Have you ever looked out of a window in Milan and thought, “I wonder what’s behind those snow-capped peaks in the distance?” If you’re visiting Milan, it’s easy to get swept up in the high-end fashion and the Gothic beauty of the Duomo. But just a few hours north lies a world that feels light-years away from the city bustle—a world of turquoise lakes, massive glaciers, and the kind of mountain air that makes you feel brand new.
I’m talking about the Bernina Red Train, often called the most beautiful train ride in the world.
💡 Quick Tip: This trip is incredibly popular. If you already know your dates, I highly recommend checking the latest availability now to avoid disappointment.
Why This Trip Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Bernina Express isn't just a train; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the few rail journeys in the world recognized for its architectural and engineering feat, climbing gradients of up to 7% without the help of a rack-and-pinion system.
Snapshot of the Journey:
Altitude: Reach 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) above sea level.
The Views: 360-degree panoramas of the Morteratsch Glacier.
The Contrast: Italian fashion capital vs. Swiss Alpine luxury.
The Journey Begins: From Milan to the Mountains
The day kicks off early at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia (right next to the Milano Centrale station). Trust me, you’ll want to grab a quick pastry and a strong Italian espresso before you board.
The Scenic Drive Past Lake Como
As the comfortable coach leaves Milan, keep your eyes glued to the left side of the bus. You’ll catch glimpses of Lake Como as you head north.
The transition from the flat Lombardy plains to the jagged peaks of the Maloja Pass is nothing short of dramatic. The roads wind upward, offering views that will have you reaching for your camera before you even see the train!
First Stop: St. Moritz – The "Top of the World"
Arriving in St. Moritz feels like stepping into a movie set. Located at 1,856 meters, this town is the playground for the global elite.
How to Spend Your 100 Minutes in St. Moritz:
Walk the Lake: The lakefront offers stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Luxury Window Shopping: The boutiques here are a work of art.
Try a "Nusstorte": Head to a local bakery and try the famous Engadin walnut tart.
The Main Event: Boarding the Bernina Red Train
This is the moment everyone waits for. Around early afternoon, you’ll board the iconic red carriages.
Why the "2nd Class" Ticket is Actually Better
While some people obsess over 1st class, the standard carriages on this guided tour have a secret weapon: The windows open.
Practical Information: Everything You Need to Know
🎒 Essential Packing List
Your Passport: Mandatory for crossing the border!
Layers are Key: It might be 30°C in Milan, but it can be 10°C at the Bernina Pass.
Comfortable Shoes: For walking in St. Moritz and Tirano.
Power Bank: Your battery will drain fast from all the photos!
📋 Trip Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | Approx. 12 hours |
| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours in advance |
| Meeting Point | Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan |
| Highlights | Bernina Express, St. Moritz, Tirano |
Ready to see the Alps?
Don't wait until you get to Milan to book. These tours often fill up weeks in advance, especially during the peak summer and winter seasons.
✨ [Click here to see the latest prices and reserve your spot]
Final Thoughts
There are very few places where you can see palm trees in the morning and glaciers by lunch, but the route from Milan to St. Moritz makes it possible. It’s a long day, yes, but the moment you see the Red Train winding its way around a mountain peak, you’ll realize it was worth every second.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book a tour through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Comments
Post a Comment