What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class on the Bernina Express?

The main differences lie in the seating arrangement and the comfort. The seating is arranged in tables of two and four in 1st class , offering more space and only tables of four in 2nd class. All travel classes have the same panoramic windows. Please note that the route from Tirano to Lugano is by coach . There is only one class on the coach – all passengers travel in the same type of seat.

Can I choose my seat on the Bernina Express in advance?

On the Bernina Express, you can specify your seat preferences during the booking process using the comments field . As the panoramic coaches can change direction of travel, it is not guaranteed that your seat preferences will always be fulfilled. We will endeavour to allocate you the best available seat and inform you if no window seat is available. The view is always impressive, regardless of your seat.

Can I eat on board the Bernina Express?

There is no dining car on board the Bernina Express, but there is an at-seat trolley service with a selection of snacks and drinks. You can also bring your own food and enjoy it during the journey.

Where does the Bernina Express start and how do I get from the railway station to the hotel and back?

The train route of the Bernina Express runs between St. Moritz and Tirano . From Tirano to Lugano there is a bus service. The itinerary can be done in both directions – the choice is yours. In the booking process, the distance to each train station is displayed when you select your hotel. This allows you to choose nearby accommodation as required. Some hotels offer practical transfer services . For details about the transfer, please contact your hotel .

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Demand is particularly high for the high season (see above). You can book your package online at the touch of a button or via our travel experts .

Is the journey accessible?

For accessible holidays, we recommend that you contact us directly. This way, we can check the best options together and ensure that your travel needs are taken into consideration. Feel free to contact us by email or phone – the contact details can be found below.

Train Journey

Bernina Express Classic

Experience the fascination of the Bernina Express on one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world. The route is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and takes you from sunny Lugano by bus to Tirano (IT) and onwards over the Bernina Pass up into the alpine peaks of St. Moritz. Along the way, you’ll make a 180-degree loop in the Montebello Curve – an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

3 days / 2 nights

from CHF 490

Direction

A red panoramic train travels through an alpine landscape with high mountains and a stone house.

A tranquil mountain landscape with a clear lake and blue sky.

A beautiful Italian town surrounded by green hills and mountains, with a distinctive church in the center.

4 Images

Highlights

The highest adhesion railway in Europe and the steepest in the world on the Bernina Line
A touch of elegance in the mountains of St. Moritz
"Dolce Vita" in Lugano
Idyllic journey through Valtellina on the Bernina Express bus
180-degree loop in the Montebello curve

A red train travels through a mountain landscape.

Sunset over an alpine town with a church, surrounded by mountains and a lake.

5 Images

Itinerary

Direction

Overview

Map of Switzerland with travel route of the Bernina Express Classic from St. Moritz to Lugano

Day 1

Arrival and stay in Lugano

Itinerary

You travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to Lugano.

Overnight stay in Lugano

A beautiful lakeside landscape with houses on the slope and a mountain in the background.

Day 2

Ride on the Bernina Express

Itinerary

You travel on the Bernina Express bus from Lugano to Tirano (IT). You then continue your journey on the Bernina Express to St. Moritz.

Journey time: approx. 8 hours

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

A woman walks on a platform next to a red Bernina Express train.

Day 3

Return journey from St. Moritz

Itinerary

On the last day of your trip, public transport will take you to your destination in Switzerland. Or extend your stay at a location of your choice.

A serene mountain landscape with a lake in the foreground and a village on the slopes under a clear, blue sky.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

February to November

Recommended travel period

May to October

High season

July to September

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Included in your booking

Your Digital Swiss Coupon Pass

With every package holiday booking in 2026, we'll give you a Digital Swiss Coupon Pass – your key to over 100 exclusive 2-for-1 experiences throughout Switzerland. Discover more, enjoy more and save up to CHF 4,500.

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Important information about the trip

What our Switzerland expert says

Diverse landscapes
For me, the route between St. Moritz and Lugano is the most beautiful in the country. The journey on the Bernina Express through diverse landscapes and pretty villages is incomparable.
Jessica

Customise your trip.

3 days / 2 nights

from CHF 490

Direction

Arrival and departure included
Travel from any start point and back to any end point in Switzerland
Choose your accommodation
Select hotel and room category
Additional activities
Add activities and mountain excursions to your trip
Customise the duration of your trip
Extend your stay, as preferred

Frequently asked questions

Have a question?

Ready to start planning your next trip? We are here for you.

Aika Idinova

[email protected]+44 207 420 4900

Monday to Friday
8 am – 5 pm (GMT)