Which route does the Bernina Express run on?

The Bernina Express train runs on the route from Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano or vice versa. The journey takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes , although shorter sections are also possible. It is possible to get on or off along the route in Thusis, Filisur, Bergün, Pontresina, Bernina Diavolezza, Alp Grüm, Poschiavo and Le Prese. Please note that there is a minimum travel distance and therefore not all combinations are possible. The Bernina Express Bus can be used to extend the journey from Tirano to Lugano or vice versa. This journey takes just under 3 hours with a brief comfort stop en route.

Does the Bernina Express run all year round?

The Bernina Express train runs all year round . From the end of October to mid-May according to the winter timetable and from mid-May to the end of October according to the summer timetable . The Bernina Express Bus operates between mid-February and the end of November . For more detailed information on journey times and possible disruption on the route, we advise you to consult the current timetable. To secure your seat, we also recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment.

Can I choose the journey times myself?

For the journey on the Bernina Express , we reserve your seats depending on availability and in line with the travel programme . It is not possible to select a specific train when booking. However, you can indicate your preferred departure time in the comments field . We will endeavour to take these into account, but cannot guarantee them. However, you are flexible when travelling to and from your starting point and destination in Switzerland. You can choose your own connections according to the SBB timetable .

What travel classes are available on the Bernina Express?

On the Bernina Express, you have the choice between 1st class and 2nd class . 1st class offers a particularly high level of comfort , with tables of two and four and more space . In 2nd class, the seats are a little denser with tables of four. Both classes have the same panoramic windows , which offer a spectacular view. The journey from Tirano to Lugano takes place on a bus . There is no distinction between travel classes – all passengers travel in the same style of seating.

Are there catering options on the Bernina Express?

The Bernina Express has an at-seat trolley service that offers a selection of snacks and drinks. If you wish, you can also bring your own food and enjoy it during the journey. Please note that there is no dining car .

Are these trips 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 .

Bernina Express

Train Journeys Through a UNESCO World Heritage Site by rail

The Bernina Express runs from Chur – the oldest town in Switzerland – to Tirano in Italy. The train journey along the most picturesque rail line in Europe has a lot to offer. Impressive landmarks and breathtaking landscapes await you on the UNESCO World Heritage route of the Rhaetian Railway, which will inspire you all year round.

To Holidays

Highlights

Spectacular Landwasser Viadcut – part of the Albula line and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway
Exciting ride over the unique circular viaduct at Brusio on the Bernina line
Impressive mountain panorama at Ospizio Bernina – the highest point of the route at 2,253 metres above sea level
Through the most beautiful Graubünden landscapes and idyllic mountain villages
Past crystal-clear high Alpine lakes – Lago Bianco and Lej Nair

A red train is traveling on a stone viaduct in a rocky landscape under a blue sky.

A red train is traveling on a curvy stone bridge through a green mountain landscape.

5 Images

Our tours are created by real Switzerland experts. Depending on the package, train tickets and activities are included in addition to hotel accommodation. Because every trip is as individual as you are, our holiday planner allows you to tailor your package according to your preferences. Then simply sit back and enjoy the anticipation while we take care of the rest!

Our Bernina Express journeys

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

Panoramic trip on the Bernina Express
Bus journey from Tirano to Lugano
Overnight stays in St. Moritz and Lugano

3 days / 2 nights from CHF 460

Travel period : February to November

A red Bernina Express train travels through an alpine landscape with snow-covered mountains in the background.

Panoramic journey on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
Bus journey from Tirano to Lugano
Overnight stays in Zermatt, St. Moritz and Lugano

4 days / 3 nights from CHF 810

Travel period : February to October

A red train travels through a mountain landscape.

Panoramic journey on the Bernina Express
Overnight stay in Poschiavo

2 days / 1 night from CHF 350

Travel period : January to December

A red train crosses a viaduct in a mountainous and forested landscape under a clear blue sky.

Panoramic journey on the Bernina Express and nostalgic train
Overnight stays in Chur, St. Moritz and Davos
Luggage transport between the hotels

8 days / 7 nights from CHF 1’510

Travel period : May to October

A red train travels through a snowy mountain landscape.

Panoramic journey on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express
Overnight stays in Chur and Brig
Wintery Alpine landscapes

4 days / 3 nights from CHF 760

Travel period : December to April

Bestseller

Sunset behind a snow-capped mountain peak with fog.

Panoramic journey on the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Express and Gotthard Panorama Express
Mountain excursion to the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Bookable with luggage transport

8 days / 7 nights from CHF 1’710

Travel period : April to October