Bernina Line
Alp Grüm station on Bernina line in December
Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring. This train line is gorgeous during the sunny, brilliant green months of summer, the glowing oranges and yellows of fall, the sparkling white elegance of winter, and the colorful blossoms of spring. I frequently travel on parts of this line, and I’m always amazed how it changes from week to week and from month to month. The beauty of the line is not confined to any season; it is always an awe inspiring experience from full cloud cover to glorious sunshine.
Bernina line in October
Not only is the weather setting diverse, but the landscape and climate changes along a single train ride. The journey begins in the alpine city of Chur and winds through the mountains in an incredible fashion, through a carousel of tunnels and dainty viaducts and past magnificent mountains, glittering lakes, and breathtaking glaciers. After reaching heights of 2,253 meter, the little red train slinks down towards the Italian town of Tirano. From there, a post bus can take you to Lugano via Lago di Como (reservation mandatory for the bus).
The train line can be done as part of a normal regio-line or as part of the panoramic “Bernina Express”. Therefore, there are plenty of options to fit the line exactly to your wishes. During the summer, the line will offer a panoramic open air car, which is perfect to absorb and experience the scenery while taking clear, unhindered pictures.
Passing Lago Bianco on Bernina Line in an open air train car in August
The panoramic cars of the Bernina Express offer large windows to take in views; however, a secret tip for the regular cars is that the windows slide down, so you can take beautiful sunset pictures without any pesky reflections.
Sliding window on the Bernina line in December while passing Lago Bianco
You can also choose just to parts of the trip, since it can be a super long trip if you are starting from Zurich or outside the canton of Graubünden. Alp Grüm is the last classic alpine stop if you are only interested in the mountains and glaciers. This spot is perfect to turn around at since it offers regular connections where you can enjoy a marvelous view or even fondue or a coffee while you wait at the restaurant near the station.
Fondue with a view at Alp Grüm in December
Another enjoyable stop that is earlier is Morteratsch, where you can take an easy walk towards the breathtaking glacier views. You can find more about this experience under the hiking section.
View of Morteratsch Glacier from the Bernina Express
Waterfalls just past Morteratsch as seen from the train
Morteratsch in October
Full line (Train + Bus): Chur -> Tirano -> Lugano (9h 2m)
Full line (Train only): Chur -> Tirano (4h 17m)
Shortest version: Chur -> Morteratsch (2h 15m) - only Regio trains stop here!
Mountains only version (my favorite): Chur -> Alp Grüm (2h 27m)
Link to the RhB website to book Bernina Express reservations: RhB Bernina Express
If not reserving a bus spot or a panorama car ticket then normal SBB tickets will suffice.