A Swiss train line with protected status is widely considered to be the most beautiful train journey in the world. The Bernina Express, operated by the Rhaetian Railway, is renowned as one of the most spectacular train journeys globally.
Running between Chur or Davos/St. Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy via the Bernina Pass, this scenic route covers 90 miles (155km) of stunning landscapes, including icy panoramas, dramatic peaks, and sunny Italian vistas, captivating passengers over a four-hour journey.
The train traverses 55 tunnels, crosses 196 bridges, and tackles steep gradients of up to one in seven. Its year-round operation includes daily departures from Chur and Tirano, with increased services during peak summer months, providing convenient travel options posted online.
What distinguishes this 120-year-old line, part of the Rhaetian Railway, is its UNESCO World Heritage status, recognising its remarkable engineering feats in piercing through the Alpine terrain, the Mirror reports.
Highlighted as the most picturesque train voyage by travel specialists at JR Pass, the Bernina Express showcases breathtaking landmarks like the Landwasser Viaduct, a towering bridge spanning a deep gorge, which may evoke awe or even vertigo in some passengers.
The railway track weaves through the landscape like a serpent, embracing verdant lakes and descending sheer slopes toward quaint Alpine villages such as St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Poschiavo, offering opportunities for exploration.
As the train ascends to the Bernina Pass summit at 2,253 metres (7,391 feet) above sea level, passengers are treated to magnificent mountain vistas.
However, the journey’s price tag may deter some, with the cheapest ticket just under £60, and an additional £40 for panoramic carriage seats – which are seats with extra large windows to take in the views.
Nonetheless, the Bernina Express ensures comfort with amenities like air conditioning, plush seating, and onboard catering. Travellers who have been on board have called the ride an “amazing and beautiful experience”.
One user wrote on TripAdvisor: “What an amazing trip. Excellent train trip. The scenery was amazing. The train was comfortable and had great 1st Class carriages. Staff were friendly.”
A second user said: “It was the 8th of December, 2023. We took the Bernina Express from Chur, and experienced the most majestic 8 hours train ride to Tirano, Italy and back. The landscapes were amazing, from the color of winter to autumn to greens.”
A third user said: “What an amazing and beautiful experience! I cannot recommend it enough. We did the Chur to Tirano leg and it was simply wow! Seats were really comfortable and plenty of luggage space. Best part of the trip was that we had a quick 15 minute stop at the highest point which was unexpected but so welcomed. I would recommend this experience to anyone who wants to see some epic scenery.”