Unforgettable Train Journey from Italy to Switzerland: Ride the Bernina Express Through Heaven on Earth

A Journey to Heaven on Earth

Come with me to Switzerland today. We will enjoy a wonderful journey by train from Italy to this state known as Heaven on Earth. In this blog, we will experience mountains, valleys, lakes, and forests, along with the cycle of 2–3 seasons in the same journey. Many surveys have rated this route as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Enjoy the entire blog from start to end. I hope you have a great experience.

Starting Our Adventure in Italy

Welcome to Italy, a country famous for its mountains, freshwater lakes, and various natural wonders. Our journey today begins in Italy and takes us across the border into Switzerland.

At the Koliko Train Station

I am now at a train station called Koliko, located in the northern part of Italy. At this time, the clouds have gathered, creating a very cold, cloudy environment all around. I arrived here after about an hour and a half drive from Milan. From Koliko station, I take a train to a region called Tirano. Then, from Tirano, I board the Bernina Express to travel through Switzerland.

Scenic Views Along Lake Como

Some time later, the train arrived. I purchased a second-class ticket, and even in this category, the seat quality is excellent. I have come some distance from Milan to enjoy the beautiful scenery along Lake Como. From here, under the cloudy sky, I can see the shadows of the clouds on the green hills of Italy.

Welcome to Tirano – The Mountain Gateway

Now I am at Tirano, a city surrounded by mountains. It’s a very beautiful city. You can already see many passengers with large backpacks, which suggests they are heading toward Switzerland. Upon arriving in Tirano, I looked for a restaurant for lunch. As train delays are possible in Italy, I booked a ticket with a two-and-a-half-hour layover before catching the train to Switzerland. We already experienced a one-hour delay on the previous journey. I bought some pasta—pizzas are priced at 8–9 euros, and pastas are above 10.

Crossing into Switzerland

Although still in Italy, the station and train are considered part of Switzerland. The train was already waiting there. I will share all the details about timing and cost. Initially, I mistakenly got into the back coach.

Boarding the Bernina Express

The name of the train is the Bernina Express—a world-famous train. It runs from Italy into Switzerland, traveling between the two countries. The train departed at exactly 2:24 PM. Immediately after departure, we were surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. I sat in a first-class seat to enjoy the view. The train stops at only two places—some passengers get off at St. Moritz, but our destination is Chur.

The Famous Brusio Spiral Viaduct

The entire journey takes about four hours, and those getting off at St. Moritz have a roughly two-hour trip. One of the most fascinating man-made structures on this route is the Brusio Spiral Viaduct in Switzerland. Built in 1908, this viaduct helps the train manage a steep descent of about 400 feet using a spiral curve. As we climbed higher, I saw snow-capped mountains in the distance through green valleys. What a beautiful feeling!

Entering the Swiss Alps

It was announced that we had crossed 1,000 meters—meaning the train had climbed nearly 3,000 feet. As we entered Switzerland, everything changed. The Italian mountains transformed completely. It’s amazing how beautiful the world can be!

From Green Valleys to Icy Peaks

Today’s journey is all about pleasing the mind. Though it takes time, it’s worth it for the incredible beauty of the world. We leave the green kingdom behind and head into a world of ice. Yes, you heard that right.

A Ride Through the UNESCO World Heritage Route

This train passes glaciers thousands of feet high. In 2008, two parts of this rail journey were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Over four hours, we pass 196 bridges, 55 tunnels, and climb up to 7,000 feet. There are options to sit in first or second class.

A Snowy Wonderland

Now the scenery has completely changed—we are passing through areas fully covered in snow. I saw a frozen lake. Nearly everyone on the train was thrilled. We were crossing the Bernina Pass. It’s incredible to see a snowy landscape under a sunny blue sky just hours after being in green hills. The climb is intense, and now the train is descending. During this journey, I’ve seen rain, snow, and lush greenery.

Switzerland’s Natural Canvas

This diverse environment reflects the transition of Switzerland from spring to summer. In some places, green grass carpets the ground. The mix of all these elements makes Switzerland feel like an enchanting wonderland. As I cross bridges and tunnels, I feel a deep connection to nature, even expressing my love for this heaven by watching raindrops fall on a cloudy day.

Crossing a Historic Tunnel

It was announced that we are about to pass through a historic tunnel that is 5.5 kilometers long. After this tunnel, we are nearing the end of our 144 km journey.

Engineering Marvel of the Alps

This descent—over a continuous 12 km stretch—takes the train thousands of feet down. The Bernina Express is an engineering marvel, and its incredible design earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008. Since the trip lasts four hours, many passengers walk around instead of staying seated the whole time.

Swiss Chocolate and Cultural Crossings

We were given some Swiss chocolate again. It was announced that one reason for the train’s UNESCO status is that it crosses 19 communities from start to finish. Two countries, 19 communities—it also has cultural significance in addition to natural beauty.

Arrival at Chur

The time is now 6:18 PM, and we’ll disembark by 6:22 PM at the Chur station. Let me share how I managed to get about 120 Swiss francs for half price. Basically, we bought a Half Fare Card for 120 CHF, which allows us to travel anywhere in Switzerland at half the price. We have already saved 110 CHF thanks to this card. The train ticket cost us 55 CHF, and seat reservation (which is compulsory) cost 24 CHF.

Journey Continues to Interlaken

We’ve arrived at our destination and are now getting off the train. I need to switch trains now. The next train is already here, taking us from Chur to Zurich. From there, we’ll transfer again to reach Interlaken. This part of the trip also cost us 55 CHF.

Final Thoughts on the Bernina Express

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog about how I traveled from Italy to Switzerland on the Bernina Express. I’ve shared detailed information that I hope will be helpful to you. Please leave a comment with your valuable opinion. Thank you all!