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Bernina Express | A window to the Alps

Bernina Express in a nutshell

Starting point: Chur

Last stop: Tirano

Frequency: Varies with the season & route

Duration: 4 hours

Distance: 144 km

Average speed: 24 km/hr

Stops: Varies with the route 

Seat types: First Class, Second Class

Why explore Switzerland with the Bernina Express

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Book your Bernina Express tickets

Bernina Express (Ticket with Seat Reservation): Tirano to/from St. Moritz/Chur
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 30 min. - 4 hr. 25 min.
Transfers included
More details
from
CHF 61
Bernina Express (Ticket without Seat Reservation): Tirano to/from St. Moritz/Chur
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 30 min. - 4 hr. 25 min.
Transfers included
More details
from
CHF 33
Bernina Express Seat Reservation Tickets: Tirano to/from St. Moritz or Chur
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 15 min. - 4 hr. 20 min.
Transfers included
More details
from
CHF 31.20
From Milan: St. Moritz Full-Day Tour with Bernina Red Train
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
13 hr.
Transfers included
More details

Bernina Express: A seasonal guide

Winter (December to March)

The Bernina Express moves past snow-blanketed landscapes, frozen lakes, and charming alpine villages. Since it gets dark early in winter, it's a good idea to board the train earlier in the day.

Spring (April to early June)

In spring, the Bernina Express route offers some great views. Colorful flowers bloom in the meadows, and snow starts to melt off the mountains. The valleys turn green, giving the whole area a fresh, lively feel.

Summer (mid-June to mid-September)

Summer brings endless blue skies, warm weather, and vibrant green landscapes. With alpine meadows in full bloom and sparkling lakes, the Bernina Express reveals the region’s natural beauty at its peak. It's also a great time for extended daylight hours to soak in the panoramic views. 

Autumn (late September to mid-October)

In autumn, the Bernina Express gives you great views of golden larches, sparkling lakes, and snow-capped peaks. The weather’s still comfortable, making the ride enjoyable, and with fewer crowds than in summer, it’s a more relaxed experience.

Brief history of Bernina Express

  • 1905: Bernina-Bahngesellschaft (BB) is established to build a railway connecting St. Moritz to Tirano via the Bernina Pass.
  • 1906: Concession for the Bernina line granted; construction financed by Kraftwerke Brusio AG.
  • 1908: First sections open between Pontresina and Morteratsch, and Tirano and Poschiavo. Section from Pontresina to Celerina opens.
  • 1909: Sections between Celerina and St. Moritz, and Morteratsch and Bernina Suot open.
  • 1910: Entire Bernina line is completed with the opening of the Bernina Suot-Poschiavo section. Line operates with DC electricity from the start.
  • 1913-1914: Winter operations are introduced, requiring avalanche barriers due to weather challenges.
  • 1928: Introduction of a restaurant car and tourist packages to boost revenue.
  • 1935: Voltage is increased from 750 to 1000 volts for improved efficiency.
  • 1943: Rhaetian Railway (RhB) acquires the Bernina line due to BB’s financial struggles.
  • Mid-20th Century: RhB modernizes the line, realigning sections for safety and military purposes.
  • 1980s: RhB begins marketing the route as a tourist attraction, highlighting its natural and technical features.
  • 2008: Albula and Bernina lines jointly declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • 2011: Bernina line becomes the first railway globally featured on Google Street View.

Bernina Express bus

Bernina Express’s last stop is Tirano, which is in Italy. For an extra dose of Italian flair, extend your Bernina Express adventure by hopping on the iconic red Bernina Express bus from Tirano. This scenic route winds through the sprawling vineyards of Valtellina, charming villages, and the shores of Lake Como before arriving in Lugano. From there, a high-speed train ride through the Gotthard Base Tunnel takes you seamlessly back to the German-speaking part of Switzerland.

Frequently asked questions about the Bernina Express

Are there dining options on board?

Yes, there are. A mobile trolley service that passes through the train offers snacks and drinks.

What’s the difference between the classes that are available on the Bernina Express?

First Class features more spacious seating and larger panoramic windows, providing an enhanced experience for enjoying the scenic views. Second Class is more economical but still offers excellent views and comfort with slightly smaller windows and seating.

Can I travel with luggage on the Bernina Express?

Yes, you can travel with luggage. There are designated storage spaces for larger suitcases, and smaller bags can be stored in overhead compartments or at your seat. Be sure to label your luggage for easy identification.

Is there an audio guide on board?

Yes! The Bernina Express offers a digital travel companion called "InfoT(r)ainment." This free service provides fascinating insights about the train and the UNESCO World Heritage route, accessible directly on your smartphone for an engaging journey.

Do I need to book a meal in advance?

No, meal bookings are not necessary. Since the train offers a trolley service with snacks and drinks, you can purchase refreshments during your trip without advance planning. Alternatively, you can bring your own meal.

Are dogs allowed on the Bernina Express?

Yes, small dogs in containers travel free. Larger dogs or those outside containers need a ticket or pass.