Chur to Tirano by Train
High-speed service · from €65.5
Route Overview: Chur to Tirano
The Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage route that crosses the Alps from Chur through St. Moritz and over the Bernina Pass into Tirano, Italy. In approximately four hours, the narrow-gauge panoramic train climbs from 585m to 2,253m and descends to 429m, crossing 196 bridges and passing through 55 tunnels.
The Albula and Bernina lines earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008 for their engineering achievements — including the Landwasser Viaduct (65m high, curving into a mountain tunnel), the Albula spiral tunnels (overcoming 400m altitude with helical tunnels), and the Brusio Circular Viaduct (a 360-degree loop). The highest point at Ospizio Bernina (2,253m) is the highest rail crossing in the Alps.
The Bernina Express runs daily all year round with no seasonal closure. Two route options are available: the full Chur to Tirano journey (~4 hours) or the shorter St. Moritz to Tirano section (~2 hours 12 minutes). Regular RhB regional trains also cover the same route hourly — the same UNESCO scenery without panoramic windows. The route crosses into Italy at Tirano, so a valid passport is required.
How Long Is the Chur to Tirano Train?
The direct Bernina Express (RhB) from Chur to Tirano takes approximately 4h 2m – 4h 32m, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Chur to Tirano Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €65.5 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Chur to Tirano?
Up to 6/day trains operate daily on the Chur to Tirano route.
Train Operator
Bernina Express (RhB)
Direct high-speed service · 4h 2m – 4h 32m max
Which Stations Serve the Chur to Tirano Route?
Chur
- Location: Capital of Graubünden, Switzerland's oldest city (5,000+ years)
- SBB InterCity from Zürich (1h 15m). RhB narrow-gauge connections throughout Graubünden.
Tirano
- Location: Lombardy, Valtellina valley, northern Italy
- Bernina Express Bus to Lugano via Lake Como (summer, separate reservation). Trenitalia regional to Milan via Sondrio.
What Classes Are Available on Chur to Tirano Trains?
2nd Class (Standard)
- Panoramic windows
- 2+2 seating configuration
- Audio guide in multiple languages
- Free WiFi
- At-seat meal service available (paid)
- Power outlets
1st Class (Comfort)
- Panoramic windows
- 2+1 leather seating, extra legroom
- Audio guide in multiple languages
- Free WiFi
- At-seat meal service available (paid)
- Fewer passengers per carriage
How to Book the Chur to Tirano Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class (Standard) class. Prices shown are based on ERA API data as of March 2026, starting from €37 (St. Moritz–Tirano) and €59 (Chur–Tirano). Actual prices vary by date, class, and availability.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Chur to Tirano Trains?
Passport Required
The Bernina Express crosses from Switzerland into Italy at Tirano. A valid passport is required for all passengers.
UNESCO World Heritage
The Albula and Bernina railway lines have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, recognized for their engineering harmony with Alpine landscapes. Key structures include the Landwasser Viaduct, Albula spiral tunnels, and Brusio Circular Viaduct.
Two Route Options
The full route runs from Chur to Tirano (~4 hours, from €59). A shorter option runs from St. Moritz to Tirano (~2h 12m, from €37). Both are available on EuroTrain.
Year-Round Daily Service
Unlike the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express runs daily all year round with no seasonal closure. Winter journeys through snow-covered passes offer a different experience.
Regular Train Alternative
RhB regional trains run the same UNESCO route hourly. They lack panoramic windows and catering but cover the same scenery at lower cost.
Highest Alpine Rail Crossing
The route reaches Ospizio Bernina at 2,253m above sea level — the highest rail crossing in the Alps. The train climbs from 585m (Chur) to 2,253m and descends to 429m (Tirano).
Bernina Express Bus Extension
In summer, a connecting bus runs from Tirano to Lugano along Lake Como. This extends the scenic journey but requires a separate reservation.
Swiss Currency
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). In Tirano (Italy), the Euro is used. Prices on EuroTrain are shown in EUR. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chur to Tirano
The full route from Chur to Tirano takes approximately 4 hours. The shorter St. Moritz to Tirano section takes about 2 hours 12 minutes.
Prices on EuroTrain start from €37 for the St. Moritz to Tirano section and from €59 for the full Chur to Tirano route. Prices vary by date, class, and availability.
Yes — the Albula and Bernina railway lines were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Yes — the route crosses from Switzerland into Italy. A valid passport is required for all passengers.
Yes — the Bernina Express operates daily all year round with no seasonal closure.
Ospizio Bernina at 2,253m above sea level — the highest rail crossing in the Alps.
Yes — RhB regional trains run hourly on the same tracks. They lack panoramic windows and catering but follow the same UNESCO World Heritage route.
The route includes the Landwasser Viaduct (65m high, curving into a mountain tunnel), Albula spiral tunnels (overcoming 400m altitude), Ospizio Bernina (2,253m peak), Palü Glacier views, and the Brusio Circular Viaduct (a 360-degree loop descending into Italy).