followed by boarding the Bernina Express train.
The train journey takes travelers across the Morteratsch Glacier and over the mountain pass, eventually reaching the town of Tirano.
Here, visitors can spend time discovering highlights like the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin before returning to Como by bus.
Comfortable transportation and an English-speaking tour leader are included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Como.
Itinerary Highlights
In a 13-hour itinerary, travelers embark on a captivating journey, beginning with a bus ride from Como that passes alongside the serene shores of Lake Como.
The tour then ventures to the enchanting town of St. Moritz, where visitors have free time to explore its charming streets and shops.
The highlight of the day is the Bernina Express train ride, which traverses the stunning Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the majestic Alps.
The final stop is the town of Tirano, where travelers can freely discover the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin and other local highlights before the return bus trip to Como.
- Explore the picturesque town of St. Moritz
- Ride the Bernina Express train through the Alps
- Visit the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin in Tirano
Transportation Details
The tour utilizes a combination of transportation methods, including air-conditioned coaches and the renowned Bernina Express train.
Passengers will depart from Como by bus, enjoying the scenic views along Lake Como.
Once in St. Moritz, they’ll board the Bernina Express, a panoramic train that crosses the breathtaking Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass. The train ride provides a unique perspective of the stunning Alpine landscape.
After the train journey, guests will rejoin the bus for the return trip to Como. Guaranteed seating in the panoramic carriages ensures an optimal viewing experience throughout the rail portion of the tour.
Included Experiences
Aside from the convenient transportation, the tour also includes a range of experiences that allow visitors to make the most of their day trip.
Key highlights include:
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Free time in the charming town of St. Moritz, giving travelers the opportunity to explore the picturesque streets, upscale boutiques, and stunning Alpine scenery at their own pace.
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A ride on the iconic Bernina Express, offering panoramic views of the Morteratsch Glacier and mountain pass as the train winds its way through the dramatic landscape.
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Time in Tirano to visit the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin and discover the town’s historical and cultural attractions.
With an English-speaking tour leader to provide insights and guidance, this comprehensive tour ensures guests fully enjoy the natural wonders of the region.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Travelers must bring a valid passport or ID card for this day trip, as this is a mandatory requirement.
The itinerary and timings may change due to logistical needs or traffic conditions, so travelers should be prepared for some flexibility during the tour.
Those taking the trip during the winter season should be aware that the daylight views on the Bernina Express train may be limited due to the shorter daylight hours.
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Scenic Train Route
The Bernina Express train’s scenic route takes travelers on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Winding its way over the Bernina Pass, the train offers passengers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, serene alpine lakes, and the magnificent Morteratsch Glacier.
As the train navigates the steep inclines and sharp turns, it provides an up-close encounter with the region’s stunning natural beauty, showcasing the engineering prowess behind this iconic railway.
The route features:
- Crossing the Landwasser Viaduct, a stunning stone bridge that spans a deep gorge
- Passing through the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, an architectural marvel that allows the train to ascend the steep terrain
- Offering glimpses of alpine villages, glaciers, and the majestic Bernina mountain range.
Exploring St. Moritz
After disembarking the bus, visitors can explore the charming town of St. Moritz, known as one of the world’s most prestigious winter destinations.
With its chic boutiques, upscale restaurants, and stunning Alpine vistas, St. Moritz offers a unique blend of luxury and natural beauty that has captivated travelers for centuries.
Visitors can stroll along the town’s main street, adorned with high-end shops and cafés, or venture to the nearby lake for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Whether it’s indulging in the local cuisine, browsing the elegant stores, or simply taking in the picturesque scenery, St. Moritz provides an unforgettable taste of Alpine elegance and splendor.
Visiting Tirano
Once visitors have had their fill of St. Moritz’s charms, they’ll board the Bernina Express train and continue their journey to the historic town of Tirano.
Situated at the foot of the Italian Alps, Tirano offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Highlights include:
- The Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano, a 16th-century basilica known for its ornate Renaissance architecture.
- The Piazza Basilica, the charming town square surrounded by picturesque buildings and cafés.
- The Palazzo Salis, a stately Renaissance palace that now houses a museum showcasing local history and culture.
With its picturesque streets, rich heritage, and stunning natural setting, Tirano provides a captivating finale to this scenic alpine adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Different Day?
Yes, the tour can likely be booked for a different day. Tour operators generally offer flexibility with scheduling, allowing customers to select their preferred departure date within the tour’s operating period, subject to availability.
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, though the long day and train ride may be tiring. Parental supervision is advised, and children may enjoy the scenic views and free time to explore the towns along the route.
Do I Need to Tip the Tour Guide?
Tipping the tour guide is generally not expected on this type of day trip. However, if the guide provides exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated to show your satisfaction with their performance.
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Train?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and snacks on the Bernina Express train. The train doesn’t have a dining car, so bringing your own provisions is allowed and encouraged to enjoy the scenic journey.
Will There Be Wifi Available on the Bus and Train?
The tour does not guarantee Wi-Fi availability on the bus or train. Passengers should check with the service providers for any updates on Wi-Fi connectivity along the route. Travelers may want to plan accordingly for their connectivity needs during the journey.
Recap
This day trip from Como to St. Moritz and Tirano offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning Swiss Alps.
The iconic Bernina Express train takes you past the Morteratsch Glacier, providing breathtaking vistas along the way.
Explore the chic streets of St. Moritz and the Renaissance-era Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin in Tirano, creating a well-rounded cultural and scenic experience in the heart of the mountains.
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