How to Take the Bernina Express Train in Switzerland: A Complete Guide
Have you ever considered taking a beautiful scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps?
I have always loved traveling and exploring new places, but I have become increasingly grumpy about flying. The long lines, the security checks, the cramped seats, and the expensive surcharges make me feel anxious and uncomfortable. That’s why I feel that I’ve become intrigued with a different mode of transportation: trains. They are not only more relaxing and spacious, but also more scenic and adventurous. Trains allow me to sit back and watch the world go by, admiring the beauty and diversity of the landscape, from the mountains and the lakes, to the forests and the fields. I am able to show up to the track just before departure time, as opposed to hours beforehand for a flight. Once on board, I can sit back and enjoy the ride, not just look forward to the destination.
I am just beginning to explore my newly found obsession, but one train that will forever be on my favorites list is the Bernina Express in Switzerland. The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that connects the north and south of the Alps, crossing four cantons, two countries, and three languages. It is one of the most spectacular and highest railway lines in the world, offering stunning views of glaciers, lakes, mountains, and valleys along the way.
In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about taking the Bernina Express train, including the history, the route, the highlights, the practical information, and the travel tips. By the end of this guide, you will be ready to plan and enjoy your own Bernina Express adventure.
History of the Bernina Express Train
The Bernina Express train was built in the early 20th century by the Rhaetian Railway, a private railway company that operates in the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland. The construction of the railway line was a remarkable engineering feat, as it had to overcome many challenges, such as steep gradients, tight curves, harsh weather, and limited space. The railway line was completed in 1910, and it was electrified in 1919.
The Bernina Express train was originally a local service that transported passengers and goods between the towns and villages along the route. It was not until 1973 that the Bernina Express became a tourist attraction, when the panoramic coaches with large windows were introduced. Since then, the Bernina Express has been attracting millions of visitors every year, who come to admire the beauty and diversity of the Alpine landscape.
In 2008, the Bernina Express train and the Albula Railway, another railway line operated by the Rhaetian Railway, were jointly inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The UNESCO recognized the Bernina Express as an outstanding example of the harmonious integration of railway technology and natural environment, as well as a testimony of the cultural and social development of the region.
Bernina Express Train Route
The Bernina Express train runs between Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, and Tirano, a charming town in Italy. The total distance of the route is 122 kilometers, and the duration of the journey is about four hours. The Bernina Express train passes through 55 tunnels, 196 bridges, and 13 stations along the way. The highest point of the route is the Ospizio Bernina station, which is located at 2,253 meters above sea level.
The route of the Bernina Express train can be divided into three sections, each with its own characteristics and attractions. Here is a brief overview of each section:
Chur to St. Moritz: This section is the longest and the most diverse, as it covers the northern part of the Alps. The train starts from Chur, the capital of Graubünden, and climbs up the Albula Valley, passing through the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a curved stone bridge that spans over a gorge. The train then reaches the Albula Tunnel, the highest point of the Albula Railway, and emerges in the Engadin Valley, where the scenery changes from forested hills to snowy peaks. The train stops at St. Moritz, the glamorous resort town that hosted the Winter Olympics twice.
St. Moritz to Alp Grüm: This section is the most scenic and the most challenging, as it crosses the Bernina Pass, the highest point of the Bernina Railway. The train leaves St. Moritz and ascends to the Bernina Pass, passing by the Morteratsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps. The train then reaches the Ospizio Bernina station, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lago Bianco, a frozen lake that reflects the surrounding mountains. The train then descends to Alp Grüm, a remote station that offers a stunning view of the Palü Glacier and the Val Poschiavo.
Alp Grüm to Tirano: This section is the shortest and the most dramatic, as it plunges down to the southern part of the Alps. The train leaves Alp Grüm and winds its way through the Val Poschiavo, a narrow valley that contrasts with the wide Engadin Valley. The train passes by the Lago di Poschiavo, a blue lake that adds a touch of color to the landscape. The train then reaches the Brusio Circular Viaduct, a spiral bridge that helps the train to lose altitude. The train finally arrives at Tirano, the end of the line, where you can explore the historic center and the Basilica of Madonna di Tirano.
Highlights of the Swiss Alps
The Bernina Express train is a feast for the eyes, as it offers a variety of sights and scenes along the way. Here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:
The Landwasser Viaduct: This is the most iconic and photographed structure of the Bernina Express train, as it is a masterpiece of engineering and architecture. The Landwasser Viaduct is a 136-meter-long and 65-meter-high stone bridge that curves over the Landwasser River and leads directly into a tunnel. The viaduct was built in 1902, and it is considered one of the most impressive railway bridges in the world.
The Lago Bianco: This is the most scenic and serene spot of the Bernina Express train, as it is a natural wonder that changes with the seasons. The Lago Bianco is a reservoir that was created by the damming of two glacial lakes, the Lago dell’Ospizio and the Lago di Scala. The lake is frozen for most of the year, creating a white surface that contrasts with the blue sky and the brown rocks. The lake is also a habitat for many birds and animals, such as swans, ducks, marmots, and chamois.
The Brusio Circular Viaduct: This is the most dramatic and thrilling feature of the Bernina Express train, as it is a spectacle of engineering and design. The Brusio Circular Viaduct is a 110-meter-long and 9-meter-high concrete bridge that forms a 360-degree loop. The viaduct was built in 1908, and it is designed to help the train to descend from 1,119 meters to 429 meters in a short distance. The viaduct also offers a spectacular view of the Val Poschiavo and the Piz Bernina.
Practical Information
The Bernina Express train is a popular and convenient way to travel between Switzerland and Italy, as well as to explore the Alpine region. Here are some practical information that you should know before taking the Bernina Express train:
Class: The Bernina Express train has two classes, first class and second class. Both classes have comfortable seats, large windows, and air conditioning. The main difference is that first class has four seats per row, while second class has six seats per row. First class also has more legroom, more luggage space, and more privacy. The price difference between the two classes is about 10 to 15 Swiss francs.
Catering: The Bernina Express train has a catering service that offers snacks, drinks, and meals. You can order from the menu or buy from the trolley that passes through the coaches. The catering service accepts Swiss francs, euros, and credit cards. You can also bring your own food and drinks, but alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the train.
Timetable: The Bernina Express train operates all year round, but the frequency and the schedule vary depending on the season. In general, there are one to three departures per day from Chur and Tirano, and the journey takes about four hours. You can check the exact timetable on the official website of the Rhaetian Railway or on the Swiss Federal Railways website.
Ticket: The Bernina Express train requires a valid ticket and a seat reservation. You can buy your ticket online, at the station, or at a travel agency. The ticket price depends on the distance, the class, and the season. The average ticket price is about 60 to 80 Swiss francs for one way. You can also use a rail pass, such as the Swiss Travel Pass, the Eurail Pass, or the Interrail Pass, to cover the ticket cost, but you still need to pay a surcharge for the seat reservation.
Reservation: The Bernina Express train requires a mandatory seat reservation, as the train is often fully booked. You can make your reservation online, at the station, or at a travel agency. The reservation fee is 14 Swiss francs for one way, or 28 Swiss francs for round trip. You should make your reservation as early as possible, especially during the peak season, as the seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Surcharge: The Bernina Express train requires a surcharge for the panoramic coaches, as they offer a better view and a more comfortable ride. The surcharge is 10 Swiss francs for one way, or 20 Swiss francs for round trip. The surcharge is included in the ticket price if you buy it online or at a travel agency, but it is not included if you use a rail pass. You can pay the surcharge at the station or on the train.
Pro Tips
The Bernina Express train is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss, as it is a unique and memorable way to discover the beauty and diversity of the Alps.
Plan ahead: The Bernina Express train is very popular, especially during the peak season, so you should plan your trip well in advance. Try to book your ticket and your seat reservation as soon as possible, as they tend to sell out quickly. Also check the weather forecast and the timetable before you go, as they may affect your travel plans.
Pack smart: The Bernina Express train is a long and varied journey, so you should pack smart and light. You should bring a small backpack or a carry-on luggage, as there is limited space on the train. You should also bring some essentials, such as a water bottle, a snack, a camera, a phone charger, a passport, and some cash. Also dress in layers, as the temperature and the climate may change along the way.
Choose your seat: The Bernina Express train has panoramic coaches with large windows, so you can enjoy the view from any seat. However, some seats may offer a better view than others, depending on the direction and the section of the train. In general, you should choose a seat on the right side of the train if you are traveling from Chur to Tirano, or on the left side of the train if you are traveling from Tirano to Chur. You should also choose a seat near the window, as the aisle seats may have a limited view due to the reflection of the glass.
Enjoy the ride: The Bernina Express train is not just a means of transportation, but also a destination in itself. You should enjoy the ride and savor every moment of it. Look out the window and admire the scenery, take photos and videos, listen to the audio guide, read the brochure, or chat with your fellow travelers. You should also try some of the local specialties, such as the Engadin nut cake, the Pizzoccheri, or the Bresaola.
Book a hotel: Check the schedule and you may find it necessary to book a hotel in order to have a relaxing day without worrying about additional plans after your train ride. If you start out in Chur, you may want to book a room in Tirano, and vice versa.
In Conclusion
Taking this train through the Alps was one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my life. I learned a lot about the history, the culture, and the nature of the Alpine region, and I enjoyed every moment of the scenic and adventurous ride. I saw some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world, from the glaciers and the lakes, to the forests, the fields and the cattle. I highly recommend the Bernina Express train to anyone who loves traveling and exploring new places, as it is a unique and memorable way to discover the beauty and diversity of the Alps. Use the link below to book your tickets!
