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Abroads Tours
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bernina express train from milan Decorative wave shape

All you need to know about the most incredible train line in Europe

Including how to avoid unpleasant experiences, crowds, and wasting money.

After hundreds of bernina express tours from milan

We believe this tour can be much better. that’s why we offer english-only tours for ages 7+, providing a quiet, focused experience.

The bernina express is the most scenic railway in europe. this article is written by guides who've led 100+ tours and contains rare insights and tips you won’t find elsewhere.

bernina express

The bernina express route

The train ascends 1,800 meters, traverses alpine lakes and glacier valleys, and ends in glamorous st. moritz. you’ll witness untouched nature in both summer and winter seasons.

From november to april, it’s a snowy wonderland. in summer, enjoy crisp air, green meadows, and temperatures far cooler than milan.

Train carriage types

  • panoramic windows – large glass, but no opening. reflections can ruin photos on rainy days.
  • regular carriages – windows open. perfect for fresh air and photography.
  • open carriages (summer only) – no glass at all. like a cabrio train ride.
train view

Unesco heritage experience

  • historic engineering marvel through harsh alpine terrain.
  • blend of culture, nature, and architecture.
  • remarkable visual harmony with the landscape.
alpine route

Ascend from 400m to 2250m. see italian palms, orchards, and alpine glaciers—all in one ride.

What you'll see on the ride

  • Valtellina valley – vineyards, rural life, alpine agriculture.
  • Poschiavo valley – drastic changes in climate and landscape in just 25 km.
  • Alpine lakes – turquoise and white, fed by glacial melt.
  • Bernina peak – 4,000-meter alpine giant.
  • St. Moritz – elite ski resort with year-round events.

Cost of self-guided vs. organized

Self-guided: 64€ train + 24€ train milan–tirano + parking/fuel ≈ 88€ total. fully manual.

Organized tour: 117–144€, but you get one-way train + one-way bus + full logistics + skip the stress.

⚠️ avoid sundays & holidays — expect +2 hours on the road and overbooked trains.

How our tour differs

Abroads tours
  • English only
  • Age 7+
  • 7:45 am departure
  • Direct booking: 117€
  • Flexible schedule
  • Max 35 people
  • No tours on sundays
Other companies
  • Bilingual tours (en/es)
  • All ages
  • 7:00 am departure
  • Third-party booking: 125–144€
  • No flexibility
  • Up to 55 people
  • Crowded sundays

Book wisely — a well-planned tour = a memorable day in the alps.