Dreaming of a magical day trip from Zurich? The Bernina Express offers one of the most scenic train rides in the world, taking you from the historic Swiss city of Chur all the way to Tirano in Italy. This journey crosses over alpine landscapes, winding past glacial lakes, picturesque villages, and historic viaducts. Here’s your guide to making the most of this unforgettable day trip.
So, here’s the complete plan for taking the Bernina Express from Zurich, including scenic stops, what to expect on the train, and the ideal itinerary to make the most out of your day trip.
1. How to Plan Your Bernina Express Day Trip from Zurich
While Zurich is not a direct departure point for the Bernina Express, it’s a convenient starting location for reaching the train’s key starting stations. Here’s how to plan:
From Zurich to Chur or St. Moritz:
Start by taking a train from Zurich to either Chur or St. Moritz, depending on your preferred route and available time.
- Chur: Takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Zurich.
- St. Moritz: Takes approximately 3 hours from Zurich.
Choose Your Bernina Express Line:
- Chur to Tirano: A 4-hour journey (8 hours and 40 minutes round trip) for those seeking an extended journey through the alpine landscapes.
- St. Moritz to Tirano: A shorter 2-hour and 20-minute route (4 hours and 40 minutes round trip), ideal for travelers with less time.
Tickets are best purchased online, allowing you to choose the date of travel, passenger details, and class (1st or 2nd). Tickets are valid for any departure on the selected date, making it easy to plan the rest of your journey around this flexible option.
2. What to Expect on Bernina Express
Once aboard the Bernina Express in Chur, you’re in for a treat! This panoramic train ride offers world-class scenery as it journeys through the Swiss Alps, showcasing Switzerland’s natural beauty in every season.
Highlights of the Train:
- Panoramic Carriages: Large windows in both first and second class allow unbroken views, perfect for photography.
- Amenities: Enjoy snacks, drinks, and Swiss chocolates (seasonal) from the refreshment trolley.
- Digital Tour Guide: Download the “Info(t)rainment” app for an interactive guide explaining key sights as you pass.
- The Bernina Express winds through stunning Alpine landscapes, passing tunnels, bridges, and the iconic Viadotto Brusio, a spiral bridge that loops as the train climbs.
- Along the way, it offers views of the Bernina Range, with peaks soaring nearly 3,000 meters, and the serene Lago Bianco and Lago Nero, whose contrasting alpine blues enhance the route’s magical atmosphere.
Both the Chur-Tirano and St. Moritz-Tirano routes provide an unforgettable journey with flexible stops, allowing travelers to savor the unique beauty of the Swiss-Italian border region.
Best Seats for Photos: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the mountains and valleys.
3. Incredible Sights Along the Way
As there are two options for your Bernina Express Day Trip from Zurich, let’s go over each option and see what these routes offer.
Option 1: Bernina Express from Chur Line
Route: Chur to Tirano (approx. 4 hours and 20 minutes)
If you’re up for the longer, scenic journey, the Chur-to-Tirano route offers a full immersion in the Alps and takes approximately four hours each way, with highlights including the towering peaks and glacier views of the Swiss Engadin Alps. Key stops along the way include:
- Chur: Begin your journey here, the oldest town in Switzerland. Trains depart frequently to accommodate your schedule.
- Pontresina: A perfect stop for those interested in Alpine history, this Engadin village offers horse-drawn carriage rides and trekking through Val Roseg.
- Ospizio Bernina: At 2,353 meters (7,500 feet), this is the highest point of the route. Don’t miss the shimmering White and Black Lakes and the expansive Cambrena Glacier, an unforgettable view.
- Alp Grüm: Known for panoramic views of Valposchiavo and Palu Glacier, this stop also has a restaurant with a terrace for a scenic break.
Option 2: Bernina Express from St. Moritz
Route: St. Moritz to Tirano (approx. 2 hours and 20 minutes)
For a slightly shorter day trip, the St. Moritz to Tirano route is an excellent choice, offering just as much Alpine beauty but with a quicker overall time. St. Moritz itself is a famed resort town, where glitz meets tradition. This option provides a chance to explore the following stops:
- St. Moritz: This elegant and sunny resort town is ideal for a stroll or a quick coffee before boarding.
- Morteratsch: A great option for a break, where a flat path leads to the Bernina Glacier in about an hour.
- Diavolezza: This scenic stop allows you to take a cable car up to Diavolezza Refuge, where views over the Bernina Valley are unmatched.
- Poschiavo: A historical town with fascinating sites like the Church of St. Vittore and a scenic Spanish Quarter. You can also start hikes from here, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs.
4. Tirano, Italy for Lunch and More Exploration
So, whatever your chosen route is, upon arriving in Tirano, enjoy lunch or gelato before catching the return train, with enough time to soak in the sights again or relax in the scenic cars on the way back.
Lunch Recommendations:
- Italian Cuisine: Stop by a local trattoria or pizzeria for authentic Italian dishes—think risotto, pasta, or wood-fired pizza.
- Cafés and Gelaterias: Grab a gelato or Italian espresso to savor as you walk around the town.
What to See:
- Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano: A beautiful Renaissance-style church located just a short walk from the station.
- Stroll through the Old Town: Admire the mix of Italian and Swiss influences in the architecture and cobbled streets.
5. The Return Journey from Tirano
After your time in Tirano, it’s time to head back! You’ll reboard the Bernina Express for another chance to enjoy the alpine vistas, this time with different lighting and new perspectives.
Return Departure: The last train of Bernina Express departs Tirano around 3:00 PM and reaches Chur by 7:20 PM.
Zurich Arrival: From Chur, you can catch a train back to Zurich on an hour-and-a-half train journey.
Tips for the Return:
- Relax and Recharge: Take in the views, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the cozy train ride back.
- Sunset Views: Depending on the time of year, you might catch the sunset reflecting off the mountains on your return journey.
Important Tips for a Smooth Bernina Express Day Trip
To ensure your trip goes smoothly, keep these practical tips in mind:
Best Time to Go: The Bernina Express operates year-round, but summer and autumn offer the best views with vibrant colors and open vistas. Winter, however, transforms the journey into a winter wonderland if you’re after snow-covered peaks.
Flexible Ticketing: Bernina Express tickets are valid all day, meaning you can hop on and off at any stop, ideal for those wanting to explore the unique sites each station offers.
Open Windows: The Bernina Red Train has openable windows, perfect for capturing panoramic shots without glare. There’s no need to reserve seats, so you’re free to select a spot that offers the best view!
Ticket Options: Both first and second-class options are available, though neither includes reserved seating.
Buying Tickets Online: It’s best to buy your tickets online. You’ll get them within 24 hours, complete with a helpful PDF guide for your journey. Print or keep the ticket on your phone for easy access.
Departure Times: The train runs several times daily from both Tirano and St. Moritz (St. Moritz line) and Tirano and Chur (Chur line). Plan according to your starting time from Zurich and desired stops to make the most of your day.
Is a Day Trip on the Bernina Express Worth It?
Absolutely! The Bernina Express offers a condensed glimpse of Swiss and Italian landscapes, historic landmarks, and a touch of luxury all in one day. With its convenient setup from Zurich, it’s a must-do for any traveler looking to experience the best of both countries in a single, unforgettable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get Bernina Express from Zurich?
Yes, but you’ll first travel from Zurich to Chur by regular train, then board the Bernina Express.
Can you do Bernina Express in one day?
Yes, a full-day trip from Zurich on the Bernina Express is possible and takes around 13 hours round-trip.
Is Bernina Express included in Swiss Day Pass?
Partially, you’ll need to pay a separate seat reservation fee even if using a Swiss Travel Pass.
Where does the Bernina Express start and end?
The Bernina Express typically starts in Chur, Switzerland, and ends in Tirano, Italy.
What month is best for Bernina Express?
Summer and autumn are ideal for clear, scenic views, but winter offers beautiful snowy landscapes.
How far in advance can you book Bernina Express?
You can usually book the Bernina Express 90 days in advance.
Which is better, Bernina or Glacier Express?
The Bernina Express is shorter with more variety in scenery; Glacier Express is longer, with dining options and a more leisurely pace.
