The Bernina Express
Travel from Italy to Switzerland on the Bernina Express, crossing the Bernina Pass on the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway.
Enjoy this bucket-list-worthy journey on the local trains for fewer crowds and more views of the diverse landscapes, or on the famed Bernina Express panoramic train.
Highlights of the route include the Landwasser Viaduct, a striking stone bridge that arches over a deep gorge, and the spiraling Brusio Circular Viaduct. You'll also cross the Bernina Range, reaching an elevation of 2,253 meters at the Bernina Pass.
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed route promises an unforgettable adventure, watching foothills and valleys pass you by.
The local train
The local Bernina route trains follow the exact same scenic route as the panoramic train, but offer much more flexibility.
The panoramic service
Take the Bernina Express if you want a single sightseeing journey with large panoramic windows, comfortable seating and minimal stops.
If everyone takes one train trip in their lives, I hope it's through the Swiss Alps. I've never seen anything that compares. The local train was far superior to the Bernina Express: less crowded, open windows, and really nice locals to talk to.
- Ivey, May 2025
The train across the Alps from Lecco to Chur was indescribably breathtaking (and especially nice on the local, rather than the more crowded Bernina Express), thank you Byway! This was a truly EPIC holiday for us.
- Susana and Timmy, May 2025
If you’re thinking about taking the Bernina express, just take the regular train. Same views and the windows open on the train! Mountains, cheese and wine, who could ask for anything more?
- Tara, December 2025
Byway excursions
Short on time? Trip already booked?
Explore our slow travel excursions: classic routes distilled into short breaks that slot neatly into your holiday.
Glacial lakes, plunging valleys and one of Europe's great mountain passes, on the perfect side quest. Cross, loop or wind through the Bernina on a mini-trip within a trip, departing from Milan, Turin or Bologna.
We generally recommend booking your trip to Switzerland 4–6 months in advance, particularly if you’re traveling from the UK or crossing France on high-speed services like TGV Lyria, which require seat reservations and sell out quickly.
Book local trains on the Bernina route four months in advance.
These are regular regional services that operate throughout the day, all year round, which gives you fantastic flexibility.
If you’re traveling with an Interrail or Eurail pass, reservations aren’t required on local trains, but where available we’ll book one to secure the best seats. You’ll still have the flexibility to hop off along the route and continue on a later train without a reservation.
With point-to-point tickets, availability is usually good, making this the most relaxed and flexible way to experience the route.
Book the Bernina Express panoramic trains six to nine months in advance.
If the panoramic service is a must-do for you, then booking well in advance is essential.
Seats often sell out months ahead, especially during peak season.
Reservations are always required, whether you’re using an Interrail/Eurail pass or a point-to-point ticket, and flexibility is much more limited compared to the local trains.
Journal
The Rhaetian Railway in Switzerland is one of the most scenic railway lines in the world, with the famed Bernina Express travesing its tracks, alongside flexible local trains. Read our guide to learn more about the Bernina Express route, the trains that you can take and the stops to be explored along the way.
To find out why we love local trains, read our blog all about why they're the backbone of regional rail networks and can offer a better travel experience.
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