Lake Como cruise, St.Moritz and Bernina Red Train

Review of the Lake Como, St. Moritz, and Bernina Red Train Tour

This full-day adventure from Milan covers some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery — a cruise on Lake Como, a stroll through the glamorous town of St. Moritz, and an unforgettable ride on the Bernina Express. The tour is operated by AUTOSTRADALE VIAGGI SRL and offers a good way to experience Italy and Switzerland in one go, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights.

What I really like about this experience is how smoothly it’s organized — you get comfortable transportation, a bilingual guide, and a chance to take in breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of figuring out logistics yourself. The luxury coach makes the early start easier, and the Bernina Express train is quite simply one of the most scenic rail journeys I’ve seen. Plus, the free time in St. Moritz means you can soak in the luxury and maybe do a bit of shopping or sightseeing.

That said, a key consideration is the tight schedule — reviews mention the day can feel rushed, especially if delays happen at the start or during transit. Some guests have noted that the bus can run late or that the tour can feel hurried, leaving little room for leisurely exploration. And while most guides are praised for their knowledge, experiences vary, with some travelers wishing for more info or better group management. Still, if you’re looking for a well-organized day trip with stunning scenery, this tour checks many boxes.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning scenery everywhere, from lakeside villas to Swiss peaks, makes this trip visually rewarding.
• Expert guides and audio systems make it easier to follow along and hear interesting facts.
• The Bernina Express offers one of the most scenic train rides across the Alps, with panoramic windows and iconic viaducts.
• Time management can be challenging; expect a long day with a packed itinerary that’s somewhat rushed.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning (though some reviews mention issues), plus a small-group vibe, boost the experience.
• Authentic highlights include a boat cruise on Lake Como and a walk in the chic resort town of St. Moritz, perfect for experiencing local luxury.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Lake Como Cruise

The day kicks off with a 1-hour private boat cruise on Lake Como, which is the highlight for many travelers. You’ll see lakeside villas, charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna, and the grand Villa Balbianello. It’s a chance to enjoy Italy’s most famous lake from the water, with calm, picture-perfect views. One reviewer, Kai_C, called it a “joy” and a “major highlight,” emphasizing how special the scenery was.

However, some guests note that the boat ride is often cut short if time runs tight, and weather can impact the experience — a common theme in lake cruises. Still, even a quick cruise offers a taste of the lake’s charm that’s hard to match from land.

The Drive to St. Moritz via Maloja Pass

After the lake cruise, the coach winds through the Maloja Pass, a mountain route famous for its dramatic curves and breathtaking alpine vistas. During this drive, you’ll pass through the Poschiavo valley, observing the lush hills and the snow-capped peaks. The journey itself is scenic, and most passengers enjoy the ride, though some mention the bus can be a little late starting — about 20 minutes — which can throw off the schedule.

Free Time and Guided Walk in St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz, you get a couple of hours for free exploration. This is a luxurious Swiss resort town, well-known for its high-end shops, elegant cafés, and alpine charm. Some reviews mention that the guide leaves you in the center to explore on your own, which can be both freeing and a little overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the area. One tip from a reviewer — respect the time limits and stick to the schedule to avoid missing the return coach.

The Bernina Express: A Swiss Masterpiece

The highlight for many is the Bernina Express train ride, which is included in the tour. You’ll travel in reserved carriages that offer panoramic views, and during the journey you can open the windows to really soak in the scenery — crucial for capturing those postcard-worthy photos.

The route includes iconic sights like the Brusio spiral viaduct and the Bernina Pass, soaring to 2,253 meters above sea level. Travelers describe the landscapes as “magical,” with some noting the beauty of the white and black lakes seen from the train. Several reviews, including one from Henry_G, say the train ride is “breathtaking” and “amazing,” confirming this is a major highlight of the trip.

Ending in Tirano

The final stop is Tirano, a charming town where you can do some last-minute shopping before heading back to Milan. The return trip can be delayed due to traffic or driver rest breaks, and some reviews mention long delays — which is worth considering when planning your day.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the lakes and mountains with minimal hassle. If you love scenic train rides, lakeside vistas, and luxury resorts, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The expert guides, like Francesca, are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the long day easier to manage.

However, be aware that the schedule can feel rushed, especially if delays happen. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether the packed itinerary suits your style. The price of around $202 suggests good value, especially considering the included boat cruise, train tickets, and guided tours — but keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so budget for a meal or snacks during the day.

Who will enjoy this tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to the region who want a structured, all-in-one experience. It’s also great for photography lovers thanks to the stunning landscapes. If you’re a luxury resort fan, the stops in St. Moritz will be appealing. Conversely, if you’re sensitive to long days and tight schedules, you might find it a bit exhausting.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid introduction to some of the most scenic parts of Italy and Switzerland. It balances comfort and adventure with enough structure to make sure you see the key sights. The Bernina Express alone is worth the price for many, offering a memorable journey through dramatic mountain scenery.

The guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, though experiences vary — some travelers wish for more commentary, others love the freedom to explore on their own. The value is good, considering what’s included, but a few reviews point out the importance of punctuality and managing expectations around the time constraints.

If you’re looking for a long, scenic day trip that packs a punch of natural beauty and Swiss elegance, this tour delivers on most counts — especially if you’re prepared for a full schedule.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Travelers eager to see iconic lakes and mountains without the hassle of organizing transport themselves will find this trip very convenient. It’s well-suited to those comfortable with long days and group tours. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the vistas from the train and boat are among the best you’ll find.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or dislike strict schedules, you might want to explore more flexible options or shorter excursions. The tour also appeals to those wanting a taste of Swiss luxury with free time in St. Moritz. Overall, it’s a value-packed, scenic adventure perfect for a first-time visit to the region.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, but dress appropriately. If the weather is poor, the boat cruise may be canceled, and you might be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is included in the price?
You get a luxury coach, bilingual guide, Lake Como cruise, walking tour and free time in St. Moritz, and second-class train tickets for the Bernina Express.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during your free time.

How early do I need to arrive?
Be at the meeting point, Piazza IV Novembre, 15 minutes before the 7:15 am departure to ensure a smooth start.

Can I upgrade the train ride?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to first class for a more luxurious experience, but the standard ticket still offers fantastic panoramic views.

How long are the stops?
Lake Como cruise is one hour, St. Moritz has about two hours of free time, and Tirano allows for some shopping before returning to Milan.

What if the bus is delayed?
Delays are possible, especially due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances, which can push back your return. Be prepared for a long day and carry essentials.

Is this tour good for families?
Many reviews mention that even children enjoyed it, especially the train ride and scenery. Just be aware of the long hours and schedule constraints.

In the end, this tour offers an excellent mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and Swiss elegance, all in one packed but rewarding day. If you’re keen to tick off some of Europe’s most iconic sights with minimal fuss, it’s a solid choice — just keep your expectations balanced and your camera ready.