All Aboard the Bucket List Swiss Alps Train: The Legendary Bernina Express

This iconic train ride through the Swiss Alps lives up to the hype. Running between the Italian town of Tirano and the glamorous Swiss resort town of St. Moritz, the Bernina Express is one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. What makes it extra special is that you can enjoy the same jaw-dropping route via regional trains, which allow more flexibility, spontaneous stops, and huge cost savings.

The iconic curve: The Bernina Express winds through snow-dusted pines on one of its many dramatic curves. This stretch near the Italian border was pure magic.

Window seat bliss: Taking it all in with the window down, fresh alpine air, postcard views, and bucket-list joy.

For travelers staying in Lake Como, Tirano, Italy is a short 90-minute train ride from the Varenna station. Upon exiting the train in Tirano, walk out of the station to see the completely separate Bernina station to your left. It’s a completely different facility that looks entirely Swiss.

We started our adventure in Tirano, a charming northern Italian town worth exploring before boarding the train. We wandered the streets and found a small local market on the main road with excellent chocolate and snacks for the ride. A great place for breakfast is the cafe directly across from the train station, offering delicious coffee and pastries at a reasonable price.

Along the route, don’t miss the opportunity to stop in Poschiavo, a lovely alpine village in the Val Poschiavo region. The Old Town is recognized for its historical value, and its 19th-century buildings feel like stepping back in time. Take a stroll across the Poschiavino River to Plazza da Cumün and admire the Church of San Vittore. Enjoy lunch al fresco at Ristorante Albrici or grab a slice and a local brew at Pizzeria Centrale. If you make one stop between Tirano and St. Moritz, this should be it.

Our journey concluded in St. Moritz, a luxurious mountain resort town full of upscale shops, elegant restaurants, and all-season outdoor activities. If you’re not hitting the slopes or trails, stroll through town and pop into chic boutiques and Swiss souvenir shops. Getting around is a breeze with the local Engadin Bus service or on foot through the compact downtown area. For a memorable meal, try Chesa Veglia for Swiss classics in a chalet setting or Badrutt’s Palace for a splurge-worthy experience.

Station stop views: Even the stations along the way are surrounded by staggering mountain beauty. Pro tip: the regional train lets you hop off and explore on your own time.

Train booking: While you can reserve seats on the Bernina Express itself, taking the exact same route using regional trains allows more flexibility (and windows that open for photos!). Book your regional train tickets via the SBB website.

Tickets: Purchase a point-to-point ticket from Tirano to St. Moritz. If you plan to make stops along the way (like Poschiavo), consider a day pass for unlimited travel in the region.

When to go: The Bernina line is stunning year-round. Snowy landscapes in winter and vibrant alpine meadows in summer offer different kinds of magic.

Pro tip: Sit on the right side of the train when departing Tirano for the best views of the viaducts and mountain vistas.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Europe page.