Bernina Red Train: the magical Experience from Milan

Bernina Red Train: a breathtaking experience

The Red Train of Bernina is much more than just a means of transportation: it is a rail adventure that takes you from the heart of the Swiss Alps to the Italian charm of Tirano. This scenic route, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking landscapes, crossing 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, reaching altitudes of up to 2,253 meters without the aid of cog rails.

Starting from St. Moritz, the train winds through enchanting alpine scenery, passing by the picturesque White Lake and the majestic Morteratsch glacier. Along the way, you can admire the famous Brusio spiral viaduct, an engineering marvel, and cross the Bernina Pass, the highest point of the journey. The descent towards Tirano will reward you with spectacular views of green valleys and picturesque villages, providing an experience that combines nature, culture, and history in an unforgettable trip.

Itinerary program for the Red Train of Bernina

The itinerary of the Bernina Red Train varies depending on the chosen package and travel conditions. The main route connects Milan to St. Moritz and includes a scenic journey on board the famous Bernina Express, which travels through the Swiss Alps to Tirano.

However, not all trains follow the same itinerary: some trains, like the Bernina Express, offer panoramic carriages with mandatory reservations, while the traditional Red Train follows the same route but with greater flexibility in stops.

Itinerary details

Bernina Red Train prices: starting from €124.

Departure from Milan: the journey begins with a bus transfer from Milan to the renowned alpine resort of St. Moritz. During the trip, there is a brief stop in Valtellina for refreshments.

St. Moritz - free time: upon arrival in St. Moritz, you will have time to explore the famous city, known for its ski resorts and breathtaking views.

Journey on the Bernina Red Train from St. Moritz: board the Bernina Express for an unforgettable experience through spectacular alpine landscapes. The train travels over viaducts, through tunnels, and across glacial valleys, offering unique views of the Swiss mountains.

Arrival in Tirano - free time: after approximately two hours of travel, the train arrives in Tirano, where you will have some time to stroll through the historic center and discover its main attractions.

Return to Milan: the tour concludes with the return bus trip to Milan, arriving at Garibaldi Station in the evening.

Important note

The indicated itinerary is subject to changes due to weather conditions, traffic, and other unforeseen circumstances. Some details, such as the duration of stops or the type of train used, may vary depending on availability and the chosen package.

Other important information to know:

• Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the date of the visit.

• Rescheduling is possible up to 24 hours before the date of the visit.

• Duration of the trip: 11 hours.

• Reserved tickets for the Red Train of Bernina.

• Free time in St. Moritz and Tirano.

• Private coach with air conditioning from Milan.

• Guide: English .

• Pick-up/drop-off at the hotel.

• Food and drinks.

• Bernina Express.

06:55 - Piazza Sigmund Freud, 1

FAQs about Bernina Red Train 

How long does the ride on the Bernina Train last?
The complete journey from Tirano to St. Moritz takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes each way. Regional trains take approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, while the Bernina Express, with fewer stops, covers the route in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

What is the best time to go on the Bernina Train?
The Bernina Train offers spectacular views in every season:

• Spring: Alpine blooms and residual snow on the peaks;

• Summer: Long days and opportunities for hiking at intermediate stops;

• Autumn: Warm colors of foliage painting the woods;

• Winter: Snow-covered landscapes and a fairytale atmosphere.

The choice depends on your personal preferences and the activities you want to engage in along the way.

How much does it cost to ride the Bernina Train?

• Second class: about €67 round trip.
• First class: about €118 round trip.
• A supplement of 14 CHF (about €12.30) in summer and 10 CHF (about €8.80) in winter, in addition to the standard ticket.
  
  

Where do you take the Bernina Train in Italy?
The starting point in Italy is the Tirano station, located in the province of Sondrio, Lombardy. The station is easily reachable by car, train, or bus. Parking is available near the station for those arriving by car.

Where is the best place to sit on the Bernina Train?
To fully enjoy the scenery:

• Direction Tirano → St. Moritz: Seats on the right side offer better views of the Brusio viaduct and Lake Poschiavo.

• Direction St. Moritz → Tirano: Seats on the left side are preferable for admiring the same views.

However, both sides of the train provide spectacular views along the entire route.

What stops should you make on the Bernina Train?

Along the way, some recommended stops are:

• Brusio: To admire the famous spiral viaduct;

• Le Prese: For a walk along Lake Poschiavo;

• Poschiavo: A charming village with a characteristic historical center;

• Alp Grüm: A viewpoint at over 2,000 meters above sea level;

• Ospizio Bernina: The highest station on the route, with a view of the Bianco and Nero lakes.

Keep in mind that trains run approximately once an hour, so plan your stops accordingly.

Curiosities about the Bernina Red Train

The journey on the Red Train of Bernina offers a panoramic experience that traverses breathtaking alpine landscapes, including flower-filled meadows, glaciers, and alpine lakes. Along the route, passengers can enjoy a variety of views, from snowy glaciers to serene lakes and historic villages, with stops at places like Bergün, Pontresina, and Poschiavo, each with unique attractions and historical insights.

Don't forget to bring a camera with you: every bend in the route offers a new view to capture and keep among your travel memories.

Here you can find an overview of the main stops along the route:

Tirano
The starting point of the journey, Tirano is a Lombard town rich in history and culture. Its historic center is characterized by cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the famous Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano. Here, the Valtellina culinary tradition offers typical dishes such as pizzoccheri and bresaola, accompanied by renowned local wines.

Campocologno
Just after crossing the Italian-Swiss border, you arrive in Campocologno, the first station on Swiss territory. Located in the Canton of Grisons, this area marks the beginning of the ascent into the Alps, giving travelers a taste of Swiss architecture and culture.

Campascio
Continuing on, the train crosses Campascio, a small village immersed in nature. During the summer, the surrounding fields fill with small fruit plants, creating a colorful and fragrant landscape. The train begins a steeper climb here, offering panoramic views of the valleys below.

Brusio
One of the most iconic attractions along the route is the Brusio spiral viaduct. This extraordinary piece of railway engineering allows the train to overcome a significant elevation change in a small space, making a 360-degree spiral. The viaduct has become a symbol of the centenary of the Bernina line and is a must-see stop for photography enthusiasts.

Le Prese
Located on the shores of Lake Poschiavo, Le Prese is an ideal spot for a relaxing break. Here, visitors can stroll along the lake's banks, rent a boat, or board the "Sassalbo" steamboat for a short cruise. The name "Miralago" already suggests the beauty of the offered panorama.

Poschiavo
This charming Swiss village retains a typically Italian atmosphere, reflecting the cultural influence of nearby Italy. The historic center is rich in museums, churches, and historic buildings, which bear witness to centuries of history. Poschiavo is considered the "key" that opens access to the Bernina Pass, connecting the Valposchiavo to the Engadine.

Cavaglia
Known for its Garden of Glaciers, Cavaglia hosts the spectacular "Marmitte dei Giganti," rock formations created by glacial erosion. These natural cavities, resembling giant pots, offer a fascinating testimony to the natural forces that have shaped the Alps. The location lies along the ancient "wine route," a historic path used for transporting wine across the Alps.

Alp Grüm
At an altitude of about 2,091 meters, Alp Grüm offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Palü Glacier. The panoramic terrace at the station is the perfect place to take unforgettable photographs. Interestingly, Alp Grüm is twinned with a location in Japan, reflecting the international appreciation for this region.

Bernina Hospice
This is the highest point of the route, located at 2,253 meters above sea level. From here, you can admire Lake Bianco and Lake Nero, two bodies of water that, with their contrasting colors, create a captivating landscape. Bernina Hospice represents the linguistic and meteorological boundary of the valley; between the two slopes, the southern one has the greatest elevation differences.

Bernina Lagalb
This station is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With slopes that seem to touch the sky, it offers a unique skiing experience. The combination of the red train, cable car, and skiing makes transportation eco-friendly and convenient. From above, spectacular views of Lake Bianco and Lake Nero can be enjoyed.

Bernina Diavolezza
The Bernina Diavolezza station is the starting point for both summer and winter excursions. A cable car takes visitors to high altitudes, providing access to ski runs and hiking trails.

Here are some more curiosities about the main stops along the route:

• St. Moritz: Known for its luxury ski resorts and exclusive accommodations, St. Moritz is one of the most famous alpine destinations in the world.

• Lake Bianco: Located on the Bernina Pass, this artificial lake is striking for its turquoise waters, created by the melting of the surrounding glaciers.

• Brusio Viaduct: This spiral viaduct is a unique structure that allows the train to overcome a significant elevation change in a limited space, offering spectacular views and an exciting experience for passengers.

• Tirano: This charming Italian town is famous for its historic center and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano, a popular pilgrimage destination.
  
  

Reviews of the Bernina Red Train

The Bernina Red Train is an unmissable experience for lovers of scenic travel through the Alps. Passengers praise the cleanliness and comfort of the carriages, with comfortable seats that allow for full enjoyment of the journey. The views offered are described as unique, featuring majestic mountains, waterfalls, and streams that enchant in every season.

Many travelers recommend repeating the experience in different seasons to appreciate the variations in the landscape. Additionally, the option to book reserved seats with panoramic windows adds a special touch to the trip, allowing for an even more immersive view of the alpine scenery.

In summary, the Bernina Red Train offers a comfortable and scenic journey, highly recommended for those wishing to experience an unforgettable adventure between Italy and Switzerland.