The Most Beautiful Train Journeys in Europe
The red train over the Alps
The Bernina runs from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy along the UNESCO listed Rhaetian Railway. It loops across the slender arches of the Landwasser Viaduct, climbs to 2253 metres at Ospizio Bernina with no rack and no cog, then spirals down the open Brusio circular viaduct into the vineyards of the Valtellina. It is the highest Alpine crossing of its kind and it runs all year, through deep winter snow and high summer green.
Distance
122 km Chur to Tirano
Duration
About 4 hours 15
Highest point
2253 m Ospizio Bernina
Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage line
Interrail
Covered with a paid reservation
Sit on the right leaving Chur for the Landwasser Viaduct and the long drop into Italy.
The pass covers the fare but the panoramic train needs a seat reservation booked ahead.