Yulia - Travel Expert
- Alpine weekend aboard the Bernina Express
- Panoramic itinerary listed by UNESCO
- Peaks, viaducts, and spectacular scenery
Discover a four-day itinerary in Switzerland and Italy, from Chur to Tirano via the Bernina Express train, with breathtaking Alpine scenery.
COIRE
Individual arrival in Basel or Zurich.
Your Swiss weekend begins with a regular train to the city of Chur, the oldest city in the Confederation, which boasts a rich and fascinating history dating back millennia. The St. Lucius Cathedral, St. Martin’s Church, and the many medieval buildings in the old town bear witness to Chur’s historical importance.
Beautiful Alpine landscapes are ever-present. There are numerous hiking trails for all levels, offering splendid views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the evening, enjoy Graubünden specialties at one of the city’s restaurants, such as Capuns.
Tirano
The morning is devoted to Swiss gems: the famous Bernina Express, often called the red train of the peaks. An unforgettable experience and one of the most beautiful ways to discover the Swiss Alps.
Admire the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps. The train crosses impressive engineering feats like the Landwasser Viaduct and the Brusio circular viaduct. It runs on the highest railway line in the Alps (reaching 2,253 m) and travels through this impressive mountain range from north to south, connecting Chur to Tirano. Take in views of the Morteratsch Glacier and the surrounding snow-capped peaks as the train begins its descent into Italy.
The Rhaetian Railway, with its Albula and Bernina lines, has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its remarkable engineering and harmonious integration into the Alpine landscape. Arrival in Tirano and check-in at the hotel for one night. Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Tirano and explore the picturesque streets of this small Italian town.
Coire
Depending on your preferences and schedules, take the regional train.
The return journey offers a different perspective on the landscapes crossed earlier in the day.
You begin the first leg with a short stop in Poschiavo, a charming town with distinct Italian architecture.
The journey continues to Alp Grüm, offering spectacular views of the Palü Glacier and Lago Palü, where you can stop to better enjoy the area.
Arrival in Chur. Free time.
If time allows, take the cable car from the city center up to Brambrüesch, a mountain that offers hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. The panoramic views over Chur and the surrounding Alps are impressive (an extra charge of 16 CHF to be paid at the ticket office).
Bale
After breakfast, take a regular train to Basel in just 2h20. You can leave your luggage at the luggage storage and enjoy a short visit to this beautiful city, often underestimated as a tourist destination but nevertheless fascinating. Stroll through Basel’s picturesque old town, famous for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Don’t miss the Rathaus (Town Hall) with its magnificent red façade and lively square. Explore Basel’s world-renowned museums, such as the Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts) with its impressive art collections.
A relaxing stroll along the Rhine closes out your weekend in Switzerland.
- Swiss Travel Pass 2nd class
- Reservation for the Bernina Express Train
- Public transport in all the cities along the route
- Accommodation in centrally located 3* hotels, based on the selected category
- Breakfasts
- Assistance from the Discovery Trains team
- Electronic version of the travel guide
- International transportation (by train or plane)
- Tourist taxes in hotels (to be paid on site)
- Single supplement in hotels
- Lunches and dinners
- Guide for excursions
- Private transfers between the train stations and hotels if necessary (most of the time, hotels are located close to the station)
- Optional insurance
- First class train supplement
- 4* hotel supplement
- Printed version of the travel booklet sent by mail (+ €12)
