Which One is Better? Bernina Express Vs Glacier Express

Bernina Express runs between Northern Italy and Switzerland, and on the other hand, Glacier Express runs between St. Moritz and Zermatt. The Bernina Express is preferable due to its shorter journey, stunning mountain scenery, and the opportunity to cross into Italy, offering a unique and picturesque experience. Bernina Express and Glacier Express both have panoramic windows. But they both have some differences.

Bernina Express and Glacier Express are both well-known as panoramic trains in Switzerland.

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Bernina Express VS Glacier Express

If you are in Switzerland, then taking the panoramic train to view landscape scenery should be on your bucket list.

The train network is fantastic, and you will get a charming view from your seat. Let’s have a look quick comparison table for Bernina Express vs. Glacier Express. 

FactsBernina ExpressGlacier Express
The route detailsBernina Express takes four hours for a 144 km journey.Glacier Express takes eight hours to complete 290 km. And that’s why Glacier Express is known as the slowest train in the world. 
Train ExperienceBernina Express train is very comfortable and they provide basic service. On the other hand, Glacier Express is too luxurious, and you will get the onboarding experience.
Ticket CostThe ticket price of The Bernina Express is – 63 CHF for 2nd class and 111 CHF for 1st class, which is fair for normal people. This journey starts from Tirano to Chur.Glacier Express’s ticket price follows 152 CHF for 2nd class and 268 CHF for 1st class. This cost is expensive for many people.

The Route & Views

The Bernina Express: From Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland, Bernina Express takes a total of four hours, and that is a total 144 km journey.

Though there are different routes from Tirano, which will take 2.5 hours, you will have to take a different train. So before making any booking, make sure which train express you are taking. 

You will get an opportunity for a stunning view from your seat. That view would be really worth taking the express journey.

If you are traveling to the north, take the left side of your train. And if you are moving to the south, take the right side of your journey

Bernina Express train picture is shown during winters and snowy conditions
Source: Pontresina

The Glacier Express: The journey of the Glacier Express takes eight hours, and that is much longer to reach your destination.

It runs between Moritz and Zermatt. In the world, The Glacier Express is known as the slowest express train.

It is really difficult to claim which side is the best side of the train. Why? As it changes direction frequently and when you are booking your seat, they will not give your desired seat plan. But while booking the seat, try to take the window seat so that you can enjoy the view on your journey.

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Glacier Express train seat view

For getting the best views you can unthinkingly choose Bernina Express. Of Course, Glacier Express also provides the good views. If you want to get the best views considering your time and time, then it should be Bernina Express.

The Experience on The Train

The Bernina Express: It is confirmed that when you are enjoying Bernina Express, you will not feel when the four hours will be spent within the blink of your eyes.

You will enjoy the views outside of the windows so much that it will melt your heart. Everyone reviewed the Bernina Express as it is so comfortable and shares basic fare with the visitors. It is true that the Swiss train is way too different from the other express trains. 

Though there is only a little space in the Bernina Express, you can only keep your snack on that. But it is too small to use a laptop. If you have a problem sharing your table with others, you can book a first-class cabin.

There is not any specific restaurant for the visitors, a small mini cart roaming in the whole express with coffee and some snacks. If you are hungry, you can buy some food from them.

The Glacier Express: On the other hand, Glacier Express could be more luxurious. Additionally, it features glass ceilings and a large panorama side the windows so the stunning scenery is never blocked!

They provide a table on which you can work with your laptop. It’s not only that, but you can also order your three-meal food earlier. They have a strong WiFi connection, and for this, you can be up-to-date on social media and check your important email. 

To get a better train experience, you should choose Glacier Express. However, it is a bit expensive, it is worth spending according to their facilities. The train is really comfortable as you have to travel eight hours to reach your destination. 

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Destination Details

From Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland, the Bernina Express is the best choice. And they also have an optional endpoint in St Moritz or Chur. 

The Glacier Express connects Zermatt and St. Moritz. Chur is a very popular spot to stop during the whole trip. Tirano is a beautiful place, but the combo of St Moritz and Zermatt offers the best scenario to the visitors while traveling.

FAQ

Why Do You Differ Glacier Express from the Bernina Express?

Though both express trains share the same iconic views, the Glacier Express has the best scenario route, which connects Zermatt to St. Moritz. But yes, you cannot complain about Bernina’s train journey scenario. Both express trains share landscape routes on their journey.

Are Reservations Required for These Trains in Advance of Time?

If you are traveling at peak, it would be better to book your tickets in advance. Otherwise, you have to face a bad experience. Booking your tickets has some benefits; like when you book your ticket in advance, then you will be totally free and can plan your other tour plans accordingly.

Is It Possible for Me to Check Your Bags on Trains?

Yes, you can! There are separate spaces to put your luggage while traveling for your larger bags. If you have smaller bags on which you are carrying important items, you can keep that bag with you. But please travel with a manageable bag with you.

Conclusion

There is a huge comparison between Bernina Express and Glacier Express. If you have enough time to travel, then it would be better to travel both to experience your own best. But everyone has given a positive thumbs up to the Bernina Express, as it is less expensive than the Glacier Express. 

On the other hand, Glacier Express provides the best train experience, so people need clarification on which one they should choose. You can understand. Just choose one. Sure, both of them will give you the best landscape scenario on your whole journey. HAPPY JOURNEY!

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