Chur to Tirano by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €65.5
Route Overview: Chur to Tirano
The Bernina Express is one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world, connecting the Swiss town of Chur with the Italian town of Tirano across the highest railway crossing in the Alps. The UNESCO World Heritage route climbs to 2,253 metres at the Bernina Pass without the use of rack-and-pinion, making it an engineering marvel.
The 4.5-hour journey in purpose-built panoramic carriages takes you through 55 tunnels, across 196 bridges, and past glaciers, Alpine lakes and the dramatic Landwasser Viaduct. From the snow-capped peaks of the Engadin to the palm trees of the Valposchiavo, the route traverses three language regions and descends over 1,800 metres into Italy.
The Rhaetian Railway operates 1-2 daily Bernina Express services depending on the season. Seat reservations are mandatory and start from CHF 40 per person on top of your rail ticket or Swiss Travel Pass.
How Long Is the Chur to Tirano Train?
The direct Rhaetian Railway (RhB) / Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano takes approximately 4h 30min, 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 1/day trains operate daily on the Chur to Tirano route.
Train Operator
Rhaetian Railway (RhB) / Bernina Express
Direct high-speed service · 4h 30min max
Which Stations Serve the Chur to Tirano Route?
Chur Bahnhof
- Main hub of the Rhaetian Railway network
- Connected to SBB mainline from Zurich (1h 15min)
Tirano Stazione
- Cross-platform connection to Trenord trains to Milan (2h 30min)
- Italian border town in Lombardy — bring valid ID
What Classes Are Available on Chur to Tirano Trains?
2nd Class Panoramic
- Extra-large panoramic windows
- Multilingual audio commentary
- Mini-bar trolley with Swiss snacks and drinks
- Complimentary Bernina Express souvenir gift box
- Power outlets at selected seats
1st Class Panoramic
- Extra-large panoramic windows
- More spacious seating with extra legroom
- Multilingual audio commentary
- Mini-bar trolley service
- Complimentary Bernina Express souvenir gift box
- Power outlets at every seat
How to Book the Chur to Tirano Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class Panoramic class. Prices shown are seat reservation fees. A valid Swiss rail ticket or rail pass is also required.
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?
Seat Reservation Mandatory
The Bernina Express requires a mandatory seat reservation (CHF 40 low season / CHF 44 high season) on top of your rail ticket or Swiss Travel Pass. Regular regional trains run the same route without reservation for budget travellers.
UNESCO World Heritage Route
The Rhaetian Railway Albula/Bernina line is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. The route crosses 196 bridges and passes through 55 tunnels between Thusis and Tirano.
Best Season
Summer (May-October) offers 2 daily services and the best visibility. Winter offers magical snow-covered landscapes but only 1 daily service. The route operates year-round.
Border Crossing
The train crosses from Switzerland into Italy. EU/EEA citizens need a valid ID card; others need a passport. No formal border control on the train, but random checks may occur.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chur to Tirano
The Bernina Express takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes from Chur to Tirano, covering 145 km through the Swiss and Italian Alps. The shorter St. Moritz to Tirano section takes about 2 hours 30 minutes.
You need a valid rail ticket plus a mandatory seat reservation. The reservation costs CHF 40 per person in low season (December-April) and CHF 44 in high season (May-October). If you do not hold a Swiss Travel Pass, a standard 2nd class ticket from Chur to Tirano costs approximately CHF 65.
Yes. Regular RhB regional trains run the identical Chur-Tirano route without panoramic cars or reservations. You can break the journey at St. Moritz, Poschiavo or other stops along the way. This is a popular budget alternative.
Sitting on the left side (when travelling from Chur to Tirano) gives the best view of the Landwasser Viaduct. However, highlights alternate between both sides throughout the journey, so both offer excellent scenery.
The Bernina Express has wheelchair-accessible carriages with designated spaces. Advance booking is recommended to secure an accessible spot. Contact Rhaetian Railway directly for assistance arrangements.