The Bernina Train Day Trip from Milan offers a captivating journey through the Swiss Alps. Travelers can marvel at glaciers and alpine lakes aboard the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express. While the tour includes round-trip transportation, a train ticket, and a live guide, there are a few important considerations. Delays can occur, and time in St. Moritz may feel limited. Still, this scenic adventure promises breathtaking vistas and a chance to explore one of Switzerland’s most renowned destinations.
Key Points
- The Bernina Train day trip from Milan explores the stunning Swiss Alps landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
- The tour is priced from $133.57 per person with potential 11% savings, includes round-trip transportation, Bernina Express ticket, and a live guide.
- The 13-hour tour departs from Milan’s Piazza IV Novembre, provides 2 hours of free time in St. Moritz, and concludes with a stop in Tirano.
- The trip is not suitable for individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those prone to motion sickness, and passengers should dress warmly.
- Based on customer feedback, the tour has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5, with concerns about delays, itinerary deviations, and insufficient time in St. Moritz.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Bernina Train day trip offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps, with a journey that includes a scenic train ride on the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express.
Priced from $133.57 per person, the 13-hour tour departs from Milan’s Piazza IV Novembre. Travelers can save up to 11% on the standard price and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, the Bernina Express ticket, free time in St. Moritz, and a live guide. Passengers can reserve their spot without an upfront payment.
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Itinerary and Highlights
Starting at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, the day trip begins with a 70-minute bus or coach ride to the Valtellina region.
After an optional 30-minute breakfast break, the journey continues to St. Moritz, where travelers have 2 hours to explore the scenic Swiss town.
After a quick breakfast break, the journey continues to St. Moritz, where travelers can explore the scenic Swiss town for 2 hours.
Next, the iconic Bernina Train whisks passengers on a 2.5-hour scenic ride, crossing over 1,800 meters and offering views of glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and mountain peaks.
The trip concludes with a 10-minute stop in Tirano before returning to Piazza IV Novembre in Milan.
Bernina Express Experience
Travelers board the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, a scenic train journey that crosses over 1,800 meters of stunning Alpine terrain.
The train offers extraordinary views, featuring:
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Glaciers and waterfalls
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Alpine lakes and mountain peaks
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Tunnels and bridges that wind through the landscape
This rail adventure provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
With its unique engineering and panoramic vistas, the Bernina Express delivers an unforgettable experience for all who embark on this remarkable day trip.
Inclusion and Requirements
This day trip includes round-trip transportation, a ticket for the Bernina Express, free time in St. Moritz, and a live tour guide.
However, it’s not suitable for people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those prone to motion sickness.
Passengers should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and dress warmly.
Smoking and bringing food on the vehicle aren’t allowed.
The tour operator cautions that there may be delays, itinerary deviations, and insufficient time in St. Moritz.
Be aware that delays, itinerary changes, and limited time in St. Moritz may occur, according to the tour operator’s caution.
Some travelers have reported being left behind and needing expensive taxis back to Milan.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
The overall rating for this day trip stands at 3.7 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.
Notable complaints include:
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Delays and itinerary deviations that cut into visiting time.
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Insufficient time allotted in St. Moritz, leaving some travelers stranded and needing to take expensive taxis back to Milan.
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A live tour guide who left disabled travelers behind during the trip.
Specific incidents reported include an unplanned winery visit and travelers being stranded due to transportation issues.
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Getting to Piazza IV Novembre
To get to Piazza IV Novembre, the starting point of the Bernina Train day trip, travelers can easily navigate to the central square via public transportation.
The piazza is located in downtown Milan, making it accessible from various parts of the city. Visitors can take the metro, buses, or even walk if their hotel is nearby. The trip takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on the starting location.
Once at the piazza, travelers will find the tour group meeting point, where they’ll be directed to the bus or coach for the day’s adventure to Tirano and St. Moritz.
What to Expect on the Journey
Although the Bernina Train day trip promises stunning landscapes and picturesque villages, travelers should be prepared for a full-day journey with several transitions between modes of transportation.
The itinerary includes:
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A 70-minute bus/coach ride from Milan to Valtellina for an optional breakfast break.
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A 1.5-hour bus/coach ride from Valtellina to St. Moritz, allowing 2 hours of free time to explore the elegant town.
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A 2.5-hour scenic train ride on the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, crossing over 1,800 meters and offering extraordinary views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
While the Bernina Train day trip offers a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, travelers can take several steps to ensure an enjoyable experience. Plan ahead by packing essential items like a camera, snacks, and layers for the changing weather. Arrive early to avoid delays and follow the tour guide’s instructions. During the trip, be mindful of fellow passengers and adhere to the rules. After the journey, provide constructive feedback to the tour operator to help improve the experience for future travelers.
| Pre-Trip Tips | During the Trip | Post-Trip |
| — | — | — |
| Pack essentials | Follow guide’s lead | Provide feedback |
| Arrive on time | Respect other passengers | Help improve experience |
| Research the itinerary | Dress appropriately | Share memorable moments |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks on the vehicle. Food and drinks are not permitted, as the tour includes a breakfast break and visitors are expected to purchase any snacks or meals during the scheduled stops.
Is the Bernina Express Train Wheelchair Accessible?
The Bernina Express train is not wheelchair accessible. It has steep steps to board and limited space for wheelchairs. The trip is not suitable for people in wheelchairs or with mobility issues, as noted in the inclusion and requirements.
Do I Need to Know Any Foreign Languages for This Tour?
The tour does not require knowledge of any foreign languages. The tour is conducted in English, so participants can easily understand the guide’s explanations and commentary without needing to speak any other languages.
Can I Extend My Stay in St. Moritz or Tirano?
No, you cannot extend your stay in St. Moritz or Tirano. The tour is a fixed day trip with limited time allotted in each location. Extending your time would require making your own arrangements separate from the organized tour.
What Happens if I Miss the Departure Time?
If travelers miss the departure time, they’ll likely have to arrange their own transportation back to Milan at their own expense. The tour typically won’t wait for late arrivals, so missing the bus could mean being stranded.
Recap
The Bernina Train Day Trip offers a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, but travelers should be aware of potential delays and limited time in St. Moritz. With round-trip transportation, a train ticket, and a live guide, the tour provides a convenient way to experience the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express and explore the alpine town of St. Moritz, though customers should plan accordingly to make the most of their time.
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