Bernina Express Redefines Scenic Rail Travel from Switzerland to Italy with UNESCO-Listed Alpine Journey
The Bernina Express, often hailed as one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world, is offering travelers an unforgettable ride through the heart of the Alps—linking the ancient Swiss city of Chur with the picturesque Italian town of Tirano. Operated by the Rhaetian Railway (RhB), this panoramic experience travels through the Swiss canton of Graubünden and northern Italy’s Valtellina, covering 144 kilometers (89 miles) of natural beauty, alpine engineering, and cultural wonder.
What sets the Bernina Express apart is not just the landscape it traverses—but how it harmoniously blends scenic splendor, historical significance, and sustainable rail innovation. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, the Rhaetian Railway’s Albula and Bernina lines are recognized for their outstanding rail technology and integration into the rugged Alpine environment.
From Chur to Tirano: A Journey Through Time, Nature, and Engineering
Departing from Chur—Switzerland’s oldest city—the Bernina Express climbs into the Alps, passing over 196 bridges and through 55 tunnels. Each stretch reveals a new highlight: the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct, spiraling Albula tunnels, shimmering glacial lakes like Lago Bianco and Lej Nair, and the towering Bernina Range.
The train’s highest point, Ospizio Bernina, sits at 2,253 meters (7,391 feet), making it one of Europe’s highest railway routes without the use of rack-and-pinion technology. Nearby, passengers can glimpse the Morteratsch Glacier and Switzerland’s easternmost peak, Piz Bernina.
As the route descends into Italy, the scenery shifts dramatically—from snow-draped ridges to Mediterranean landscapes with chestnut groves and palm-lined streets. Before reaching Tirano at just 430 meters above sea level, the train loops gracefully around the famed Brusio Circular Viaduct—a marvel of civil engineering and a favorite photo stop for train lovers.
Enhancing the Experience: Panoramic Coaches and Multilingual Narration
The Bernina Express isn’t just a train—it’s a curated experience. Each coach is equipped with oversized panoramic windows, allowing passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of the mountains, forests, and valleys. Onboard audio guides are available in multiple languages, offering historical and geographical commentary about landmarks along the route.
Although there’s no restaurant car, travelers can purchase drinks and snacks from a rolling minibar. Free WiFi and climate-controlled coaches ensure comfort year-round, whether you travel amid summer’s emerald pastures or winter’s snowy stillness.
A particularly popular option is to break for lunch in Tirano, with its charming piazzas and authentic Italian eateries before returning north.
Optional Bernina Express Bus to Lugano: A Multi-Lake Alpine Adventure
For travelers wishing to extend their journey, the Bernina Express Bus provides a seamless connection from Tirano to Lugano. This 90-kilometer (56-mile) route meanders through the Valtellina wine region and along the shores of Lake Como before arriving in the Ticino canton. The journey takes approximately three hours and adds an extra layer of cultural richness—connecting Italian-speaking Switzerland with its German- and Romansh-speaking counterparts.
Travelers may opt to return via the Gotthard Base Tunnel—the world’s longest rail tunnel—for a fast and dramatic re-entry into central Switzerland.
Fares, Discounts, and Booking Tips
A one-way ticket in first class from Chur to Tirano is priced at CHF 113 (approx. £98), while second-class fares begin at CHF 66 (approx. £57). Round-trip pricing doubles accordingly, and an optional CHF 14 supplement covers the Bernina Express Bus to Lugano.
Children under six ride for free, and those aged 6–16 receive a 50% discount. Groups of ten or more benefit from 30% savings, and seat reservations are highly recommended, particularly in peak seasons. Tickets can be booked up to 90 days in advance via the official Rhaetian Railway website.
For the best views, rail experts suggest sitting on the right-hand side when traveling south toward Tirano and on the left-hand side when returning north to Chur.
A Global Benchmark for Sustainable and Scenic Tourism
The Bernina Express is more than just a travel option—it represents the future of sustainable tourism in Europe. By combining zero-emission electric trains, preservation of cultural heritage, and immersive traveler experiences, the route exemplifies eco-conscious luxury.
Tourism authorities in Switzerland and Italy continue to promote the Bernina Express as a cornerstone of cross-border cooperation and green mobility. In fact, Switzerland Tourism has integrated the train into its “Grand Train Tour of Switzerland,” which links iconic routes like the Glacier Express, GoldenPass, and Gotthard Panorama Express into a comprehensive rail-based travel experience.
Year-Round Wonder
Whether shrouded in winter snow or basking in the summer sun, the Bernina Express remains a favorite for travelers seeking dramatic beauty in a short but unforgettable rail ride. With growing international recognition and rave reviews across platforms like TripAdvisor and National Geographic, it’s fast becoming a must-do for global tourists.
As one TripAdvisor review puts it: “It’s not just a train ride—it’s an awe-inspiring journey through the soul of the Alps.”
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