Many people who travel to Switzerland ask: is Bernina Express worth it?
Bernina Express belongs to one of the most well-known scenic railways in the world. As part of Rhaetian Railways, Bernina Express takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Bernina Alps along the historical pass known since the Middle Ages.
In graceful twists and turns, the red cars of Bernina Express traverse the hills and valleys of Eastern Switzerland across the Italian border. Along the way, not only can we admire the stunning alpine landscapes but also marvel at the engineering achievements that made this journey possible.
Here are the five facts that will answer the question: is Bernina Express worth it?
The splendor of the Bernina Alps
It is not without reason that this railway is considered one of the most picturesque in the world. Starting in Chur, the Bernina Express snakes through the narrow Albula Valley climbing over Albula pass in impressive loops and flourishes.
After St. Moritz, the railway passes through the wide Pontresina valley, surrounded by snow-capped, over 3000-meter-high peaks. Soon, it reaches a plateau at Ospizio Bernina, the highest point in this journey, taking its name after an old Italian word ospizio meaning “hostel.”
After that, the train starts its spectacular downward journey through the valley of Poschiavo and crosses the border to Italy at Tirano. Although only two hours long, the Bernina Express offers a true feast for the eyes with sky-high peaks, vast grasslands, and crystal-blue lakes glistening in the sun.
An Engineering Marvel
Bernina Express runs on the highest railway tracks in Europe and the steepest ones in the world. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it still surprises with its genius and elegant solutions.
Crossing 196 bridges and 55 tunnels, the Bernina line is a true masterpiece of railway engineering that has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2008. So if you’re asking yourself, is Bernina Express worth it, While on board, look out for stone and suspension bridges, viaducts, loops, and other tricks used to make this experience possible.
Traveling through the Bernina Range becomes an adventure in itself, making the train ride not just a means of transportation but a journey to discovery of the marvels of modern engineering.
Travel In Style
Comfort and style are a hallmark of traveling with Bernina Express. The train’s panoramic windows ensure that passengers have unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes throughout the journey.
Comfortable seating, premium services, and dining options elevate the travel experience, making it a luxurious and enjoyable adventure. The blend of comfort and visual delight makes every moment aboard the Bernina Express a memorable one.
A Multicultural Experience
One of the unique aspects of the Bernina Express is its ability to provide a cross-cultural experience that you can embark on during a pleasant Bernina Express day trip.
Starting in German-speaking Chur at the heart of Eastern Switzerland, the train passes the Romanic-speaking areas around St. Moritz, before seamlessly traversing Italian-speaking valley of Poschiavio, ending its multicultural route in Italian Tirano.
Crossing borders between Switzerland and Italy, passengers experience a truly multilingual journey, a testimonial to the cultural and linguistic complexity of Switzerland.
As the train passes the mountain range, the passengers can also observe changes in the architectural styles that reflect the role of the mountains as a cultural and climate border.
A Piece Of History
The Bernina Express doesn’t just connect destinations; it takes travelers to historical and tourist landmarks, many of them significant for Swiss history, trade and tourism.
It starts in Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, inhabited already in Palaeolithic era, before being conquered by Romans and later by Helvetic tribes. It passes an ancient route through the mountains marked by generations of traders and travelers. It arrives in St. Moritz, the birthplace of winter tourism, and finally, traverses the Bernina Pass, with its historic hospice opened in 1865.
These places still live and breathe the fascinating history of the region. Bernina Express passes through the historical landmarks that have witnessed hundreds of years of on-foot and horseback travels. Riding this train blends the historical and the modern ways of traveling into a seamless experience.
Is Bernina Express Worth It?
In conclusion, the Bernina Express is not just a train ride; it’s a symphony of scenic beauty, engineering marvels, cultural richness, and luxurious comfort.
Is traveling with Bernina Express worth it? We believe the answer is more than clear. It’s an experience that transcends the ordinary, making it a must-try for any avid traveler. So, hop aboard, and let the Bernina Express take you on a captivating journey through the heart of the Alps.
11 Scenic Train Rides With ECHO Rails
ECHO Rails train tours blend history, nature and cultural elements into one seamless travel experience. Book our comprehensive, 12-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland and benefit from a range of amenities:
- 1st Class Swiss Pass
- Small groups (max 16 participants)
- English-speaking guides
- Luggage transfer
- Two nights in each location
- Authentic Swiss hotels
- 11 scenic train journeys
