If you’re planning a ride on the famous Bernina Express, you might want to know: are Bernina Express tickets refundable?
The short answer is: sometimes.
It depends on the type of ticket you buy, how you book it, and when you try to cancel.
Let’s walk through the details together so you know what to expect before you secure your seat.
Standard Tickets: Refundable With a Fee
First, let’s talk about regular full-price tickets.
These Bernina Express tickets are refundable, but not for free.
You can cancel a standard ticket before the train leaves.
However, there’s usually a small cancellation fee: around CHF 10.
You’ll also need to contact the train station, RhB, online or at the station.
If you wait too long or don’t cancel at all, you might lose the full ticket cost.
That’s why it’s always better to act fast if your plans change.
Discounted Tickets: No Refunds Allowed
If you bought a Supersaver or discounted ticket for the Bernina Express, the rules are stricter.
These tickets are cheaper, but they come with a catch.
Are Bernina Express tickets refundable if they’re discounted?
No.
You can’t change the date, and you can’t get your money back if you miss the train.
This is a good option if your plans are locked in and you want to save money.
But if you aren’t a hundred percent sure of your schedule, it’s safer to book a ticket at the regular fare instead.
Seat Reservations: Almost Never Refundable
Every Bernina Express trip needs two things: your ticket and your seat reservation.
A seat reservation usually costs CHF 26 to CHF 36.
Are Bernina Express tickets refundable when it comes to your seat reservation?
Usually not.
Even if you cancel your travel ticket, you still lose the reservation fee.
This is because seat reservations are train-specific.
That means they are only good for the exact time and date you booked.
There are exceptions, but they’re extremely rare.
If you miss your train because of an emergency – like illness, injury, or a family emergency – you might be able to get a refund.
But you’ll need official proof, like a doctor’s note.
Otherwise, you’ll need to buy a new seat reservation if you still want to ride later.
Third-Party Bookings: Sometimes Easier to Cancel
Some travelers book their trip through agents or online travel platforms.
This can make refunds easier.
If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, many third-party websites will give you a full refund.
That includes your seat reservation too.
However, not all websites or agents do this.
Make sure to carefully check the cancellation policy before booking.
This is one of the few ways you might get a full refund without a fee.
Group Travel: Special Rules Apply
If you’re traveling with a group, then refunds become a little more complicated.
Bernina Express group bookings follow their own rules.
If you cancel 30 days or more before the trip, you may get a full refund.
But if you cancel closer to the travel date, you’ll end up paying quite a bit in fees.
For example, canceling between 29 and 14 days before your trip can cost CHF 500 per group.
If you cancel within 13 days of travel, then you’ll likely lose the full amount.
Even if you just reduce the group size, there are still penalties.
So, be sure to finalize your group plans as early as possible.
What Happens if You Miss the Train?
Let’s say you’re running late and miss your Bernina Express.
What now?
First, if your ticket is still valid, you can use it on local RhB trains or on the Allegra unit (the unreserved section of the Bernina Express).
So you won’t be completely stuck.
However, your seat reservation is gone.
That part is non-refundable.
To get a reserved seat again, you’ll have to buy another one.
This is why many travelers use the Saver Day Pass: it lets you ride other trains across Switzerland for the rest of the day.
So even if your Bernina Express plan changes, the trip doesn’t have to end.
Refunds for Emergencies
Now, are Bernina Express tickets refundable in emergency situations?
Sometimes.
If you have a serious reason, like a medical emergency, you can request a refund.
But you’ll need solid proof.
RhB will ask for documents, like a hospital letter or doctor’s certificate.
Without it, they won’t give a refund, even if your reason is understandable.
RhB might also offer refunds if your train is canceled by them for any reason.
This is one of the rare few cases where refunds are guaranteed.
How to Request a Refund
If you think you’re eligible for a refund, here’s what to do.
If you booked with RhB, go to their refund page online or visit a staffed train station.
Have your ticket number ready.
If you booked through a travel agent or website, contact their support team.
They will tell you how to send your request.
Make sure to cancel as early as you can.
Delays can make you miss the chance for any refund at all.
What About the Saver Day Pass?
Many travelers use the Saver Day Pass to ride the Bernina Express.
It’s a great deal for one day of unlimited train travel in Switzerland.
But is the Saver Day Pass refundable?
Unfortunately, it is not.
Once it’s bought, you can’t return it unless you have a medical reason and proof.
Still, if you miss your reserved Bernina Express train, the Saver Day Pass lets you take a different train or the unreserved Allegra unit.
You may not get the panoramic windows, but you’ll still enjoy the ride.
This option keeps your day on track even when things go wrong.
Need Help With Your Bernina Express Booking?
So, the verdict: are Bernina Express tickets refundable?
Sometimes, and it’s entirely dependent on the circumstances.
So if you need help planning, scheduling, and booking your Bernina Express trip, why not reach out?
At Lemon Drop Travel Co, we help you plan smart and stress-free.
We’ll cover terms and conditions, help you choose the best ticket for your schedule and your budget, and even help with contingency plans.
Thinking of adding a Saver Day Pass?
Need advice on seat reservations?
We’ll walk you through it.
And if something changes, we’ll be here to support you — before, during, and after your trip.
Let us handle the fine print so you can focus on the views.
Start planning your scenic Swiss adventure with Lemon Drop Travel Co today.