Switzerland’s Most Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Railway – Gliding Past Glaciers and Golden Larches Like a Paradise

▲ The Bernina Express is the world’s third railway route to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Switzerland

Climbing over mountains and traversing valleys, the red Bernina Express winds through Switzerland’s towns and cities, treating travelers to breathtaking views of the country’s most stunning landscapes. When traveling in Europe, taking the train is one of the best ways to go — and Switzerland’s rail system is second to none on the continent. The magnificent scenery outside the windows is so captivating that passengers can hardly bear to sit down.

▲ As the altitude rises, the scenery along the way reveals different kinds of beauty.

This route stretches approximately 145 kilometers with an elevation change of over 1,800 meters, connecting northern and southern Switzerland near the Swiss–Italian border. Yang Zhenfa, a Swiss travel expert and chairman of Taiyong Travel Agency, said: “For Taiwanese people, Switzerland’s Glacier Express might be more famous, but the Bernina offers the most beautiful scenery.” Its beauty was further recognized when UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 2008. The section from Thusis to Tirano became the world’s third railway line to receive this honor.

▲ When the train makes brief stops along the way, travelers can hop off for a quick photo opportunity.

▲ Open the window to take in the full view of quaint townscapes.

▲ Passing by the stunning Lake Poschiavo (Lago di Poschiavo), its mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding mountain peaks.

The Bernina Line features 55 tunnels and 196 viaducts. While sticking your head out to enjoy the view or take photos, always stay mindful of safety. The train carries passengers from Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city in the north, up a 7% gradient, through the Alps, past the Morteratsch Glacier, and finally into the warmer south. Although November is considered the low season for tourism in Switzerland, visiting during this time allows you to witness both the melancholic beauty of autumn and the icy grandeur of winter glaciers.

▲ The Bernina Line features 55 tunnels.

▲ At higher altitudes, you’ll enter a world of pristine white, with crystal-clear beauty right before your eyes.

▲ The route passes by Lej Nair (Black Lake) and Lago Bianco (White Lake), offering sweeping views of glacial mountains and lakes.

▲ Charming snow-covered towns.

Along the journey, you’ll pass dozens of quaint villages and brush past ancient clock towers. Every turn brings a new surprise — one moment you’re moved by the crystal-clear lakes and silent glaciers, and the next you’re captivated by vast stretches of warm-hued larch trees. The trip culminates perfectly at Brusio’s 360-degree spiral viaduct, built in 1908, which gently brings the train into the picturesque Italian-border town of Tirano. Once you step off the train, the beauty of Switzerland will remain etched in your memory.

▲ The Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a 360-degree loop.

Bernina Express Railway
One-way ticket price (single traveler): 72 Swiss Francs (approximately NT$2,260)

＊For more details about in-depth travel in Switzerland, please contact Taiyong Travel Agency.