Bernina Express Guide: Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano
Illustration: a planning schematic, not a photograph or a geographical map. The diagram highlights the subject of this guide; it does not guarantee a specific train, stop, connection or ticket inclusion.
The Bernina Express connects Graubünden with Tirano in Italy. Decide first whether you want the longer journey from Chur or the shorter Bernina route from St. Moritz. The panoramic service and ordinary regional trains need different booking checks.
2026 route notice: RhB lists a diversion for Bernina Express trains 951 and 952 from 29 October to 13 November 2026, via Landquart, Klosters and the Vereina Tunnel to Pontresina. For those departures, do not assume the normal Albula route and Landwasser Viaduct are included.
Chur or St. Moritz?
| Starting point | Typical duration | Planning distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Chur | Around four hours | Normally includes the Albula and Bernina lines; check diversions |
| St. Moritz | Around two hours 15 minutes | Focuses on the Bernina line and does not include the Landwasser Viaduct |
These are planning durations, not a fixed departure timetable. Check the exact train and travel day before committing to a return connection or hotel. If the Landwasser Viaduct is your priority, verify that your selected service actually uses the Albula route.
Ticket and panoramic seat reservation
The panoramic journey requires the correct transport entitlement and a seat reservation. Check the current fare and supplement for your route and date with RhB. Historical base prices or one quoted summer supplement should not be treated as the cost of every departure.
If you hold a Swiss Travel Pass or another accepted pass, select the applicable entitlement in the operator’s booking process and check that the class matches. A fare discount does not necessarily reduce a reservation supplement. Add children correctly and check whether their seat needs a separate reservation.
Sales are released by timetable period. On 11 October 2026, RhB’s page stated that travel after 12 December 2026 would be opened on 13 October. Use the live booking calendar for later trips instead of assuming a universal six-month reservation window.
First class, second class or regional trains?
Compare the actual seating plan, party size and available seats before paying for a higher class. Both ordinary first- and second-class panoramic accommodation are designed for viewing the landscape; paying more does not guarantee better weather or a clear photograph.
Regional trains can be a useful alternative when you want intermediate stops. Search a complete regional itinerary and check changes, ticket validity and equipment rules. Do not assume that every modern regional carriage has opening windows. Keep cameras and belongings inside the train.
Tirano, onward travel and the bus to Lugano
Tirano is in Italy. Carry the travel documents required for your nationality and itinerary, and allow time for any onward journey. The Bernina Express Bus to Lugano is a separate reservable service with its own operating calendar. Book the exact connecting departure rather than relying on an old example time.
For a same-day return, search both directions before booking the first leg. For a more relaxed trip, compare an overnight stay in the Engadine or Tirano and the total cost of reaching your next destination.
Luggage and accessibility
RhB notes that luggage storage is limited. Pack so you can manage each transfer independently, or arrange an appropriate luggage service. Self-service bicycle carriage is not allowed on the Bernina Express; regional services have their own rules.
Wheelchair-accessible seats and assistance require contact with RhB’s supported reservation service. Confirm the entire journey, including any bus or onward train, rather than assuming one accessible segment makes every connection suitable.
Compare this journey with the Glacier Express and the scenic-route overview.
Official sources and update note
Facts checked on 11 October 2026. Timetables, fares, availability and conditions may change; verify the selected travel date before purchase.
