From Como: Day trip to St. Moritz & Panoramic Bernina Express

Our review of the Lake Como day trip to St. Moritz and the Bernina Express offers a practical look at this popular excursion that costs around $200 per person. This 13-hour adventure takes you from Italy into Switzerland, riding on one of the most scenic railway routes in the world, with a comfortable bus journey and expert guidance. It’s a well-organized option if you want to enjoy alpine vistas without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless logistics—round-trip transportation from Como is included, along with pre-booked tickets for the Bernina Express in panoramic cabins. This means you can relax, take in the stunning views without worry about train reservations or navigating unfamiliar transit. Plus, the free time in St. Moritz allows for some personal exploration, whether that’s strolling the upscale streets, sampling local pastries, or shopping for Swiss souvenirs.

One thing to keep in mind is that the trip is quite long, with approximately 2.5 hours in travel each way plus the time spent in St. Moritz and on the train. Reviews mention that seat allocation on the train isn’t reserved, which might be a concern if traveling with a larger group or if you prefer to sit together. Also, during winter, shorter daylight hours can limit the scenery you experience on the scenic route, so plan accordingly if you’re aiming for full panoramic views.

Key Points

• Excellent organization makes this a hassle-free way to see the Alps from Lake Como.
• The Bernina Express offers some of the most spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine valleys.
• Guided logistics and prebooked tickets ensure a smooth experience, saving time and avoiding stress.
• Free time in St. Moritz provides a chance to enjoy this chic mountain town at your own pace.
• Long travel times mean this is best suited for travelers okay with a full, sometimes tiring, day.
• Limited train seat reservation options might mean some compromises on seat choice, especially with larger groups.

An in-depth look at the experience

Starting bright and early in Como, the journey begins with a comfortable bus ride that takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes north, heading toward the border of Switzerland. The route offers lovely views of Lake Como as it transitions into a stunning alpine landscape. A quick coffee stop at Piantedo, about halfway through, adds a nice touch—although snacks or beverages aren’t included, so bring your own if you need a caffeine fix.

Once in St. Moritz, you’ll have roughly an hour to soak in the luxurious mountain town, stroll its streets, or indulge in Swiss pastries. Several reviews praise this free time as a highlight, describing it as “delightful” and a perfect chance to sample local flavors or do some quick shopping. While some note that it’s a short window, it’s enough to get a taste of this world-famous resort town.

The main event is the Bernina Express ride—a highlight the tour is known for. This panoramic train climbs up to 2,253 meters on the Bernina Pass, one of the highest railway points in Europe. Thanks to the large windows in the carriages, you’ll be swept away by views of glaciers, shimmering lakes such as Lake Bianco, and dramatic mountain scenery. Many travelers rave about this part, with some quoting that the views “make you feel like you’re in a living postcard.” You’ll pass the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a marvel of Swiss engineering, and get photo opportunities at key points like the Piz Bernina, which rises an impressive 4,049 meters.

A notable tip from reviews is to bring your camera ready because the scene at the mountain amphitheater is spectacular—especially when the sun hits the snow and glaciers just right. The train ride isn’t just a transfer but an experience designed to give you a moving window into the Alps’ grandeur.

The topping point of the journey is Alp Grüm, where you’ll be at the highest elevation of the route, with vast vistas and the chance to stretch your legs amid peaceful natural surroundings. From here, the train transitions onto the Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a circular track that is a favorite Instagram spot for many travelers.

Returning to Tirano, this small Italian town on the border is known for its authentic flavors and relaxed pace. The tour mentions visits to the largest Basilica in Valtellina, which is worth a quick peek if time allows. The return bus then takes you back to Como, completing the roughly 7-hour round trip.

Who will love this tour?

This excursion is perfect for adventurous travelers eager for a full-day immersion in Alpine scenery without the stress of individual logistics. If you enjoy scenic train rides, the Bernina Express is a must, and having prebooked tickets ensures you won’t miss out. It’s also appealing if you appreciate a bit of luxury, like panoramic views and a guided, well-organized itinerary.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind a lengthy day will find it rewarding—especially those with an interest in mountain landscapes or Swiss engineering. The tour’s value shines when you consider the included train ride, which is often booked separately at a much higher price.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or want to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit long. The seat allocation on the train being unreserved is a minor annoyance, especially for those who prefer assigned seats.

Final thoughts

This day trip offers a well-rounded dose of Swiss mountain beauty with the convenience of guided logistics and guaranteed tickets. The combination of comfortable bus travel, free time in St. Moritz, and breathtaking panoramic train views makes it a solid choice for those wanting to experience the Alps without the hassle of navigating multiple transport options.

If you value authentic scenery, expert guidance (notably from guides like Amato), and a reliable schedule, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting Como and want an easy, stress-free way to include Switzerland in your trip.

The long day, packed with incredible sights, might be tiring but is often regarded as worth every minute. Smart packing—especially bringing a good camera—and a flexible attitude will help you enjoy every moment.

FAQ

• What is included in the price?
  The tour covers round-trip bus transportation from Como, prebooked tickets for the Bernina Express in panoramic cabins, an escort guide, insurance, and taxes.

• Can I reserve seats on the Bernina Express train?
  Seats in the panoramic cabins cannot be reserved in advance, so you might find yourself sitting apart from your travel companions if not careful.

• How long is the entire trip?
  Expect about 13 hours in total—approximately 2.5 hours each way by bus and train, plus an hour in St. Moritz and stops along the route.

• What should I bring?
  A valid passport or similar ID is necessary. Also, carry snacks, water, and a camera—especially for capturing those extraordinary mountain views, like Piz Bernina and the Glacier front at Alp Grüm.

• Is the tour suitable during winter?
  Yes, but keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter, which can limit the panoramic views during the late afternoon train ride. Weather can also impact visibility.

• How much free time do I get in St. Moritz?
  About an hour—long enough for a quick stroll, some shopping, or sampling local treats, but not for a deep exploration.

• Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
  Food and drinks are not included, and if you want souvenirs or snacks, budget accordingly. Also, the guide suggested that food prices in St. Moritz can be quite high.

Whether you’re a mountain lover, a train enthusiast, or just looking to make your Swiss Alps experience easy and memorable, this trip from Como is a fine way to see some of the most stunning scenery Europe has to offer—without breaking the bank or stressing over travel details. Just remember, pack your camera, bring patience, and enjoy the ride!