Bernina Express
Not only does it bring together the alpine charm of St. Moritz and the green pastures of Chur, it also links the different languages and cultures of Switzerland, one of Europe’s most visually spectacular countries, and Italy, the land of La Dolce Vita. The train ascends one of the highest railways in the mountains, amid shimmering glaciers, before descending to the palm-fringed lakeshores of Italy.
Once you arrive in Tirano, there’s an additional bus service to Lugano, back in Switzerland, passing along the glittering shores of Lake Como and Lake Lugano. This is a shorter journey, so there are no luxury cabins or overnight stops, just a relaxing seat for whistle-stop tour of the Alps and a choice of refreshments on board.
Life on board Bernina Express
Enjoy relaxing seating in a choice of First- or Second-Class coaches, both with vast panoramic windows to enjoy the spectacular views. This unique journey is full of wonderful touches, from the spectacular circular viaduct in Brusio that winds gracefully around 360 degrees to the exclusive Bernina Express iced tea and Lindt chocolate hearts in a Bernina Express souvenir box that each passenger receives.
First Class
In First Class, there’s a little more space – an arrangement of two plus one instead of two plus two – and relaxing leather seats.
Second Class
In Second Class, settle in to a comfortable fabric seat with a small table for convenience.
Off-Train Experiences
The journey takes about four hours from start to finish, travelling more than 120km of track, and passing through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges and viaducts. The train makes multiple stops along the route and runs in both directions; to experience all of the thrilling curves, turns and jaw-dropping views, it’s a treat to ride it from start to finish.
- Chur
- Thusis
- Tiefencastel
- Filisur
- Bergün
- St. Moritz
- Pontresina
- Bernina Diavolezza
- Ospizio Bernina
- Alp Grüm
- Poschiavo
- Le Prese
- Tirano
Bernina Express Image Gallery
Browse Bernina Express’ fabulous image gallery below and discover more about life on board.
Bernina Express FAQs
Where does the Bernina Express route begin and end?
The Bernina Express offers four itineraries with different embark and disembark points:
Chur – Tirano
Chur – Poschiavo
St. Mortiz – Tirano
St. Mortiz – Poschiavo
Which coaches have panoramic windows?
All seats on the Bernina Express have vast panoramic windows.
What is the difference between first and second class?
Wherever you sit, the entire trip is narrated from start to finish, with the insightful commentary providing details about the surrounding landscape.
In First Class you’ll benefit from generous space and plenty of leg room in both comfortable single and double seats. Due to the lower number of passengers per coach, your journey will be quieter. Second Class offers comfortable double seats with slightly less leg room than that of First Class.
Are meals included or available to purchase?
Meals are not included on board and there is no restaurant car. A minibar served by friendly stewards is available on board, so you can enjoy a truly gourmet experience. Wait for the cry of “Coffee, something sweet, or Prosecco!” and make your choice; a glass of bubbly is certainly a worthy accompaniment to the views. Perhaps some slices of pear bread, traditional Engadin biscuits, or sausage and mountain cheese served on a platter to your seat. There’s a range of drinks on offer, from local beers to international favourites, hot coffee for chilly days and wines from around the region.
Is there a dress code?
The Bernina Express does not request a dress code on board. For the winter and early spring, we would recommend warm clothing as the weather can often be very cold and snowy.
Do you sleep on the Bernina Express trip?
No, there are no cabins on board and as it’s a day trip journey, you will not spend the night on board.
Can I take luggage on board?
There are large luggage vestibules at the end of each carriage, so you can store your bags on board if you’re travelling between different locations.