Ride the panoramic Bernina Express Train between Italy and Switzerland

This is a fantastic package for those that want to discover the Alps from the comfort of a panoramic train ride, as you ride across the Alps in style on board the famous 'Red Train', the Bernina Express, along a beautiful route that was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 2008. This unique single track railway climbs to a maximum height of 2,253m – the highest point reached by a train in Europe - offering spectacular views of mountain lakes and glaciers along the way, before descending into the chic mountain resort of St. Moritz. The journey is beautiful at any time of year, lush and green in the summer, completely snow covered in winter, and offering beautiful, vibrant colours in the autumn.

You will be based in the pretty, historic town of Tirano which is located in Valtellina, Northern Italy, very close to the Swiss border. Tirano has an abundance of interesting places to visit for lovers of history, food and wine. While it may not look impressive at first glance from the main road, head towards the historic centre and main piazza and wonder around the streets there, and you will not be able to deny the charm of the place. The imposing Madonna di Tirano shrine that you see when you arrive in Tirano from the direction of Milan is the most important religious monument in Valtellina, and there are a number of other historic buildings to visit in the area.

The terraced vineyards on the mountainside surrounding the town produce some robust red wines from the nebbiolo grape, the most common are Inferno, Sassella and Grumello, and the highly regarded Sforzato. Most vineyards offer tours and wine tastings, so you can explore as many as you like during your stay. One wine tasting is included in the price of the package

Ostello del Castello

This beautifully renovated old farmhouse (re)opened its doors in 2015 and offers 8 bedrooms, a breakfast room, a cosy bar area with fireplace and a ski/bike deposit. Run by the Gusmeroli family you can expect a warm welcome and excellent hospitality.

It is located close to the old town centre of Tirano and 1km from the mainline train station and the Bernina Express station.

The rooms each have their own unique character and range from double to quad rooms, and even a large family suite that sleeps up to 6 people. They each come with TV, private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, free WiFi access and some have balconies.

There is public parking nearby that costs around € 3 per day.

Nearest Airport: Milan Bergamo (Orio al Serio) – 130km / 2 hours 30 mins

Other airports: Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Verona

By Car

Exit Orio al serio, follow signs for Lovere, then Edolo-Passo del Tonale. At Edolo, turn left at the crossroads and continue on to Aprica then Tirano via the Aprica Pass.

Alternatively take the road alongside Lake Como following signs to Lecco, then to Colico, Sondrio, Tirano. This route is straighter than the first and there are no winding mountain passes.

By Public Transport

From Bergamo airport take the bus to the train station, take the train to Tirano, changing at Lecco. From Milan airports head to Milan Central station and take the direct train to Tirano. Both routes take around 2 and a half hours, and there are lovely views of Lake Como on the way. When you arrive the Hotel Bernina is just opposite the train station, while the Hotel Corona is just a 2 minute walk.

By Private Transfer

Taxi available outside airport. Private transfer available on request after main booking.