Train Travel in Switzerland – Discover the Most Scenic Routes
Bernina Express – 4 Days from Chur to the Engadin
Explore the stunning scenery at a leisurely pace by train and stay at select Swiss Quality Hotels along the route.
The ABC Swiss Quality Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Chur train station and is the ideal starting point for your train journey. After a spectacular ride through Graubünden, the historic Schweizerhof Swiss Quality Hotel awaits you in the heart of St. Moritz—the perfect base for exploring the Engadin.
Start your journey in Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city. Explore the car-free old town with its winding alleys, historic buildings, and cozy cafés. A stroll along the banks of the Rhine or a ride on the mountain railway up to Brambrüesch offers breathtaking views of the Graubünden mountains.
After breakfast, your scenic ride on the Bernina Express begins. The route takes you past deep gorges and imposing viaducts and through the breathtaking Grisons mountain landscape all the way to St. Moritz. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of lakes and Alpine peaks time and again.
After you arrive, you’ll have time for a stroll along Lake St. Moritz or through the elegant village center. Both the Hotel Schweizerhof St. Moritz and the Hauser Hotel St. Moritz are centrally located in the heart of St. Moritz, making them ideal starting points for exploring the town on foot.
Today you’ll experience one of the most spectacular stretches of the Bernina route. The train travels along the UNESCO World Heritage section of the Rhaetian Railway, past the Morteratsch Glacier, over the Bernina Pass, and across the famous Brusio Circular Viaduct to Tirano, Italy.
Spend the afternoon strolling through the historic old town and soaking up the Italian atmosphere before returning to St. Moritz in the evening on the regional train or the Bernina Express.
Discover the stunning mountain and lake scenery of the Upper Engadine. For example, take a trip to Muottas Muragl, Corviglia, or Diavolezza, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Engadine lakes.
Your journey then continues to Sils Maria, idyllically situated between Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana. This charming Engadine village captivates visitors with its authentic atmosphere, traditional houses, and a unique mountain backdrop. Spend the afternoon strolling through the village or along Lake Sils. You’ll spend the night at the centrally located Hotel Post Sils Maria or the historic Hotel Edelweiss Sils Maria—two charming hotels that perfectly complement the special ambiance of the Engadine.
More about the regions
Chur
Sils Maria
Between alpine lakes, cultural heritage and peaceful mountain landscapes, Sils Maria offers an unforgettable stay with Swiss Quality Hotels.
St Moritz
FAQ
The trip from Chur to Tirano takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes. From St. Moritz, the travel time is about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Yes. For the Bernina Express, a seat reservation is required in addition to a valid ticket. There is a fee for this, and it is recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
The Bernina Express is a wonderful experience all year round. In spring and summer, you’ll be greeted by green valleys and alpine landscapes in bloom; in fall, by vibrant colors; and in winter, by snow-covered mountain panoramas.
Among the most impressive sights are the Landwasser Viaduct, the Morteratsch Glacier, the Bernina Pass, Lago Bianco, and the famous Brusio Circular Viaduct. The route is part of the Rhaetian Railway UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Along the Bernina Express route, the Hotel Steffani in St. Moritz and the Hotel Albris in Pontresina, among others, are ideal starting points for your trip.
Yes. The Bernina Express is well connected to the Swiss rail network and can be easily reached by public transportation—a car is not necessary.
Yes. The ride on the Bernina Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. However, the mandatory seat reservation must be paid for separately.
