The Essential Guide to Bernina and St. Moritz

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Bernina and St. Moritz are two of the most beautiful destinations in the Swiss Alps and offer a variety of attractions that are worth experiencing. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Bernina and St. Moritz:

1. Natural Beauty: Bernina and St. Moritz are situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps and offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and green valleys. You can take a scenic train ride on the Bernina Express, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy stunning views of the Alps.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: St. Moritz is famous for its excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, with over 350 kilometers of ski slopes and cross-country skiing trails. The area has a range of slopes for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts.
3. Outdoor Activities: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Bernina and St. Moritz offer a range of other outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, ice skating, and horse riding. The region is also home to many spas, where you can relax and rejuvenate after a day of outdoor activities.
4. Cultural Heritage: St. Moritz is known for its glamorous history and has been a popular destination for the rich and famous for over a century. The town has a range of cultural attractions, including the Segantini Museum and the St. Moritz Design Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists.
5. Summer Activities: Bernina and St. Moritz are not just winter destinations. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, as well as cultural events and festivals.
6. Food and Wine: Switzerland is known for its delicious food and wine, and Bernina and St. Moritz are no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine, as well as international cuisine, in the many restaurants and cafes in the area.

Overall, Bernina and St. Moritz are both beautiful destinations that offer a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing vacation, you’re sure to find something to love in Bernina and St. Moritz.

What is the best way to get to Bernina and St. Moritz?

Bernina and St. Moritz are located in the eastern part of Switzerland, in the canton of Graubünden. Here are some ways to get to Bernina and St. Moritz:

By Train: The easiest way to get to Bernina and St. Moritz is by train. The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) operates regular trains from various cities and towns in Switzerland, including Zurich, Chur, and Lugano. The Bernina Express, a scenic train route that passes through the Swiss Alps, also stops in St. Moritz. Visitors to Milan can also board this train from Tirano, Italy.

Route of Bernina Express from Tirano

By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Bernina and St. Moritz. The journey is scenic but can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain and narrow roads. It’s important to have experience driving in these conditions and to use caution.

By Plane: The closest airports to Bernina and St. Moritz are Zurich Airport and Milan-Malpensa Airport in Italy. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Bernina and St. Moritz.

By Bus: There are also bus services that operate between major cities and towns in Switzerland, including Bernina and St. Moritz. However, the train is usually a more convenient and efficient option.

Overall, the best way to get to Bernina and St. Moritz depends on your preferences and travel plans. The train is usually the most convenient and scenic option, but driving or taking a bus may be preferable in some cases.

Traveling on the Bernina Express

The Bernina Express travels through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhaetian Railway. The train passes over the Bernina Pass, through the Poschiavo Valley (See photo below), and across the Italian border, offering stunning views at every turn.

Panoramic Windows; engineering marvel

The train features large panoramic windows (Watch video below), which allow passengers to take in the scenery from all angles. The windows can be opened, giving you the opportunity to feel the fresh mountain air on your face.

There are also spacious and reclining seats on the Bernina Express. The restaurant car offers meals and drinks while you enjoy the views.

This train is an engineering marvel, featuring impressive feats of engineering, like the spiral viaducts and the Brusio Circular Viaduct. These structures allow the train to navigate the steep mountain terrain and provide incredible views for passengers.

The Bernina Express

Year-Round Operation

Depending on the season, the Bernina Express offers different experiences. The winter landscapes are truly magical, while the summer landscapes are lush and green.

The Bernina Express is an experience that any Swiss Alps visitor should not miss. Traveling through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

What is the cost of a trip on the Bernina Express?

Ticket prices for the Bernina Express vary depending on the time of year, the class of service, and the route. The following are some general guidelines for ticket prices:

1. Basic Round-Trip Ticket: Depending on the season and the class of service, a basic round-trip ticket for the Bernina Express costs approximately CHF 150-200. Typically, this covers the route between Chur and Davos, as well as Tirano and Lugano.
2. There are also premium and luxury options available for the Bernina Express, such as Excellence Class, which offers a private compartment, gourmet meals, and champagne. Prices can range from CHF 300 to 600 per person for these options.
3. Discounted tickets are also available for children, groups, and seniors. Discounts can vary, but typically save you 20-30% off regular ticket prices.

Rhaetian Railway. operates the Bernina Express, and ticket prices can be found on their website. Tickets can sell out quickly during peak seasons, so it’s a good idea to book them in advance.

Seats in second class are usually two on either side of the aisle, making seating for four possible. With two seats on one side and only one seat on the opposite end of the aisle, first-class seats are a bit wider

From Milan: Bernina and St. Moritz Day Tour by Scenic Train

From Milan or nearby, Get Your Guide offers several Bernina and St. Moritz day tours. Transfers from Milan are included in the tours. The journey begins in Tirano, Italy, a picturesque Mediterranean town surrounded by palm trees and oleanders.

The most famous mountain resort in Switzerland, St. Moritz, will be your last stop before returning to Milan. This includes:

• 2nd class Bernina ticket
• Professional tour guide
• Air-conditioned GT bus transportation from Milan

How long does the ride take?

In 4 hours, the Bernina Express travels 144 km (90 miles) between icy Switzerland and sunny Italy, through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, with Alpine gradients as steep as 1 in 7. It was built in 1896-1904 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the most memorable views of the Bernina Express route is Alp Grüm. With the elevation still climbing, we have reached 2,091 meters. This is just one of the most beautiful postcards you will take home from this day on the Bernina Express.

Is a passport required for Bernina Express?

If you start in Tirano, you will take the train from Italy to Switzerland (or Switzerland to Italy if you start in Chur), so make sure you have valid travel documents.

Is there food at Bernina Express?

On board, food is available, but service is slow and prices are high. Food from home is definitely allowed. 

How do Glacier Express and Bernina Express differ?

Switzerland and Northern Italy are connected by the Bernina Express, a train with panoramic windows. Train journeys on this route are UNESCO World Heritage Sites… Between Zermatt and St Moritz, the Glacier Express runs with large panoramic windows.