Quick Facts
About This Journey
The Bernina Express travels the highest railway crossing in the Alps without any rack-and-pinion assistance. From Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy, this remarkable 144-kilometer journey climbs to 2,253 meters at the Bernina Pass before descending through palm-lined landscapes into Italy.
The route is part of the Rhaetian Railway, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Highlights include the famous Brusio Spiral Viaduct, the turquoise Lake Bianco, and the dramatic descent through Val Poschiavo. The panoramic cars provide stunning 360-degree views.
বাংলায় পড়ুন
বার্নিনা এক্সপ্রেস আল্পস পর্বতমালার সর্বোচ্চ রেলপথ দিয়ে চলে, কোনো র্যাক-এন্ড-পিনিয়ন সহায়তা ছাড়াই। সুইজারল্যান্ডের চুর থেকে ইতালির টিরানো পর্যন্ত ১৪৪ কিলোমিটার পথে ২,২৫৩ মিটার উচ্চতায় পৌঁছে। এটি ২০০৮ সালে ইউনেস্কো বিশ্ব ঐতিহ্যবাহী স্থান হিসেবে মনোনীত হয়েছে।
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008
- Highest Alpine railway crossing without rack-and-pinion
- 55 tunnels and 196 bridges
- Famous Brusio Spiral Viaduct
- Crosses from Switzerland into Italy
- Stunning turquoise Lake Bianco views
Best Time to Visit
May to October for the best visibility and full schedule
How to Book
Book tickets at the Rhaetian Railway website. Second class from CHF 64, first class from CHF 112. Swiss Travel Pass covers the fare; reservation fee of CHF 14-25 still applies.
Visit Official Booking Site →Travel Tips
- Combine with the Glacier Express for the ultimate Swiss rail experience
- The route operates year-round but summer offers the widest schedule
- Sit on the left side (Chur to Tirano) for the best views
- Don't miss the Brusio Spiral Viaduct near Tirano
- From Tirano, you can continue by bus to Lugano
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Bernina Express and Glacier Express?
The Bernina Express (Chur-Tirano, 4 hours) crosses into Italy and reaches the highest Alpine crossing. The Glacier Express (Zermatt-St. Moritz, 8 hours) stays within Switzerland. Both are panoramic but offer different landscapes.
Is the Bernina Express covered by Swiss Travel Pass?
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass covers the base fare. You only need to pay the seat reservation fee (CHF 14-25) for the panoramic cars.
Can I take regular trains on the Bernina route?
Yes, regular Rhaetian Railway trains run the same route without mandatory reservation, and are included in the Swiss Travel Pass at no extra cost.
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