From Milan: Lake Como and Bernina Train Day Trip

Discovering Swiss and Italian Beauty in One Day
This tour from Milan promises an eye-opening blend of lakeside serenity and high-altitude adventure. You get to enjoy the iconic Lake Como, with its shimmering waters and quaint villages, plus a scenic ride on the famous Bernina Express, crossing the Swiss Alps in style. The trip also includes a charming stop in Lecco, a lesser-known gem with a wonderfully relaxed lakeside vibe.

What I like most about this experience is how it balances natural beauty with cultural discovery — you’re not just riding trains or snapping photos, but engaging with local towns and learning about the region’s history from knowledgeable guides. The second highlight is the comfort of travel; a well-organized coach with commentary, and the panoramic train with open windows, make for a genuinely immersive experience.

That said, a potential drawback is the tight schedule — with long transfer times and several stops, you might feel hurried, especially if you prefer spending more time in each location. Still, for those who love a full, varied day of sightseeing packed with stunning views, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Scenery: From Lake Como’s shimmering waters to the snow-capped Swiss peaks, visuals are the highlight.
• Comfortable Travel: The coach is modern and smooth, with plenty of legroom, making the long ride more pleasant.
• Expert Guidance: Your guide offers insightful commentary, adding depth to the experience without overwhelming.
• Authentic Towns: Stop in Lecco and Tirano for a real taste of local life, away from tourist traps.
• Unique Train Ride: The Bernina Express with open windows offers some of the most memorable Alpine panoramas.
• Flexible Yet Structured: The itinerary balances sightseeing with the chance to relax and take photos.

Starting Point: Easy Access at Milan’s Excelsior Hotel Gallia

Your journey begins at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a central and recognizable Milan landmark. From here, the coach ride takes roughly an hour, giving you a comfortable start and a chance to get your bearings. The coach is described as plush and spacious — an important detail after a night in Milan or a long city walk.

The guide, whose name isn’t specified but is praised for providing lively commentary, sets the tone for a day packed with scenic marvels and interesting stops. The transfer is a crucial part of the experience; it’s long but scenic, giving you a taste of the Italian and Swiss landscapes on the way.

First Stop: Lecco — Lakeside Charm and Local Life

Lecco is often overshadowed by Como, but it’s a delightful town on the southeastern tip of Lake Como. Here, you’ll get about an hour to explore, take photos, or walk along the lake. The reviews highlight its “charming atmosphere” and the opportunity for a guided walk that uncovers local stories.

Walking along the lakeshore, I loved how the quiet and relaxed vibe of Lecco contrasts with Milan’s bustle. It’s a place where you can breathe and appreciate the simple pleasure of lakeside views. The guide may point out interesting sights and historical snippets—like the connection to the famous Italian novelist Alessandro Manzoni, who set part of his stories here.

Crossing the Swiss Border: Maloja Pass and St. Moritz

After Lecco, the coach heads towards the Swiss border, passing through the Maloja Pass — an area celebrated for its dramatic mountain scenery. Though you don’t stop there, it’s a scenic drive that sets the stage for the next highlight: St. Moritz.

St. Moritz gets a quick 20-minute break, enough for a stretch or a photo. It’s a luxury resort town known worldwide, and even a short visit offers a hint of its elegance and grandeur. The reviews note that while the stop is brief, it’s worth capturing the views and hearing a few tidbits about its reputation as a winter sports hub.

The Star of the Show: Bernina Train Ride

The Bernina Line is what makes this trip special. The train ride from St. Moritz to Tirano lasts roughly two hours and twenty minutes, and it’s a highlight filled with jaw-dropping vistas. The train is equipped with opening windows, a big plus for photographers seeking glare-free photos of glaciers, mountain peaks, and alpine meadows.

According to reviews, the scenery is the real star. Expect to see snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and expansive glaciers. The guide provides commentary in English, explaining the significance of each landscape, which elevates the experience from just a pretty ride to an educational journey.

The train crosses the Bernina Pass, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ll pass through charming villages like Poschiavo and Tirano, which add to the sense of authentic regional character. Tirano offers a brief stop for about 10 minutes, enough for a quick look around before heading back.

Returning to Milan: Long, Scenic Transfers

Once back in Tirano, the coach resumes its journey, covering approximately 2.5 hours back to Milan. While this is a substantial part of the day, the scenery along the way continues to impress, making the transit feel less like a chore and more like part of the experience.

The tour ends at the same Milan hotel where it started, making it convenient. The full day is quite full, so wear comfortable shoes, dress warmly (especially for the train ride), and carry your camera and water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re craving a balanced mix of lakes, mountains, and charming towns, this trip delivers. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic train rides and want to see the Swiss Alps without spending days on separate trips. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting an overview of the region, or for those with limited time but a strong desire for diverse landscapes.

However, if you prefer more leisurely exploration or more time in each destination, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, you’ll need to be comfortable with organizing your transport to and from Milan’s start point.

Price and Value Analysis

At around $203 per person, this experience offers a lot for the price. You’re getting round-trip transportation, a guided tour, a significant train ride, and free time in Lecco. The second-class train ticket with open windows enhances the value, providing a memorable way to see the Alps up close.

While not cheap, the combination of multiple highlights—lakes, Swiss mountains, Alpine scenery, and the comfort of a guided group—means you’re paying for a comprehensive day that would be hard to replicate independently without significant planning and expense.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Milan is a well-organized, scenic day that combines Italy’s famous Lake Como with a highlight of Swiss alpine marvels. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see stunning landscapes without the hassle of multiple bookings, and for those eager to experience the Bernina Line, one of the most celebrated train journeys in the world.

Though it’s a packed schedule, the stunning views and the chance to learn from an engaging guide make it a worthwhile investment. The stops in Lecco and Tirano add authenticity and variety, making it more than just a train ride through the mountains.

If you’re craving an adventurous, picture-perfect day that blends culture, nature, and breathtaking scenery, this trip is a solid choice—especially if you’re comfortable with a full itinerary and a bit of a long day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility?
No, it is not wheelchair accessible, and some walking is involved at stops. Also, the tour involves a long coach ride and a scenic train with open windows, which may not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and water are recommended. The open windows on the train are perfect for photos, so a camera or smartphone is essential.

How long is the train ride?
The Bernina train ride from St. Moritz to Tirano lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes, offering plenty of panoramic views.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Tirano or Lecco.

What is the guide’s role during the trip?
Your guide provides commentary during travel, shares interesting facts about the scenery, and helps make the experience engaging and educational.

Are there free times in places like St. Moritz?
No, the stop in St. Moritz is only 20 minutes, so there’s limited free time. You’ll mainly enjoy quick photo opportunities.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The guide provides explanations in English, ensuring clarity for most international travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, it’s better for children who can handle the full day’s length and long coach rides. Pets and electric wheelchairs are not allowed.

In the end, this day trip offers a satisfying taste of some of Northern Italy’s and Switzerland’s most beautiful sights, with the convenience of a guided group and all transportation arranged. Whether you’re after awe-inspiring mountain vistas, lakeside charm, or a bit of Swiss luxury, you’ll find that this experience hits the high notes without requiring a multi-day commitment.