The Bernina Express is one of the most breathtaking train rides in the world. Traversing the Swiss Alps between Chur in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy, this panoramic journey offers travelers unforgettable views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and charming alpine villages. For both train enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Bernina Express is a must-do experience when visiting Switzerland.
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Introduction to the Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is part of the Rhaetian Railway network and is famous for its scenic route through the Swiss Alps. The train runs on narrow-gauge tracks and is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway that offers panoramic windows, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the landscape.
Spanning 122 kilometers (76 miles), the journey crosses 196 bridges, 55 tunnels, and reaches a maximum elevation of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet) at the Ospizio Bernina station, making it the highest railway crossing in Europe without a cogwheel mechanism.
History of the Bernina Express
The BerninaExpress was officially launched in 1973, but the railway line itself dates back to the early 20th century. The Albula and Bernina lines were completed between 1904 and 1910, originally constructed for both passenger and freight use.
The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) recognized the potential for tourism and transformed this route into a scenic experience. In 2008, the Albula and Bernina lines were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for their remarkable engineering and integration into the Alpine landscape.
Route Overview
Chur to Tirano: A Panoramic Journey
The full BerninaExpress route starts in Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, and ends in Tirano, a quaint Italian town. The entire journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Key stops include:
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Chur – Starting point, known for its medieval Old Town.
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Thusis – Gateway to the Albula Tunnel.
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Filisur – Offers views of the famous Landwasser Viaduct.
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Preda – Entrance to the spiral tunnels and alpine landscapes.
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Ospizio Bernina – The highest station on the route.
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Alp Grüm – A station only accessible by rail.
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Poschiavo – A scenic Italian-speaking Swiss town.
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Tirano – End point with a charming Italian flair.
Landmarks Along the BerninaExpress Route
The Landwasser Viaduct
One of the most iconic landmarks of the Bernina Express, the Landwasser Viaduct is a 65-meter high curved bridge built from limestone. The train seemingly floats over the valley, providing passengers with postcard-worthy views.
Lago Bianco and Lej Nair
Near the Ospizio Bernina, the train passes two striking alpine lakes: Lago Bianco (White Lake) and Lej Nair (Black Lake). These high-altitude lakes are especially mesmerizing during the winter and early spring, when ice and snow create an otherworldly landscape.
Brusio Spiral Viaduct
The Brusio Spiral Viaduct is another marvel of engineering, allowing the train to descend a steep gradient in a circular path. This open-air spiral is a favorite photo spot for travelers and train spotters.
Travel Classes on the Bernina Express
The Bernina Express offers two travel classes: First Class and Second Class. Both provide panoramic windows, but First Class offers larger seats, fewer passengers per carriage, and a quieter atmosphere.
First Class
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Spacious seating
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Extra legroom
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Ideal for photography and comfort
Second Class
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More budget-friendly
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Still offers great views
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Suitable for families and solo travelers
Regardless of the class, every seat guarantees breathtaking scenery.
Ticketing and Reservations
Booking a Ride on the Bernina Express
Tickets for the Bernina Express can be booked via the official Rhaetian Railway website or through Swiss rail partners. While you can buy a standard train ticket, a seat reservation is mandatory for the Bernina Express due to its popularity.
Prices vary depending on the season and class, but you can also travel the same route using regular regional trains without panoramic windows, offering a more flexible and budget-friendly option.
Best Time to Take the Bernina Express
Seasonal Highlights
The Bernina Express runs all year round, and each season offers a unique charm:
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Spring: Melting snow and blooming wildflowers create contrasting landscapes.
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Summer: Clear skies and lush greenery offer perfect photography conditions.
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Autumn: Fall foliage adds color to the valleys and hills.
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Winter: Snow-covered scenery transforms the landscape into a fairytale.
No matter the season, this train ride never fails to impress.
Tips for the Bernina Express Experience
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Reserve early: Especially in summer or holiday seasons, seats fill up fast.
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Sit on the right side when going from Chur to Tirano for better views of landmarks.
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Bring snacks and water, as there’s no dining car on board.
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Layer up, especially during winter or in high altitudes.
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Charge your camera or phone—you’ll want to take a lot of photos.
Bernina Express vs Glacier Express
Many travelers wonder how the Bernina Express compares to the Glacier Express, another famous Swiss train journey.
Exploring Tirano After the BerninaExpress
Once you arrive in Tirano, it’s worth spending some time exploring this Italian town. Highlights include:
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Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano – A stunning 16th-century pilgrimage church.
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Local Cuisine – Enjoy Italian pasta, pizza, and regional wines.
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Historic Town Center – Narrow streets, cafes, and medieval charm.
From Tirano, you can also continue your journey into Italy via regional trains, making the Bernina- Express a perfect bridge between Switzerland and Italy.
Accessibility and Sustainability
The Bernina Express promotes sustainable travel. The entire route is electric-powered and part of the Rhaetian Railway’s effort to reduce carbon emissions. Accessibility options are also available for travelers with mobility issues, with staff assistance available at most major stations.
Why the Bernina Express Is Worth It
The Bernina Express is more than a train ride—it’s a moving postcard of alpine perfection. From engineering marvels like spiral viaducts to pristine lakes and snow-covered peaks, the journey captures the heart of Switzerland’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or with family, this train journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site only adds to its allure, making the Bernina Express one of the top scenic railways in the world.
Conclusion
The Bernina Express delivers a unique and immersive way to experience the heart of the Alps. From historic viaducts to glacial landscapes, every moment is a visual treat. It’s the ideal addition to any Swiss itinerary, offering both convenience and awe-inspiring beauty.
For travelers seeking adventure, romance, or peaceful reflection amid alpine landscapes, the Bernina Express is the journey of a lifetime.
