The Bernina Express: Europe’s Most Beautiful Train Ride?

Bernina Express

If the Glacier Express is iconic, the Bernina Express is dramatic.

This is a journey that climbs high into the Alps, passes glaciers and frozen lakes, spirals through engineering marvels—and then descends into Italy, where palm trees and espresso replace snow and silence.

It’s not just a train ride. It’s a transition between worlds.

But before you plan it, there’s one important thing most guides don’t explain properly…

The Key Thing to Know (Before You Book Anything)

Despite the name, the “Bernina Express” is actually two different experiences on the same route.

1. The Bernina Express panoramic train

• Requires a seat reservation

• Has large panoramic windows

• Runs a limited number of times per day

• Includes commentary and a more structured experience

2. Regular regional trains (same route)

• No reservation required

• Run frequently throughout the day

• Use the exact same tracks and scenery

• Often have openable windows (great for photos)

👉 And this is the key insight:

You do NOT need to take the Bernina Express to experience the Bernina route.

Why This Matters

Many travellers assume:

“I have to book the Bernina Express to do this journey.”

You don’t.

In fact, travelling on the regular trains often gives you:

• More flexibility

• The ability to stop along the way

• A more relaxed, independent feel

• And often a better experience overall

The Journey: What Makes It So Special

The route runs from Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano (Italy) and takes around 4 hours.

What makes it extraordinary is how quickly the landscape changes.

Key Highlights Along the Route

• Albula Line (UNESCO): A masterpiece of tunnels, viaducts, and precision engineering

• Morteratsch Glacier: One of the most accessible glaciers in the Alps

• Bernina Pass (2,253m): A wild, exposed high-altitude landscape with snow even in summer

• Brusio Spiral Viaduct: A perfect circular loop that feels almost surreal

• Descent into Tirano: The moment everything changes—architecture, language, climate

A Bit of History

Completed in 1910, the Bernina line was a bold achievement.

Unlike many alpine railways, it was built without cogwheel systems, relying purely on adhesion—making it one of the steepest railways of its kind in the world.

Today, it forms part of the Rhaetian Railway UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for both its beauty and its engineering significance.

Culture Shift: Switzerland to Italy

This is one of the most underrated aspects of the journey.

You don’t just cross a border—you feel it.

• Swiss precision → Italian spontaneity

• Alpine villages → Mediterranean colour

• German/Romansh → Italian language

By the time you arrive in Tirano, the atmosphere has completely changed.

What It’s Like On Board

If you choose the panoramic train:

• Reserved seating

• Large curved windows

• A quieter, more “curated” experience

If you take regional trains:

• More casual, flexible

• Opportunity to open windows

• Easier to break the journey

👉 Many experienced travellers quietly choose the second option.

Food & Local Flavour

The journey itself becomes a culinary transition.

• Start with Swiss alpine dishes—cheese, cured meats, hearty soups

• End with Italian espresso, gelato, and relaxed piazza culture

Tirano is small but full of character—perfect for a late lunch before heading back.

How to Plan It (Simply)

• Travel time: ~4 hours

• No reservation needed (unless using panoramic train)

• Can be done:

  • As a long day trip

  • Or split over 1–2 days

Insider Tips (This Is Where You Win)

• Take regional trains for flexibility and better photos

• Sit on the right-hand side (Chur → Tirano)

• Break the journey at Alp Grüm or Pontresina

• Bring layers—it can change dramatically at altitude

So… Which Option Should You Choose?

Choose the Bernina Express if:

• You want a simple, all-in-one experience

• You prefer reserved seating

• You’re happy to stay on the train the whole way

Choose regional trains if:

• You want freedom and flexibility

• You enjoy exploring at your own pace

• You prefer a more authentic travel experience

Final Thought

The Bernina route isn’t just one of the most beautiful train journeys in Europe.

It’s one of the most accessible ways to experience the Alps properly—without a car, without stress, and without missing what makes Switzerland (and northern Italy) so special.

👉 For detailed stop-by-stop itineraries, flexible route options, and planning tips, see Touring Switzerland by Train at https://mybook.to/SwitzerlandByTrain