Planning to ride the Bernina Express soon?
If so, it’s natural to want to know: where does the Bernina Express start and end?
This train ride officially starts in Chur, Switzerland and ends in Tirano, Italy.
There’s also a shorter route that starts in St. Moritz, but it still ends in Tirano.
Both options will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Alps.
You’ll ride past imposing glaciers, stunning lakes, and breathtaking mountain peaks — all from the comfort of a panoramic train car.
What You’ll See on the Bernina Express Route
Aside from wanting to know where does the Bernina Express start and end, first-time passengers also want to know what they’ll see along the way.
Don’t worry; you’re in for a treat.
One of the biggest highlights along the Bernina Express route is theLandwasser Viaduct.
This is a huge stone bridge that curves across a deep valley.
It makes you feel like you’re riding through a vibrant postcard.
Another stop that grabs attention is the Brusio Spiral Viaduct.
This section of track loops around in a spiral to help the train handle the steep drop in altitude.
You’ll also pass the Morteratsch Glacier and several stunning alpine lakes, including Lago Bianco.
The Bernina Express route is actually part of a UNESCO World Heritage site called theRhaetian Railway.
That means the views aren’t just pretty; they’re protected and recognized around the world.
Are There Stops You Can Explore Along the Way?
Luckily, the scenic stops along the Bernina Express route aren’t just for show.
Many of them can be explored along the way.
St. Moritz is one of the most famous stops.
It’s known for fancy hotels, a beautiful lake, and lots of outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
Pontresina is nearby and offers great mountain views and quieter charm.
Alp Grüm is a high-altitude stop with views of glaciers and alpine valleys.
You’ll also pass through Poschiavo, a small Italian-speaking town in Switzerland with a warm, local feel.
Finally, you’ll reach Tirano, Italy.
Tirano is a small town with Italian charm, great food, and walkable streets.
You should have enough time for a nice lunch there before you need to head back to the train.
Are There Special Events or Markets Along the Route?
While the Bernina Express doesn’t stop at festivals, the towns along the way do host events.
St. Moritz has a famous horse race on a frozen lake each winter.
Poschiavo and Tirano hold food and wine festivals in the fall.
You can also visit small Christmas markets in towns like St. Moritz during winter.
If you want to catch one of these events, check the calendar ahead of time and plan your stops around it.
Can You Ride the Bernina Express in One Day?
Yes, you can ride the whole Bernina Express route in one day.
From Chur to Tirano, the journey takes about 4 to 4.5 hours.
If you plan ahead, you can do a round-trip in a single day, though it will be a long one.
For example, you could leave Chur in the morning, explore Tirano during your break, and return in the evening.
If you’re short on time, the St. Moritz to Tirano route takes less time but still includes many scenic highlights.
Is the Bernina Express Family Friendly?
Yes, the Bernina Express can be great for families.
The train has large windows, so kids can look out and enjoy the views.
However, do note that the entire ride takes about four to four-and-a-half hours one way.
So it may be better for older kids who can sit still for a while.
If you’re traveling with younger children, consider stopping halfway to break up the trip.
St. Moritz or Poschiavo are good places for this.
Also, kids under 6 can ride for free if they don’t need a seat.
Older kids can often get discounts, too.
It’s a relaxed way to show your family something new without needing to hike or drive in the mountains.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Ride the Bernina Express?
After knowing the answer to, where does the Bernina Express start and end?, interested passengers also want to know:
When should you ride the Bernina Express?
The Bernina Express runs all year, but your experience – and the sights – will change depending on the season.
In summer, the mountains are green, and the weather is warm.
You’ll see clear skies, bright lakes, and plenty of sunshine.
Autumn brings golden leaves and fewer tourists.
Winter is like riding through a snow globe, with snow-covered trees and frozen lakes.
Spring offers a mix of snow and flowers as the weather begins to warm up.
Each season has something special to offer, so ultimately the answer depends on what kind of views you want (i.e., autumnal reds and golds, vibrant spring greens, etc.).
Bernina Express vs. Glacier Express
If you’ve heard of the Glacier Express, you might wonder how it compares to the Bernina Express.
Both trains offer amazing views, but they’re pretty different.
The Bernina Express is shorter, about 4.5 hours, and crosses into Italy.
The Glacier Express takes 8 hours and stays in Switzerland.
The Bernina Express has sharper climbs, more dramatic scenery, and no dining car (though snacks are available).
The Glacier Express is more about slow luxury and includes table service for meals.
If you want a short, scenic adventure, go for the Bernina Express.
If you want a longer ride with full service, the Glacier Express might be a better fit.
How to Book Tickets for the Bernina Express
Once you know where does the Bernina Express start and end, you’ve chosen a departure date, and you’ve mapped out your itinerary, the next step would be securing your seat on the train.
Thankfully, Bernina Express tickets are easy to book.
Start with the official Rhätische Bahn website.
You’ll need both a train ticket and a seat reservation.
The reservation can be made up to six months in advance, while the ticket itself can usually be bought about two months before travel.
If you have a Swiss Travel Pass or Eurail Pass, you’ll only need to make a seat reservation.
You can also book through platforms like SBB (Swiss Rail), Rail Europe, or Trainline.
Be sure to book early, especially if you’re traveling in summer or over the holidays.
Alternatively, if the process is a little overwhelming, you can work with a travel agent to book your seats.
A travel agent or travel advisor should be able to handle all the details and technicalities of booking a Bernina Express ticket for you.
How Early Should You Reserve Seats?
Try to reserve your seat as soon as reservations open—usually six months ahead.
Popular travel times fill up fast, especially for the panoramic seats.
If you wait too long, you might not get the best views or may miss your preferred date.
Plan Your Scenic Train Journey with Lemon Drop Travel Co
So, where does the Bernina Express start and end?
It starts in Switzerland and travels past absolutely breathtaking views before ending in Italy.
And if you need help securing a seat, give us a call!
At Lemon Drop Travel Co, we help you book your Bernina Express adventure from start to finish.
From your seat reservation to planning a full Switzerland or Italy itinerary, we make sure everything runs smoothly.
We help families, couples, and solo travelers turn bucket list ideas into real experiences—without the stress of planning.
Ready to ride through glaciers and across alpine bridges?
Reach out to Lemon Drop Travel Co today and let’s make it happen.