From Como – Alpine Wonders Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina Train

If you’re considering a day trip that combines stunning mountain scenery, a scenic train ride, and a high-altitude lunch, this tour from Lake Como might catch your eye. It’s designed for travelers eager to see the Swiss Alps without the hassle of planning every detail, offering a seamless journey that highlights some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What we really like about this experience is its combination of natural beauty and iconic transportation—a cable car to nearly 10,000 feet and the famed Bernina Red Train through UNESCO-listed scenery. Plus, the included lunch at Diavolezza Lodge gives a genuine taste of mountain hospitality. On the flip side, a potential challenge is that the full-day schedule may feel rushed for some, especially those who prefer more leisure or less time on transit.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, train enthusiasts, and nature seekers who want a taste of the Swiss Alps without venturing into a multi-day trek. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy guided journeys with insightful commentary, especially with guides praised for their knowledge. If you’re after a well-organized day with incredible views, this trip could suit you well.

Key Points

• Scenic cable car ride offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and glaciers.
• Alpine lunch at Diavolezza Lodge provides a mountain dining experience with memorable vistas.
• Bernina Red Train journey through UNESCO World Heritage landscapes is a highlight for train lovers.
• The tour balances natural beauty with comfort, including transportation and guided commentary.
• Limited mobility travelers might find this tour less suitable due to terrain and altitude.
• The value for the price depends on your appreciation for scenery and train travel.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The journey begins in Como, a charming lakeside town famous for its lakeside villas and beautiful vistas. From there, you’ll travel by GT Bus to Diavolezza, a comfortable way to get into the mountains without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. The bus ride is likely to be scenic itself, setting the mood for the day ahead.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which strikes a decent balance—large enough for social interaction but small enough to maintain a relaxed atmosphere. The tour includes an English and Italian-speaking assistant, providing explanations and answering questions along the way, which is helpful for understanding the landscapes and history you’re passing through.

Diavolezza: The Mountain Top Experience

The highlight here is the cable car ride to Diavolezza, ascending nearly 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) into the Swiss Alps. The views from the top are truly spectacular—think jagged peaks, vast glaciers, and snow-dusted valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll have around two hours to explore, enjoy the scenery, and have lunch.

The lunch at Diavolezza Lodge is included, and based on reviews, the mountain restaurant serves hearty local fare like Pizzoccheri, which is a traditional dish of buckwheat pasta. Travelers have described the meal as delicious and a “new experience,” especially paired with the incredible backdrop. This meal offers more than just sustenance; it’s a chance to savor the mountain atmosphere and take in the views while eating.

The Bernina Express: A Panoramic Train Journey

After lunch, the adventure continues aboard the famous Bernina Red Train. This isn’t an ordinary train ride—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage route, famous for its panoramic windows that frame the ever-changing scenery like living postcards. The train climbs to an altitude of 2,253 meters at the Bernina Pass, one of Europe’s highest railway points.

During the journey, you’ll pass landmarks like Lake Bianco and sweeping valleys, with the train’s large windows ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the dramatic landscape. The two-hour ride from Diavolezza to Tirano offers ample opportunities for photos and awe. Many reviews note the stunning mountain vistas and glaciers visible from your seat, making this a true highlight for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Return to Como: Ending on a High Note

Once in Tirano, the group boards a bus back to Como, completing a full circle that keeps the experience streamlined and stress-free. The return journey provides time to relax and reflect on the day’s incredible sights.

Analyzing the Value

The tour’s $226.29 per person price includes transportation, cable car, lunch, and train tickets—covering almost everything needed for this adventure. From a value perspective, considering the inclusion of premium transportation (cable car and UNESCO train) and the mountain meal, the cost is reasonable, especially given the scenic payoff.

However, it’s important to realize that this is a long, full-day trip—roughly 12-13 hours—and not all travelers may have the stamina for such an itinerary. The schedule is quite packed, and if you prefer relaxed visits or less time on the bus, it might feel a little rushed. But for those craving spectacular views and iconic train rides, it’s a worthwhile investment.

The Guide and Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Kathleen_R, for example, praised Monica for her insights and described feeling like “we were on top of the world”—a sentiment echoed by others who enjoyed the personal touches and educational commentary. The guide’s role in enhancing the experience cannot be overstated; their enthusiasm and knowledge turn a sightseeing tour into a memorable journey.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly, especially if visiting early in the season; mountain weather can change quickly.
• Remember your passport or valid ID, as this is required for the border crossing into Switzerland.
• Be prepared for some altitude and potential wind at the top station—layers are recommended.
• Bring camera gear—the views are worth capturing, and the train windows are large but can sometimes reflect sunlight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits those who love scenic train rides, mountain vistas, and high-altitude dining. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a long day and are comfortable with bus and train travel. If your idea of a perfect day involves spectacular scenery, expert guides, and a taste of Swiss mountain hospitality, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, travelers with mobility limitations should note that some terrain and altitude might pose challenges, and the tour is not designed for those with limited mobility. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with structured, schedule-driven days rather than spontaneous exploration.

Final Thoughts

This experience offers a well-rounded taste of the Swiss Alps—from the thrill of a cable car ascent to the sweeping vistas visible from the Bernina train. The included mountain lunch enriches the day, giving you a moment to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying hearty regional fare.

For those who love authentic landscapes combined with iconic transportation, this tour delivers a compelling package. It’s especially attractive for train enthusiasts and nature lovers eager to see glaciers, peaks, and picturesque villages in one day.

While it’s a full schedule, the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides make it worthwhile. Just be prepared for a long day on the move, and you’ll return with a wealth of photos and memories of the Swiss mountains—truly a highlight for many travelers exploring Northern Italy and Switzerland.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation by GT bus from Como to Diavolezza, and from Tirano back to Como, is included in the price. The tour also covers the cable car to Diavolezza and the Bernina train ticket.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, making it a full-day adventure that covers mountain ascents, train rides, and mountain dining.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or valid ID, comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changing mountain weather, and a camera for the stunning scenery.

Are meals included?
Yes, an alpine lunch at Diavolezza Lodge is included. The meal features local regional dishes like Pizzoccheri, praised for its flavor and setting.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It is best suited for travelers with good mobility; those with mobility limitations might find the terrain and altitude challenging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers; if not met, you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund.

In all, this tour offers a scenic, well-organized way to experience some of Europe’s most impressive mountain scenery without spending multiple days away from home. It combines the delights of mountain air, panoramic trains, and hearty mountain cuisine into a single, memorable day out.