Contact

Andrea Dulanska

Welcome to Switzerland Travel Centre!
You are welcome to contact us by e-mail or by phone on +44 207 420 4900.

Winter Bernina Rail Journey

Bernina Express holidays

Discover the Bernina Express, one of the most scenic trains in Europe, with the help of our Switzerland travel specialists. Your package includes train tickets, seat reservations and comfortable hotel accommodation. The itinerary can be customised and the duration extended to ensure you make your perfect journey through the majestic landscapes of the Swiss Alps.

Go to offers
Bernina Express Classic Map

The Bernina Express Route

The Bernina Express travels from Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, to Tirano in Italy along the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway line. Our Classic package offers a 5-hour journey from St Moritz to Lugano; first to Tirano on the Bernina Express then onwards by bus to Lugano.

Bernina Express train at Alp Grüm with glaciers and mountains in the background

Highlights of the Bernina Express Route

The journey on the Bernina Express is packed with highlights, including:

  • The Landwasser Viaduct: A distinctive structure and landmark of the Rhaetian Railway on the Chur to St. Moritz route.
  • The Albula Line: Part of the UNESCO World Heritage line, famous for its impressive feats of engineering such as tunnels and viaducts.
  • Ospizio Bernina: The highest point of the route offers incredible mountain views from 2,253 metres.
  • Lago Bianco and Lej Nair: two high alpine lakes that offer breathtaking scenery, particularly in winter when Lago Bianco freezes.

Timetable

Timetable valid from 10.12.2023 - 14.12.2024

Chur - 08:28 - 13:34* -
St. Moritz 09:17* - 13:17* - 16:14
Pontresina 09:28 10:25 13:28 15:51 16:23
Poschiavo 10:54 12:01 14:53 17:15 18:00
Tirano 11:32 12:49 15:31 17:59 18:38
Tirano (Dep. Bus) 14:20** 14:20** - - -
Lugano (Arr. Bus) 17:30 17:30 - - -
Lugano (Dep. Bus) - - 10:00** 10:00** -
Tirano (Arr. Bus) - - 13:00 13:00 -
Tirano 08:06* 10:06 13:17* 14:24 16:06*
Poschiavo 08:47 10:50 13:57 15:10 16:48
Pontresina 10:25 12:25 15:34 16:22 18:15
St. Moritz - 12:35 15:45 - 18:25
Chur 12:22 - - 18:22 -

* Additional summer timetable: Daily from 11.05. - 27.10.2024

** Season start Bernina Express Bus: 

  • 15.02. - 24.03.2024, every Thursday to Sunday
  • 28.03. - 27.10.2024, daily 
  • 31.10. - 24.11.2024, every Thursday to Sunday

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book my journey on the Bernina Express in advance?

Yes and advance booking is highly recommended, especially in the busy summer season when demand is particularly high. Packages can easily be booked online or via one of our travel experts.

What is the best time of year to travel on the Bernina Express?

This depends on your personal preferences:

  • Spring (March to May): Ideal for watching the snow melt and meadows bloom.
  • Summer (June to August): Perfect for warm weather and green landscapes.
  • Autumn (September to November): A great time for quieter travel with cooler temperatures and stunning autumn colours.
  • Winter (December to February): Best for snow-covered scenery and cosy train journeys.

Each season has its own charm so the choice depends on whether you prefer spring blooms, summer greenery, autumnal colours or wintry scenery. Please note seasonal timetable changes.

Can I eat on board the Bernina Express?

There is no dining car and only a roving minibar with a limited range of snacks but you can bring your own food. If you book our Classic package, you will have just over two hours in Tirano where you can eat lunch at one of the many local restaurants.

Can I travel with children on the Bernina Express?

The journey is suitable for passengers of all ages, including families with children but please do note the following important points:

  • Tickets: Children can benefit from reduced fares, depending on their age. Please contact our travel experts for more specific information about your booking. 
  • Entertainment and Activities: Remember that the journey is approximately 5 hours therefore you may wish to bring books or games to keep your children occupied. 
  • Snacks and Refreshments: As there are only limited catering provisions on the Bernina Express, we recommend that you bring plenty of snacks and drinks for your children.

Is the Bernina Express wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Bernina Express is wheelchair accessible. Please contact one of our travel consultants to organise your trip.

What is the difference between first and second class on the Bernina Express?

The main difference between the classes is the seating. Seats are larger and more comfortable in 1st class and there are fewer places per row, offering more space and privacy. In 1st class, the seating arrangement is usually 2+1, meaning two seats to one side of the aisle and one on the other. In 2nd class, there are usually two seats on either side of the aisle. Although 2nd class seats are still comfortable, they offer slightly less space and legroom than those in 1st class.

Both classes have large panoramic windows that offer an impressive view of the surrounding landscape. The difference in the field of vision between the two classes is minimal.

Customisable journey

Our holidays can easily be tailored to your own preferences.

Our combined offers

Customisable journey

Our holidays can easily be tailored to your own preferences.