from RhB Redaktion in In a nutshell
The Bernina Line is one of Rhaetian Railway’s most impressive routes. On the journey between St. Moritz and Tirano, high Alpine landscapes, glaciers, the deep-blue Lago Bianco and the Italian way of life alternate almost seamlessly. So it’s no surprise that this trip is right at the top of the wish list of passengers from all over the world. Demand on individual routes can therefore be correspondingly high. However, with the right preparation, you’ll have more time to enjoy the scenery and the journey itself.
Good planning makes the difference
1. Choose the right travel day
The Bernina Line is particularly busy at weekends and on public holidays, while demand is generally lower from Monday to Thursday. If you are flexible, you have more leeway and can approach your journey in a more relaxed way.
From Friday to Sunday, it is also worth taking a look at the time of day: morning connections are particularly in demand when travelling north, afternoon connections when travelling south. An earlier or later departure can therefore be a good alternative.
Practical tip:
The online timetable and the SBB app indicate high demand when trains are busy.
2. Make your reservation as early as possible
The earlier you plan your trip, the more flexibility you have when it comes to the day of travel, connection and seat.
A seat reservation in the panoramic car is mandatory on the Bernina Express. You also need a valid ticket for the selected route. If you are travelling with a GA travelcard, Swiss Travel Pass or 1-day travelpass, you only need to book your seat. If you want to travel on a specific day, it is advisable to book in good time, as popular routes get fully booked quickly.
Seat reservations are optional on the regional trains of the Bernina Line, but are strongly recommended due to high demand. A seat reservation costs five francs per person; you also need a valid ticket. The same applies here: if you book early, you have more planning certainty and can approach your journey in a more relaxed way.
Good to know: Tickets for the Bernina Express and regional trains can generally be purchased six months before travel. Seat reservations are possible for the entire timetable period. The connections for the upcoming timetable period will usually be activated for online booking between the middle and end of October.
3. Make sure to allow a bit of a cushion
The Bernina Line is an experience, not a sprint. Especially during peak travel periods, it is worth not planning your itinerary too tightly. Services on routes in high demand may be busier, and there may be waiting times at Tirano and St. Moritz stations when passenger numbers are high. If you allow plenty of time, you will travel with greater peace of mind and can stay relaxed even when things get busier once you’re there.
This is particularly the case if you have planned connections, restaurant reservations, group programmes or a return journey on the same day. Make a conscious effort to leave some space between the individual items on your itinerary and check your connection in the online timetable or the SBB app before travelling.
4. Discover other RhB experiences with a view
There is no question that the Bernina Line is one of the most fascinating railway routes in the Alps. A trip on the Bernina Line is and will remain unique. At the same time, it’s worth taking a look beyond the well-known route. After all, the RhB network offers many other experiences that are impressive in terms of scenery and provide surprising new perspectives on the Swiss canton of Graubünden.
Our tip:
The RhB Experience Finder helps you discover suitable excursions, routes and sights. Choose what suits your travel plans and find a railway experience that opens up new perspectives.
The most important tips at a glance:
Choose your day of travel carefully: If possible, travel during the week and avoid peak days.
Note the time of day: From Friday to Sunday, morning connections should be avoided when travelling north and afternoon connections should be avoided when travelling south.
Book early: Popular dates on the Bernina Express in particular are quickly booked up.
Reserve a regional train: Seat reservations are recommended between St. Moritz and Tirano.
Allow plenty of time: Make sure you allow plenty of time for connections or a return journey on the same day.
Check capacity: Please note the information in the online timetable and the SBB app.
Discover alternatives: Other RhB routes also offer impressive views.