Best starting point for Bernina train ?

I am trying to work my way through the copius amounts of info on various sites, on the Bernina train, and just wanted some input from anyone who has done that trip. We will already have driven to our place in northern Italy and cant decide if driving back to Milan or Varenna is better for the start of the trip. Does anyone know what the parking is like at both ? Is it close to the station ? Is the route Varenna to Tirano, change trains then Tirano to Chur, then change onto the Bernina line ? Then the reverse coming back the following day ? or can we do this with less trains ? The more I look into it the more confusing it seems ! Thinking of doing this in mid May or poss September. Thanks for any help !

Hi suegerr,

Where in Italy are you based? Are you looking for a day trip or can you stay the night somewhere? If you can, Lugano (Switzerland) is a good starting point for the following route:

• Bernina Express bus from Lugano to Tirano
• Bernina Express train from Tirano to Chur
• Stay the night in Chur
• Train to Andermatt (part of the Glacier Express route)
• Train from Andermatt to Göschenen, then change for Lugano.

All Bernina Express information can be found here: myswissalps.com/berninaexpress.

Do not drive into Milan, unless you're really familiar in town. It's very hectic, not a good experience at all. You can drive to Varenna, and I think there's parking at the station, but probably not a lot of places. And it's not a good base for the round trip suggested above because it takes a long time to get back there.

I hope this helps you out!

You're welcome! The suggested round trip allows you to see a lot more than just the Bernina line. If that's what you want, Lugano is a good place to start as that's where the direct bus to Tirano departs (10:00 AM). It's a 2.5 hour drive from Lake Iseo, but be sure to take enough time in order to not miss the bus, as you have to book seats for it. The Bernina Express train needs to be booked in advance as well. The link I gave you explains it all. The rest of the trip does not need to be booked in advance, unless you prefer to take the Glacier Express from Chur to Andermatt. There are regular trains on the same line too; you're more flexible that way. Regarding parking, please look here and here.