Bernina Express

The Bernina Express (Bernina Line) offers one of the most accessible and dramatic alpine journeys in Europe. In just four hours, families travel from fertile valleys to high-altitude glacial landscapes, passing turquoise lakes, forests, snow-covered peaks, and small villages that look like postcard scenes. The route handles gradients of up to 7% without a cogwheel system, which makes it both an engineering achievement and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The slow, steady pace of the ride is ideal for families. Children can enjoy the constantly changing scenery, and both panoramic and regular trains provide excellent opportunities for photography. On regular trains, openable windows allow families to experience the fresh alpine air directly rather than through glass.

What does the Bernina Express route look like, and where should you start?

The full Bernina Express journey covers 122 km between Tirano (Italy) and Chur or St. Moritz (Switzerland). Many families choose to begin in Milan, take the regional train to Tirano (approximately 2.5 hours), and board the Bernina Express from there.

Along the route you will pass:

• 196 bridges
• 55 tunnels
• A peak altitude of 2253 m at Ospizio Bernina

The scenery shifts dramatically from the agricultural valleys near Tirano to the icy high-altitude landscapes above Lago Bianco (Bianco Lake). On regular trains, openable windows offer families better airflow and photography opportunities, especially for children who enjoy feeling the alpine breeze.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If your trip continues in St. Moritz, renting a car is far more convenient than relying on public transport. It gives families easier access to lakes, parks, and short outdoor stops.

Bernina Express panoramic train vs. regular train on the same route

Choosing between the panoramic Bernina Express and the regular regional train is one of the most common decisions families face. Both run along the exact same railway, but the experience is different.

Panoramic Bernina Express

• Full-height panoramic windows
• Mandatory seat reservation
• Smooth, slow ride ideal for sightseeing
• Occasional small treats from staff

Regular regional train

• Follows the same tracks as the panoramic train
• Lower ticket cost
• Windows can be opened — a major advantage for photography
• Typically less crowded

Watching the Bernina Express glide across this iconic stone viaduct was unforgettable. The whole landscape felt like a postcard coming to life.

Unmissable viewpoints along the Bernina Express route

Landwasserviadukt

This 65-meter-high stone viaduct with six arches is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the route. The train crosses the bridge and immediately enters a tunnel carved into the cliff — a moment that feels both dramatic and seamless.

Brusio Spiral Viaduct

A circular stone viaduct built in 1908, designed to help the train climb gradually by completing a full loop. Children especially enjoy watching the carriages curve around the spiral.
Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Sit at the rear of the train for the clearest view of the full loop.

Lago di Poschiavo

A calm turquoise lake surrounded by green mountains. It is one of the easiest spots to photograph directly through the window due to the open views and the slow pace of the train at this point.

Alp Grüm

A short scheduled photo stop where passengers can step out onto a wide balcony overlooking the Palü Glacier, steep cliffs and valley views. The fresh alpine air and the dramatic drop below make this a memorable moment for families.

Lago Bianco & Lej Nair

Two contrasting lakes that sit side by side near Ospizio Bernina. One is milky-turquoise, while the other is dark and still. The color contrast creates one of the route’s most striking natural scenes.

What experiences can families expect along the Bernina Express ride?

The Bernina Express offers a blend of dramatic landscapes and gentle pace, making it an excellent choice for families. Throughout the ride, the scenery changes rapidly — from farmland and forests near Tirano to high alpine lakes, glaciers and snow-covered peaks.

Families can expect:

• Crisp, fresh air at altitudes above 2000 meters
• A constant shift between valleys, lakes, glaciers and tunnels
• A relaxed speed of about 30–40 km/h, ideal for photography
• Dozens of natural viewpoints from the windows and from the small spaces between carriages

Cloudy weather can even enhance the experience. Mist settling over the glaciers often creates an atmospheric, cinematic effect that looks incredible in photos.

What should you know before booking Bernina Express tickets?

Tickets and seat reservations are separate

Many first-time travelers misunderstand this point. The panoramic Bernina Express requires two payments:

• A train ticket
• A mandatory seat reservation

Regular regional trains on the same line do not require reservations.

From your files, an example fare is:
Tirano → St. Moritz (regular train): 33 CHF one-way.

Families often combine train types to balance experience and cost.

Which side of the train is better?

On the Tirano → St. Moritz direction, the right-hand side offers better views of Lago di Poschiavo and the surrounding valleys.

Winter considerations

During winter, daylight is limited, especially in the higher alpine sections. Late-afternoon departures may pass through certain viewpoints in partial darkness.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If traveling between October and March, choose the earliest train. Natural light makes a significant difference in the quality of the experience.

Should you combine Bernina Express with nearby attractions?

Yes. According to the attached materials, several stops and nearby sites can easily be added to your Bernina Express day — especially if you enjoy nature, gentle walks and family-friendly viewpoints.

Diavolezza

A cable car ride brings you to a high-altitude viewpoint overlooking a massive glacier. Even in summer, snow is often visible, creating an exciting experience for children without requiring any hiking. The panorama includes rugged peaks and sweeping views that highlight the power of the Alps.

St. Moritz

St. Moritz is an excellent place to end the journey. It offers:

• A flat, easy lakeside promenade
• Family-friendly restaurants
• Small shops and boutiques
• Relaxed evening walks suitable for all ages

It’s also a convenient base for the next day’s short trips, lakes and viewpoints.

What should families prepare before boarding the Bernina Express?

Your files highlight several practical points that help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, especially when traveling with children.

Arriving early is important, particularly for the panoramic coaches where luggage space is limited. Boarding calmly makes a significant difference in comfort during the first part of the ride.

Food and drink availability can be minimal, so bringing snacks and water is useful. The journey is long, and children often appreciate something small to keep them energized. Dressing in layers is essential — temperatures rise and fall quickly as the train climbs from the warm valley near Tirano to altitudes above 2000 meters.

Flexibility is also key. Occasional delays or minor schedule changes may occur due to alpine conditions.

What limitations should families be aware of?

Even on a route as stunning as the Bernina Express, there are a few practical limitations worth preparing for. During peak season, the panoramic train can become crowded, which may make boarding and organizing luggage slightly more challenging. Limited daylight in winter can also affect visibility, especially in the higher alpine areas where early sunsets may reduce viewing time.

Some families may encounter occasional issues with onboard restrooms, and alpine conditions can sometimes cause minor delays or short adjustments to the route. None of these challenges diminish the beauty of the journey, but knowing them in advance helps set realistic expectations.

Is the Bernina Express family-friendly?

Yes, the Bernina Express is highly suitable for families. The slow pace allows children to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, and the constantly changing landscapes keep their attention throughout the journey. Large panoramic windows on the Bernina Express and openable windows on regular trains help create a sense of immersion that works well for young travelers.

Accessible photo stops, gentle movement, and wide seating areas make the trip comfortable even for families with younger children. The route offers a balance of excitement — tunnels, bridges, glaciers — without requiring physical effort or long hikes.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If you’re planning to spend several days in the region afterward, renting a car around St. Moritz is extremely helpful. It gives families easy access to nearby lakes, short trails and viewpoints without depending on public transport schedules.

I took this photo as the Bernina Express curved through the mountains. The mix of bright red carriages and autumn colours made the whole ride feel magical.

Bernina Express – 2-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Tirano and preparation for the alpine journey

Morning (10:00–12:30)
Arrive in Tirano by regional train from Milan (around 2.5 hours) or by car. Spend a short time walking through the historic center and along the river. This helps children release energy before the long scenic ride.

Lunch (12:30–14:00)
Have lunch at one of the family-friendly restaurants near the station. Local Italian dishes are simple, comforting and usually perfect for children. Walking time is about five minutes.

Afternoon–Evening (14:00–18:00)
Enjoy a relaxed walk through Tirano, stop for gelato, and take photos of the red trains approaching the station. End the day with an early dinner and check-in at your hotel.
Estimated walking distance: 1–2 km.

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Day 2 – Bernina Express journey to St. Moritz

Morning (10:00–12:30)
Board the Bernina Express in Tirano. The ride begins with farmland views before climbing into the mountains. Key highlights include:

• Brusio Spiral Viaduct – a full loop; the right side offers the best angle.
• Lago di Poschiavo – a turquoise lake that’s easy to photograph through the window.

Lunch (12:30–14:30)
Continue toward Alp Grüm, where the train stops for 10–15 minutes. Use the break to photograph the Palü Glacier and the dramatic cliffside. Bring snacks; onboard service may be limited.

Afternoon (14:30–16:30)
Reach the summit at Ospizio Bernina (2253 m), passing the contrasting lakes Lago Bianco and Lej Nair. Afterward, the train descends toward St. Moritz through open alpine valleys.

Evening (16:30–18:00)
Arrive in St. Moritz and enjoy a gentle 30-minute lakeside walk. Have dinner in a central or lakeside restaurant.

Traveller Reviews

Emily Carter — August 2023

I traveled on the Bernina Express with my two children, and the shifting scenery kept them fascinated for hours. The stop at Alp Grüm was unforgettable — crisp air and a spectacular view of the Palü Glacier. Taking photos through the panoramic windows was a bit challenging, but the experience was still exceptional.

Daniel Brooks — June 2024

We chose the regular train instead of the panoramic one, and it turned out to be perfect for us. The open windows made photographing Lago di Poschiavo easy and enjoyable. The ride is long for younger children, so bringing snacks was essential to keep everyone comfortable.

Olivia Sanders — September 2019

The moment the train completed its full loop on the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, my kids were thrilled — it felt like watching a giant toy train in motion. The only drawback was the crowding during peak season, but arriving early made boarding much easier.

Michael Turner — October 2021

The landscapes along the route felt almost unreal, with clouds drifting through the mountains. Because we traveled late in the season, some high-altitude areas were already getting dark, but the dramatic mix of glaciers, lakes and mist made the journey deeply memorable.

Sophia Bennett — May 2022

Lago Bianco was stunning — pale turquoise on one side, contrasted by the dark waters of Lej Nair. The wind at Ospizio Bernina was colder than expected, even in late spring. I was grateful we packed light jackets. The kids especially enjoyed leaning near the open window on the regular train.

Ryan Mitchell — July 2018

Starting the trip in Tirano worked perfectly. We had time for gelato before boarding, which helped set a relaxed mood. The climb toward the mountains was spectacular, though luggage space in the panoramic carriage was limited. Sitting on the right side made the biggest difference for views.

Laura Peterson — April 2025

I wanted a route that would impress my children, and the Bernina Express delivered completely. Moving from warm valleys to snowy peaks felt like traveling through different seasons. The ride is long, so having small games and snacks made it easier, but overall it was a magical day.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

• Choose the right side for the best views
  When I travel from Tirano, I always sit on the right side. The views of Lago di Poschiavo and the rising valleys are far more dramatic there. A simple seat choice can significantly improve the experience.
• Mix panoramic and regular trains
  From experience, panoramic cars look impressive, but reflections can make photography difficult. I often take the panoramic train one way and return on a regular train with open windows. It gives me wide views first and clean photos later.
• Arrive early when traveling with kids
  The panoramic coaches have limited luggage space. I learned to arrive at least 30 minutes early so I can organize bags calmly and settle children comfortably before boarding.
• Don’t miss the photo stop at Alp Grüm
  Alp Grüm consistently offers some of the most striking scenery on the route. I always step outside for the Palü Glacier viewpoint. The air is cold even in summer, so a light jacket is important.
• Bring snacks and small activities
  The journey is peaceful and slow, which is wonderful, but younger children may become restless. Snacks and a simple game have helped my family enjoy the long high-altitude stretch without interruptions.
• Travel early in winter to avoid losing the views
  During one late-autumn trip, part of the high section was already in shadow. Between October and March, I always choose the earliest departure to maximize daylight.
• Sit in the back for the Brusio spiral
  On the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, the curve is easiest to see from the rear carriages. Watching the train loop around itself is always a highlight for families.
• Keep a warm layer ready at Ospizio Bernina
  Temperatures at 2,253 m drop quickly, even on warm days. After being caught off guard once, I now pack a thin sweater for everyone, no matter the season.
• Use Tirano for a relaxed start
  Arriving early in Tirano creates a smoother beginning to the day. I enjoy giving the kids a short walk and a small treat before boarding — it sets a calm tone for the scenic climb into the Alps.
• Choose regular trains for flexibility
  If flexibility matters, regional trains running on the same line are often less crowded and allow freer movement. For families, this can make a noticeable difference during a long scenic journey.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

When I last traveled on the Bernina Express in September 2023, I felt as though I were watching nature shift in real time. The slow ascent from the warm valley around Tirano into the high alpine world near Ospizio Bernina created a rhythm that was perfect for families — calm, visually rich and full of small moments that captured everyone’s attention.

The short stop at Alp Grüm remains one of the clearest memories from that day. The air was sharp and cold, the Palü Glacier seemed close enough to touch and there was plenty of space for the kids to explore and take photos. It was a simple stop, but it made a deep impression.

Of course, not everything was effortless. The reflections on the panoramic windows made photography difficult at times, and during one autumn trip, a portion of the journey fell into the shade earlier than expected. Even so, the changing combination of lakes, forests, tunnels and glaciers kept the ride engaging from start to finish.

For families who love dramatic landscapes without long hikes, the Bernina Express is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the Alps. If you’re dreaming of combining comfort, intense scenery and unforgettable viewpoints, this route is an excellent foundation for planning a personalized trip — and I’d be glad to help you create a tailored itinerary for this region and for Switzerland as a whole.

Price Table

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a seat in advance on the panoramic Bernina Express?

Yes. Seat reservation is mandatory on the panoramic train and must be purchased separately from the travel ticket. Boarding without a reservation is not possible.

Which side of the train offers the best views from Tirano?

The right-hand side provides more dramatic scenery, including wide valley views and Lago di Poschiavo.

Can I take good photos through the panoramic windows?

It depends on lighting conditions. The windows provide wide visibility, but reflections can make photography challenging. Regular trains with opening windows are easier for clear photos.

Is the Bernina Express suitable for children? (first-person)

When I traveled with my kids, the slow pace and constant scenery changes kept them engaged the entire ride. The photo stop at Alp Grüm was one of the highlights for them.

What should families know about winter departures?

During winter months, early sunset may leave some high-altitude sections in partial darkness. Morning departures provide the best chance to see the full route in daylight.

Is there space for large luggage onboard?

Storage on panoramic coaches is limited. Arriving early helps secure a comfortable spot for bags.

Should I combine the panoramic train with a regular regional train? (first-person)

I often travel one way on the panoramic train and return on a regular train. This gives me the wide-window experience first and clean, reflection-free photography afterward.

Are there stops along the route worth planning time for?

Yes. Alp Grüm, Ospizio Bernina, and the contrasting pair of lakes — Lago Bianco and Lej Nair — are all highlights visible directly from the train.