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.

Can I book my flight to Switzerland with you?

Yes , you can book your flight with us. While flights cannot be booked directly through our platform, you can submit an enquiry via the link below, specifying your desired holiday package . Our team will then get in touch to arrange the best flight option based on your preferences and travel itinerary. Your flights will be booked under our Package Booking Terms and Conditions and are fully protected by our ATOL license . A s ervice fee of £ 35 per person applies . Request an offer If you prefer to book your flight independently, we recommend you book directly with Swiss – our choice for flights to Switzerland.

Train Journey

Bernina Express Classic

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

5 days / 4 nights

from £ 850

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.

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Book your flight with us

Our flight experts will be happy to advise you and book the most convenient flight for your trip.

Request an offer

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.

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Itinerary

Direction

Overview

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

Day 1

Arrival in St. Moritz

Itinerary

You travel by public transport from your starting point in Switzerland to St. Moritz. Enjoy the journey and the beautiful scenery along the way.

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

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

Day 2

Stay in St. Moritz

Itinerary

You have a day at your leisure in St. Moritz. Explore the Alpine town and the breathtaking surroundings.

Overnight stay in St. Moritz

Two people hiking on a mountain trail overlooking a lake and mountains in the background; blooming purple flowers in the foreground.

Day 3

Ride on the Bernina Express

Itinerary

You travel on the Bernina Express from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy. You then travel on the Bernina Express bus through the Valtellina to Lugano.

Journey time: approx. 8 hours

Overnight stay in Lugano

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

Day 4

Stay in Lugano

Itinerary

Spend a day in Lugano. Stroll along the lakeside promenade and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Lugano

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

Day 5

Return journey from Lugano

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 city view at sunrise with mountains, a church tower, and a mountain railway.

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