The Bernina Express is widely considered one of the most spectacular panoramic train journeys in the world. Connecting Switzerland and Italy, this iconic red train offers an unforgettable experience through the heart of the Alps, combining breathtaking natural scenery with outstanding railway engineering. Unlike classic luxury trains focused on onboard extravagance, the Bernina Express delivers luxury through views, altitude, and atmosphere, making it a must-do experience for rail enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Bernina Express operates between Chur or St. Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy. During the journey, the train crosses 196 bridges and passes through 55 tunnels, climbing to an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) at the Bernina Pass—one of the highest railway crossings in Europe without the use of cogwheels.
Passengers experience a dramatic change in landscapes:
This remarkable contrast is one of the reasons the Bernina Express is so popular among international travelers.
The train runs along the Albula and Bernina lines of the Rhaetian Railway, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This distinction highlights the exceptional harmony between engineering and nature, as the railway blends seamlessly into the rugged alpine environment.
Landmarks such as the Landwasser Viaduct, where the train crosses a curved stone bridge before disappearing into a tunnel, are engineering masterpieces and iconic symbols of Swiss rail travel.
One of the defining features of the Bernina Express is its panoramic carriages. Large floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains, making every seat a prime viewing spot.
Important to note:
The experience is all about relaxing, slowing down, and enjoying the journey itself.
Some of the most memorable sights include:
Each section of the route offers new photo opportunities, making the Bernina Express especially popular with photographers and travel bloggers.
To ride the iconic Bernina Express, you need both a valid ticket and a mandatory seat reservation for the panorama coaches.
2026 Ticket Prices & Reservation Fees
Ticket costs vary by distance, but the mandatory reservation fee is fixed based on the season.
Route | 2nd Class (CHF) | 1st Class (CHF) | Reservation Fee (2026) |
Chur – Tirano | From 66.00 | From 113.00 | Winter: 40 CHF / Summer: 44 CHF |
St. Moritz – Tirano | From 33.00 | From 57.00 | Year-round: 32 CHF |
The train operates year-round, traversing the UNESCO World Heritage route daily.
Pro Tip: To save money, you can ride the regional trains on the same tracks. They lack the ceiling-high windows but allow you to open the windows for photos and require no reservation fee.
The Bernina Express operates year-round, and each season offers a unique perspective:
The Bernina Express is ideal for travelers seeking a slow travel experience centered on landscapes rather than onboard luxury.
The Bernina Express proves that true luxury in travel doesn’t always come from chandeliers and champagne. Sometimes, it comes from gliding silently through snow-capped mountains, crossing soaring viaducts, and watching the Alps unfold through panoramic windows. For anyone planning a European rail adventure, the Bernina Express is not just a train ride—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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