Discover the ultimate day trip from Milan to the awe-inspiring destinations of Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the captivating Bernina Express route.
This one-of-a-kind excursion allows you to experience three iconic attractions in a single day, promising the perfect blend of Italian 'La Dolce Vita' and Swiss alpinism. You'll have the opportunity to explore the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz, immerse yourself in the dreamy beauty of Lake Como, and embark on the Bernina train ride along a UNESCO-listed route that treats you to picture-perfect views of the Swiss Alps.
However, with a multitude of tour options available, choosing the perfect day trip can be a bit overwhelming. That's where our carefully curated guide comes in. We've handpicked the finest tours and gathered indispensable tips to ensure your adventure is nothing short of unforgettable. Additionally, we provide practical insights, highlight the top activities at each enchanting location, and answer common questions.
Let's begin!
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Compare Top-Rated Tours & Prices for Your Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan
Find below our carefully curated comparison of the best Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trips departing from Milan. Our selection caters to a variety of preferences, ranging from standard tours to comprehensive full-day experiences that include features like boat rides. We also included a private excursion, and there's a budget option for those looking to economize or skip Lake Como.
Explore the convenient quick links below, ensuring effortless access. In addition, you'll discover detailed descriptions that highlight the unique features, inclusions, and pricing of every tour.
Quick Booking Links to 3 Top-Rated Tours
- Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Day Trip from Milan with Roundtrip-Transfer, Train Ticket & Private Boat Tour
- Milan Bernina Scenic Train ride on the Swiss Alps. Small-Group
- Lake Como, Swiss Alps and Bernina train. from Milan
Tour Descriptions
Departs from: BusForFun Fermata Milano Centrale in Piazza 4 Novembre, at the corner of the Hotel Gallia
Starting Time: 7:15 AM
Duration: approx. 13 hours
Language: Available in English and Spanish
- English speaking tour guide
- Transport
- Bernina train ticket
Departs from: In front of the bar „BAR CENTRALE“ located inside the Station Centrale FS, Piazza Duca d'Aosta, 20124 Milan
Starting Time: 08:00 AM
Duration: approx. 12 hours 45 min.
Language: Available in English
Participants: max. 16 travelers
- 2nd class standard Train ticket with opening windows for the St Moritz-Tirano route or vice-versa
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Round-trip transfers from Central train station (Hotel Gallia)
- Free time in Lake Como
- Shared tour: visit of Lecco
Departs from: Stazione Centrale M2 M3 (20124 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy)
Starting Time: 07:00 AM
Duration: approx. 13 hours
Language: Available in English
What is so Special about a Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip?
What makes the Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip truly exceptional is its fusion of three iconic attractions into one unforgettable journey. In the span of a single day, you'll explore both sides of the Italian-Swiss border while escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Discover the allure of Italy's hotspot Lake Como, where charming villages, pristine waters, and lavish villas embody Italian romance. Delve into Switzerland's treasures with a visit to the posh St. Moritz, a world-renowned alpine paradise nestled in the Swiss Alps.
On top of that, you get the chance to ride Europe's highest-altitude train, the Bernina Express, as it winds through dramatic gorges and crosses towering viaducts for a truly unique bucket-list experience.
So whether you are looking for a peaceful day in nature, a taste of the celebrity lake life, or an extraordinary day out with family or friends, the Lake Como, St. Moritz, and Bernina Express Day Trip offers an enchanting tapestry of experiences that will create unforgettable memories. Opt for a guided excursion to ensure a seamless, worry-free day, free from the hassles of planning or driving.
What to Do and See on a Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan?
Your Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip promises an array of captivating experiences. Here's what you can look forward to:
1. Lake Como
Located in Lombardy, Northern Italy, Lake Como is a tranquil haven in the Italian Alps beckons travelers with its picturesque charm. The serene waters of this lake are bordered by charming villages and historic villas, creating a dreamy backdrop that has drawn artists, writers, and many celebrities who own a luxury summer mansion along the beautiful shore.
Top destinations around the lake include the Instagram-worthy spot, Bellagio, and the colorful village of Varenna.
Top Things to Do and See at Lake Como:
- Embark on a boat tour along the calm waters of the lake and soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and quaint villages.
- Take a relaxing stroll on the beautiful lakeside promenades
- Enjoy the picture-perfectviews of the glittering waters, magnificent mansions, and lush gardens
- Savor local cuisine at a waterfront café or restaurant.
- Visit a historic villa, most notably Villa Balbianello in Tremezzina
- Discover the region's botanical treasures by exploring a botanical garden.
- Capture unforgettable souvenir photos, preferably at Bellagio, the Instagram-spot of Lake Como.
- Practice the Italian concept of "Dolce Far Niente," the sweetness of doing nothing. Simply unwind, soak in the serene ambiance, and savor the moment as you let Lake Como's tranquility wash over you.
2. St. Moritz
Nestled in Switzerland's Engadin Valley at a height of 1856 meters above sea level, St. Moritz is a posh Alpine resort town that exudes pure elegance and exclusivity. The iconic luxury destination, often referred to as "On Top of the World," has become synonymous with winter glamour and world-class skiing.
A hotspot for the European elite and celebrities, the mountain resort is famous for its blend of upscale charm, gourmet delights and natural splendor, making it a year-round destination like no other.
Top Things to Do and See in St. Moritz:
- Browse the local chocolatiers to sample exquisite Swiss chocolate.
- Indulge in high-end shopping at upscale boutiques and charming shops that line the picturesque streets.
- Sip a hot chocolate in one of the cozy cafés or sample culinary masterpieces at Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Soak up breathtaking vistas of scenic alpine mountains.
- Explore the Engadin Valley's natural beauty through its intricate network of hiking trails, revealing alpine meadows, dense forests, and hidden lakes.
- Enjoy Lake St. Moritz, whether it's a leisurely promenade or engaging in water sports like sailing and paddleboarding.
- For adrenaline seekers, St. Moritz provides world-class opportunities for skiing and snowboarding on immaculate slopes.
- After a day on the slopes, dive into the famous nightlife scene, complete with après-ski parties during the winter season.
3. Bernina Express
Connecting Switzerland with Italy, the Bernina Express stands as one of the world's most iconic trains, proudly claiming the title of the highest-altitude rail route in Europe. This scenic railway winds through stunning alpine landscapes, featuring glaciers, snow-capped peaks, charming villages, and dramatic viaducts. The journey traverses the cliff-clinging Bernina Pass, a UNESCO World Heritage route that sits 2253 meters above sea level and offers unparalleled views of the Swiss Alps.
The complete Bernina Express journey from Chur to Tirano (or vice versa) lasts 4 hours and 21 minutes, while traveling from St. Moritz to Tirano just takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. This extraordinary engineering marvel guarantees travelers an exceptional bucket-list experience, inviting them to discover the beauty of Switzerland's alpine landscapes, where every glance is a postcard-worthy moment.
Top Things to Do and See on the Bernina Express Train Ride:
- Board the luxurious Bernina "Red Train," and travel along one of the world’s idyllic railways.
- Be captivated by uninterrupted alpine views vistas, where every turn reveals a new masterpiece of natural beauty.
- Pass by monumental glaciers, cross steep gorges, and glide through tunnels under some of the area's most massive mountains.
- Learn about the regions, history, and culture through informative onboard commentary available in multiple languages.
- Capture the spectacular panoramic views of the landscape you pass from the comfort of your seat, thanks to huge panoramic windows
- Pass the highest-altitude station on the Rhaetian Railway, the station "Ospizio Bernina" that lies at 2253 meter above sea level
- Admire the quaint charm of alpine villages along the route, where time seems to stand still.
- Use the train as a gateway to explore charming towns like Tirano in Italy, where you can enjoy local cuisine and culture during a stopover.
What to Expect from a Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan?
Let's delve into some practical details that await you on a typical Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan, Italy:
When is the Best Time for a Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan?
An incredible experience awaits year-round for a Lake Como, St. Moritz and Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan. From late spring to early autumn (May to September), enjoy pleasant weather for exploring picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities.
The winter season, with its snow-blanketed scenery, creates a unique and equally enchanting ambiance. St. Moritz transforms into a bustling winter wonderland during this time.
Whether it's the warmth of summer or the serene snowscapes of winter, each season offers a distinct perspective on this remarkable journey.
7 Travel Tips for your Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan
Here are some travel tips to enhance your day trip to Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the Bernina Express:
- Secure Your Tickets in Advance: Tickets for this activity, especially during peak tourist seasons, can sell out quickly. Booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred date.
- Travel Documents: Ensure you have a current valid passport or European ID with you on the day of travel. This is essential for border crossings. If you hold a passport from a non-EU country, ensure you have a Schengen Visa. Without the correct Visa, entry to Switzerland may be denied.
- Dress Comfortably: Step into comfy shoes and consider an extra layer for St. Moritz, where it's cooler than Milan year-round. In winter, wrap up in a warm jacket, sturdy shoes, gloves, a scarf, and a hat to stay snug and comfy.
- Seating for the Best View: When boarding the Bernina Express, try to secure a seat on the side with the best views. To maximize your view of the stunning landscapes, choose the right-hand side of the train when traveling north and the left-hand side when traveling south on the Bernina Express.
- Onboard Dining Option: Consider grabbing lunch before you step onto the Bernina Express train and enjoying your meal while on the train. This approach allows you to make the most of your time in St. Moritz while savoring the scenic vistas from the coziness of your seat.
- Be ready for the journey: As you'll spend quite a few hours on a coach traveling between destinations, it's a good idea to bring along some snacks, a water bottle, and entertainment like a book or music to keep yourself engaged during the trip.
- Snap the Scenery: Remember to bring your camera or smartphone to seize the stunning landscapes on this day trip. The Bernina Express, in particular, offers clear photo chances that will keep your shutter busy. Don't overlook a portable charger to keep your devices juiced up during the adventure.
FAQ - Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip from Milan, Italy
Day trips covering all three iconic attractions typically range from €165 to €180 per person. These packages commonly include a second-class ride on the Bernina Express, round-trip transportation from Milan, and the services of a professional tour guide, sometimes even featuring a boat tour on Lake Como. Private tours' prices vary based on group size and inclusions.
For tours excluding Lake Como, focusing solely on a visit to St. Moritz and the second-class Bernina Express ride, you can find options priced around €130 to €140 per person.
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Absolutely! The Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Express Day Trip offers an enchanting blend of experiences. Whether you're yearning for a tranquil day in nature, a glimpse into the celebrity lifestyle, or an extraordinary outing with loved ones, this journey weaves unforgettable memories. It combines three iconic attractions into a single day, allowing you to explore both sides of the Italian-Swiss border while escaping the daily hustle and bustle. Choosing a guided excursion guarantees a seamlessly orchestrated, stress-free adventure.
To access the Bernina Express train from Milan, you can either take a train or drive to Tirano, a charming northern Italian town. From Tirano, embark on the Bernina Express, a journey lasting around 4 to 4.5 hours in total, or 2 hours and 15 minutes if you take the scenic journey to St. Moritz. Due to its popularity, it's crucial to check train schedules and book tickets well in advance. Consider guided tours for added convenience and insights into the region's culture and history, enriching your overall journey.
> Check the most popular day tours from Milan.
No, the Bernina Express does not stop at Lake Como. The Bernina Express primarily runs through the Swiss Alps, connecting cities like Chur and St. Moritz in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. Lake Como is not directly along the route of the Bernina Express. If you wish to visit Lake Como, we recommend a day tour departing from Milan that includes a guided visit to Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the Bernina Express train ride. This way, you can experience all three attractions in one seamless journey.
> Check the most popular day tours from Milan.