How long does the journey on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano take?

The journey on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano takes around four to four and a half hours. The journey time on the St. Moritz–Tirano route is approximately two and a half hours. Combined journeys involving the Bernina Express Bus, such as Tirano–Lugano, take around three hours in total. The longest direct journey, Chur–Tirano–Lugano, usually takes a full day.

What is the most scenic route on the Bernina Express?

The Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur, the highest point of the route at Ospizio Bernina at 2,253 m, and the Brusio Circular Viaduct just before Tirano are considered particularly impressive sections of the Bernina Express. These sections of the route highlight the contrasting landscapes of the Bernina Line particularly clearly.

When is the best time to take the Bernina Express?

The Bernina Express can be used all year round, although the time of year has a significant impact on the experience. In winter, the journey is characterised by snow and high-mountain scenery, whilst in summer it is dominated by green valleys, mountain lakes and longer hours of daylight. The season, weather and daylight determine how well the route can be enjoyed.

Where can you buy tickets for the Bernina Express?

Tickets for the Bernina Express can be booked directly via the railtour Bernina Express website. There are several route options to choose from, including Chur–Tirano, St. Moritz–Tirano and combined journeys to Lugano.

Price per person from

358

CHF

Bernina Express

An impressive panoramic journey on the highest railway line in the Alps.

Enjoy the beauty of the Alps on board of the Bernina Express. The train travels through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway to Tirano (Italy), passing through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges. Through the panoramic windows you have a wonderful view of glaciers, mountain lakes and steep mountain slopes.

From Tirano (Italy) the Bernina Express bus takes you through the Valtellina and along Lake Como and Lake Lugano to Lugano. Experience a unique journey that takes you from majestic Alpine glaciers to Mediterranean palm trees.

Highlights

These two unique railway lines blend harmoniously into the landscape with spectacular feats of engineering including structures, tunnels and spiral viaducts.
The Landwasser Viaduct is one of the most iconic landmarks in Graubünden. This 142-metre-long, 65-metre-high bridge carries the railway in a sharp curve over the rugged Landwasser Valley, leading directly into a tunnel at the other end.
At 2'253 m, the highest train station of the Rhaetian Railway.
An engineering marvel on the Bernina Railway, designed to overcome steep gradients by allowing trains to gain elevation in a circular loop. This unique stone structure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features nine arches and is a key highlight of the Bernina Express journey. Its dramatic spiral design not only showcases ingenious railway construction but also offers passengers a moving 360 degree view of the surrounding landscape.
Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland and capital of canton Graubünden.
The birthplace of alpine winter holidays captivates with it'ss style, elegance and class.
With the historic old town and Italian charm.
The charming paradise on Lake Lugano.

Impressions

Impressions

Frequently asked questions

The journey on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano takes around four to four and a half hours. The journey time on the St. Moritz–Tirano route is approximately two and a half hours. Combined journeys involving the Bernina Express Bus, such as Tirano–Lugano, take around three hours in total. The longest direct journey, Chur–Tirano–Lugano, usually takes a full day.
The Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur, the highest point of the route at Ospizio Bernina at 2,253 m, and the Brusio Circular Viaduct just before Tirano are considered particularly impressive sections of the Bernina Express. These sections of the route highlight the contrasting landscapes of the Bernina Line particularly clearly.
The Bernina Express can be used all year round, although the time of year has a significant impact on the experience. In winter, the journey is characterised by snow and high-mountain scenery, whilst in summer it is dominated by green valleys, mountain lakes and longer hours of daylight. The season, weather and daylight determine how well the route can be enjoyed.
Tickets for the Bernina Express can be booked directly via the railtour Bernina Express website. There are several route options to choose from, including Chur–Tirano, St. Moritz–Tirano and combined journeys to Lugano.