Bernina Express: A Panoramic Journey Through the Italian–Swiss Alps

The line from Thusis to Tirano, in the Albula/Bernina landscape, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2008 and is one of the three incredible railway routes in the world on the list. The line itself is over a hundred years old and is a truly magnificent feat of engineering and route planning.

The line blends perfectly with its surroundings for the entire 122 kilometers, and the structures are spectacular: spiral tunnels, soaring viaducts, and safety galleries discreetly merge with the landscape into a perfect unity. Technology and nature become one in this historic and daring north–south link across the Swiss Alps. A journey on the Bernina Express is therefore not only for railway enthusiasts, but just as fascinating for lovers of nature and culture. Something for everyone.

The magical route of the Bernina Express

The Bernina Express, with its iconic panoramic carriages, offers a unique and captivating rail experience along the section connecting Chur and St. Moritz to Tirano, gifting passengers with breathtaking views.

The journey begins in Chur, where travelers can admire picturesque houses and evocative alleyways. As the train heads south, the landscape transforms, revealing gentle hills and charming villages dotted with proud castles dominating the scene. Passing through the deep Schin Gorge, the Bernina Express reaches the Solis Viaduct—an imposing engineering work that rises 85 meters—before arriving at the rugged rock faces and rushing torrents of the Albula Valley
 

Another highlight of the journey is the famous Landwasser Viaduct, which plunges into a steep rock wall just before Filisur. This stretch is characterized by ingenious structures and serpentine tunnels that lead passengers as far as Preda. From here, the train reaches the splendid Engadine, where the view over St. Moritz and its surrounding mountains is truly breathtaking. The majestic Bernina glaciers feel within arm’s reach as the train continues through the pure mountain air.

Beyond Ospizio Bernina, at 2,253 meters above sea level, the sense of freedom among the mountain peaks is palpable. Here, visitors can stop to admire Lago Bianco, with its turquoise waters, and Lej Nair, an intense deep blue, while the train continues south. The next stop is Alp Grüm, renowned for its restaurant and hotel accessible only by train. Here passengers can enjoy an incomparable view of the Palü Glacier, a perfect opportunity to capture the moment with stunning photographs.

After collecting unforgettable memories, the Bernina Express begins its descent toward the Poschiavo Valley, a garden of aromatic herbs. Here, the climate shifts quickly from the austerity of the mountains to a Mediterranean atmosphere. Crossing the striking Brusio circular viaduct, the train reaches Tirano, where palm trees add an unmistakably Italian touch to the landscape.

For those wishing to extend the adventure, the red Bernina Express Bus connects Tirano to Lugano. Along the way, passengers can admire the vast vineyards of the Valtellina and the charming villages along Lake Como. The day concludes with a quick train journey north through the Gotthard Base Tunnel, bringing guests home with unforgettable memories of this extraordinary trip.

How to purchase Bernina Express tickets

Seat reservations on the Bernina Express are mandatory. You can reserve seats online, by phone at +41 81 288 65 65, or at any railway ticket counter in Europe (by phone and at stations starting three months before the travel date).

The seat reservation fee per person and direction is:

• Bernina Express – Short section (St. Moritz – Tirano / Tirano – St. Moritz) 15.12.2024 – 13.12.2025: CHF 28.00
• Bernina Express – Long section (Chur – Tirano / Tirano – Chur)
  • Low season: 15.12.2024 – 14.05.2025 / 27.10.2025 – 13.12.2025: CHF 32.00
  • High season: 15.05.2025 – 26.10.2025: CHF 36.00
• Prices subject to change.
• All children under 6 travel free. Children aged 6 to 16 pay half the regular ticket price. The seat reservation surcharge must, however, always be paid in full.
• Half-Fare, GA, Day Pass, Municipal Day Pass, Junior Card, Swiss Pass, Eurail and Interrail are valid. The seat reservation surcharge must, however, be paid in full.

For more information, please consult the official website.

Photo credit: (c) Rhaetian Railway