The Ultimate Guide to the Bergensbanen Train - Oslo to Bergen

I wasn’t planning another winter trip. Christmas had turned into that strange lazy limbo where pyjamas become acceptable day wear and Quality Street replaces most meals. One evening, half a tin deep, I spotted a Channel 4 TV programme about the Bernina Express. I’d taken that train before and loved it, so obviously I had to watch.

Immediately after came another programme. This one followed a train crossing Norway’s snowy mountain plateau. Vast white landscapes. Remote cabins. Frozen lakes. It looked unreal. If you're in the UK, check out the TV programme 'The Nordic Train at Christmas' here.

The train was the Bergensbanen.

Within two hours I’d booked everything. Flights into Bergen. Flights home from Oslo. Accommodation. The train itself. This is typical of me, and often results in my best trips.

If you're new here, I'm Sarah, and I'm a train addict!

The entire trip was built around a single seven-hour rail journey. Bergen and Oslo were a bonus.

And honestly? I would do it again in a heartbeat.

This isn’t a luxury tourist train. It’s a working railway used by commuters, families, skiers and locals travelling across Norway. But the scenery is extraordinary. Dramatic. Wild. Completely unforgettable.

If you’re considering it, here’s everything I learned.

Bergensbanen at a Glance

• Route: Bergen ↔ Oslo

• Duration: 6.5–7 hours

• Distance: 496 km

• Trains per day: 5 + night train

• Best time: Winter for snow, summer for green valleys

• Scenic highlight: Hardangervidda mountain plateau

• Operator: Vy (Norwegian Railways)

Just a heads up: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. We only share travel tools and services we genuinely use and trust.

Bergensbanen Route Overview

The Bergensbanen runs between Bergen and Oslo, crossing mountains, remote plateaus and some of the most isolated landscapes in Northern Europe. Much of the route passes through areas that are impossible to reach by road during winter.

For the first five hours, you’re surrounded almost entirely by wilderness. Snow-covered valleys. Frozen lakes. Tiny wooden cabins standing alone in vast white nothingness. It isn’t until much later that you begin to see roads, traffic and signs of city life returning.

Two hours into the journey, the landscape became so white it was difficult to tell where the sky ended and the ground began. It felt like travelling through another planet.

Passengers frequently get off at Myrdal to change onto the famous Flåm Railway, one of Norway’s most popular tourist routes.

Voss, just over an hour from Bergen, is a major ski hub and a common stop for winter sports travellers.

Bergensbanen Route Map

Bergen → Arna → Voss → Myrdal → Finse → Haugastøl → Geilo → Ål → Gol → Nesbyen → Flå → Hønefoss → Sandvika → Oslo

The Bergensbanen crosses Norway’s mountainous interior between Bergen and Oslo, stopping at remote mountain stations and ski resorts along the way.

Journey Time and Distance

This is not a short scenic hop. It’s a full-day rail experience.

The journey covers roughly 496 km and takes around 6.5 to 7 hours depending on weather and track conditions. In winter, heavy snowfall can occasionally slow services slightly.

Despite the length, I wasn’t bored once. I thought I might be. I even regretted not bringing a book. But the views constantly changed, people came and went, and there was always something happening.

Journey details

Distance: ~496 km
Duration: 6.5 to 7 hours
A true full-day scenic experience
Never felt repetitive

How Many Bergensbanen Trains Per Day

Several trains operate daily in each direction, making it easy to plan around flights or connections.

On average there are 5 services a day plus a night train.

Services run year-round and are used heavily by locals, not just tourists.

Why the 08:08 Departure is Best in Winter

If you travel in winter, the first train departs around 6am. This means the initial fjord views will be in darkness.

The 8:08 am departure from Bergen gives you maximum daylight for the most scenic sections. In winter, daylight hours are limited, and taking a later service means missing some of the most dramatic views and arriving in Oslo when it's dark.

Morning light also makes photography easier and reduces glare compared to afternoon sun reflecting on snow.

The 8:08am service arrives just after 3pm, making it ideal for hotel check-in in Oslo and leaving plenty of time to explore and enjoy an evening meal.

Why early is better

More daylight hours
Best lighting for photos
See full mountain sections
Less glare later in the day

What the Journey Feels Like

This is not a polished tourist experience. It feels real. Functional. Norwegian daily life unfolding around you.

Families returning from ski holidays filled carriages with equipment and children playing games. Locals brought packed lunches. Some passengers travelled just a few stops while others stayed for the full journey.

I expected most people to travel the entire route but many boarded and left along the way. This meant empty seats regularly became available, making it easy to move around for photos.

You’re free to change seats if they’re unoccupied. I spent time on both sides of the train to enjoy different perspectives.

What surprised me

Not a tourist train
Mix of locals, families and travellers
Easy to move seats for photos
Ever-changing scenery

Which is the best side to sit on the Bergensbanen?

Both sides offer spectacular views, but if you want to maximise the scenery:

Bergen → Oslo • Sit on the left for fjords and dramatic mountain scenery early in the journey, then switch to the right for the vast mountain plateaus.

Oslo → Bergen • Sit on the right for mountain plateaus first, then switch to the left for fjords and dramatic scenery later in the journey.

In winter, heavy snow transforms the entire landscape into a continuous panorama, so you won’t miss out whichever side you choose.

Tips

Switch sides when seats free up
Don’t stress too much about placement
Views everywhere

Winter vs Summer Experience

Winter transforms the journey into a dramatic snow-covered landscape, with frozen lakes, vast white plateaus and soft pastel skies.

In summer, the scenery feels greener and more varied, with valleys, waterfalls and hiking trails weaving through the mountains.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Ride the Bergensbanen?

The Bergensbanen is spectacular in every season, but the experience changes dramatically depending on the time of year you travel.

Winter (November–April)

Winter is the most dramatic season to ride the Bergensbanen. The train crosses the high mountain plateau of Hardangervidda, where deep snow blankets the landscape and temperatures regularly fall well below freezing.

Expect:

Vast white plateaus that feel remote and untouched
Frozen lakes and snow-covered mountain cabins
Shorter daylight hours, especially December–January

Snow typically remains along the highest sections well into late April and often May, depending on conditions.

Spring (May–June)

Spring can be a fascinating shoulder season. You’ll often see a mix of melting snowfields and greener valleys as the train descends toward the fjords.

Expect:

Snow lingering across the high plateau (especially in early May)
Waterfalls at their most powerful from snowmelt
Longer daylight hours and fewer tourists

Summer (July–August)

Summer offers the most varied scenery and the longest daylight hours. Valleys turn lush green, rivers rush through the mountains and hiking trails become visible across the landscape.

Expect:

Green valleys and dramatic mountain scenery
Clear views and milder temperatures
Peak tourist season and higher ticket demand

Although patches of snow can remain on the highest mountain peaks, the plateau itself is usually clear.

Autumn (September–October)

Autumn is quieter and more atmospheric, with fewer visitors and moody lighting across the mountains.

Expect:

Golden and red tones across valleys
Occasional early snowfall on higher ground from October
A peaceful, less crowded experience

How to Book the Bergensbanen

Ticket prices are dynamic and change based on demand, timing and seat availability.

I booked around 60 days before departure, via the Vy app (Norway’s national rail company) and paid 1362 NOK for a fully flexible ticket. This was at the higher end of pricing because it was the end of a national holiday weekend and many families were returning from ski trips.

Interestingly, the following day’s train was half the price. But flights were more expensive and I would have needed an extra hotel night, so overall costs balanced out.

Booking tips

Tickets released around 115 days ahead (sometimes 90 days)
Book early for cheapest fares
Check surrounding dates

Main Fare Types

Lowfare (Non-Flexible) – Cheapest fare
The lowest available fare if you book early. These tickets are non-refundable and changes may not be allowed. If you choose Lowfare, a seat will be automatically assigned for you when booking.

Flex (Flexible) – Standard refundable fare
A flexible ticket that can be refunded or changed (sometimes with a small fee if cancelled last minute). These give you more control and peace of mind if plans might change.

Plus / Enhanced Comfort – Upgraded experience
Available on many services, Plus tickets include comfier seats, extra space and amenities like coffee/tea included, great for longer journeys.

Compartment / Private Seats
Ideal for groups or families, compartment tickets let you book a private seating area (shared table or sofa-style) together.

📍 Seat reservations are included with most ticket types, and you can usually select your seat when booking. If you book a Lowfare ticket, the system will assign a seat automatically, but you can change it later via your booking if seats are available.

Other Options

Night / Sleeper Tickets – If you take an overnight service (limited availability), you can book lie-flat seats or sleeping compartments e.g. 2-berth or 6-berth cabins.

Discount Tickets – Reduced fares for children, students, seniors and other groups may be available when you book through the official site.

Cheapest Fares (Typical)

Lowfare tickets are the least expensive option and often sell out quickly; prices can start from around NOK 249–400 if booked well in advance (especially outside peak season), so as cheap as £20.

Standard (Flex) tickets tend to cost more, and last-minute bookings can be significantly higher, often kr 800–1 200+ depending on date and demand.

Summer and holiday dates are usually the most expensive, so booking months ahead is the best way to secure the Lowfare price.

Train Classes and Comfort

This is a functional railway, not a luxury experience.

Second class is comfortable and perfectly suitable for most travellers. First class offers more space and quieter carriages but isn’t dramatically different.

Seats are modern, clean and practical rather than luxurious.

Class differences

Second class comfortable and practical
First class quieter and roomier
Not a luxury scenic train

Luggage and Storage

Storage on the train is generous and well designed, especially for travellers carrying bulky items. This route is popular with skiers heading to the mountains, so the trains are built to handle large equipment with ease.

One of the most helpful features is a dedicated luggage carriage designed specifically for oversized items such as suitcases, ski equipment and large bags. This keeps aisles clear and makes boarding much easier.

For those just travelling with a backpack, there are overhead racks for coats and smaller bags above your seat.

Travelling on the Bergensbanen with Children

The Bergensbanen is one of the most family-friendly long-distance train journeys in Europe, making it an excellent choice for parents travelling with children.

Many services include dedicated family carriages designed specifically for those travelling with younger passengers. These carriages provide more space, a relaxed atmosphere and facilities that make the long journey far more comfortable for families.

Unlike standard seating areas, children are not expected to sit perfectly still for hours. There is room to move around and a welcoming environment that understands the needs of families on a long travel day.

Some trains also feature a small onboard play area, giving younger children a chance to stretch their legs and stay entertained while parents relax nearby.

Practical features make travelling easier too. There is generous space for prams and pushchairs, wider aisles for easier movement and convenient luggage storage close to seating areas.

For meals, the dining carriage offers a comfortable place to sit together as a family, with proper tables and space to enjoy hot food without balancing trays at your seat.

For larger families or groups, private cabins seating up to six people are also available (see below). These provide a quiet, enclosed space which is ideal for longer journeys, naps or simply having your own area to spread out.

Private Cabins on the Bergensbanen

For families or small groups wanting extra comfort and privacy, private cabins are available on selected Bergensbanen services.

These enclosed compartments accommodate up to six people and offer a quiet, self-contained space away from the main seating areas. Cabins have comfortable facing seats with a central table, making them ideal for longer journeys where you may want to relax, play games, enjoy snacks together or let younger children nap.

Having a private space also means you don’t need to worry about disturbing other passengers, and children can move around more freely compared to standard seating.

Cabins are especially popular with families, groups of friends and travellers carrying lots of luggage, as bags can be stored neatly within the compartment.

If you’re travelling during busy periods or peak seasons, it’s worth reserving a cabin in advance as availability is limited.

(note they aren't usually this dark - my photo was just taken whilst going through one of the many tunnels)

Food and Dining on the Bergensbanen Train

You can bring your own food onboard, and many locals do exactly that.

Meals can also be ordered via QR codes at seats or purchased in the dining carriage.

I ended up spending three hours in the dining carriage because my original seat lacked a table and window view. It turned out to be the best decision. The dining area was quiet, spacious and perfect for enjoying scenery.

Menu highlights

Hot meals (meatballs, chicken tikka masala) 229 NOK
Paninis, wraps and sandwiches 219 NOK
Snacks, chocolate, sweets
Hot and cold drinks
Baby food warming available

If you fancy a drink while enjoying the scenery, beer and wine are served in the dining carriage.

Night Train Option on the Bergensbanen

If you prefer to save daytime sightseeing hours or avoid the cost of a hotel night, the Bergensbanen also operates overnight services between Oslo and Bergen.

Night trains typically depart late in the evening (around 11pm) and arrive early the following morning (around 6am), allowing you to travel while you sleep and wake up ready to explore.

Travelling overnight is especially useful if you are short on time, visiting Norway on a multi-city itinerary or looking to reduce accommodation costs.

As much as I would have loved to do a sleeper train, the whole reason for taking this train for me personally, was to see the incredible scenery.

Sleeping Options

You can choose between several comfort levels depending on your budget and preference:

• Standard seats which recline but remain in an open carriage
• Lie-flat sleeping berths in shared compartments
• Private sleeping cabins for couples, families or small groups wanting more privacy

Many travellers choose to combine a daytime journey in one direction with an overnight train on the return.

This allows you to enjoy the famous scenic landscapes and mountain plateaus in daylight one way, while saving time and money by sleeping on the train for the return leg.

For example:

• Take a day train from Bergen to Oslo (8:08am) to enjoy the full scenic experience, arriving just after 3pm.
• Return on the overnight train leaving Oslo at 11pm, arriving the following morning in Bergen around 6am.

Practical Travel Tips

Even though the Bergensbanen is very easy to travel on, there are a few practical details that can make your journey much smoother and more comfortable.

Boarding & Arrival at the Station

You don’t need to arrive especially early. I reached Bergen Station around 7:20am for the 8:08am departure and had plenty of time. The station board showed boarding would begin at 8:00am, but it actually started slightly later.

There is no airport-style security. Once the platform is announced, passengers simply walk to the train and board when doors open. Staff are available if you need help finding your carriage.

Even with a 20-minute delay waiting for an oncoming train and a medical emergency that required an ambulance, we still arrived in Oslo exactly on schedule.

Seat Reservations & Choosing Your Spot

Seat reservations are included automatically when you book through the Vy app or website. There is no need to pay extra like on some European scenic trains.

However, you cannot choose your exact seat unless you book very early. If window views matter to you, booking tickets as soon as they are released gives you better odds.

The good news is that passengers frequently move around and many only travel part of the route. If you spot an empty seat with a better view, staff are relaxed about passengers switching places.

I expected most passengers to stay seated for the full seven hours, but that wasn’t the case at all. People regularly boarded and disembarked at smaller stations.

That meant there were lots of opportunities to stand, stretch, explore the train and photograph scenery from different angles.

The relaxed atmosphere makes it feel more like a shared journey than a rigid travel experience.

What to Pack for the Journey

Seven hours is a long time, but comfort is easy with a little preparation.

I'd advise you to bring:

Sunglasses - the snow glare was incredibly bright
A book or downloaded shows for quieter moments
Snacks for between meal times
Layers in case the carriage temperature changes

Many locals brought packed lunches and picnic food. Bringing your own food is completely normal.

Charging Devices & WiFi

Power sockets are available at seats, which is ideal for phones and cameras. USB charging points are also installed on many trains.

WiFi exists but can be unreliable in remote mountain areas. It’s best to download entertainment and maps in advance.

Photography Tips

Reflections on windows can make photos tricky. Wearing darker clothing helps reduce glare, as does placing your camera lens close to the glass.

Because passengers move around frequently, you can often change seats to capture views from both sides of the train.

Bergensbanen vs Swiss Scenic Trains

If you’ve travelled on Switzerland’s famous panoramic trains like the Bernina Express or the GoldenPass Express, you might be wondering how Norway compares.

The experiences are very different.

Bergensbanen (Norway)

• A working railway used by locals
• No panoramic dome carriages
• No compulsory seat reservation fees
• More rugged, remote landscapes
• Feels raw, natural and less curated

The scenery feels vast and wild, especially in winter. There are long stretches where you see nothing but snow, cabins and frozen lakes. It feels remote in a way that’s hard to replicate in central Europe

Swiss Scenic Trains

• Designed specifically for tourism
• Large panoramic windows
• Reserved seats required
• Highly polished experience
• Mountain villages and dramatic bridges

The Bernina Express, for example, is spectacular for glaciers, viaducts and alpine villages. The GoldenPass Express offers seamless panoramic travel between Montreux and Interlaken with huge windows and luxury touches.

But Swiss routes feel more curated. More postcard-perfect.

The Bergensbanen feels more like you’re crossing a frontier.

So Which Is Better?

If you want luxury and iconic engineering views, Switzerland wins.

If you want raw winter wilderness and a real working railway experience, the Bergensbanen is hard to beat.

They’re both unforgettable, just very different styles of scenic rail travel.

Full Bergensbanen Journey vs Norway in a Nutshell (with Flåm)

Another common question is whether to take the full Bergensbanen between Bergen and Oslo, or book the famous Norway in a Nutshell route that includes the Flåm Railway. Here's how they compare.

Option 1: Full Bergen ↔ Oslo Bergensbanen

This is the complete 6.5 to 7 hour crossing of Norway’s mountainous interior.

You’ll experience:
• The vast Hardangervidda plateau
• High-altitude mountain crossings
• Remote snowfields in winter
• A true cross-country rail journey

This option gives you the sense of travelling through Norway, not just visiting one scenic stretch.

It’s slower, longer and feels more immersive.

For me I chose this option as I wanted to see Hardangervidda plateau, and liked the idea of a twin-centre Norway trip.

Option 2: Norway in a Nutshell (with Flåm)

Norway in a Nutshell is a packaged scenic route combining:

• Bergen to Voss by train
• Voss to Gudvangen by bus
• A fjord cruise through Nærøyfjord
• Flåm Railway from Flåm to Myrdal
• Then connecting back to the main line

It’s incredibly beautiful and very photogenic, especially for fjords.

But it is more structured, more tourist-focused and significantly more expensive when booked as a package.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose the full Bergensbanen if you:
• Love long scenic rail journeys
• Want high mountain landscapes
• Prefer fewer tourist crowds
• Enjoy slow travel

Choose Norway in a Nutshell if you:
• Want fjords as the main focus
• Have limited time
• Prefer a structured itinerary
• Want multiple transport experiences in one day

Many travellers actually combine both, taking the full Bergensbanen one direction, and adding the Flåm Railway as a separate day trip.

Who the Bergensbanen is Perfect For

This journey is ideal for:

• Scenic rail lovers
• Winter travel fans
• Families wanting an easy long-distance trip
• Photographers
• Travellers nervous about driving in snow
• People building a Norway itinerary between Oslo & Bergen

It may not suit travellers who:

• Want luxury panoramic carriages
• Dislike long travel days
• Prefer fast flights over scenic routes

Here’s how the train fit into my real trip — read the full itinerary here.

Is the Bergensbanen Worth It?

If you enjoy scenic train journeys, absolutely.

This is not a luxury experience like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express. It’s a real, working railway where everyday Norwegian life unfolds around extraordinary scenery.

You won’t get glass-domed carriages or fine dining service, but you will get:

• One of Europe’s highest railway crossings
• Remote snowy wilderness you can’t reach by road
• Ever-changing landscapes for seven full hours
• A relaxed, authentic travel experience

If you love photography, slow travel and dramatic landscapes, this journey is unforgettable.

Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely. The Bergensbanen was the entire reason I booked this trip and it completely lived up to expectations. It’s not polished or luxurious, but that’s exactly what makes it special. The landscapes feel wild, remote and unforgettable. If you love scenic train journeys where the experience is about the journey itself, this is one of Europe’s most incredible rail adventures.

Best Family Campsites in Lake Garda (South Guide)

If you’re planning a family holiday to Lake Garda and wondering where to stay, the southern end of the lake is one of the easiest and most practical areas, especially with kids.

Around:

Peschiera del Garda
Lazise
Castelnuovo del Garda

You’ll find flatter lakeside paths (great for scooters and prams), family-friendly beaches, ferry stops, train connections and easy access to Gardaland.

Some campsites are walkable to the train station and town.
Others are better suited if you have a car.

Below, I’ve listed 18 of the best family-friendly campsites in South Lake Garda, plus clear breakdowns of which are best for:

🚆 No car needed
🎢 Gardaland access
👶 Toddlers
👦 Teens
🌅 Pretty town settings

We’ve previously travelled Italy by train with four kids and combined Rome, Florence, Lake Garda and Venice in one trip. You can read our full route breakdown here.

Why South Lake Garda Works So Well for Families

From Peschiera train station you can reach:

Verona – 15 minutes
Venice – around 1 hour 15
Milan – around 1 hour 15
Florence – just under 2 hours

That means you can combine:

🎢 Theme park days
🚆 City day trips
💦 Pool downtime
🌅 Lakeside evenings

All from one base.

You can easily take day trips to Venice or Verona from Lake Garda - we’ve shared our full Venice itinerary here.

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!

Quick Area Breakdown

📍 Peschiera del Garda

Best for train access and flat walks.

📍 Lazise

Prettiest town vibe, great lakeside feel.

📍 Castelnuovo / Inland

Best for Gardaland and large pool complexes, may need transport.

🚆 Best Campsites in Lake Garda Without a Car

⭐ Camping Village Butterfly

📍 0.5 miles from centre

One of the most convenient locations on the lake.

Walkable to town
Walkable to train station
Lakeside setting
Ferry stop nearby

Arrive by train and you genuinely don’t need a car.

⭐ Camping Bella Italia

Bigger and busier with one of the best pool complexes in the area.

Direct lake access
Flat cycle path into town
Close to train station

Great if your kids love slides and splash parks.

⭐ Campeggio del Garda

Large site in a strong central position. Good option for train travel and lake walks.

⭐ Camping Bergamini

📍 1.3 miles from centre

A longer walk, but still manageable if you prefer a smaller, quieter site.

We’ve stayed in Peschiera del Garda twice and have another visit planned this year. You can read our detailed guide here.

🎢 Visiting Gardaland (With or Without a Car)

One of the biggest reasons families choose this area is proximity to Gardaland - Italy's biggest theme park with a Legoland Water Park and Peppa Pig Land inside!

Here’s something many people don’t realise:

🚍 There is a free shuttle bus from Peschiera del Garda train station directly to Gardaland.

The journey takes around 5–10 minutes and runs regularly during the main season.

So if you stay in Peschiera:

Walk to the station
Hop on the free shuttle
Spend the day at Gardaland
Be back at your campsite for dinner
No car required.

Best Campsites for Gardaland Access

Baia Holiday Gasparina – very close to the park

Camping Fossalta – good balance of park and lakeside

Hu Altomincio – larger resort-style site (better with a car or organised transport)

Camping Bella Italia – easy via shuttle

Camping Village Butterfly – easy via shuttle

👶 Best Campsites for Toddlers (Smaller & Calmer)

San Benedetto Camping Relais

Glamping Lake Garda

Agricamping Zanina 9

These are generally smaller scale and less overwhelming than the mega-sites.

👦 Best Campsites for Teens (More Facilities & Energy)

Camping Bella Italia

Club del Sole Le Palme

Camping Park delle Rose

Eurocamping Pacengo

Larger pool complexes and more activity programmes work well for older kids wanting a bit of independence.

🌅 Best for Pretty Town Setting (Lazise Area)

If evening strolls, colourful harbours and restaurant-lined promenades are important to you, consider the Lazise side.

Campsites here include:

Lazise is one of the prettiest towns on the lake, slightly less train-convenient than Peschiera, but beautiful.

Complete List of 18 South Lake Garda Campsites For ease, here they are together:

If you’re unsure which to choose, Camping Village Butterfly and Bella Italia are the most convenient for train travel, while Hu Altomincio and Park delle Rose offer the largest pool complexes.

So Which Town should you Choose?

If convenience is your top priority, base yourself in Peschiera del Garda.

If you want charm and harbour views, consider Lazise.

If Gardaland is the main event, stay close or use the free shuttle from Peschiera station.

South Lake Garda offers that rare balance families love:
Resort-style pool holidays with the option to jump on a train to Venice for the day.

And that combination is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a car in Lake Garda?
Not if you stay in Peschiera del Garda. The train station connects to Verona, Venice and Milan, and there is a free shuttle bus to Gardaland.

Which area of Lake Garda is best for families?
South Lake Garda is generally the easiest with flatter paths, train access and proximity to Gardaland.

Planning a Multi-Stop Italy Trip?

If you’re building a longer Italy itinerary, you might also find these helpful:

🚆 Our full 16-day Italy by train route

🇮🇹 7-day Venice, Lake Garda & Verona itinerary

🏛 Rome campsite stay near the airport

🇮🇹 How long to spend in Italy with kids

Planning more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you?

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports.

👉 Join the Travel Club here

Lake Garda: Camping Butterfly Village: Our Review

As a family of six, we ended our 16-day Italy by train adventure in Lake Garda and choosing the right base really mattered.

For the northern leg of our trip (Venice, Verona, Milan and Lake Garda), we needed somewhere walkable from a train station, easy for day trips, and not so huge that it felt like hard work in the heat.

We chose Camping Butterfly in Peschiera del Garda, and honestly, it was exactly what we needed at the end of a long multi-stop trip: compact, flat, relaxing, and brilliantly located.

In this review, I’ll share what it’s really like staying at Camping Butterfly with kids, including accommodation options, pools, entertainment, food, getting there without a car, day trips by train, and whether we’d go back (spoiler: we already have!).

Camping Butterfly – At a Glance

Best for: Families who want a Lake Garda base with easy train day trips

Location: Peschiera del Garda, Lake Garda

Nearest station: Peschiera del Garda (walkable)

Nearest airports: Verona (closest) / Milan Bergamo (often cheaper)

Car needed: No

Site size: Small (around 220 pitches) Recommended stay: 4–7 nights (longer if you want pool + day trips)

On-site highlights: 2 pools, playground, evening entertainment, great location

Just a quick note before we begin: some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally stayed in and genuinely think work well for families.

Why We Chose Peschiera del Garda (and Camping Butterfly)

Because this was the final part of a big 16-day route, we wanted a base that made life easy.

After researching, Peschiera del Garda felt like the best fit because:

It has a major train station with direct connections to Verona, Venice, Milan and more

Journey times are short (from around 15 minutes to under 2 hours)

You can also reach it easily from Tuscany via high-speed trains

It’s a proper Lake Garda town, so you’re not “stuck on site”

There are a few campsites in the area, but Camping Butterfly was the closest to the station, around a 10–15 minute walk.

Our Honest Review of Camping Butterfly (Lake Garda)

We only booked around 6 weeks before departure, so options were limited and some sites were already fully booked. Butterfly didn’t look as flashy as bigger Italian campsites but for this stage of the trip, it turned out to be perfect.

After Rome (800 pitches) and Hu Norcenni (around 1500), we genuinely don’t think we’d have coped with another huge resort-style site.

Hu Norcenni in Tuscany had been particularly tiring, as it was all on a hillside and a good trek to/from the centre. We could have kissed the ground when we arrived at Camping Butterfly. Both the pool and shop were just a 2 minute walk from our caravan.

What we loved most:

It’s flat (no hills, no long walks in extreme heat)

Everything is 2–3 minutes away on site as it's very compact

It felt manageable with kids, we were happy letting them wander

The location is one of the best we’ve had in Italy - literally right by the lake and lots of bars and restaurants in walking distance

We’ve since revisited Camping Butterfly, so that tells you everything.

(If you want to see how we did Turin, Milan, Lake Garda and Verona for under £100pp at Easter click here)

Accommodation at Camping Butterfly (What We Stayed In + Cost)

Camping Butterfly has:

Camping pitches (tent/caravan/camper)

Mobile homes

Bungalows

A range of “Boheme” style units (including Deluxe options)

Our first stay (7 nights)

We hired a 3-bedroom static caravan (pictured above)

Cost: £872 total

Booked via: Canvas Holidays

Location: Number 33 on the site map

Our return visit (booked direct)

We booked directly with the campsite which had it's benefits.

Towels and bed linen were included (huge saving vs paying extra or having to lug your own)

Downside of our newer unit: it was close to the site perimeter/main road, and weekends were noisy with cars in the car park.

Top tip (if choosing a unit):

Units 1–7 looked lovely with big decks, but they face the entrance road so you may get less privacy.

Getting to Camping Butterfly Without a Car

This is one of the reasons it’s such a great choice, you can absolutely do this campsite without driving.

From Verona Airport to Camping Butterfly (easy option)

Verona Airport is around 21.5km away (about 25 minutes by car).

Option 1: Train (Airport → Verona Porta Nuova → Peschiera)

Take the Airlink bus (199) to Verona Porta Nuova station

Train to Peschiera del Garda takes around 14–20 minutes

Option 2: Fixed-price taxi

There are fixed-price taxis from the airport to Verona Porta Nuova for around €26.

We actually found this cheaper than the bus on our second visit as a family of six.

Option 3: Summer buses

In summer there are also buses towards Peschiera (routes vary seasonally).

How We Got There (From Hu Norcenni in Tuscany)

If you’re following our 16-day route, this is the exact journey we did:

Taxi from Hu Norcenni to Figline Valdarno station

Regional train to Florence SMN (around 30 minutes)

Direct high-speed train to Peschiera del Garda (just under 2 hours)

(Full route + how to plan the whole Italy-by-train trip is in our main 16-day itinerary post.)

What It’s Like On Site (Pools, Entertainment, Facilities)

Camping Butterfly is compact and for us, that was a plus.

Pools

There are two pools:

A larger pool for older kids/adults

A toddler pool with 2 small slides

Important: swim caps were required when we visited.

You can bring your own or buy one in the on-site shop.

Pool opening tip: pool opening dates can vary (some websites list early April, but we were told from May on a previous visit), worth checking if travelling early season.

Kids / Evening Entertainment

Mini disco

Quiz/games

Occasional acts

It’s not “big resort” entertainment, but it matched the size of the site, and we enjoyed it.

Playground + trampolines

The playground is right next to the entertainment area and includes:

Trampolines

Bouncy castles (open in evenings, sometimes daytime)

Sports and extras

Volleyball, football, table tennis

Bike and electric scooter hire

Fishing lake (permit required)

Things To Do Near Camping Butterfly (This is where it shines)

The location is the main reason we love this site.

The campsite is just across from the lakefront where you can:

Hire pedalos

Hire motorboats

Take ferries to other towns around the lake

We hired a boat for around €120 including fuel for 2 hours.

Bring your driving licence as ID/competency.

Slightly Further Afield:

Gardaland (3km) - free bus from the train station

Perfect if you’ve got kids.

Gardaland includes:

Thrill rides

Peppa Pig Land

SEA LIFE

LEGOLAND Water Park (seasonal)

More theme parks (5km)

Movieland

Caneva World

There are also local activities like golf, crazy golf, horse riding, climbing walls and karting within a short distance.

Peschiera del Garda town

The centre is around a 10–15 minute walk and has:

Shops, bars and restaurants

A weekly market

Gorgeous sunset views along the water

Where We Ate (On Site + Our Favourite in Town)

On-site: Butterfly Bistro -good quality, varied menu, friendly staff. We used it on both stays, especially when it rained (Lake Garda storms are very real).

There’s also takeaway and some board options available.

On-site mini market

Small but handy for essentials + fresh bread and pastries.

It’s pricier than supermarkets (as expected).

Cheaper supermarket option: Penny Market (around a 15-minute walk) — worth it for bigger shops.

Our favourite restaurant in Peschiera

Caffè Centrale – La Zattera (floating quay-side pizzeria)

We’ve eaten here four times and never been disappointed.

It’s family-friendly, always busy, and the sunset views are beautiful.

We don’t think we paid over £100 for all 6 of us, including mains, drinks and a tip (plus the kids eating an alarming amount of free breadsticks and feeding the ducks!

Day Trips From Peschiera del Garda By Train

This is why Peschiera is such a brilliant base.

Verona (15 minutes)

Direct train in under 15 minutes.

Tickets were around £4 each way for adults.

We took a taxi from Verona Porta Nuova to Juliet’s House for €10.

Simple one-day Verona ideas with kids:

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)

Piazza delle Erbe (markets + gelato)

Castelvecchio + the bridge

Giardino Giusti (gardens + maze)

Arena + Piazza Bra

Venice (around 1hr 50)

High-speed trains can take around 1hr 50.

We kept this visit simple (wander + food + exploring), because we’ve done a bigger Venice trip before.

Milan (under 1 hour)

We actually planned Milan but skipped it — the kids were tired and wanted pool time (fair!).

We’ve since been back to Milan twice, and personally we think it’s better as a short add-on rather than a full “kid-focused” day.

If you do go: Duomo rooftop, Galleria, Sforza Castle, Leonardo Museum.

What to Pack for an Italian Campsite Holiday

If you’re doing multiple stops (like we did), a small “starter kit” makes life easier.

Kitchen basics

Tea towels, scourer, mini washing up liquid bottle

Antibacterial floor wipes

A few sachets (salt/sugar/ketchup)

Cooking oil decanted into a small bottle

Extra loo roll, matches

Bin bags

Citronella candles for evenings

Clothes washing

We pack Dr Beckmann’s magic leaves for sink washing (and they work in machines too).

We also bring compact washing lines.

Bedding

Bedding isn’t always included — check your listing.

Hiring can be expensive (around €100 for 5 beds), so if you’re moving around a lot, bringing your own can work out much cheaper.

Games

Uno, Pass the Pigs, and our favourite: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza.

Pros & Cons: How Camping Butterfly Compares to Bigger Italian Sites

👍 What we loved

Small, compact, easy with kids

No long walks to pool/shop

Best location we’ve had on an Italian campsite

Ideal for a multi-city Italy trip by train

Staff were brilliant (we were allowed to keep the van until 5pm on departure day)

👎 Things to consider

Swim caps required

Less entertainment than huge resort campsites

Fewer on-site dining options (but town is a short walk, so it didn’t matter)

Is Camping Butterfly Worth It?

Yes! Especially if you want a Lake Garda base that lets you combine pool days + train day trips without needing a car.

It’s not the biggest or flashiest campsite in Italy, but that’s the point. After a multi-stop route, this site felt relaxing, easy, and perfectly placed.

We’ll definitely be back (and already have been!).

Want more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

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How to Choose the Right Italy Train Itinerary for Your Family

(4 Days vs 7 Days vs 10–16 Days – No Car Needed)

One of the most common questions I get from families planning a trip to Italy is:

“How long do we actually need in Italy with kids?”

And closely followed by: “Is it realistic to do Italy without hiring a car?”

The short answer is yes! Italy is one of the easiest countries in Europe to explore by train, even with children.

The longer answer is that choosing the right length of trip matters far more than choosing the “perfect” destinations.

After travelling Italy multiple times with four children, from short city breaks to a full 16-day Italy by train adventure, this guide will help you decide which type of Italy itinerary works best for your family, based on time, pace, and travel style.

All of the trips mentioned below are train-based and can be done without a car.

Why Italy Works So Well by Train for Families

Train travel changes everything when travelling Italy with kids.

Instead of:

Navigating busy city traffic

Worrying about parking, tolls and ZTL zones

Spending hours driving between places

You get:

Fast, frequent connections between major cities

Stations located right in the heart of cities

Time to sit, snack, nap or play games between stops

High-speed trains in Italy are comfortable, reliable and surprisingly affordable when booked in advance. For families, this often makes train travel less stressful than driving, especially when combining multiple destinations.

We’ve travelled Italy almost exclusively by train, including a full multi-city, multi-base trip, and it’s hands down our preferred way to explore the country with kids.

🗓️ If You Only Have 3–4 Days in Italy

If you’ve only got a few days, Italy can still work beautifully, but only if you simplify your plans.

Short trips work best when you:

Choose just two nearby cities

Use a direct train connection

Avoid changing accommodation too often (I'd say have 2 bases as a maximum, maybe 2 nights in each)

Trying to squeeze in three or four destinations in four days almost always leads to rushed sightseeing and exhausted children.

This type of trip works best for:

Long weekends

Teens and older children

Families who enjoy cities and walking

Trips without pool or resort time

Rather than planning a full itinerary, the easiest approach is to pick two cities that naturally pair well by train.

We’ve created a dedicated guide covering this exact style of trip, with inspiration such as:

Rome & Naples

Venice & Verona

Milan & Lake Como

👉 Read: 12 Italian Cities You Can Easily Combine on One Train Route

If you’d like to see how this works in real life, this is a great example: 👉 Our 3 night Turin and Lake Garda Train Itinerary (with short stops in Milan and Verona to break up the journey)

This kind of trip is ideal if you want a taste of Italy without feeling overwhelmed.

🗓️ 7 Days in Italy – The Sweet Spot for Most Families

For many families, 7 days is the perfect balance.

It’s long enough to:

Slow the pace

Build in rest days

Include downtime between sightseeing

But short enough to:

Stay focused on one region

Avoid travel fatigue

Keep logistics simple

This type of trip works best if:

It’s your first time visiting Italy

You’re travelling during school holidays

You want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation

Rather than moving every couple of nights, we’ve found the most successful approach is: one main base + easy day trips by train

A great example of this style of trip is: 👉 7 Nights in Lake Garda where we also include trips to Venice and Verona.

Using one main base allows kids to settle, unpack properly, and enjoy familiar surroundings, which makes a huge difference on family trips.

We’ve used this same approach in other parts of Italy too, combining:

City sightseeing

Relaxed bases

Short, manageable train journeys

🗓️ 10–21 Days – The Big Italy Adventure

Longer trips often sound intimidating, but in reality they’re usually more relaxed, not less.

With more time, you can:

Stay longer in each place

Avoid the pressure to “see everything”

Build in proper rest days

This type of trip is ideal for:

Families who dislike rushing

Seeing very different regions of Italy

Combining cities, countryside and lakes

Our most extensive trip was: 👉 Italy by Train with Kids: Our 16-Day Route

Despite the length, it worked so well because we:

Limited the number of bases

Used high-speed trains

Chose family-friendly accommodation

Northern vs Southern Italy: What’s Easier with Kids?

Italy varies hugely from north to south, and that can affect how easy it feels with children.

Northern & Central Italy

Excellent train connections

Short travel times

Ideal for short and medium-length trips

Southern Italy & Islands

Slower pace of travel

Trains still work, but planning matters more

Better suited to fewer bases

Fewer child-friendly accommodation options (no Eurocamps) but lots of villa options.

If you’re considering the south, these guides are a good starting point:

4 Days in Sicily

4 Days in Calabria

Exploring Reggio Calabria & Nearby Towns

How to Travel Between Mainland Italy and Sicily

Campsites vs Cities – Which Is Better for Families?

This is one of the biggest decisions families face when planning Italy.

City stays tend to work best if:

Your kids enjoy sightseeing

You’re away for a shorter period

You don’t mind busy days

Campsites are ideal if:

You’re travelling for a week or more

Kids need space to play

You want pool days between city visits

We often combine the two, using campsites as relaxed bases and visiting cities by train.

These guides break it down in more detail:

Eurocamps in Italy – A Complete List

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car

Where to Stay in Italy: Budget & Bucket List Hotels

A Realistic Look at Budget

Italy has a reputation for being expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.

Travelling by train often:

Costs less than car hire + fuel

Avoids toll roads and parking fees

Makes multi-city trips more affordable

Accommodation choice and trip length make the biggest difference to overall cost.

If budget is a key factor, these guides will help:

Italy on a Budget: Real Travel Tips

10 Affordable Destinations in Italy

So… Which Italy Train Itinerary Is Right for Your Family?

If you’re still unsure, here’s a simple way to decide:

3–4 days → Combine two nearby cities

7 days → One base + train day trips

10–16 days → Multi-base Italy adventure

If your kids love pools and downtime, fewer bases work best.

If they enjoy cities and walking, shorter trips are often ideal.

If you're not ready for a full itinerary yet, an Extreme Day Trip is a great taster. We've done Rome as an Extreme Day Trip and it's surpsingly doable if you plan it well.

My Honest Recommendation

Italy is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe to explore by train. As long as you choose an itinerary that fits the time you actually have.

There’s no “perfect” Italy trip, only the right one for your family.

Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a week away, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, travelling Italy by train keeps things calmer, simpler, and far more enjoyable with kids.

Want more of Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you?

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Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Tuscany Review – Ideal for Families

As a family of six, finding a family-friendly campsite in Tuscany that didn’t require a car was essential when planning our summer trip to Italy.

We stayed at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village, set in the rolling Chianti hills, as part of our wider Italy by train 16 day adventure. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip, combining a proper resort-style holiday with easy rail access to Florence, Pisa and other Tuscan cities.

In this review, I’ll share exactly what it’s like staying at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village with kids, including accommodation options, pools and entertainment, food, transport links, and whether it’s a good base for exploring Tuscany without driving.

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village – At a Glance

Best for: Families wanting a resort-style stay in Tuscany

Location: Chianti Hills, Tuscany

Nearest station: Figline Valdarno

Nearest airport: Florence / Pisa

Car needed: No (but planning needed)

On-site highlights: Huge pool complex, slides, kids clubs, restaurants

Recommended stay: 4–7 nights

Just a quick note before we begin – some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally stayed in and genuinely think work well for families.

Why We Chose Hu Norcenni Girasole Village

When planning our Italy trip, we wanted at least one base where the kids could switch off from sightseeing, swim all day, and just enjoy being on holiday.

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village offered exactly that, a large, lively campsite with multiple pool areas, restaurants, and entertainment, but still within easy reach of Florence by train.

It was the perfect mid-point between Rome and Lake Garda and gave us a much-needed balance between travel days and downtime.

Accommodation at Hu Norcenni Girasole Village: For our stay, we booked a 3-bedroom static caravan with air conditioning and a large deck, staying for 5 nights.

Cost: £846 total (£141 per person)

Sleeps: Up to 6

Included: Kitchen, fridge-freezer, bathroom, outdoor seating

The accommodation was clean, modern, and well spaced from neighbouring units. The deck area was ideal for evenings once the kids were asleep, and the air conditioning was essential in the Tuscan heat.

Accommodation at Hu Norcenni Girasole

Static caravans

Glamping tents

Camping pitches

Larger premium lodges

There’s something here for most budgets, especially if booked outside peak summer dates.

Pools & On-Site Facilities (The Big Sell for Kids)

This is where Hu Norcenni really shines.

Pool Complex

There are multiple pool areas spread across the site, including:

Large family pools

Waterslides

Shallow splash zones

Sun terraces with views over the Chianti hills

Unlike many Italian pools, swim hats weren’t enforced, and the atmosphere felt relaxed and family-focused rather than overly strict. There's an upper and lower site with pools at both - we preferred the upper area as it seemed newer with the best choice of pools. The two areas are connected by free land train.

Kids' Clubs & Entertainment

Age-based kids' clubs (seasonal)

Mini discos and evening shows

Sports courts and playgrounds

Our kids spent most days moving between the pools, slides and snack bars, exactly what we wanted from this part of the trip.

Where to Eat at Hu Norcenni Girasole

You won’t go hungry here.

On-Site Options Include:

Large supermarket (ideal for self-catering)

Pool bars serving pizzas, burgers, salads and ice creams

Sit-down restaurants for evenings

Takeaway options for easy nights in

We mixed eating out with cooking at the caravan, which kept costs down and gave us flexibility after busy days out.

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Without a Car (Train & Taxi)

This is one of the most common questions and yes, it’s doable but requires some planning as mentioned below.

Step-by-Step

High-speed train from Rome to Florence (around 1.5 hours)

Regional train from Florence to Figline Valdarno (around 50 minutes)

Taxi from Figline Valdarno station to the campsite (around 15 minutes)

The train from Rome was a doddle. It was the taxi ride that proved less straightforward. We were told there would be a taxi rank at the station, and there wasn't. A local gave us a lift in the end for €50 which wasn't ideal, but with luggage and no taxis available we didn't have much choice. If arriving by train, I would advise you arrange a taxi directly with the site. Even better, hire a car.

We travelled here as part of our Italy Train Travel with Kids: 16 Day Route, using high-speed and regional trains between each base.

Day Trips from Hu Norcenni Girasole (By Train)

One of the biggest advantages of this site is its rail location. You just have to be organised if travelling without a car. There is a pre-bookable shuttle from the site, down to the train station (and reverse). This can be booked at the tourist info point in the centre. I'd advise you to book at least a day in advance, as spaces do fill up quickly and there is a limited number of services per day.

The bus costs around £1.50 for over 12s. Under 12s were free (this may have increased for 2026).

They also have their own private taxi option which we used twice costing around £25.

Easy Day Trips Include:

Florence – direct train, under 1 hour

Pisa – around 1 hour 45 minutes via Florence

Siena – possible with a train + bus combination

Lucca – doable as a longer day trip

We visited Florence and Pisa during our stay and found it manageable without feeling rushed, especially when balanced with pool days back at the campsite.

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole from Florence Airport

Florence Airport (FLR) is the closest airport to Hu Norcenni Girasole Village and the most straightforward if you’re travelling without a car.

Step-by-step route:

From Florence Airport, take the Tram T2 directly into the city

Journey time: ~20 minutes

Stops at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station

From Firenze SMN, take a regional train to Figline Valdarno

Journey time: ~50 minutes

Trains run frequently throughout the day

From Figline Valdarno station, travel to the campsite by:

Pre-booked campsite shuttle

Taxi arranged by the campsite

Local taxi (if available)

Top tip:

If arriving late in the day or with luggage, arrange transport with the campsite in advance. We found local taxis unreliable without pre-booking.

Getting to Hu Norcenni Girasole from Pisa Airport

Pisa Airport (PSA) is a popular arrival point, especially for budget flights, and is still very doable without hiring a car.

Step-by-step route:

From Pisa Airport, take the PisaMover to Pisa Centrale

Journey time: ~5 minutes

From Pisa Centrale, take a train to Firenze SMN

Journey time: ~1 hour

High-speed or regional trains available

From Florence SMN, continue to Figline Valdarno

Regional train

Journey time: ~50 minutes

Final leg from Figline Valdarno → campsite via shuttle or taxi

This route works well if you’re flying into Pisa and travelling onward by train as part of a wider Italy itinerary.

Is Hu Norcenni Girasole Suitable Without a Car?

Yes- but with planning.

While you won’t be popping out to nearby villages on a whim, the combination of trains and shuttle from the campsite, means you don’t feel stuck. In fact, for families who prefer not to drive in Italy, this setup removes a lot of stress.

Day Trip to Florence from Hu Norcenni Girasole (Exact Route)

Florence was our easiest and most relaxed day trip from Hu Norcenni Girasole.

Step-by-step:

Travel from campsite to Figline Valdarno station

Shuttle bus (pre-booked)

Or campsite taxi

Take a regional train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN)

Journey time: ~50 minutes

No seat reservations required

Florence SMN station is centrally located, meaning:

You can walk straight into the historic centre

The Duomo, markets, museums and river are all within easy reach

We found Florence ideal for a full day out without feeling rushed, especially when balanced with quieter pool days back at the campsite.

Day Trip to Pisa from Hu Norcenni Girasole (Exact Route)

Pisa is a longer day but still very manageable by train.

Step-by-step:

Campsite → Figline Valdarno station

Regional train to Florence SMN

Change at Florence for a train to Pisa Centrale

Total journey time: ~1 hour 45 minutes each way

From Pisa Centrale, it’s around a 20-minute walk to the Leaning Tower, passing shops, cafés and gelato spots along the way.

We combined Pisa with an early start and a relaxed afternoon back at the campsite, which worked well with kids.

How Hu Norcenni Compares to Other Italian Campsites

Compared to Camping Village Fabulous (Rome):

More resort-like

Bigger pool complex

Less city-focused

Compared to Butterfly Camping (Lake Garda):

Larger and busier

Less walkable location

More “all-in-one resort” feel

Each worked perfectly for its place in our itinerary, and Hu Norcenni was ideal as the relaxation-heavy middle stop.

Pros & Cons of Staying at Hu Norcenni Girasole

👍 What We Loved

Huge pool areas

Excellent facilities for kids

Easy Florence access by train

Great balance of relaxation and sightseeing

👎 Things to Consider

Large site (lots of walking)

Busy in peak summer

Taxi required from the station

Is Hu Norcenni Girasole Village Worth It?

Absolutely - especially for families wanting a proper Tuscan resort experience without hiring a car.

If you’re planning a multi-stop Italy trip and want a break from constant travel days, Hu Norcenni Girasole Village is an excellent base. It gave our kids space to relax, while still allowing us to explore Tuscany by train.

Want more on Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you?

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports.

👉 Join the Travel Club here

Camping Village Fabulous Rome Review – Ideal for Families

As a family of six, finding child-friendly accommodation near Rome that doesn’t require a car was essential when planning our 16-day Italy by train itinerary.

Camping Village Fabulous Rome turned out to be the perfect base for exploring the city while still enjoying a proper summer holiday with pools, entertainment, space to relax, and excellent public transport links straight into Rome.

In this review, I’ll share exactly what it’s like staying at Camping Village Fabulous with kids, how easy it is to get into Rome, accommodation options, costs, on-site facilities, and whether it’s worth choosing over other campsites in Rome.

Camping Village Fabulous is a large park with around 800 pitches, located close to the Ostia coast and its beautiful beaches.

Not only that but there's public transport on the doorstep to take you straight into Rome. The perfect combination between a relaxing break in the sun and a city break.

Best for: Families visiting Rome without a car
Location: Ostia / Rome
Nearest airport: Rome Fiumicino / Ciampino
Getting into Rome: Bus + Metro (step-by-step)
On-site highlights: Pools, kids clubs, entertainment
Length of stay recommended: 3–10 nights

Accommodation at Camping Village Fabulous Rome (Static Caravans & Glamping)

So for this visit we booked 3 nights in a 3 bed static caravan with deck which cost £435.

Last time we did a full week and did not want to leave at the end. We only booked the three nights this time as we had already seen many of the sights in Rome on our previous trip. We also needed to leave enough time to explore the Tuscan region and further north.

However, I think 7-10 days would be the perfect amount of time to spend here if you're visiting for the first time.

The accommodation on both occasions was modern, well kept and clean, in a quiet location away from the centre.

At Camping Village Fabulous you'll find a mix of accommodation from camping pitches and room for motor homes, to glamping tents and static caravans. There's something for every type of camper.

In terms of the static caravan accommodation we hired, the equipment you'll find inside varies, but will usually include a microwave, kettle, hob, fridge, freezer plus all cooking utensils and equipment.

They may also have a dishwasher and oven. In some cases you may be required to pay extra for duvet covers and pillow cases or bring your own, I'll mention more on this near the end.

How to Get into Rome from Camping Village Fabulous (Without a Car)

Transfer time from both Rome airports is approximately 25 minutes. We flew into Rome Ciampino and paid €75 for a one-way private transfer, covering the 21 km journey. You can book a private transfer with our special discount here.

A taxi from outside the airport costs around €45. Alternatively, Uber is available in Rome and typically costs around €50.

The nearest airport is Rome Fiumicino (FCO), located 17.5 km away. In practice, there’s very little difference between the two airports when it comes to transfer times, and we’ve flown into both for this site and paid similar prices each time.

This is one of Eurocamp’s best car-free sites, and it features in our guide to Eurocamps in Italy you can visit without a car.

You can also see the full range of sites available in our Complete Guide to Eurocamps in Italy.

Driving from the UK to Rome

The site is located 1681km from Calais (a 16 hour drive), but of course, you can break this up with others stays en route in France and Switzerland.

Alternatively, you could take ferries to Zeebrugge - 1620km, Hook of Holland - 1675km or Caen - 1638km

For ferries click here

Things to Do at Camping Village Fabulous with Kids

Pools

The pool area offers a variety of water features suitable for all ages. There are two larger pools with deeper water, alongside a large shallow lagoon pool. You’ll also find two whirlpools, a slide, a dome that children can climb and slide down, and a newer splash zone.

The pools are free to use and remain open all day, with no siesta closures. Unlike some sites in Italy, swim hats and tight-fitting swimwear are not required, which is always a bonus.

Sun loungers are plentiful, although if you head to the pool around lunchtime during high season, you may struggle to find one available.

The pool areas are well supervised by lifeguards and kept clean, with toilet and changing facilities located nearby.

While the website states that inflatables are not allowed in the pools, many guests were using them during our stay, and they are also sold on site.

Kids Clubs

The campsite runs its own kids’ clubs for ages 5-8yrs and 9-12yrs, with English and Italian Spoken. Activities are advertised on boards around the camp. We didn't use any of the clubs as my children prefer to be in the pool all day so I can't comment on the quality of activities provided.

Family Entertainment

Whilst we were there, most nights there were musicians in the courtyard area where the bar and restaurant are located.

There was also mini discos and shows in the entertainment area near to the pool complex. Some nights there was special events such as foam parties for the whole family which was really fun.

Sports

On site you'll find plenty to do including crazy golf, 2 playgrounds, kart hire, trampolining, table tennis, tennis, football and volleyball.

The entertainment team provide pool bike classes, aqua aerobics and water polo throughout the day. Most activities are open 8th April to 30th September.

Off-Site Activities

Off-site you'll find sporting activities to do in the local area. These include Golf (7km), Driving Range (7km), Horse Riding (8km), Climbing Wall (4km) & Windsurfing (11km).

Where to Eat On Site

Mini Market

On site you'll find a well stocked mini market offering all types of foods you'd expect at home including BBQ food and equipment, bakery items, fresh fruit and vegetables, alcohol, toiletries and cleaning supplies. We were able to shop and make meals to enjoy back at our caravan.

The supermarket does close for a few hours during the day for a siesta, so make sure you check the opening times when you arrive.

Prices are typically more than other local supermarkets but not extortionate.

Pool Bar

Located within the pool complex you'll find a bar serving fast food like burgers, hot dogs, fries, nuggets, pizza, panini's, focaccia and a large selection of salads. Along with this they sell alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks and ice creams.

They offer a meal deal with a main, fries and drink for €9-11. We ate round the pool most lunch times on both trips as the kids didn't want to leave to go back to eat. We found the service, quality of food and value for money to be good. During siesta it’s the only place to get food on site so it does get really busy.

Takeaway

In the courtyard you'll find a takeaway offering pizza and pasta to take back to your accommodation or eat at one of the many picnic benches on site.

Food can be ordered and paid for using the app (see the QR Codes posted round the site) or at the counter. We used this option quite a few times on both visits, rather than having to cook of an evening. The pizzas were great for sharing and were proper authentic stone baked bases.

Ristorante Favoloso

In the evening the restaurant is open serving typical Italian meals on it's outdoor verandah.

Central Bar

In the morning they offer breakfast in the central bar with sweet and savoury options

Gelateria

The gelateria offers ice cream and cocktails and is open till late at night. Again this closes for a siesta through the day but you can get ice cream and drinks at the pool bar all day.

Getting in to Rome from Camping Village Fabulous

Getting into Rome from here is easy, although a bit hair raising as you have to walk up a busy road for about 200m with no pavement to get to the bus stop.

You can purchase combination bus/tube tickets from the reception desk for €1.50 each, under 10s are free.

When you exit the campsite turn left. Walk 200m till you reach the main road. You will see the bus stop on the opposite side of the road, to the left of the crossing.

Use the marked crossing to cross to the other side of the road.

The buses you can take are numbers 709 or 070.

Once on the bus you have to validate your ticket using the machine and your 100 minutes starts from then.

You take the bus to EUR Fermi tube station which is the last stop on the bus.

After you exit the bus, go into the metro station and take the tube in the direction of either Rebibba or Conca D'Oro (it doesn't matter which)- see the blue line on the metro map. Take the train 8 stops to the Colosseum.

I’d recommend buying your return ticket directly from the campsite to save the hassle of using ticket machines or searching for a tobacconist in Rome.

Both the buses and metro operate between 6am and 11.30pm.

Things to do in Rome with Children

Rome is a city brimming with adventure and excitement for kids! They can explore the ancient Colosseum, imagining the thrilling gladiator battles that took place there.

The Roman Forum offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome, while the Vatican City, with its stunning art and the famous Sistine Chapel, sparks curiosity about history and religion.

Kids will love tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain, making wishes as they admire its beauty. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious gelato while roaming the lively streets, and perhaps take a fun family bike ride through the idyllic Villa Borghese park.

The park itself offer excursions to Rome, Ostia Antica, Tivoli, Pompei and Naples which can be booked via their tourist info office on site. Alternatively, you can arrange your own tours in advance.

Some FAQs

Are Dogs Allowed at Camping Village Fabulous?

Dogs are permitted in selected accommodation types and allowed on the park, however they must be kept on a lead at all times when outside the accommodation.

Are Cars Allowed on Site?

A car can be parked on a pitch and there is no charge for additional vehicles.

Is the Site Suitable for Wheelchairs

This park is suitable for customers in wheelchairs, although you may need to check the type of accommodation is also wheel chair friendly before booking.

What other Facilities are there that you haven't mentioned?

The site has toilet and shower blocks along with washing machines and dryers. There's also washing up sinks. These facilities are mainly intended for those camping or in camper vans but anyone can use them.

What to Pack for a Camp Site Holiday

Along with everything you'd normally take on holiday, as a family we always make up a little package of things to get us started in case things aren't provided and shops are closed when we arrive.

Kitchen

Usually we bring a few basics like a couple of tea towels, a scourer and a fill one of the mini toiletry bottles with washing up liquid. I'll usually pop a few extra toilet rolls and matches in the case too.

I'll bring a packet of anti bacterial floor wipes to give everything a freshen up- I prefer the floor type as they're much bigger and stronger.

We save up sachets and bring salt, sugar, tomato ketchup and again using a toiletry 100ml bottle to bring some cooking oil.

Games

Lastly we usually bring a few small games such as Uno and Pass the Pigs.

Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza is another family favourite. Bizarre sounding but very fun. You can find all these in the above shopping list

There really isn't much more to pack though than a regular holiday. Caravans are well equipped and the store on site sells literally everything you could probably need.

Clothes Washing

For washing we take Dr Beckman's magic leaves (see our shopping list) so we can hand wash clothing in the sink. These take up very little space and can be used in a washing machine too. Clothes airers are usually provided in the accommodation but we bring two of our own caravan washing lines too.

Lastly I usually put in a few bin bags as they are always needed and some citronella candles for the deck at night to ward away any mosquitos.

This may sound a lot of extra things to bring but it all fits nicely in 1 packing cube or zip lock bag.

Bedding

In terms of bedding, this isn't always provided (check individual listings). This can be hired but you can also bring your own. We tend to save up old sets and then we can bin them if we haven't room to bring them back. The cost of hiring is usually around €100 for 5 beds. On this occasion we were changing accommodation three times so we were definitely bring our own than pay €300.

How Does it Compare to other Holiday Sites in Italy?

Camping Village Fabulous is literally that- Fabulous!

If you haven't visited in the last 4 years, the site has seen some big improvements in terms of pools and entertainment. Between our two visits the 'Human Company' have take over the park and standardised the site in line with others they operate. Entertainment is more varied and they've added a new pool and splash zone.

We have stayed in numerous sites in Europe, and whilst this isn't our most favourite as some are literally incredible, it is a great holiday and great value with the massive plus point of being very close to Rome and a site we'll definitely return to for years to come.

Other Campsites in Rome

Village Roma Capital- Smaller than Camping Village Fabulous but usually cheaper too is located near to Ostia Beach (2.6km) and Rome (27.6km). Slightly further out than Village Fabulous but still within easy reach of the city

Find Details here

Plus points

👍Great pool area

👍Close proximity to the airport

👍Easy to visit the city with no car

👍Small site so easy to navigate

Downsides

👎The site is pretty basic in terms of entertainment in comparison to some of the bigger sites we’ve visited

👎The site can be really noisy at night with large groups of people meeting up and partying in one caravan

👎We found it really difficult to a taxi on Uber or FreeTaxi from the site, this may be because we were a party of 6 though and not 4. The public transport from the site though is adequate.

👎In the day, options for food on site are limited. The shop and restaurants are closed for a siesta and there's only the pool bar unless you want to cook in your caravan. This also means that the pool area becomes very busy in turn.

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Italy Train Travel with Kids: The Ultimate 16 Day Adventure

As a family of six, we booked our biggest adventure yet—exploring Italy by train over 16 days, visiting Rome, Florence, Chianti, Pisa, Venice, Milan, Verona, and Lake Garda.

Trying to do this on a budget was a challenge, however the whole trip came in at £680 per person.

This included return flights from the UK, luggage, private airport transfers, all train journeys (including 5 high speed trains in 1st class) and accommodation for 15 nights.

In this guide, we’ll share exactly how we planned our route, booked flights and trains, and chose family-friendly accommodations, so you can plan your own Italian adventure with kids.

Why Travel Italy by Train with Kids?

Train travel in Italy with children is a fantastic way to see the country. The trains are reliable and comfortable, making it easy to relax and enjoy the journey as a family.

High-speed trains connect cities quickly and affordably, and the views along the way are often just as memorable as the destinations themselves, with rolling hills, vineyards and charming towns passing by the window.

Travelling by train can also help you save money and avoid the stress of driving. Italy’s narrow roads and busy traffic can be challenging, particularly with children, whereas the train allows you to sit back, unwind and enjoy the scenery instead.

Watch the Video

Italy Train Trip at a Glance

• Duration: 16 days
• Travelling with: 4 kids
• Route: Rome → Florence → Chianti → Pisa → Venice → Verona → Milan → Lake Garda
• Total cost: £680 per person
• Travel style: Trains + family-friendly campsites
• Best for: Families wanting multi-city Italy without driving

Flights: How We Found the Cheapest Options

Although it’s possible to travel from the UK to Europe entirely by train, for us in the north of England this would have been significantly more expensive than flying. It also would have meant an extra night in London at both the start and end of the trip, which quickly pushed the costs up.

Instead, we found it far cheaper to fly directly to mainland Europe and begin our travels from there, so that’s the approach we took.

To plan our route, the first thing we looked at was flights. As we were trying to keep the trip as affordable as possible, it made sense to base our itinerary around which Italian cities had the cheapest flights in August, then fill in the destinations in between. For a family of six, flights are always the biggest cost variable, far more so than accommodation.

We used Skyscanner to compare outbound and return flights across Italy and find the cheapest options.

One of the most useful features is the ability to search the whole country over an entire month, rather than selecting a fixed date or arrival city, which makes it much easier to plan a flexible, multi-stop trip like this

We made a 'one-way' search from Manchester to Italy and then the same for Italy to Manchester.

If you're planning a trip like this we would recommend booking a different city to return from, than the one you arrive in. This allows you to plan a trip a fair distance away from the arrival airport without having to circle back and waste money on extra train fares just to get home.

Don't forget to check out our guide Italy on a Budget for more fab tips on travelling cheaply.

Rome to Milan by Train

We eventually chose to fly from Manchester to Rome and return home from Milan Bergamo.

Our outbound flight cost £510.22 in total (£85 per person). The return flight 16 days later from Milan Bergamo came to £500.73 (£84 per person), with both fares including two 20kg checked suitcases.

The overall flight cost could have been much lower if we’d booked earlier in the year during flight sales or travelled in a different month. August is typically the most expensive time to fly to Italy, and we only started planning this trip in June, around six weeks before departure.

At other times of year, we regularly find return flights to Italy for between £28–£50 per person. If you take a look at our other Italy blog posts, we’ve shared a few of these trips as reference.

With flights booked, the next step was deciding where to stay between Rome and Milan.

Total Flight Cost £1011 (£169pp)

Accommodation in Italy: Campsites and Family-Friendly Stays

Our main priority for accommodation was finding places that were child-friendly, offering a balance between a proper summer holiday and sightseeing around Italy.

We didn’t want to drag the kids around in the heat, visiting attractions they might not enjoy, only to spend the rest of the day cooped up in hotel rooms.

Instead, we chose campsites as our bases. Having stayed at similar sites in Rome and Venice before, we knew they were perfect for families. Offering pools, slides, and on-site entertainment for the kids, as well as practical amenities like laundrettes, bars, restaurants, and supermarkets.

Many of these campsites offer space for tents and campervans, but we opted for fully equipped static caravans with verandas. These gave us the freedom to cook our own meals and relax outside in the evenings while the kids were in bed.

At each site booked a 3 bed static caravan with large deck and air-con, the prices were as follows:

Camping Village Fabulous in Rome £437.32 (£73pp)- Nights 1-3 (3 nights)

Hu Norcenni Girasole Club, Tuscany £846 (£141pp)- Nights 4-8 (5 nights)

Butterfly Camping, Lake Garda £872 (£146pp)- Nights 9-15 (7 nights)

Total Accommodation Cost £2155 (£359pp)

You can see an in-depth blog on each of these campsites, including our reviews, things to do in the local area plus more details on getting around - Butterfly Camping Lake Garda Guide, Hu Norcenni Girasole Tuscany Guide and Camping Village Fabulous Rome Guide.

Building Our Italy Train Itinerary

Once we had decided on our three bases—Rome, Chianti Hills (Tuscany), and Peschiera Del Garda (Lake Garda), we could start booking train tickets and planning the destinations we wanted to visit.

From Chianti, we planned day trips by train to Rome and Florence (1–2 hours away). We had originally hoped to visit Cinque Terre, but as it’s not on the high-speed train network, a round trip in a single day from Chianti wasn’t feasible. Other options from Chianti included Lucca and Siena.

Peschiera Del Garda offered the most convenient day trips. Venice, Verona, and Milan were all within 20 minutes to 1.5 hours by train, so we added these to our itinerary. Further options included Bologna, Parma, and even Lake Como.

For Rome, we decided to take it easy, just enjoy the city and get our bearings, before heading on to the next stage of our journey.

Interrail Pass vs Purchasing Individual Train Tickets

When planning our Italy itinerary, we carefully compared the options between booking an Interrail pass and purchasing individual tickets, for each leg.

Ultimately, we decided to go with individual tickets as it became clear that for our specific routes and travel dates, buying tickets separately was going to be cheaper.

In terms of our party, for some trains (regional) we were classed as 4 adults and 2 children. For 1st class high speed trains we fell under the category of 3 adults and 3 children.

Below you'll find a full breakdown of the train journeys we took and which type of train/class we got. I have also included journey times and prices.

1st Class vs Standard Class

For the longer journeys we splurged and purchased 1st class seats on high speed trains. These were great as they gave us lots of room in air conditioned carriages with tables, power points and Wi-Fi. On some journeys we were also provided with free refreshments.

As we booked 6 weeks beforehand, the 1st class tickets were a very similar price to the 2nd class on the day fares. It didn't seem a big extravagance and it made the journeys far more comfortable.

All in we purchased a total of 84 train tickets across 6 days, costing £678 (£113pp).

The interrail pass for travel just within Italy for 6 days with upgrades to first class where available is £965. In our case it was definitely cheaper to book the tickets individually.

Types of Trains in Italy

In Italy, there are three different types of trains. Some are high speed (Le Frecce and Italo), these are the most expensive, but also the quickest and usually the most comfortable. In some cases we managed to book high speed trains for cheaper than the slow counterparts as some had offers on when booking.

Then there's intercity trains which connect cities with fewer stops. Finally there are the regional trains. These tend to be slower, calling at more stops and they don't have reserved seating, but they also tend to be the cheapest option.

Some areas in Italy aren't as well connected such as Cinque Terre, so here you'll only find regional trains available.

Should I Book Italy Train Tickets in Advance?

Yes! as mentioned earlier, we paid the same for 1st class high speed trains booked in advance, as what we would have paid on the day for a slower intercity train.

It is definitely worth booking your main journeys in advance, as these dates tend to be set in stone with your accommodation dates.

For more localised journeys such as Lake Garda to Verona, the price difference is small on the day, so if you would like to play days out by ear then leave these ones flexible.

How Early do you Need to get to the Train Station in Italy?

For bigger city stations I'd recommend a good 20 minutes beforehand. Some stations are more like airports and depending on which door you enter it can be quite a walk to the platforms. The last thing you want is to be panicking and rushing to find your platform.

Getting there in good time allows you to get your bearings, check the arrivals board and stand on the right part on the platform.

If you have a pre-booked seat in a specific carriage, there's nothing worse than having to rush aboard, then walk the length of a train to find where you're sat with all your bags.

For regional stations 5-10 mins is more than adequate. Trains run on time in Italy so definitely be there beforehand.

Are Children Free on Trains in Italy?

In most cases children under 4yrs old travel free. Children up to 14 years may travel at a highly discounted fare when riding on high speed trains. For other trains the maximum child age is 11 years.

We found that my daughter who was 13yrs at the time was classed as a child fare on high speed trains, but an adult on the regional ones.

It's best to play around and price it up online, as it may therefore be cheaper to take a high speed train depending on your children's ages.

Can I take Luggage on Trains in Italy?

With high speed trains there are luggage racks at the end of each carriage. On regional trains, there are no racks and it's expected you keep your luggage with you.

In all cases please keep your most valuable items, money and passports on your person at all times.

Should I purchase tickets online or at the Station?

I would always recommend purchasing online before your trip. Not only can you save money but you're also guaranteeing your seat and some high speed trains can sell out.

If you are purchasing regional train tickets at the station, you need to remember to validate your ticket before boarding using one of the machines on the platform otherwise you could face a fine.

To purchase online we used a combination of Trenitalia (the Italian train website), Trainline and Trip.Com (Often a little easier to navigate).

Our Italy Train Journeys (Full Breakdown)

Day 3: Rome to Chianti (Tuscany) £23pp

Rome Tiburtina to Firenze S.M. Novella: 1st Class High Speed train, Journey Time: 1hr 30 mins, total cost £94 (£16pp)

Florence to Figline Valdarno, Regional train 2nd Class, Journey Time: 58 mins, total cost £38 (£7pp)

Day 6: Day Trip to Florence and Pisa from Chianti £26pp

Figline Valdarno (Chianti) to Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence), Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 58 mins, total cost £25 (£4pp)

Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence) to Pisa Centrale, Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 52 mins £50 (£9pp)

Day 8: Chianti (Tuscany) to Peschiera Del Garda (Lake Garda) £19pp

Figline Valdarno to Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence), Regional Train, 2nd Class, Journey time 58 mins, total cost £25 (£4pp)

Firenze S.M. Novella (Florence) to Peschiera Del Garda, High Speed, 1st Class, Journey time 1hr 58 mins, total cost £85 (£15pp)

Day 11: Day Trip to Verona from Lake Garda £6pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Verona Porta Nuova: Regional Train, 2nd class, Journey time:19 minutes £16 (£3pp)

Verona Porta Nuova to Peschiera Del Garda: Regional Train, 2nd class, Journey time:19 minutes £16 (£3pp)

Day 13: Day Trip to Venice from Lake Garda £17pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Venice (Venezia Santa Lucia), High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 1hr 22 mins, total cost £48 (£8pp)

Venice to Peschiera Del Garda 2nd class train with a change in Verona, journey time: 1hr 45 mins, total cost £55 (£9pp)

Day 15: Day Trip to Milan from Lake Garda £22pp

Peschiera Del Garda to Milan (Milano Centrale), 1st Class Seats-High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 57 mins, total cost £62 (£11pp)

Milan (Milano Centrale) to Peschiera Del Garda, 1st Class Seats-High Speed Train (Frecciargento), journey time: 57 mins, total cost £62 (£11)

Airport Transfers in Italy

From Rome Ciampino Airport to Camping Village Fabulous we paid £64 for a private van for 6 people (£11pp)

Butterfly Camping in Peschiera del Garda to Milan Bergamo, we again booked a private transfer, this time costing £167 (£28pp)

The nearest airport to Peschiera Del Garda is Verona, however the flights were £600 more expensive than from Milan, so it made more sense to fly out of Milan Bergamo and pay a little more on the transfer.

Total cost for Private Airport Transfers £231 (£39pp)

Luggage Tips for Italy Train Travel

For luggage we tried to keep this as minimal as possible as lugging cases round Italy and on so many trains isn't my idea of fun. We stuck to two cases weighing 20kg and then a back pack for each person.

One case was purely for towels and bedding. In static accommodation in Italy, you're usually required to provide your own duvet cover and pillowcases or rent it from the site. The cost of this is around £20 per bed, which doesn't sound too bad. However, as we were changing accommodation three times over the trip, this would have been £300 extra.

We save up old bedding instead of throwing it away for these kind of trips. Then at the end we can dispose of it guilt free and have lots of spare room to bring any souvenirs back.

The three accommodations we booked all had laundry facilities, so this meant we didn't need to pack clothes to last us the full 16 days.

We took around 7 day outfits, 2 evening ones, 2 swimming costume and 1-2 pairs of shoes per person on top of the ones we travelled in.

Luggage costs were included in the flight price above.

Our Tips for Travelling Italy by Train with Kids

Purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues at the stations.

If possible reserve seats in advance. For busy trains its always preferential to have a seat rather than having to stand with children

Have snacks and drinks ready for the journey; children can get hungry, especially during longer trips and some of the trains aren't air conditioned so it can get really hot. You also won't find buffet carts or trolleys on most regional trains either.

Engage kids with travel games to keep them entertained during the rides. You can find our top purchases for keeping children entertained whilst travelling here

Be mindful of train schedules to ensure smooth transitions from one destination to the next- remember little legs won't be able to move as fast as an adults, so allow plenty of time.

Plan some downtime between excursions to allow the kids to relax and recharge. Italy is very hot in the summer and children want time to just be kids too.

We would absolutely recommend a trip like this with children. Train travel in Italy is straightforward and family-friendly, making it easy to explore large regions of the country in a single trip. For roughly the same cost as a 7-night package holiday in Spain, we enjoyed 15 nights of travel and made countless unforgettable memories.

Since this trip, we’ve gone on to plan several more Italy adventures by train, including a 4-night itinerary from Turin to Verona and a Venice to Verona trip. Plus, I've had several solo adventures in Southern Italy and Sicily, all using public transport.

We’re also looking forward to exploring Naples and the Amalfi Coast by public transport this Easter.

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12 Best Italian City Combinations by Train (Easy Routes for 2026)

Planning an Italy trip and wondering which cities are best to combine by train?

Italy has one of Europe’s fastest and easiest rail networks, making it perfect for multi-city trips without hiring a car.

From cities to lakes, coastlines, and food capitals, many of Italy’s best destinations are less than an hour apart.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best Italian city combinations by train, including:

• Journey times
• Typical ticket prices
• Why each pairing works
• Who it’s best for (families, couples, first-timers)

Who This Italy Train Guide Is Best For

First-time visitors to Italy

Travellers planning a multi-city trip without hiring a car

Families, couples, and solo travellers

Budget-conscious travellers using trains instead of flights

Sarah

Build a Break

Helping you plan DIY trips with smart routes, easy itineraries, and money-saving travel tips.

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City Combination	Journey Time	Best For	Region
Florence + Pisa	59 mins	First-time visitors	Tuscany
Milan + Lake Como	1 hr	Relaxed luxury	Lombardy
Rome + Naples	1 hr 16 mins	History & food	Lazio / Campania
Naples + Sorrento	1 hr	Coastal views	Campania
Bari + Polignano	30 mins	Beach & culture	Puglia
Palermo + Cefalù	50 mins	Culture & beach	Sicily

Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting my work and happy planning!

1. Florence + Pisa by Train – Perfect for First-Time Visitors

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and Pisa, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, are just under an hour apart by train.

Start your day in Florence, exploring the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Then, hop on a regional train to Pisa, where you can snap photos at the Leaning Tower, explore Piazza dei Miracoli, and stroll along the River Arno.

How to get from Florence to Pisa:

Route: Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella) to Pisa (Pisa Centrale)

Journey Time: 59 minutes

Cost: £8.13 (€9.41 / $10.31)

Best for: First-time visitors, short trips, families

Ideal trip length: 3-4 days

Why it works: Short train ride, compact sights, no car needed

See how we spent 16 days travelling round Italy by train

2. Milan + Lake Como by Train – City Style Meets Lakeside Relaxation

Milan’s fashion and architecture combines beautifully with Lake Como’s tranquil charm.

Start your morning exploring Milan’s famous Duomo, designer shops, and art galleries. Then, board a train to Varenna, one of Lake Como’s most picturesque towns.

Spend the afternoon strolling along the lake, visiting charming villas, or taking a ferry to Bellagio for stunning views.

How to get from Milan to Lake Como:

Route: Milan (Milano Centrale) to Varenna-Esino (Lake Como)

Journey Time: 1 hour 4 minutes

Cost: £6.47 (€7.49 / $8.21)

Best for: Couples, relaxed luxury, scenic escapes

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: A quick train ride takes you from a major city to peaceful lakeside towns with minimal travel time.

3. Florence + Bologna by Train – Art, Culture & Incredible Food

Combine Florence’s art with Bologna’s culinary delights in just over half an hour.

Florence and Bologna are an unbeatable duo for your next Italian adventure.

In Florence, soak in the Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery and marvel at the Duomo. Then, take a short train ride to Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy.

Indulge in authentic pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and explore the historic streets and iconic Two Towers.

How to get from Florence to Bologna

Route: Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella) to Bologna (Bologna Centrale)

Journey Time: 38 minutes

Cost: £28.83 (€33.36 / $36.63)

Best for: Food lovers, culture seekers, weekend trips

Ideal trip length: 4-5 days

Why it works: High-speed trains connect two walkable cities known for art, history, and incredible cuisine.

4. Pisa + Cinque Terre by Train – Culture and Coastal Views

Combining Pisa and Cinque Terre offers the perfect mix of culture and coastal beauty.

Start your holiday in Pisa, marvelling at the iconic Leaning Tower and exploring the historic Piazza dei Miracoli.

Then, take a short train ride to Monterosso, the largest of Cinque Terre’s picturesque villages.

Spend your days hiking the coastal trails, relaxing on the beaches, and soaking in the charm of the colourful cliffside towns. This duo provides a delightful blend of Italian heritage and seaside relaxation.

How to get from Pisa to Cinque Terre

Route: Pisa (Pisa Centrale) to Monterosso (Cinque Terre)

Journey Time: 1 hour 11 minutes

Cost: £10.92 (€12.63 / $13.87)

Best for: Coastal lovers, active travellers, photographers

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: Direct rail links make it easy to combine iconic landmarks with colourful seaside villages.

5. Naples + Sorrento by Train – History with Amalfi Coast Scenery

Naples and Sorrento offer an ideal mix of bustling city life and coastal tranquillity.

Start your holiday in Naples, exploring its historic streets, ancient ruins, and world-famous pizza. Then, take a scenic train ride to Sorrento, where you can relax by the sea, visit charming piazzas, and enjoy breath-taking views of the Amalfi Coast.

Perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike, this pairing offers the best of both worlds in Southern Italy.

How to get from Naples to Sorrento:

Route: Naples (Napoli Centrale) to Sorrento

Journey Time: 1 hour 9 minutes

Cost: £13.11 (€15.17 / $16.65)

Best for: Beach lovers, history fans, scenic trips

Ideal trip length: 3–5 days

Why it works: One scenic train line connects Naples with coastal views and easy access to the Amalfi Coast.

6. Rome + Naples by Train – Ancient Ruins and Italy’s Best Food

Rome’s ancient ruins complement Naples’ vibrant energy and pizza culture.

Rome and Naples create an unforgettable holiday combination, blending ancient wonders with vibrant energy.

Start in Rome, exploring iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Then, take a high-speed train to Naples, Italy’s culinary capital and gateway to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

Perfect for history and food enthusiasts, this route showcases Italy's rich diversity.

How to get from Rome to Naples

Route: Rome (Roma Termini) to Naples (Napoli Centrale)

Journey Time: 1 hour 16 minutes

Cost: £39.23 (€45.39 / $49.84)

Best for: First-time Italy trips, history and food lovers

Ideal trip length: 4–6 days

Why it works: High-speed trains link two major cities packed with iconic sights and regional cuisine.

7. Venice + Verona by Train – Romance, History & Easy Travel

Pair Venice’s canals with Verona’s Shakespearean romance.

Venice and Verona are the perfect combo for a romantic and cultural holiday.

Begin in Venice, wandering through its enchanting canals, iconic St. Mark’s Square, and Rialto Bridge. Then, take a short train ride to Verona, the city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Explore Juliet’s balcony, Verona’s ancient Roman Arena, and picturesque piazzas.

This combination is ideal for those seeking history, beauty, and timeless romance in two of Italy’s most captivating cities.

How to get from Venice to Verona

Route: Venice (Venezia Santa Lucia) to Verona (Verona Porta Nuova)

Journey Time: 1 hour 12 minutes

Cost: £25.34 (€29.33 / $32.20)

Best for: Romantic trips, culture lovers, short breaks

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: Frequent trains connect two compact cities rich in history, art, and architecture.

See our 7 day itinerary for Venice, Verona & Lake Garda

8. Milan + Lake Garda by Train – Urban Energy and Natural Beauty

Combine Milan’s style with Lake Garda’s stunning lakeside views.

Milan and Lake Garda make a fantastic pairing for a holiday that combines urban sophistication with natural beauty.

Start your trip in Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital, exploring the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and world-class museums.

Then, take a quick train to Lake Garda’s Peschiera del Garda, where you can unwind by the water, enjoy lakeside dining, and visit charming towns like Sirmione.

It’s the perfect blend of city chic and lakeside relaxation.

How to get from Milan to Lake Garda

Route: Milan (Milano Centrale) to Peschiera del Garda (Lake Garda)

Journey Time: 57 minutes

Cost: £23.59 (€27.33 / $30.02)

Best for: Nature lovers, families, relaxed itineraries

Ideal trip length: 4–5 days

Why it works: A short train journey delivers a smooth transition from city sightseeing to lakeside relaxation.

9. Lake Garda + Verona by Train – Short, Scenic & Stress-Free

A short ride connects the serene Lake Garda to Verona’s historic charm.

Begin at Lake Garda, enjoying its serene waters, scenic walks, and charming lakeside villages. Then, take a quick train ride to Verona, where you can immerse yourself in Roman history at the Arena and visit Juliet’s famous balcony.

This easy combination is ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat paired with cultural exploration.

How to get from Lake Garda to Verona

Route: Peschiera del Garda to Verona (Verona Porta Nuova)

Journey Time: 19 minutes

Cost: £3.41 (€3.95 / $4.33)

Best for: Easy add-ons, slow travel, short stays

Ideal trip length: 2–3 days

Why it works: One of Italy’s shortest train routes connects lakeside scenery with a historic city centre.

10. Bari + Polignano a Mare by Train – Puglia’s Coast Made Easy

Start in Bari, exploring the historic old town of Bari Vecchia, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and the lively waterfront. Then, hop on a short regional train to Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.

Spend your time swimming at Lama Monachile, walking the coastal paths, and enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the Adriatic.

How to get from Bari to Polignano a Mare

Route: Bari Centrale to Polignano a Mare

Journey Time: 30 minutes

Cost: approx £3–£5 (€3.50–€5.50 / $4–$6)

Best for: Coastal lovers, relaxed travel, short breaks

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: Frequent regional trains connect city culture with one of southern Italy’s most beautiful beaches in under half an hour.

11. Palermo + Cefalù by Train – Culture and Beach in Sicily

Palermo and Cefalù offer a perfect balance of Sicilian culture and seaside relaxation.

Begin in Palermo, discovering its bustling markets, Norman architecture, and vibrant street food scene. Then, take a scenic coastal train to Cefalù, a charming seaside town known for its sandy beach and impressive cathedral.

This pairing is ideal if you want to experience Sicily’s energy without long travel days.

How to get from Palermo to Cefalù

Route: Palermo Centrale to Cefalù

Journey Time: 45–55 minutes
Cost: approx £6–£8 (€7–€9 / $8–$10)

Best for: First-time Sicily visitors, beach lovers, culture seekers

Ideal trip length: 3–4 days

Why it works: A straightforward coastal rail line links a major city with a relaxed beach town quickly and affordably.

Don't miss our guide on How to travel between Sicily and Italy

12. Catania + Taormina by Train – Etna Views and Sicilian Charm

Catania and Taormina are one of eastern Sicily’s most popular and practical train combinations.

Start in Catania, exploring its baroque architecture, lively piazzas, and Mount Etna excursions. Then, take a short train journey north to Taormina, famous for its Greek Theatre, stunning views, and nearby beaches like Isola Bella.

This route delivers iconic Sicily scenery with minimal effort.

How to get from Catania to Taormina

Route: Catania Centrale to Taormina-Giardini
Journey Time: 50–60 minutes

Cost: approx £6–£9 (€7–€10 / $8–$11)

Best for: Scenic trips, couples, classic Sicily itineraries

Ideal trip length: 3–5 days

Why it works: One easy rail connection combines urban life, coastal views, and Sicily’s most famous hill town.

See my itinerary 4 day Itinerary for Sicily

FAQs About Travelling Italy by Train

What is the best way to travel between cities in Italy?

Trains are the fastest and most convenient option, with stations in city centres and frequent departures across Italy.

Is it easy to travel Italy by train without a car?

Yes, Italy’s rail network makes it easy to visit major cities, coastal towns, and lakes without driving.

How many cities should you combine in one Italy trip?

For a relaxed pace, 2–3 cities per week works best when travelling by train.

Are trains in Italy affordable?

Regional trains are very affordable, while high-speed trains cost more but save significant time when booked early.

Tips for Italian City Breaks 2026

Plan Your Itinerary: Use an Italy map to visualise your route and avoid backtracking.
Book Italy Train Tickets Early: Save money by booking in advance, especially for high-speed trains.
Check Train Types: Regional trains are cheaper but slower, while high-speed trains are faster and more comfortable.
Consider Train Travel Costs: Calculate costs in euros or dollars to stay within budget.

Why Choose Train Travel in Italy?

Italy’s train system is one of the most efficient ways to explore multiple cities.

Trains are fast, frequent, and take you straight to city centres.

Whether you’re exploring the top 5 cities in Italy to visit or creating your own Italy train travel itinerary, the possibilities are endless.

Plan your Italian city break in 2026 with ease and experience the beauty of train travel in Italy!

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you?

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports.

👉 Join the Travel Club here

Bernina Express With Kids: Is It Worth It? Our Family Review

Wondering Whether the Bernina Express Is Worth It With Kids?

We travelled from Switzerland to Italy on the Bernina Express with four children aged 7, 11, 13 and 17, taking one of Europe's most famous train journeys from Chur to Tirano before continuing on to Lake Como and Milan.

In this guide I'll share exactly how we planned the trip, what the journey was really like with children, where we stayed, how much it cost and whether I think the Bernina Express is worth it for families.

If you're looking for practical advice rather than just train facts, you're in the right place.

Our route took us from Zurich Airport to Chur, across the Swiss Alps on the Bernina Express, before crossing into Italy and spending time on Lake Como and Milan.

For us, it was one of those trips that felt adventurous without being stressful. The scenery was incredible, the logistics were surprisingly simple and even the kids spent most of the journey glued to the windows.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Build a Break.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Watch the Video of this Train

Planning a Bernina Express Trip?

This guide focuses on our personal experience travelling with children.

If you're still deciding which tickets to buy, whether to book the panoramic train or how to plan your route, start with these guides first:

➡️ Complete Bernina Express Guide

➡️ Bernina Express vs Regional Train

➡️ Bernina Express Itinerary: Switzerland to Italy

Our Personal Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

Fly to Zurich and travel to Chur

Day 2

Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano then onwards to Lake Como

Day 3

Explore Lake Como and Varenna

Day 4

Travel to Milan

Day 5

Fly home

To keep costs down, we flew from Dublin rather than directly from the UK and spent a night there before our flight to Zurich.

We travelled during February half term and booked around six weeks before departure.

Including that overnight stay, flights, accommodation, trains and Bernina Express reservations, the total cost came to approximately £389 per person.

For Switzerland during February half term, we thought this represented excellent value.

Is the Bernina Express Worth It With Kids?

In our opinion, yes.

Before the trip I was convinced someone would get bored halfway through.

It never happened.

The scenery changes constantly throughout the journey. One minute you're travelling through forests and mountain villages, the next you're crossing dramatic viaducts, passing frozen lakes or winding through snowy mountain landscapes.

It doesn't feel like sitting on a train for over four hours.

It feels more like watching a film unfold outside the window.

Our children were aged 7, 11, 13 and 17 and all four enjoyed the experience.

That probably tells you more than anything else I could write.

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How Much Does the Bernina Express Cost for Children?

One of the things that surprised us when planning our trip was how generous Switzerland is when it comes to children's rail travel.

Children under 6 usually travel free on the Bernina Express route, while children aged 6 to 16 benefit from discounted fares. Families using a Swiss Travel Pass may also find additional savings available through Switzerland's family travel schemes.

It's important to remember that even if your child qualifies for free or discounted travel, a seat reservation is still required when travelling in the panoramic Bernina Express carriages.

As prices can change from year to year, I always recommend checking the latest fares when booking.

For a family of six, the costs do add up, but compared to many family attractions, we felt the experience offered excellent value for money and remains one of our most memorable family trips.

What Age Is Best for the Bernina Express?

Under 5s

The journey is certainly possible with younger children, although you'll need plenty of snacks and entertainment.

The large panoramic windows help keep little ones interested.

Ages 5-10

This is probably the ideal age.

The tunnels, bridges and constantly changing scenery make it feel like a real adventure.

Our youngest child was seven and absolutely loved it.

Ages 11-15

This age group tends to appreciate the scenery more than you might expect.

There are plenty of opportunities for photos and videos which kept our older children interested throughout.

Teenagers

Our eldest was 17 and enjoyed it just as much as everyone else.

The scenery really is that impressive.

Our Exact Bernina Express Family Itinerary

We deliberately combined Switzerland and Italy in the same trip.

Switzerland is beautiful, but accommodation can be expensive for larger families.

Italy offered much better value and allowed us to extend the holiday without stretching the budget too far.

Our route looked like this:

Dublin (overnight)

Zurich

Chur

Bernina Express

Tirano

Bellano

Varenna

Milan

Looking back, I still think this is one of the easiest ways for families to experience the Bernina Express.

You get the spectacular Swiss scenery while also enjoying a few days in Italy where accommodation and food are generally more affordable.

Why We Flew Via Dublin

One thing that surprised a lot of people when I shared this trip was that we didn't fly directly to Switzerland.

We actually flew from Manchester to Dublin, spent 24 hours there and then continued to Zurich the following day.

At the time it was cheaper for our family of six to include an overnight stay in Dublin than fly directly from Manchester to Zurich.

It also gave us the opportunity to explore another city along the way.

Sometimes it's worth checking unusual flight combinations when travelling as a larger family.

Getting From Zurich Airport to Chur

One of the reasons I often recommend Switzerland for train travel is because the transport system is incredibly easy to use.

Zurich Airport station is located directly beneath the terminal.

After landing we simply:

Followed the train signs

Checked the departure boards

Boarded the next train to Chur

The journey takes around 1 hour 35 minutes.

We didn't pre-book tickets because I prefer flexibility when travelling with children.

The journey itself was surprisingly scenic and served as a great introduction to Switzerland before the main event the following day.

Where We Stayed in Chur

Finding accommodation for a family of six in Switzerland can be challenging.

Family rooms are limited and prices can be high, particularly during school holidays.

We stayed at Central Hotel Post Chur and booked two triple rooms.

For a one-night stop it worked perfectly.

What we liked:

Around six minutes from the station

Excellent breakfast

Helpful staff

Easy walk into the Old Town

Guest card with local discounts

Is Chur Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

Many people treat Chur purely as a starting point for the Bernina Express, but it's actually Switzerland's oldest town.

The Old Town is compact, attractive and easy to explore on foot.

Taking the Bernina Express From Chur

The following morning we headed to Chur station and boarded the panoramic Bernina Express.

We booked second-class panoramic seats and found them more than comfortable enough.

To travel in the panoramic carriages you generally need:

A train ticket or rail pass

A seat reservation

For detailed reservation costs, seat choices and booking instructions, see our Complete Bernina Express Guide.

If budget allowed, I would probably add a second night here next time.

What the Bernina Express Was Really Like With Kids

This was the part of the trip I was most curious about.

Would the children get bored?

Would four hours feel too long?

Would we spend the entire journey trying to entertain everyone?

The answer was no.

Our favourite sections included:

Landwasser Viaduct

The spiral tunnels

Lago Bianco

Snow-covered mountain landscapes

The descent into Italy

The transition between Switzerland and Italy is one of the most fascinating parts of the journey.

Within a few hours you're travelling from snowy alpine scenery to palm trees and Italian towns.

What Is Included Onboard?

The panoramic carriages are spacious and comfortable.

We received a commemorative Bernina Express Lindt tin filled with chocolates, which the children loved.

There was also a complimentary cold tea drink which, if I'm being honest, none of us particularly enjoyed.

The train has toilets and luggage storage areas, making it straightforward for families.

What to Pack for the Bernina Express With Kids

We packed:

Snacks

Drinks

Power banks

Card games

Headphones

Mobile phones for photos

Lightweight layers

In reality, the scenery provided most of the entertainment.

Arriving in Tirano

We arrived in Tirano around lunchtime.

Although we continued straight to Lake Como, I would definitely spend more time here if we repeated the trip.

The historic centre looks beautiful and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby.

The connection onwards to Italy is incredibly simple.

The regional station sits directly opposite the Bernina Express station, making transfers easy even with children and luggage.

Is Tirano Worth Stopping In?

I think so.

If you're not rushing onwards, I'd allow at least a few hours to explore.

Next time I'd probably stop for lunch before continuing to Lake Como.

It feels like a destination that deserves more than a quick station change.

Why We Chose Lake Como With Kids

Rather than staying in Tirano, we based ourselves in Bellano on Lake Como.

We chose Bellano because it was:

More affordable

Less crowded

Easy to reach by train

Well positioned for exploring the lake

For families, it offered much better value than Varenna while still providing easy access to the rest of Lake Como.

A Day Trip to Varenna

During our stay we took the short train journey to Varenna.

Even in February it was beautiful.

The colourful waterfront, lakeside walks and relaxed atmosphere made it one of our favourite stops on the trip.

If you're extending your Bernina Express journey, I wouldn't skip it.

Lake Como to Milan

After two nights on Lake Como we travelled to Milan for one final night before flying home.

One night felt about right for us.

It gave us time to explore the city centre, enjoy the atmosphere and experience Carnevale Ambrosiano, which happened to be taking place during our visit.

It also provided a convenient base for our flight home the next morning.

Bernina Express With Kids: Pros and Cons

Pros

Incredible scenery

Comfortable seating

Easy journey with no driving

Suitable for multiple age groups

One of Europe's most memorable train journeys

Cons

Expensive for larger families

Limited flexibility compared to regional trains

Food options onboard are limited

Younger children may find the journey long

What We'd Do Differently Next Time

If we repeated this trip, I would:

Spend two nights in Chur

Stop for lunch in Tirano

Spend longer exploring Lake Como

Consider returning on the regional train for a different experience

But overall, this remains one of our favourite family trips.

It combined Switzerland, Italy, spectacular scenery and easy train travel without ever feeling stressful.

For families looking for a memorable rail adventure, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bernina Express suitable for children?

Yes. We travelled with children aged 7, 11, 13 and 17 and all enjoyed the journey.

Do children need a ticket for the Bernina Express?

Children under 6 travel free, while children aged 6 to 16 receive discounted fares. If you're using a Swiss Travel Pass, children may be able to travel free with a Swiss Family Card. Seat reservations are still required in the panoramic carriages.

Does the journey feel long?

Not really. The scenery changes constantly and there is always something to look at.

Are there toilets onboard?

Yes.

Can you take a pushchair?

Yes, although a compact folding pushchair will make life easier.

Is February a good time to travel?

Absolutely. We loved seeing the snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes.

Is the Bernina Express worth the money?

For us, yes. It remains one of the most memorable train journeys we've ever taken.

Planning Your Own Bernina Express Trip?

You may also find these guides useful:

➡️ Complete Bernina Express Guide

➡️ Bernina Express vs Regional Train

➡️ Bernina Express Itinerary: Switzerland to Italy

➡️ 10 Day Switzerland Itinerary

➡️ Switzerland on a Budget

➡️ Is Switzerland Expensive?

➡️ Lake Como Travel Guide

➡️ Northern Italy Travel Guides

Eurocamp Italy 2026: Best Campsites, Reviews & Full Park List

🇮🇹 Eurocamp Holidays in Italy: The Ultimate Guide for 2026

Campsite holidays in Italy are genuinely our favourite type of family holiday - and after six years of travelling with Eurocamp, including Venice, Rome, Lake Garda and Tuscany, it’s safe to say we’re obsessed.

With fantastic pools, great weather, and easy access to iconic cities, Eurocamp ticks every box for us (and that’s saying something when you’re trying to please four kids of different ages!).

Parks across Italy offer culture, sunshine, amazing food, and brilliant value. Plus, often cheaper than a UK holiday even when you add flights and transfers.

In this updated 2026 guide, you’ll find:

✔ What a Eurocamp holiday is really like

✔ How to choose the perfect Italian Eurocamp park

✔ Our reviews of the parks we’ve stayed at

✔ A full list of every single Eurocamp campsite in Italy

✔ A new section answering “Does Eurocamp operate in Sardinia?” (a common Google search!)

✔ Tips for airports, transport and planning

Just a quick note before we begin, some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!

What Is a Eurocamp Holiday?

Eurocamp holidays are self-catered stays in well-equipped European holiday parks.

Expect: Spacious mobile homes, safari tents, or lodges

Outdoor living: pools, nature, terraces, al fresco dining

Fun for all ages: playgrounds, splash parks, sports & activities

Freedom to explore local towns, beaches, and cities

Brilliant value, especially for families

For us, Eurocamp in Italy means:

✔ swimming in the pools

✔ exploring major cities like Rome and Venice

✔ eating al fresco on our deck

✔ making memories in the sunshine

How to Choose the Right Eurocamp in Italy

When choosing your perfect campsite, consider:

Beach vs Countryside

Beach lovers: Marina di Venezia, Pra’ delle Torri, Union Lido

Scenery & culture: Tuscany parks like Norcenni Girasole

Proximity to Major Cities

Rome: Camping Village Fabulous

Venice: Marina di Venezia, Union Lido

Verona & Milan: Butterfly Camping, Bella Italia

Walking Distance to Towns

Butterfly Camping (Peschiera del Garda)

Bella Italia

Public Transport

Italy’s trains make exploring super easy - perfect from Rome, Tuscany and Lake Garda. If you're planning on doing Eurocamp without a car, check the sites which have good transport links.

Campsite Size

Large sites: Marina di Venezia, Park Albatros, Norcenni Girasole, Union Lido

Medium sites: Portofelice, Pra’ delle Torri

Small sites: Butterfly Camping, Piantelle

🏕 Full List of Every Eurocamp Park in Italy 2026

Use this list to compare destinations quickly and see which region suits your trip.

We've added links to some of these, where we have managed to find them available to book elsewhere. This way, you can compare prices with staying direct with the sites.

Lake Garda & Northern Italy

Altomincio Family Park – Valeggio sul Mincio

Bella Italia – Peschiera del Garda

Cisano San Vito – Bardolino

Butterfly Camping Village – Peschiera del Garda

Campeggio del Garda – Peschiera

Weekend Glamping Resort – Lake Garda

Piantelle – Manerba del Garda

Del Garda Village and Camping - Peschiera, Lake Garda

Camping Village Eden

Venice Coast / Adriatic (Cavallino & Caorle)

Marina di Venezia – Punta Sabbioni (Venice)

Union Lido – Cavallino

Pra’ delle Torri – Caorle

Ca’ Pasquali Village – Cavallino

Sant’Angelo Village – Cavallino

Residence Village – Cavallino

Camping Village Cavallino – Cavallino

Camping Waikiki – Lido di Jesolo

Garden Paradiso – Cavallino

Laguna Village – Caorle

Ca' Savio - Cavallino-Treporti

Camping Village Serenella (Bardolino)

Villaggio San Francesco - Carole

Portofelice Camping Village - Eraclea Mare

Rosapineta

Malibu Beach, Jesolo

Tuscany & Central Italy

Hu Norcenni Girasole Village – Figline Valdarno

Park Albatros Village – San Vincenzo

Montescudaio Village – Montescudaio

Orbetello Camping Village – Orbetello

Le Capanne Camping Village – Bibbona

La Cecinella – Cecina Mare

Camping Orlando in Chianti

Rome / Lazio Region

Camping Village Fabulous – Rome

Hu Roma Camping in Town – Rome

I Pini Family Park – Near Rome

Village Roma Capital

Adriatic (Emilia-Romagna)

Tahiti Camping Village – Lido delle Nazioni

Pineta sul Mare Camping Village – Cesenatico

Camping Village Cesenatico – Cesenatico

Rimini Village - Viserba

Vigna sul Mar Family Camping Village – Lido di Pomposa

Spina Family Camping Village – Lido di Spina

Adriano - Punta Marina

Tenuta Primero, Grado

Other Italy Eurocamp Locations

Camping Village Punta Navaccia – Lake Trasimeno (Umbria)

Centro Vacanze San Marino – San Marino

Village Lago Maggiore - Dormelletto

Due Laghi Levico - Levico Terme, Trentino-South Tyrol

Caldonazzo, Trentino-South Tyrol

Camping Village Serenella - Puglia

La Scogliera - Puglia

Marina Julia Camping Village - Manfalcone, Trieste

Baia Domizia Camping Village - Campania

🇮🇹 Does Eurocamp Have Any Parks in Sardinia in 2026?

Yes, for 2026, Eurocamp has five sites in Sardinia.

Bella Sardinia (Oristano)

Laguna Blu (Alghero)

Baia Blu La Tortuga – Aglientu (Northern Sardinia)

4 Mori Family Village (Muravera)

Capo d’Orso (Le Saline)

Eurocamp Sites in Italy We’ve Stayed At

1. Eurocamp Italy Venice: Marina di Venezia

Location Highlights: Located near the iconic city of Venice, this park is perfect for families who want to combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration.

On-Site Features: A massive water park, multiple restaurants, and a stunning Adriatic coastline.

Size: One of the largest Eurocamp sites in Italy, bustling with activities and amenities.

Nearby Attractions: Spend a day exploring Venice’s canals, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge’s Palace.

Ideal For: Beach lovers and those seeking easy access to Venice’s treasures.

2. Eurocamp Italy Rome: Camping Village Fabulous

Location Highlights: Just outside Rome, this park is ideal for exploring the Eternal City while enjoying the peace of a well-equipped holiday site.

On-Site Features: Large pools, a splash park, and plenty of shaded relaxation areas.

Size: Medium-sized with a tranquil atmosphere, despite its proximity to Rome.

Nearby Attractions: Visit the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City, all a short journey away.

Ideal For: History buffs and families who want a mix of sightseeing and downtime.

We loved this site and it's location so much, we've visited twice.

Click here to read our in-depth review of Camping Village Fabulous which includes everything you need to know about staying here.

3. Butterfly Camping Village (Lake Garda)

Location Highlights: Situated on the southern shores of Lake Garda, this smaller, intimate park offers breath taking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

On-Site Features: A swimming pool, direct lake access, restaurant, convenience store and family-friendly entertainment.

Size: One of the smallest Eurocamp parks, providing a cosy, family-friendly vibe.

Nearby Attractions: Explore Peschiera del Garda, Gardaland theme park, and the romantic city of Verona. Alternatively, take the train to Venice or Milan.

Again, as this park is in such a great location we've visited twice. Click here read our full review of Butterfly Camping and the surrounding area

4. Hu Norcenni Girasole Village (Tuscany)

Location Highlights: Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this park offers stunning views and proximity to Florence, Siena, and other cultural gems.

On-Site Features: Multiple pools, a wellness centre, and even an on-site wine cellar for tastings.

Size: A large hillside park with extensive facilities and plenty of space to explore.

Nearby Attractions: Wander through medieval villages, enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, and marvel at Florence’s artistic heritage.

Ideal For: Couples and families seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and culinary delights.

For our review of Hu Norcenni and how to reach this park without a car, click here

Search for Flights to Italy

✈️ Travel Logistics: Airports & Transport

When planning your Eurocamp holiday in Italy, consider the travel logistics:

Distance from Airports: Many parks are conveniently located near major airports like Venice Marco Polo or Rome Fiumicino.

Driving Distance from Ports: If arriving by ferry, calculate the driving time to your chosen park.

Public Transport Accessibility: Check for bus, train, or ferry connections to nearby towns and attractions.

Most of the camps we've included in this guide are easy to reach without driving.

Airports which Serve Each Region:

Venice Marco Polo → Venice coast parks

Verona / Milan Bergamo → Lake Garda

Rome Fiumicino → Rome camps

Pisa or Florence → Tuscany

Italy’s public transport makes exploring simple and budget-friendly - perfect for non-drivers. Don't forget to check our guide on doing Eurocamp without a Car which includes lots of valuable information if flying.

❓ Eurocamp Italy FAQs

When Is the Best Time to Visit Eurocamp in Italy?

The best time to visit Eurocamp parks in Italy is May to September, when the weather is warm, attractions are open, and most campsites run their full entertainment and pool schedules.

Pool opening times matter, especially for families, and Italy tend to vary by region:

Northern Italy (Lake Garda, Venice coast):

Pools often open mid-May and close early to mid-September. Temperatures are a little cooler here, so parks tend to run slightly shorter seasons.

Central & Southern Italy (Tuscany, Rome, Sardinia, Puglia):

Pools typically open late April/early May and stay open until late September, sometimes even into early October depending on weather.

Because the pool complex is the biggest part of the holiday for most kids, always check individual pool opening and closing dates before booking. Each park sets its own schedule, and it can vary year by year.

Do You Need a Car for Eurocamp Italy?

Not necessarily. Italy is one of the easiest countries in Europe to do Eurocamp without a car.

Many parks are:

Close to airports

Near train stations or bus routes

Easy to reach by public transport, especially around Rome, Venice, Tuscany and Lake Garda

All 4 parcs we’ve visited in Italy, we’ve flown to.

From parks like Butterfly Camping, Fabulous and Marina di Venezia, you can explore entire regions using trains, buses, ferries and shuttle services.

A car can be useful in more rural areas (like parts of Tuscany or Sardinia), but it’s absolutely not essential for many of the most popular Italian Eurocamps.

If you’re planning to go car-free, check out our full guide on Eurocamp without a car for tips on transfers, trains and the easiest parks for non-drivers.

Is Eurocamp Cheaper Than a Hotel in Italy?

For most families, yes, Eurocamp is usually cheaper than a hotel, especially in peak season.

Why: You pay one price per accommodation, not per person. You can cook some meals, which reduces food costs.

Parking (if needed) is normally free.

You get more space - terrace, living area, kitchen, without paying for multiple rooms.

As a family of six, we’d typically need two hotel rooms, which instantly doubles the cost. At Eurocamp we only need a three-bedroom lodge, which is almost always cheaper and comes with more space, privacy and flexibility.

For smaller families too, Eurocamp often works out better value than a city hotel, especially near Venice, Rome or Lake Garda during summer.

Why Choose a Eurocamp Italy in 2026?

Eurocamp Italy offers the most perfect mix of:

✔ sunshine

✔ beaches

✔ culture

✔ amazing food

✔ brilliant family facilities

✔ great value

Whether you want to explore Rome, wander Venice’s canals, dip in Lake Garda, or relax under the Tuscan sun, there’s a Eurocamp site to match your travel style.

Make 2026 the year you experience the magic of a Eurocamp holiday in Italy!

Want more Italy?

Explore our complete Italy Travel Guide with multi-city train routes, family itineraries, budget trips and transport tips all in one place.

👉 See all Italy guides here

✈️ Want us to find trips like this for you?

Our members-only Build a Break Travel Club receives hand-picked flight & hotel deals, Extreme Day Trips and multi-city Europe itineraries every week, all from UK and Ireland airports.

👉 Join the Travel Club here

How to Do Eurocamp Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide

Eurocamp type holidays have become a firm favourite with our family over the last 5 years.

When our children were small, they always loved visiting Center Parcs, but as adults, we preferred a city break and longed for warmer climates.

Eurocamp seemed to throw up the best solution- onsite activities for kids, fantastic pools and all based in a forest-like environment giving them extra freedom to explore.

For us adults, Eurocamp had the bonus of offering sites near major European Cities and some even having the added plus point of a beach and guaranteed sunshine.

And the best part?
You absolutely can do Eurocamp without a car.

In fact, as a larger family living in the north of England, we prefer to fly. No long 7-hour slog to Dover. No ferry queues. No motorway meltdowns. Just a quick flight and public transport from the airport to the parc.

Flying has allowed us to travel door-to-door in around 7 hours to sites in Holland and Italy!

In this guide, we’ll answer all the questions people search for, including:

Which Eurocamps are near an airport?

What’s the best Eurocamp without a car?

Which Eurocamp can you fly to most easily?

Do Eurocamp arrange flights?

How do you pack for Eurocamp without a car?

I’ll also share the car-free Eurocamp parks we’ve personally visited across Italy and Holland, along with tips to make the whole experience smooth, stress-free and budget-friendly.

Can You Go to Eurocamp Without a Car?

Yes, you can! Many Eurocamp sites are conveniently located near airports or accessible via public transport. Of course, there's always the option to fly, then rent a car on arrival.

Every Eurocamp we’ve visited over the last five years has been:

✔ close to a major airport
✔ connected by reliable public transport
✔ easy to navigate without needing a hire car
✔ walkable or bike-friendly once on site

Search For the Cheapest Car Hire

Which Eurocamps Are Best to Visit Without a Car?

Below you'll Eurocamp sites we’ve visited without a car, plus others that rank as the best Eurocamps near an airport - ideal if you're searching for Eurocamps you can fly to or Eurocamp holidays with flights.

🇮🇹 Best Eurocamp Italy Sites (Car-Free)

Italy is one of the easiest countries to do Eurocamp without driving. Great transport, reliable shuttle buses, and airports close by.

1. Camping Village Fabulous (Rome)

Distance from airport: 12 miles from Fiumicino
Why it’s one of the best Eurocamps without a car:

Bus stop outside the gates

Easy access to the Rome Metro

Perfect mix of pools, pine forest, beaches + sightseeing

This is the simplest Eurocamp in Italy with flights if you want to combine pool days and Roman history.

This site is often cheaper booked direct, which we have done before here

Read our full review of Camping Village Fabulous here

2. Marina di Venezia (Venice)

Distance from Airport: 15 miles from Venice Marco Polo Airport.

Transport Links: Buses and ferries offer regular service between the airport, Venice city centre, and the park.

Why it’s the best Eurocamp near an airport in Italy:

Huge pool complex

World-class entertainment

White sandy beach behind the parc
Ferries to Venice every 30 minutes

Still the best Eurocamp we’ve visited - hands down.

3. Butterfly Camping Village (Lake Garda)

Distance from airport: 12 miles from Verona

Airport Transport: Train from Verona → Peschiera station → 10-minute walk

Why it’s great without a car:

Right next to Peschiera town

Lakeside walks

Easy day trips to Verona, Milan or Venice

A brilliant Eurocamp near an airport for families wanting a smaller parc with a perfect location.

We've visited Butterfly camping twice and found it cheaper to book direct here

📌 Read our full review of Camping Butterfly here.

4. Hu Norcenni Girasole Village (Tuscany)

Distance from airport: 72 miles from Pisa (but worth it!)

Transport: Shuttle to train station → Florence & beyond

Why it works even without a car:

On-site shuttle

Huge pool complexes

Mountain views, great restaurants, live music

A bigger transfer than the others, but still one of our favourite Eurocamps in Italy.

Again, this can often be cheaper booked directly. Check prices here.

📌 Read our full review here of Hu Norceinni Girsole Village here

For our complete list of Eurocamps in Italy (50+ sites) click here

🇳🇱 Best Eurocamp in Holland Without a Car

5. Duinrell (Amsterdam)

Distance from airport: 25 miles from Schiphol
Transport: Train → bus to the parc entrance

One of the easiest Eurocamps to get to from the UK.

Why go car-free here?

Free theme park entry
Epic waterpark (the largest indoor waterpark in the Benelux region)
Safe cycling routes
Ideal for Amsterdam + The Hague
Easily walk the 5 mins in to Waasenaar town.

We loved it here and will definitely return at some point.

For our full review of Duinrell click here

🇫🇷 Best Eurocamp France Sites Without a Car

6. La Croix du Vieux Pont (Paris)

Distance from airport: 45 miles from Charles de Gaulle
Transport: Shuttle buses & organised day trips

Perfect if you're looking for a Eurocamp close to an airport and want to visit Disneyland Paris or central Paris.

To look at booking this camp directly click here

7. Les Méditerranées – Nouvelle Floride (South of France)

Distance from airport: 9 miles from Béziers Cap d’Agde
Transport: Local buses + taxis

Ideal for beaches, sunshine and families who prefer to stay mostly onsite.

🇪🇸 Best Eurocamp Spain Sites Without a Car

8. Cambrils Park (Costa Dorada)

Distance from airport: 9 miles from Reus

Transport: Direct buses to Salou + the parc area

Why it’s one of the best Eurocamps you can fly to:

Close to PortAventura World

Stunning pools

Great for kids of all ages

Don't forget to compare prices with the site itself here

Do Eurocamp Arrange Flights?

Short answer: No.

But that’s actually a bonus.
Booking your own flights gives you control over:

price

times

luggage

airport choice

We usually save hundreds by booking Eurocamp accommodation + flights separately.

Looking for Eurocamp holidays with flights 2026?

Just book your parc, then use Skyscanner/Google Flights for deals.

🎒 What to Pack for Eurocamp Without a Car

Here’s our streamlined packing approach after years of car-free Eurocamp travel.

Everything below fits neatly into a 20kg suitcase, leaving room in other bags for clothing and personal items.

🛏 Bedding & towels

Eurocamp charges:

£22 single

£34 double

For a family of 6, this adds up fast.

Our solution:
We bring old bedding & towels → use them on site → recycle or leave for other guests → fly home with extra suitcase space.

🍳 Kitchen essentials

Pack small versions of:

tea towels

bin bags

condiments (in 100ml travel bottles)

washing-up liquid

sponges

🧺 Laundry

Dr Beckmann Magic Leaves

Portable washing line + pegs

Collapsible bag for shopping

🧴 Toiletries

We order from Boots airside to save space in our cases.

📝 Tips for a Smooth Car-Free Eurocamp Trip

✔ Pre-book airport transfers
✔ Check local buses before you go
✔ Use bikes once on site
✔ Shop locally on site where possible
✔ Choose a parc walkable from town or transport

Why We Prefer Eurocamp Holidays Without a Car

For us, a holiday starts the moment we step inside the airport. No motorway stress. No breakdown drama. No long ferry crossing. Just a direct, easy journey.

We often find flights + luggage for all six of us for £500–£600 return which coming from the north, is far cheaper than fuel + tolls + ferries.

Ready to Plan Your Car-Free Eurocamp Adventure?

Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore your flight options and Eurocamp locations today!

Whether you’re heading to Rome, Venice, Lake Garda, Paris or The Netherlands, going car-free is completely doable — and often cheaper, easier and more relaxing.

Bernina Express: Complete Guide, Prices & Tips (2026)

The Bernina Express is widely considered one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world.

Running from Switzerland to Italy through the heart of the Alps, this UNESCO World Heritage railway passes glaciers, mountain lakes, dramatic viaducts and some of Europe's most breathtaking scenery.

Unlike many famous mountain railways, the Bernina Express doesn't rely on cogwheels or rack railways to climb the mountains. Instead, it uses an incredible network of spiral tunnels, bridges and carefully engineered gradients to reach an altitude of 2,253 metres above sea level.

Whether you're planning a day trip from Milan, a Switzerland rail holiday or simply wondering if the Bernina Express is worth it, this guide covers everything you need to know.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Build a Break.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Watch the Video of this Train

In this guide you'll find information on:

Route maps

Ticket prices

Reservations

Best time to travel

Chur vs St Moritz departures

First vs second class

Family travel

Swiss Travel Passes

Route planning

Onward travel to Lake Como and Milan

I've travelled the Bernina Express myself, created Bernina content viewed over 100 million times and hold the Swiss Travel System Gold Diploma, awarded by the Swiss Travel System Excellence Programme.

Bernina Express at a Glance

Route: Chur or St Moritz to Tirano

Country: Switzerland & Italy

Journey Time: 2 hrs 20 mins to 4 hrs 20 mins

Highest Point: Ospizio Bernina (2,253m)

Reservations Required: Yes

Best Starting Point: Chur

Best Time to Travel: Year-round

UNESCO World Heritage Route: Yes

Family Friendly: Yes

Planning a Bernina Express Trip?

These guides may also help:

➡️ Bernina Express Itinerary: Switzerland to Italy

➡️ Bernina Express With Kids: Our Family Review

➡️ Bernina Express vs Regional Train: Is the Extra Cost Worth It?

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What Is the Bernina Express?

The Bernina Express is a panoramic sightseeing train operated by the Rhaetian Railway (RhB).

It travels along two UNESCO World Heritage railway lines:

The Albula Line

The Bernina Line

Together, these routes create one of the most remarkable railway journeys in the world.

The train connects northern Switzerland with northern Italy, travelling between Chur or St Moritz and Tirano.

During the journey you'll pass:

Snow-covered mountains

Glaciers

Alpine lakes

Historic villages

Stone viaducts

Deep valleys
Palm trees and vineyards

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Bernina Express is how dramatically the scenery changes.

In just a few hours you'll travel from the high Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean atmosphere of northern Italy.

How Much Does the Bernina Express Cost?

The total cost of travelling on the Bernina Express depends on your route, class of travel and the time of year.

In addition to a valid train ticket (or rail pass), passengers travelling in the panoramic Bernina Express carriages must also pay a compulsory seat reservation fee.

As a rough guide:

2nd Class tickets typically start from around CHF 25-65
1st Class tickets typically start from around CHF 43-113
Seat reservations usually cost between CHF 28 and CHF 36 per person

Children under 6 travel free and children aged 6-16 usually receive discounted fares.

For the most up-to-date pricing and reservation fees, always check the official Bernina Express website before booking.

Is the Bernina Express Worth the Money?

For a family of six, the costs quickly add up, but the journey itself was one of the highlights of our Switzerland and Italy trip. The scenery is unlike anything we've experienced elsewhere in Europe and, for most travellers, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Can You Use a Swiss Travel Pass on the Bernina Express?

Yes.

The Swiss Travel Pass fully covers the train fare on the Bernina Express route, meaning you don't need to purchase a separate train ticket. However, you will still need to pay the compulsory seat reservation fee if travelling in the panoramic Bernina Express carriages.

If you're planning to travel extensively around Switzerland before or after your Bernina Express journey, a Swiss Travel Pass can often represent excellent value.

Read our full guide: Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

Best Time to Travel

The Bernina Express operates year-round and each season offers a completely different experience.

Winter (December-February)
Snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes and dramatic alpine scenery.

Spring (March-May)
Waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and fewer crowds.

Summer (June-August)
Long days, bright colours and ideal conditions for combining the journey with Lake Como.

Autumn (September-October)
Golden forests, quieter trains and excellent photography opportunities.

Personally, winter remains my favourite due to the contrast between snowy Switzerland and sunny northern Italy.

Why Is the Bernina Express So Special?

There are plenty of scenic railways around the world, but very few offer such dramatic scenery in such a short distance.

Highlights include:

Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows

UNESCO World Heritage status

The famous Landwasser Viaduct

Lake Bianco

Alp Grüm

Brusio Circular Viaduct

Ospizio Bernina

A direct connection between Switzerland and Italy

Unlike many scenic railways where the highlights are concentrated into a short section, the Bernina Express delivers spectacular scenery throughout the entire journey.

It's one of the reasons the route regularly appears on lists of the world's greatest train journeys.

Where Does the Bernina Express Start and End?

The Bernina Express operates between Switzerland and Italy.

You can start your journey from either:

Chur

St Moritz

and travel to:

Tirano

in northern Italy.

The train also operates in the opposite direction, allowing you to travel from Tirano to either Chur or St Moritz.

Bernina Express Route Overview

Chur to Tirano

Approximate journey time: 4 hours 20 minutes

This is the full Bernina Express experience.

The route includes:

Albula Valley

Landwasser Viaduct

Filisur

Bergün

Preda

Pontresina

Bernina Pass

Ospizio Bernina

Lake Bianco

Alp Grüm

Poschiavo

Brusio Circular Viaduct

Tirano

For most travellers, this is the route I recommend.

St Moritz to Tirano

Approximate journey time: 2 hours 20 minutes

This shorter route skips the Albula section.

However, it still includes:

Bernina Pass

Ospizio Bernina

Lake Bianco

Alp Grüm

Brusio Circular Viaduct

It's ideal if you're short on time or already staying in St Moritz.

Chur or St Moritz: Which Starting Point Is Best?

This is one of the most common questions travellers ask.

Choose Chur If:

It's your first Bernina Express trip

You want the complete UNESCO route

You want to cross Landwasser Viaduct

You enjoy railway engineering and mountain scenery

You have time for the full journey

Choose St Moritz If:

You're short on time

You're already staying in St Moritz

You only want to experience the Bernina section

You prefer a shorter journey

My Recommendation

If possible, choose Chur.

The Albula section is one of the most impressive parts of the entire route and many visitors don't realise they'll miss it by starting in St Moritz.

Which Direction Has the Best Views?

The Bernina Express is spectacular in both directions.

However, if you're able to choose your seat, I recommend:

Chur → Tirano

Sit on the right-hand side

Tirano → Chur

Sit on the left-hand side

This generally provides the best views of:

Landwasser Viaduct

Albula Valley

Lake Bianco

Mountain scenery around Ospizio Bernina

The Bernina Express reservation system doesn't clearly show which side of the train you're selecting, and the scenery appears on both sides throughout the journey.

In reality, you'll enjoy spectacular views regardless of where you sit.

If photography is important to you, spend some time at the drop-down windows located in the carriage doors, where you'll have the opportunity to capture glare-free photos on either side of the train.

For me, choosing a window seat is far more important than worrying about which side of the carriage you're on.

Bernina Express Route Map

One of the reasons the Bernina Express is so famous is because of how varied the scenery is.

The route travels through forests, mountain passes, glaciers, lakes, vineyards and historic villages, all within a single journey.

The train climbs from lowland Switzerland to 2,253 metres above sea level before descending into Italy.

This dramatic change in landscape is what makes the route so unique.

Bernina Express Route Breakdown

Chur

Chur is Switzerland's oldest city and the starting point for the full Bernina Express route.

The compact Old Town is filled with cobbled streets, cafés and historic buildings.

It's also one of the easiest places to reach from Zurich Airport, making it a popular overnight stop before boarding the Bernina Express.

We stayed overnight in Chur ourselves and would highly recommend doing the same if your itinerary allows.

Albula Valley

After leaving Chur, the train begins climbing through the beautiful Albula Valley.

Expect:

Forests

Rivers

Mountain villages

Deep gorges

The scenery here feels distinctly Swiss and offers a wonderful introduction to the journey ahead.

Landwasser Viaduct

This is arguably the most famous section of the entire route.

The six-arched stone viaduct curves dramatically across a deep gorge before disappearing directly into a cliffside tunnel.

Many people recognise the Landwasser Viaduct before they've even heard of the Bernina Express.

It's one of the most photographed railway structures in the world.

Filisur

A traditional Swiss village surrounded by mountains.

Many travellers choose to stay here when exploring the Albula region.

It's also one of the best places to view the Landwasser Viaduct from the ground.

Bergün & Preda

These sections showcase some of the greatest railway engineering in Europe.

To gain altitude without exceeding safe gradients, the railway loops through tunnels and spirals around the mountainside.

It's an incredible achievement and one of the most fascinating parts of the journey.

Pontresina

Located close to St Moritz, Pontresina marks the transition towards the Bernina section of the route.

The scenery becomes increasingly alpine, with forests giving way to dramatic mountain landscapes.

Bernina Pass

As the train climbs above the tree line, you'll begin to understand why this route is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys.

Snow can often be seen here even during late spring and early summer.

The scenery becomes rugged, wild and spectacular.

Ospizio Bernina

At 2,253 metres above sea level, this is the highest point of the Bernina Express journey.

The landscape here feels almost Arctic.

Expect:

Snowfields

Alpine lakes

Mountain peaks

Vast open scenery

Even in summer, temperatures can feel surprisingly cool at this altitude.

First Class vs Second Class: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common questions travellers ask is whether first class is worth the extra cost.

The good news is that both classes offer an excellent experience.

Unlike many trains, you won't miss out on the scenery by choosing second class.

The panoramic windows are available throughout the Bernina Express and the route itself remains exactly the same.

For most travellers, second class offers the best balance of comfort and value.

Bernina Express Second Class

This is the option we chose ourselves.

Second class offers:

Comfortable seating

Large panoramic windows

Plenty of luggage space

Excellent views throughout the journey

Lower ticket prices

Despite being the cheaper option, it still feels special.

The seats are comfortable enough for the four-hour journey and the panoramic windows provide fantastic views.

For families and budget-conscious travellers, second class is usually the best choice.

We travelled in second class ourselves and never felt we were missing out.

Bernina Express First Class

First class offers:

Wider seats

More legroom

Fewer passengers

A quieter atmosphere

Slightly more space for luggage

If you prefer a more relaxed environment or simply enjoy travelling first class, the upgrade may be worthwhile.

However, the scenery is exactly the same.

Which Should you Choose?

For most travellers, I would choose second class.

The views are identical and the money saved can often be better spent elsewhere during your trip.

If budget isn't a concern and you enjoy a quieter carriage, first class is a lovely upgrade.

For everyone else, second class is more than sufficient.

Bernina Express With Kids

The Bernina Express is one of the most family-friendly scenic train journeys we've experienced.

We travelled on the Bernina Express with four children aged 7, 11, 13 and 17 and all four enjoyed the journey.

The constantly changing scenery helps keep children engaged throughout the trip.

Highlights for younger travellers include:

Spiral tunnels

Landwasser Viaduct

Snow-covered landscapes

Lake Bianco

Crossing from Switzerland into Italy

The train also offers:

Spacious seating

Toilets onboard

Easy access for pushchairs

Large windows

A smooth, comfortable ride

Travelling with children?

Read our complete Bernina Express With Kids guide.

Tips for Families

Bring snacks and drinks

Download films or games before travelling

Dress in layers

Take regular photo breaks

Allow time for pizza or gelato in Tirano afterwards

For most families, I recommend travelling from Chur to Tirano as the scenery develops gradually and helps keep children interested throughout the journey.

Bernina Express vs Regional Train

Not everyone realises that you don't actually need to travel on the Bernina Express panoramic train to experience the famous route.

Regional trains operate along the same railway and pass through exactly the same scenery.

The biggest differences are:

Bernina Express

Panoramic windows

Reserved seating

Tourist-focused experience

Fewer departures

Regional Train

No reservation fees

More flexibility

Easier to stop along the route

Often quieter

Many travellers choose the Bernina Express one way and the regional train on the return journey.

Not sure which is best?

Read our detailed Bernina Express vs Regional Train comparison.

Accessibility on the Bernina Express

The Bernina Express is generally very accessible and many services offer facilities for wheelchair users.

If you require assistance, it's worth arranging this in advance.

The railway operator can help with:

Boarding assistance

Wheelchair spaces

Accessible facilities

Always check current accessibility arrangements before travelling.

Luggage on the Bernina Express

One of the great things about Swiss rail travel is that luggage restrictions are minimal.

You don't need to worry about weighing your suitcase or paying baggage fees.

Most travellers bring:

Cabin bags

Large suitcases

Backpacks

Photography equipment

Storage is available:

Above seats

Behind certain rows

In designated luggage areas

If possible, I would still recommend travelling light.

It makes station changes much easier, particularly if you're continuing to Lake Como or Milan.

Can You Take Dogs on the Bernina Express?

Yes.

Dogs are welcome on the Bernina Express.

You'll need:

A valid dog ticket

A lead

Many travellers bring their dogs on board and the journey is generally very comfortable for pets.

Check current regulations before travelling as requirements can occasionally change.

Can You Take Bikes on the Bernina Express?

Bicycles are not permitted on the panoramic Bernina Express carriages.

However, they are allowed on many regional trains operating along the same route.

If travelling with a bike, the regional service may be the better option.

Bernina Express Photography Tips

The Bernina Express is one of the most photographed train journeys in Europe.

If you're hoping to capture great photos during the journey, a little preparation can make a huge difference.

Best Photography Locations Along the Route

Landwasser Viaduct

Arguably the most famous landmark on the entire route.

The train curves dramatically across the viaduct before disappearing into a tunnel carved into the mountainside.

Keep your camera ready as this section arrives quickly.

Lake Bianco

One of the highlights of the Bernina Pass.

The bright turquoise water contrasts beautifully against the surrounding mountains and snowfields.

Alp Grüm

Many photographers consider Alp Grüm the most beautiful point on the route.

The views across the Palü Glacier and Poschiavo Valley are spectacular.

Brusio Circular Viaduct

One of the most unique railway structures in Europe.

The train loops around itself in a complete circle before continuing towards Tirano.

How to Avoid Reflections

Reflections are one of the biggest frustrations when photographing through train windows.

A few simple tips help:

Sit close to the glass

Use a lens hood if using a camera

Shield the window with your hand

Photograph from the drop-down windows in the carriage doors

Avoid photographing directly into sunlight

The drop-down windows in the panoramic carriage doors are often the best option for glare-free images.

Bernina Express in Winter vs Summer

Another common question is whether the Bernina Express is better in winter or summer.

The truth is that both seasons offer completely different experiences.

Bernina Express in Winter

Expect:

Snow-covered mountains

Frozen lakes

White forests

Dramatic alpine scenery

Winter creates the classic Bernina Express experience many people imagine when booking.

Bernina Express in Summer

Bright blue skies

Green valleys

Turquoise lakes

Long daylight hours

Summer is ideal if you're combining the journey with destinations such as Lake Como, Milan or the Italian Lakes.

Which Is Better?

If your priority is snow and dramatic mountain scenery, choose winter.

If your priority is warmer weather and combining the route with a longer European trip, choose summer.

Personally, I love winter for the contrast between snowy Switzerland and sunny Italy.

Onward Travel After the Bernina Express

One of the reasons the Bernina Express is so popular is how easy it is to continue exploring after reaching Tirano.

Tirano to Milan

Travelling onwards to Milan is straightforward.

Simply board a regional train from Tirano.

Journey time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Milan makes an excellent overnight stop and is ideal for onward flights.

Tirano to Lake Como

Lake Como is one of the most popular additions to a Bernina Express itinerary.

From Tirano you can travel directly to:

Bellano

Varenna

Both make excellent bases for exploring the lake.

We chose Bellano ourselves and found it significantly cheaper than many of Lake Como's more famous towns.

Tirano to Venice

Venice can easily be reached from Tirano by changing trains in Milan.

High-speed Frecciarossa services connect Milan and Venice in around 2 hours 15 minutes, making Venice a popular addition to a Bernina Express itinerary.

Tirano to Florence

Florence can also be reached via Milan using Italy's excellent high-speed rail network.

Tirano to Rome

If you're continuing further south, simply connect in Milan and board a Frecciarossa high-speed service.

Sample Bernina Express Itineraries

One-Day Bernina Express Trip From Milan

Train from Milan to Tirano

Bernina Express to St Moritz

Explore St Moritz

Return via regional train

Perfect if you're based in Milan and short on time.

Switzerland to Italy Rail Trip

Zurich

Chur

Bernina Express

Tirano

Lake Como

Milan

This is one of the most popular routes and the exact itinerary we followed ourselves.

Read our full Switzerland to Italy Bernina Express itinerary.

Common Bernina Express Mistakes to Avoid

Having travelled the Bernina Express myself and spent years creating content about the route, these are the mistakes I see mentioned most often.

Not Reserving Seats Early Enough

Summer departures can sell out weeks in advance.

Book early if travelling during school holidays.

Starting in St Moritz Without Realising What You'll Miss

Many travellers choose St Moritz because the journey is shorter.

However, you'll miss:

-Landwasser Viaduct

-Albula Valley

-The spiral tunnels

-Some of the route's most impressive engineering

If possible, start in Chur.

Rushing Through Tirano

Many visitors immediately board the next train (something we were guilty of too).

Tirano deserves at least a few hours.

Not Extending the Trip

One of the biggest advantages of the Bernina Express is how easily it can be incorporated into a wider Switzerland and Italy itinerary. After arriving in Tirano, it's simple to continue onwards to destinations such as Lake Como, Milan, Venice, Verona and Florence, making the train journey part of a much bigger adventure. For many travellers, the Bernina Express isn't the entire trip, but rather the highlight of a longer journey through some of the most beautiful parts of Switzerland and northern Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bernina Express worth it?

In my opinion, absolutely.

It remains one of the most spectacular train journeys in Europe and offers scenery that's difficult to find anywhere else.

How long does the Bernina Express take?

Approximately:

Chur to Tirano: 4 hours 20 minutes

St Moritz to Tirano: 2 hours 20 minutes

What is the highest point of the Bernina Express?

Ospizio Bernina at 2,253 metres above sea level.

Do you need a reservation?

Yes, if you're travelling in the panoramic Bernina Express carriages.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid on the Bernina Express?

Yes. The Swiss Travel Pass covers the train fare, but passengers travelling in the panoramic Bernina Express carriages must still pay the compulsory seat reservation fee.

Is the Bernina Express suitable for children?

Yes.

It's one of the most family-friendly scenic train journeys in Europe.

Can I travel from Switzerland to Italy on the Bernina Express?

Yes.

The route directly connects Switzerland and Italy via Tirano.

Can I do the Bernina Express as a day trip from Milan?

Yes.

Many travellers visit as a day trip from Milan.

Is the Bernina Express better than the regional train?

That depends on your priorities.

The scenery is identical, but the experience differs.

For a detailed comparison, see our Bernina Express vs Regional Train guide.

My Top Bernina Express Tips

After researching the route extensively and travelling it myself, these are the tips I would prioritise most:

Start in Chur if possible.
Choose a window seat.
Don't stress about which side of the train you're on.
Book early during summer.
Dress in layers.
Keep your camera easily accessible.
Don't rush through Tirano.
Consider extending your trip to Lake Como.
Travel in winter if you want snow.
Consider combining the Bernina Express and regional train.
Download the SBB app before travelling.
Allow extra time in Chur if your itinerary permits.

The Bernina Express is one of those journeys that genuinely lives up to the hype. Whether you're travelling with children, planning a Switzerland rail holiday or combining the route with Lake Como and Milan, it's an experience I'd happily recommend and one I'd love to do again myself.

Switzerland Guides You May Find Helpful

If you're still planning your trip, these guides may help:

Bernina Express vs Regional Train

Bernina Route with Kids

GoldenPass Express Guide

GoldenPass Belle Époque Guide

5 Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland

How to Visit Switzerland on a Budget

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

Is Switzerland Expensive? What a Trip Costs

6 Day Switzerland Rail Itinerary

10 Day Switzerland Itinerary

GoldenPass Belle-Époque Review (2026)

The GoldenPass Belle-Époque feels very different from the modern GoldenPass Express.

Instead of huge panoramic windows and sleek carriages, this journey feels like stepping back in time. Think wood-panelled interiors, vintage-style seating and a slower scenic route through Switzerland where the atmosphere feels just as important as the views outside.

I took the Belle-Époque as part of my own Switzerland trip, boarding the 9:50am train from Montreux before spending a few hours in Zweisimmen and continuing onwards later in the day. If you're wondering whether it's worth adding to your own itinerary, here's everything to know before booking.

If you're still deciding which GoldenPass train is right for your trip, I've also put together an overview of all the GoldenPass trains in Switzerland.

Quick Facts

📍 Route: Montreux → Zweisimmen

⏱ Journey time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes

🚆 Train type: Vintage-style scenic train

🎫 Included with Swiss Travel Pass: Yes

💺 Seat reservations: Recommended

🍴 Food available onboard: Drinks and snacks available

🧳 Luggage storage: Available

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend services and experiences I would genuinely use myself and it helps support Build a Break so I can continue sharing free travel content.

Watch the Video of this Train

What is the GoldenPass Belle-Époque?

The GoldenPass Belle-Époque is one of the scenic trains operating along the GoldenPass route in Switzerland, travelling between Montreux and Zweisimmen.

Unlike the GoldenPass Express which focuses on panoramic windows and a more modern experience, the Belle-Époque is all about atmosphere.

The carriages are inspired by luxury rail travel from the early twentieth century and immediately feel different when you step onboard. Dark wood interiors, brass details and vintage-style seating make it feel more like an experience rather than simply transport.

My experience onboard

I boarded the 9:50am Belle-Époque train from Montreux on a drizzly July morning and the atmosphere inside the carriage stood out immediately.

Even before the train had started moving, it already felt different from a normal train journey. The wood-panelled interiors felt luxurious without feeling over the top and had much more character than modern train carriages.

I travelled in First Class and spent much of the journey relaxing with a glass of wine while watching the scenery outside gradually change.

What surprised me most was that I never really felt like I was missing the huge panoramic windows you find on trains like the GoldenPass Express.

The views were still beautiful and the experience felt much more about slowing down and enjoying the journey itself.

If you're trying to decide between the two experiences, I've also compared the GoldenPass Express and Belle-Époque in more detail.

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What is the Belle-Époque route like?

The route runs between Montreux and Zweisimmen and takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Leaving Montreux, you'll initially travel alongside views of Lake Geneva before gradually climbing into countryside and mountain scenery.

As the route continues, traditional Swiss villages begin appearing alongside forests, rolling hills and mountain landscapes.

One of the things I liked most was that the scenery changed throughout the journey, making it feel much shorter than the two hours it actually took.

What times does the GoldenPass Belle-Époque run?

The Belle-Époque usually runs twice per day between Montreux and Zweisimmen.

📍 From Montreux
09:50 and 14:50

📍 From Zweisimmen
12:02 and 17:02

Timetables can change throughout the year, so I'd always double-check before travelling.

Do you need seat reservations?

Seat reservations are not mandatory, however I would strongly recommend reserving seats in advance.

There are only a small number of Belle-Époque departures each day and this train is often included in wider Switzerland itineraries.

How much does the GoldenPass Belle-Époque cost?

Prices can vary slightly throughout the year. To travel the full route, at the time of writing you can generally expect to pay:

🚆 First Class
Around 59 CHF plus reservation fee

🚆 Second Class
Around 34 CHF plus reservation fee

💺 Seat reservations
Approximately 10 CHF

Seat reservations are not required, but are recommended.

The cheapest 1st class ticket is 16CHF, and 2nd, 9.40CHF. This is a one-way ticket from Chateau-d'Oex -Gstaad.

As with most Switzerland transport costs, I'd always check the latest prices before booking.

What's the difference between First Class and Second Class?

The biggest difference between First and Second Class on the Belle-Époque isn't the scenery because you'll still enjoy the same route and views whichever you choose.

First Class gives you more space, fewer passengers and a quieter atmosphere onboard. I travelled in First Class and I found it suited the slower pace of the journey really well. It felt relaxed and comfortable without feeling overly formal.

Second Class is still a great option if you're trying to keep costs down. You'll still get the same vintage-style carriages and scenery outside the windows, but seating is generally more compact and carriages can feel busier.

For me, if this is part of a special Switzerland trip and you're doing the Belle-Époque for the experience itself, I can understand paying the little bit extra for First Class.

How do you book GoldenPass Belle-Époque tickets?

Tickets for the GoldenPass Belle-Époque can be booked through the official MOB/GoldenPass website or through the Swiss Travel Pass reservation system if you're already travelling with a pass.

If you're travelling without a Swiss Travel Pass, you'll need to purchase a standard train ticket in either First or Second Class.

If you already have a Swiss Travel Pass, the journey itself is included and you'll only need to pay any applicable seat reservation fees.

Although reservations aren't mandatory, I would personally book ahead if possible. There are only a limited number of Belle-Époque departures each day and seats can fill up quickly during busier travel periods.

Food and drinks onboard

Food onboard felt more relaxed than I expected.

Hot drinks, soft drinks, wine and snacks are available and payment is by card.

I spent part of the journey with a glass of wine and honestly it suited the slower pace of the train perfectly.

You're also free to bring your own food and drinks onboard if you prefer.

Best side to sit on the Belle-Époque train

If you're travelling from Montreux towards Zweisimmen, the left side generally gives some lovely views over Lake Geneva early in the journey.

As the route continues both sides offer changing scenery, so I wouldn't stress too much if you can't reserve a particular side.

Accessibility on the Belle-Époque train

If accessibility is important for your trip, the Belle-Époque train does offer accessibility options, although space can sometimes be more limited than on modern trains due to the vintage-style carriage layout.

If you require wheelchair access or boarding assistance, I would recommend checking arrangements in advance.

Can you use a Swiss Travel Pass?

Yes.

The GoldenPass Belle-Époque is included with the Swiss Travel Pass and you'll only need to pay any applicable reservation fees.

If you're travelling around Switzerland using several trains, the pass can quickly become worthwhile.

Luggage and pets onboard

Luggage storage is available onboard, so travelling with suitcases shouldn't cause any problems.

Pets are also allowed onboard, although dogs require their own ticket.

The Chocolate Train from Montreux

One of the most well-known experiences linked to the Belle-Époque is the Chocolate Train from Montreux.

Running seasonally, this combines the vintage-style train journey with visits to Gruyères and the Cailler chocolate factory.

If you're visiting Switzerland and enjoy scenic rail journeys with a food twist, this is worth looking into.

Things to do in Zweisimmen

I spent around two and a half hours in Zweisimmen before continuing on to Interlaken later in the day.

It's a small town rather than somewhere packed with attractions, but if you're breaking up the journey there are walking routes nearby and the Rinderberg cable car is one of the more popular things to do.

Stopping here helped make the day feel less rushed and turned the train ride into part of a wider Switzerland itinerary rather than simply travelling from one destination to another.

Things I'd know before doing the Belle-Époque again

Looking back, I actually think combining the journey with time in Zweisimmen worked really well.

I would also reserve seats earlier next time simply to have more choice.

Would I book it again?

The Belle-Époque feels very different from the GoldenPass Express.

The Goldenpass Express feels more about the scenery itself, while the Belle-Époque felt much more about the overall experience.

For me, this felt less like transport and more like slowing down and enjoying the journey.

Sometimes that's exactly what Switzerland does best.

If you love scenic rail journeys, the Bernina Express is another Switzerland train experience worth looking at.

Bernina Express vs Regional Train: Is the Extra Cost Worth It?

Bernina Express vs Regional Train: Quick Answer

If this is your first time travelling the Bernina route from Chur to Tirano, I would choose the Bernina Express.

The additional reservation fee is relatively small compared to the overall cost of travelling to Switzerland, and the panoramic carriages make the journey feel more special.

However, if you're travelling on a budget, want complete flexibility or plan to stop at places such as Alp Grüm or Ospizio Bernina, the regional train may actually be the better option.

The important thing to know is this:

Both trains travel along exactly the same UNESCO World Heritage railway.

The scenery is identical.

The difference is simply how you choose to experience it.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Watch the Video of this Train

Planning a Bernina Express Trip?

Before deciding which train to take, you may also find these guides useful:

➡️ Complete Bernina Express Guide

➡️ Bernina Express Itinerary: Switzerland to Italy

➡️ Bernina Express With Kids: Our Family Review

Bernina Express vs Regional Train From Chur to Tirano

The answer depends entirely on your travel style.

Both trains travel from Chur to Tirano along one of Europe's most spectacular railway lines.

Both cross the famous Landwasser Viaduct.

Both pass glaciers, lakes, mountain villages and dramatic alpine scenery.

The main differences are:

Panoramic windows

Seat reservations

Cost

Flexibility

Frequency

Comfort

Ability to stop along the route

For many travellers, the decision comes down to whether they value flexibility or experience.

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Bernina Express vs Regional Train: Key Differences

Views

Bernina Express: Large panoramic windows designed specifically for sightseeing.

Regional Red Train: Standard train windows, although some services have windows that open.

Winner: Bernina Express

Cost

Bernina Express: Train ticket plus reservation fee.

Regional Train: No reservation required.

Winner: Regional train.

Photography

Bernina Express: Drop-down windows in the carriage doors allow glare-free photos.

Regional Train: Opening windows on some services, more opportunities for reflection-free photography and greater freedom to move around.

Winner: Regional Train (slightly)

Flexibility

Bernina Express: Limited departures and advance planning required.

Regional Train: Frequent departures throughout the day.

Winner: Regional train.

Comfort

Bernina Express: Larger seat pitch, panoramic windows and a more premium atmosphere.

Regional Train: Comfortable but designed for everyday travel.

Winner: Bernina Express.

Convenience

Bernina Express: Stay on one train and enjoy the journey.

Regional Train: May require train changes depending on the service.

Winner: Bernina Express.

What Is the Bernina Express?

The Bernina Express is the famous panoramic tourist train that operates between Switzerland and Italy.

Designed specifically for sightseeing, it offers:

- Panoramic windows

- Reserved seating

- Onboard commentary

- Comfortable seating with larger seat pitches

- Staff highlighting points of interest

- Complimentary Bernina Express souvenir tin filled with Lindt chocolates

- Complimentary drink

- The journey from Chur to Tirano takes approximately 4 hours 20 minutes.

Because reservations are required, the experience feels organised and relaxed.

For many travellers, it is a genuine bucket-list train journey.

What Is the Regional Red Train?

The regional train, often referred to as the Red Train, is the local service used by residents travelling through the Alps.

Although less famous than the Bernina Express, it follows exactly the same route.

Benefits include:

- No reservation fees

- More frequent departures

- Greater flexibility

- Easier access to intermediate stops

- Lower overall cost

While it lacks the panoramic windows and tourist-focused atmosphere, the scenery is identical.

Which Train Has Better Views?

This is probably the biggest misconception surrounding the Bernina route.

Many travellers assume the Bernina Express offers better scenery.

It doesn't.

The route is identical.

Whether you take the Bernina Express or the regional train, you'll still experience:

Landwasser Viaduct

Lago Bianco

Alp Grüm

Brusio Spiral Viaduct

Alpine lakes

Snow-covered mountains

Traditional Swiss villages

The difference is simply the carriage you view it from.

Which Train Is Better for Photography?

Photography is one of the main reasons travellers choose one train over the other.

Many websites claim the regional train is better because the windows open.

That isn't entirely true.

Bernina Express Photography

One of the biggest myths is that you can't take glare-free photographs on the Bernina Express.

In reality, second-class panoramic carriages have drop-down windows located in the carriage doors.

These allow you to capture photographs without reflections.

We have travelled on the Bernina Express ourselves and found the drop-down door windows worked brilliantly for taking glare-free photos.

Regional Train Photography

Regional trains can also be excellent for photography.

Depending on the carriage, some windows open, allowing unrestricted photos.

Because trains are often quieter, it can be easier to move around and switch sides.

Photography Verdict

If photography is your main priority, I would give a slight edge to the regional train.

While the Bernina Express does have drop-down windows in the carriage doors that allow for glare-free photos, the regional train offers more opportunities to photograph the scenery through open windows and move around the carriage.

That said, both trains provide excellent photography opportunities and you'll see exactly the same spectacular scenery regardless of which service you choose.

For most travellers, I don't think photography alone is a good enough reason to choose one train over the other. However, if capturing the best possible photos is your top priority, the regional train probably has a small advantage.

Is Bernina Express 2nd Class Worth It?

We travelled in Bernina Express 2nd Class ourselves and never felt we were missing out.

The seats were comfortable, spacious and perfectly adequate for a journey of just over four hours.

The panoramic windows are exactly the same experience you'll enjoy throughout the train.

For most travellers, I don't believe upgrading to first class offers enough additional value to justify the higher fare.

If you're considering the Bernina Express, second class is the option I would recommend.

Which Train Is Better for Families?

For families, I think the Bernina Express has the edge.

The guaranteed seats, larger windows and uninterrupted journey make the experience easier and more enjoyable.

We travelled on the Bernina Express with four children aged 7, 11, 13 and 17 and all of them enjoyed the journey.

If you're travelling with children, read:

➡️ Bernina Express With Kids: Our Family Review

Which Train Is Better for a Switzerland to Italy Itinerary?

If you're travelling from Switzerland to Italy and simply want to enjoy the journey, the Bernina Express works brilliantly.

You board in Chur and remain on the same train all the way to Tirano.

From there you can continue onwards to:

Lake Como

Milan

Verona

Venice

This is exactly the route we followed ourselves.

➡️ Bernina Express Itinerary: Switzerland to Italy

If you're planning a longer rail holiday through Switzerland, our 10 Day Switzerland Itinerary may also be useful.

Cost Comparison

Bernina Express

Base fare: approximately CHF 66

Seat reservation: approximately CHF 36

Total: approximately CHF 102

Regional Train

Base fare: approximately CHF 66

Reservation fee: none

Total: approximately CHF 66

The actual difference comes down to the reservation supplement.

For most travellers, the question is whether the panoramic experience is worth an additional CHF 36.

Bernina Express Pros and Cons

Pros

Panoramic windows

Reserved seating

No train changes

Comfortable journey

Onboard commentary

Feels more special

Cons

Higher cost

Limited departures

Less flexibility

Regional Train Pros and Cons

Pros

Cheaper

Flexible timetable

Easier to stop along the route

Great for photography

No reservations required

Cons

May require train changes

Less premium experience

Standard interiors

Which Train Would I Choose?

If this is your first time travelling the Bernina route, I would choose the Bernina Express.

However, if you've already travelled on the Bernina Express before, want complete flexibility or plan to make multiple stops along the route, the regional train is an excellent alternative.

The scenery is identical.

The difference is simply how you choose to experience it.

For us personally, the price difference isn't significant enough to choose the regional train over the Bernina Express.

For most people, this is a journey they'll only take once, which makes the additional CHF 36 feel worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bernina Express worth the extra cost?

For most first-time visitors, yes. The panoramic windows, reserved seating and uninterrupted journey make the experience feel more special.

Does the regional train follow the same route?

Yes. Both trains use exactly the same UNESCO World Heritage railway from Chur to Tirano.

Which train is cheaper?

The regional train is cheaper because there is no reservation fee.

Which train is best for photography?

Both are excellent. The regional train has opening windows on some services, while the Bernina Express has drop-down windows in the carriage doors. But I would give a slight edge to the regional train due to the additional opportunities for reflection-free photography.

Which train is best for families?

I would choose the Bernina Express due to the reserved seating and more relaxed experience.

Can I take the Bernina Express one way and the regional train back?

Absolutely. In fact, this is one of the best ways to experience both options.

Is Duinrell Worth it? Our Review of Amsterdam with Kids

As a family of six, over recent years we've become big fans of European Campsite holidays.

Not only are they great value, but they are often near cities, and provide endless entertainment for kids and teens.

As parents we enjoy sitting out on the deck at night with a wine, knowing the kids are safe, and having a great time too.

Many of the sites are possible to reach without driving, which is a major plus point for us. We live in the north of England and flights are often more cost effective than driving.

Just a quick note before we begin- this blog contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these. This helps us to continue finding you the best deals and guides.

Is Duinrell Worth It?

If you’re planning a family trip to the Netherlands, you’ve probably come across Duinrell Holiday Park. But one question keeps popping up- is Duinrell worth it? Short answer: yes. But let me show you exactly why.

This guide to Duinrell Holiday Park covers everything you need to know before you go. From the epic indoor and outdoor pools to the onsite theme park and charming local town, here’s my honest Duinrell review. But first we'll start with some practical details.

Where is Duinrell?

Duinrell is located in Wassenaar, a small town near The Hague in the Netherlands. The site is around a 40 minute drive from Amsterdam.

How to Get to Duinrell

Duinrell by Car

From the UK, you can take the overnight ferry from Harwich or Newcastle to the Hook of Holland. There are regularly offers from around £69pp and this includes your cabin for the night, and space on board for your car.

From the ferry port, Duinrell is just a 40 minute drive (35km).

Duinrell by Plane

Alternatively for those wishing to visit Duinrell without a car, you can fly to Amsterdam Schiphol airport and then take a taxi, or private transfer to Duinrell.

Duinrell is a 25 min drive from the airport (34km). A bolt taxi will cost you around €88 each way.

We would recommend taking taxi rather than public transport, especially with luggage. There's quite a few changes via bus and train to reach Duinrell from the airport.

If you do want to take public transport to the site, then take a train to Leiden, then hop on a short local bus (Bus 43 or 44) that drops you right at Duinrell’s entrance.

Duinrell Tikibad Waterpark

One of Duinrell’s biggest draws is the Tikibad waterpark- the largest indoor waterpark in the Benelux area. It’s packed with 21 slides slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash zones for little ones. The indoor pool is a lifesaver on rainy days or when you just want to chill in warm water.

There’s also a fab outdoor pool, open in the warmer months, with a beach-style layout, sunbeds, and shallow splash areas. You could easily spend entire days here, especially if your kids are water babies. The outdoor pool is only open to park guests.

On our trip we preferred the outdoor pools, as the weather was fabulous and it seemed a shame being stuck inside (plus they were cheaper).

It's worth noting that all children under 120cm must wear swim aids, whether they can swim or not. Children over 120cm must hold a swimming certificate or be able to demonstrate they can confidently swim. The lifeguards will check, and you will be sent back to reception to purchase suitable arm bands or a vest if needed.

Access to Tikibad depends on how you book. If you book direct with Duinrell, you get free pool access. If you book through Eurocamp, you’ll need to pay a discounted fee to swim, so remember to work this in to your holiday budget.

The cost of swimming for camping guests is currently €8.50pp for the inside pools and €5 for the outdoor. If you're staying a week, and have children who want to swim daily, this can add up,. Remember to compare Eurocamp vs Duinrell direct prices before deciding who to book with.

For us, having to pay to access the pools seemed unusual in comparison to other campsites we've visited, where swimming is always included. However, the Tikibad is on another level to other sites, so it seemed justified.

Free Theme Park Access for All Guests

Another huge bonus of staying here? The theme park is right inside the holiday park, and all guests get free access- even those staying with Eurocamp.

The park has over 40 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and gentle options for younger children. It’s not as polished as Disney or Efteling, but it has a real charm, and there’s something brilliant about being able to walk back to your caravan for lunch or a nap and head back in later.

The theme park is literally next to the accommodation, so no having to leave the site to get to it. We were lucky in that our caravan was right next to the entrance.

For families with kids of mixed ages, the flexibility is a dream. No queues to get in, no stress over getting your money’s worth- you’re already in and can ride an unlimited amount of time!

We made so much use of this, and let me tell you, when it was really hot we quite often nipped out to ride the log flume just to cool down!

Duinrell is the perfect Eurocamp for teens as well as smaller kids, as there are thrill rides and pools with amazing slides, that will appeal to older ones.

Static Caravan Style Accommodation with Self-Catering Decks

Accommodation is mostly static caravan style, although there are lodges and glamping options too. You’ll find well-equipped kitchens, living areas, comfy bedrooms, and plenty of storage.

What we really loved were the decked terraces with BBQ provided- perfect for winding down with a drink once the kids are in bed. They give you that peaceful holiday moment where you can enjoy being outside, without needing a babysitter or staying cooped up indoors.

It’s relaxed, family-focused, and gives you all the flexibility of self-catering. You can eat when you want, cook what your kids actually like, and avoid expensive meals out every night.

Town Within Walking Distance – And That Ice Cream Shop!

Just a 10 minute walk from Duinrell is Wassenaar, a lovely Dutch town with everything you need. There are bakeries, supermarkets, bike shops, pancake houses and some cute boutiques.

There is also an award-winning ice cream shop that’s popular with locals and visitors alike- every night the queue is literally down the street! There’s nothing better than a post-dinner stroll into town for an ice cream and a wander around.

It’s safe, quiet, and family-friendly—great for those moments when you want a break from the busy park.

Where to Eat at Duinrell

Eating on site at Duinrell is convenient but limited. Most takeaway options are fast food-style- think burgers, sausages, and chips. There’s a small supermarker onsite for basics, but we found it easier (and cheaper) to walk into Wassenaar, where you’ll find larger supermarkets with everything you need for self-catering.

The town also has plenty of restaurants and takeaways. We grabbed a Chinese takeaway on our last night and honestly wished we’d discovered it sooner- the food was great and a welcome break from the limited choices in the park.

If you’re staying for more than a couple of nights, I’d definitely recommend heading into town for meals or stocking up at the bigger stores.

What Else is There to Do at Duinrell?

Duinrell is a bit different to other holiday parks we’ve visited. There’s no traditional entertainment team or kids’ club programme, so organised activities are more limited.

You won’t find the usual schedule of crafts, or daytime games run by staff. That said, the theme park and Tikibad more than make up for it—there’s so much to do that we didn’t feel like we were missing out.

Kids can still enjoy bike and go-kart hire, brilliant play parks, a sports bar with bowling, and a mini disco in the evenings, but it’s definitely more of a do-your-own-thing kind of place.

Exploring Duinrell Without a Car

You can walk into Wassenaar, rent bikes to explore the nearby dunes and beaches, or use the Dutch public transport system to get further afield.

The Netherlands is super bike-friendly, with flat paths and good signage. Most places also accept contactless cards on transport, so you don’t need to faff about with tickets and coins.

There are even beach shuttles in the summer months. We loved the freedom of not driving- it made the trip feel more relaxed.

How to Get to Amsterdam from Duinrell?

Fancy a city day? Amsterdam is around an hour away. Take the local bus from Duinrell to Leiden Centraal, then hop on a direct train to Amsterdam Centraal Station.

Trains run frequently and are clean, fast, and easy. You can explore the canals, museums, or do a spot of shopping before heading back in time for dinner on your caravan deck. No need for parking or traffic jams.

Things to do in Amsterdam with Kids

Amsterdam is packed with family-friendly fun. Take a canal cruise for a relaxed way to see the city, or let the kids run wild at Vondelpark’s playgrounds.

Visit NEMO Science Museum for hands-on experiments or the ARTIS Zoo to see animals up close. The city’s small size makes it easy to explore, with plenty of pancake houses and street snacks to keep everyone happy along the way.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Chamonix & Geneva if You Don't Ski

When most people think of Chamonix, they picture pristine ski slopes, snowboarders carving down the mountains, and a winter wonderland for adrenaline seekers.

But what if you’re visiting outside of ski season - or simply don’t ski?

Is Chamonix worth visiting if you don’t ski? Absolutely! As someone who struggles to stay upright on grass, skiing is not on my list of things to try. However, I absolutely love the dramatic snowy scenery and winter feel. Chamonix felt like the perfect place with lots to do for non-skiers.

Let me take you through our unforgettable day trip from Geneva to Chamonix this February, where we discovered just how much this charming Alpine town has to offer.

How to Get to Chamonix from Geneva

Geneva is the perfect place to base yourself if your looking for a trip to Chamonix.

Geneva Airport (GVA) is just 90 minutes by road to Chamonix, making Geneva the ideal gateway to the French Alps.

Geneva Airport is very well-served with international flights, and you can get a train from Geneva airport into Geneva city centre in just 5 minutes, with trains departing every 5-15 minutes.

We chose to stay 2 nights in Geneva, then to book an escorted tour to Chamonix for the day with activities included here

Alternatively, you can book a Flixbus from Geneva and book the activities yourself. Be sure to book well in advance though, as they do sell out and only have a limited number available each day.

What to do in a Day in Chamonix

Travel by Panomoramic Coach from Switzerland to France

Our day trip to Chamonix started bright and early at 8:30 am, with a coach pick-up from Geneva Bus Station, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from our accommodation at Hotel D Geneva.

The journey takes around 90 minutes, crossing the Swiss-French border before arriving in Chamonix by 9:45 am- don't forget to bring your passport!

We travelled in a luxury coach with a panoramic roof which meant we were treated to breath-taking views of the surrounding Alps along the way.

Aiguille du Midi – See Italy, France and Switzerland All at Once

The highlight of our trip - and an absolute must-do in Chamonix, was the ascent to Aiguille du Midi. Even if you don’t ski, this is one of the top things to do in Chamonix.

The journey up involved two cable cars that delivered us to a staggering 3,842 metres, where you can see Italy, France, and Switzerland all from one viewpoint. The tickets were included in our tour price.

Once at the top, we braved the 'Step into the Void', a glass box that juts out over a sheer drop. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the thrill made it more than worth it.

A word of advice: altitude sickness can be a real issue at this height, with oxygen levels at just 60%. Be sure to bring plenty of water and maybe even some chocolate to keep your energy up, as we saw several people struggling with dizziness and headaches.

After spending time at the very top, we decided to descend back down a level, to enjoy lunch at a more comfortable altitude.

Here we enjoyed incredible crystal clear views, along with a panini and a wine.

Montenvers Railway

At 2pm, we re-grouped and made the short walk to Mer de Glace railway station.

This charming red mountain train winds its way through the Alps, delivering stunning views before arriving at Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France.

The 3 mile uphill journey takes around 20 minutes- be sure to sit on the left hand side of the train on the way up, and the right hand side on the way down, for the most dramatic scenery.

Again, the cost of the train was included in our tour price.

Mer de Glace Glacier

After exiting the train, we then joined a gondola which would take us down to the glacier and ice tunnel.

The glacier is the longest and largest in France at 7.5 km long and 200 metres (660 ft) deep

Tickets for the gondola and ice cave were included in the tour price.

We then took the return gondola and mountain train back to the station and met our coach to depart back to Geneva around 5pm, getting us back to the hotel around 6.30pm.

Is Chamonix Worth Visiting if You Don’t Ski?

Absolutely! Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, or just soaking up stunning mountain views, Chamonix offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for non-skiers, families, and adventurers alike.

On our trip, we should have had some free time in Chamonix included, unfortunately, it was very busy, long queues meant that wasn't possible. But the town itself is beautiful and there's also an alpine coaster we would have loved to have tried, if time had permitted.

Where to Stay in Geneva – Our Stay at Hotel D Geneva

For our base in Geneva, we couldn’t have picked a better spot than Hotel D Geneva. Located just a 5-minute walk from Geneva train station, it’s perfectly placed for both exploring the city and catching transport to Chamonix and beyond.

One of the best perks? Before check-in, the hotel emailed us a free local transport pass, meaning we got from Geneva Airport to the hotel in under 20 minutes – completely free. This pass also gave us unlimited access to Geneva’s buses, trams, and even the little yellow boats that shuttle across Lake Geneva.

From the moment we arrived, the staff couldn’t do enough for us. Our room was modern, immaculately clean, and generously sized, with a huge bathroom and a firm, comfortable bed that guaranteed a fantastic night’s sleep.

The location really sells Hotel D. It’s within easy walking distance of Geneva’s Old Town, Lake Geneva, and a wide variety of international restaurants, with the staff happy to share their personal recommendations.

And while the hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant, the breakfast is absolutely worth adding to your stay — the scrambled eggs were the best I’ve ever had! (I’m still trying to get the recipe).

We’d highly recommend Hotel D Geneva if you’re looking for the perfect base for Geneva and day trips to Chamonix or further afield.

Things To Do in Geneva

Don’t rush through Geneva- it’s a beautiful, vibrant city with plenty to offer. Some of our highlights included:

Jet d’Eau – Geneva’s iconic water fountain.

Old Town – Cobbled streets, historic buildings, and fascinating museums.

The United Nations – A must for politics and history buffs.

Chocolate & Cheese Tasting – Because you can’t visit Switzerland without indulging.

Lake Cruises – See the city from the water for a whole new perspective.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking epic mountain views, adventurous experiences, or cosmopolitan charm, this weekend trip to Geneva and Chamonix delivered it all. With so many incredible things to do in Chamonix beyond skiing, it’s a fantastic destination for year-round adventure. And with Hotel D Geneva as our perfect city base, we truly had the best of both worlds.

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing beneath Mont Blanc, stepping into a glass box high above the Alps, or walking inside a glacier, it’s time to add Geneva and Chamonix to your travel list.

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Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

A Simple Guide to Deciding Whether the Swiss Travel Pass Will Save You Money

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, there’s a good chance you’ve already come across the Swiss Travel Pass.

And if you’re anything like us before our first Switzerland trip, you’re probably wondering whether it’s actually worth the money, or whether it’s possible to end up massively overpaying for something you barely use.

The answer really depends on your itinerary.

For some trips, the Swiss Travel Pass can save a huge amount of money and make travelling around Switzerland incredibly easy. For others, especially slower-paced holidays staying mostly in one area, it may not work out as good value at all.

After travelling around Switzerland by train multiple times, these are the situations where we think the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it, when we’d probably skip it, and how to work out whether it’ll actually save you money on your own trip.

Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products, routes and services we genuinely believe are useful for planning a Switzerland trip.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

What Does the Swiss Travel Pass Include?

The Swiss Travel Pass gives unlimited travel across most of Switzerland’s public transport network, including:

trains
buses
boats
trams
some mountain railways

It also includes:

free entry to over 500 museums
discounts on selected mountain excursions
travel on many scenic train routes

The pass is available for:

3 days
4 days
6 days
8 days
15 days

You can choose either first or second class.

Important Things to Know Before Buying a Swiss Travel Pass

Scenic trains still require reservations

This catches a lot of people out.

Even if your Swiss Travel Pass covers the route itself, panoramic trains like the Bernina Express and Glacier Express still require seat reservations, which cost extra.

The pass covers the ticket portion, but not the reservation fee.

Regional trains can sometimes be better value

One of the biggest Switzerland train tips we discovered is that many regional trains follow the exact same routes as the famous panoramic trains.

For example, regional trains on the Bernina route travel through the same scenery, often with:

cheaper prices
more flexibility
fewer crowds
windows that open for photos

We chose to travel on the Bernina panoramic train because we wanted to experience the famous panoramic carriages, but next time we’d probably look at taking the regional train back for a bit more flexibility and easier photography.

You can read more about the differences in our Bernina Express vs Red Train guide.

Switzerland is expensive, but transport is part of the experience

Switzerland train travel definitely isn’t cheap, but the journeys themselves often become one of the highlights of the trip.

If you’re still budgeting for your Switzerland trip overall, our Is Switzerland Expensive? guide and Switzerland on a Budget tips guide may also help.

When the Swiss Travel Pass IS Worth It

1. You’re travelling between multiple regions

The Swiss Travel Pass works best when you’re moving around a lot.

If your itinerary looks something like:

Zurich
Lucerne
Interlaken
Montreux
Zermatt

…then transport costs can add up very quickly without a pass.

The more long-distance train journeys you take, the more value the pass usually offers.

2. You want to take scenic train journeys

Switzerland’s scenic trains are expensive individually.

Journeys like:

the Bernina Express
Glacier Express
GoldenPass Express
GoldenPass Belle Époque

can quickly make the Swiss Travel Pass worthwhile.

The pass covers the actual train fare on these routes, although reservations are still paid separately.

If you’re planning scenic routes, you may also find these guides useful:

Bernina Express Guide

Our Bernina Route Itinerary

GoldenPass Belle Époque Guide

GoldenPass Express Guide

5 Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland

Save 5% on a Swiss Pass with code BUILDABREAK5

Discount available via the GetYourGuide App

3. You want simplicity

One of the biggest advantages of the Swiss Travel Pass is convenience.

Instead of:

buying separate tickets
calculating route prices
worrying about connections
queuing at stations

…you can simply board most trains, buses and boats using the pass.

This makes Switzerland feel much easier to travel around, especially for first-time visitors.

4. You plan to visit museums and attractions

The pass includes free entry to hundreds of museums across Switzerland.

If you’re planning city stops alongside train travel, those savings can start adding up surprisingly quickly.

5. You’re travelling for a shorter, busier trip

We think the Swiss Travel Pass works best for:

3 to 8 day trips
fast-paced itineraries
first-time Switzerland visits
scenic rail-focused holidays

The more transport you use in a short period of time, the better the value usually becomes.

When the Swiss Travel Pass Might NOT Be Worth It

1. You’re staying mostly in one area

If you’re spending most of your trip based in places like:

Interlaken
Lauterbrunnen
Lucerne

…and only taking occasional transport, the pass may not save you much money.

2. You prefer slower travel

For longer trips with fewer travel days, individual tickets or a Half Fare Card can sometimes work out cheaper.

3. You’re mostly visiting mountain excursions

Not all mountain transport is fully included.

Some of Switzerland’s most expensive mountain excursions still require significant additional payments even with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Jungfraujoch is only partially discounted
some cable cars are not included
premium mountain experiences can still add up quickly

4. You’re travelling on a very tight budget

The upfront price of the Swiss Travel Pass can feel expensive initially.

For families especially, the cost of multiple passes can add up very quickly, which is why it’s worth comparing carefully before booking.

If you’re trying to keep transport costs as low as possible, it’s worth comparing individual ticket prices carefully before committing.

Swiss Travel Pass vs Swiss Half Fare Card

If you’re travelling more slowly or staying longer in Switzerland, the Swiss Half Fare Card may be a better option.

Instead of unlimited travel, it gives:

50% off most trains
buses
boats
mountain railways

For some itineraries, especially longer trips, this can work out cheaper overall than buying a Swiss Travel Pass.

The best option really depends on:

how often you’ll travel
which mountain excursions you plan to do
whether you’re taking scenic trains
how many regions you’ll visit

How We’d Personally Decide

This is the easiest way we’ve found to work out whether the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it.

Write down:

every train journey
boat trip
bus journey
museum
excursion

Then compare:

the standard ticket prices
vs
the cost of the Swiss Travel Pass

This takes a little time, but it’s the best way to avoid overpaying.

For some itineraries, the savings are huge.

For others, the pass may only save a very small amount or even cost more.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It for Short Trips?

For shorter Switzerland trips, the Swiss Travel Pass can work really well if you plan to move around frequently and make the most of Switzerland’s public transport network.

For example:

3-day trips

The pass can quickly become worthwhile if you’re combining scenic trains, intercity travel and mountain excursions over a packed itinerary.

4 to 5-day trips

This is probably where the Swiss Travel Pass offers some of its best value, especially if you’re travelling between multiple regions like Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux and Zermatt.

Longer Switzerland trips

For slower-paced itineraries with fewer travel days, alternatives like the Swiss Half Fare Card can sometimes work out cheaper overall.

The more transport you use within a shorter period of time, the better value the Swiss Travel Pass usually becomes.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

For many Switzerland itineraries, yes.

If you’re planning to explore multiple regions, travel frequently by train and include scenic rail journeys, the Swiss Travel Pass can save both money and hassle.

However, it’s not automatically the best option for every trip.

For slower holidays, single-region stays or travellers mainly focused on mountain excursions, alternatives like the Swiss Half Fare Card may offer better value.

The best approach is always to compare your planned transport costs against the pass price before booking.

Planning a Switzerland Trip?

You may also find these guides useful:

Is Switzerland Expensive?

Switzerland on a Budget Tips

Bernina Express Guide

Bernina Express vs Red Train

Our Bernina Route Itinerary

GoldenPass Belle Époque Guide

GoldenPass Express Guide

5 Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland

Best Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland (2026 Guide)

Switzerland: 5 Incredible Train Journeys Worth Adding to Your Bucket List

If there’s one thing Switzerland does unbelievably well, it’s train travel.

Some journeys feel like attractions in their own right, not just a way of getting from A to B. One minute you’re passing turquoise lakes, the next you’re winding through snowy mountain passes or gliding past waterfalls and tiny alpine villages that look straight out of a postcard.

Even after multiple trips to Switzerland, the scenery still doesn’t feel real sometimes.

We’ve now travelled on several scenic train routes across Switzerland, including the Bernina Express and GoldenPass trains, and these are the journeys we think are genuinely worth adding to your itinerary.

Whether you’re planning a full Switzerland rail trip or just want to include one unforgettable scenic route, these train journeys combine some of the best landscapes in Europe with experiences that feel completely different from everyday travel.

Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend routes, trains and services we genuinely believe are worth including in your Switzerland itinerary.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Before You Book Scenic Trains in Switzerland

A few things we wish we’d known before our first Switzerland train trip.

Most panoramic trains require seat reservations

Even if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail or Interrail pass, many of the famous panoramic trains still require a paid seat reservation.

Regional trains often follow the exact same routes

This is one of the biggest Switzerland train hacks.

For routes like the Bernina Express, regional trains follow the same railway line and scenery, often with:

cheaper prices
fewer crowds
windows that open for photos
more flexibility

You can read more about the differences in our Bernina Express vs Red Train guide.

The Swiss Travel Pass can save a lot of money

If you’re planning multiple train journeys, the Swiss Travel Pass can quickly pay for itself.

However, for shorter trips or just one scenic journey, point-to-point tickets can sometimes work out cheaper.

If you’re unsure whether it’s worth the cost, check out our full guide on whether purchasing a Swiss Pass is worth it.

Switzerland train travel is expensive but worth it

Switzerland definitely isn’t a budget destination, but these train journeys feel like experiences rather than transport.

Compared to UK rail prices, some of the journeys surprised us value-wise considering the scenery and overall experience.

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Which Swiss Train Journey Should You Choose?

Choose the GoldenPass Belle Époque if:

you love vintage travel experiences
you want luxury without the huge price tag
you prefer shorter scenic journeys
you love old-world interiors and classic trains

Choose the Bernina Express if:

you want the most dramatic scenery
you’re short on time
you want to experience Switzerland and Italy in one journey
you love photography

Choose the Glacier Express if:

you enjoy slow travel
you want a full-day scenic experience
panoramic dining appeals to you
you want one of Switzerland’s most famous train journeys

Choose the GoldenPass Express if:

you want an easy scenic route between major destinations
you’re travelling between Montreux and Interlaken
you want huge panoramic windows
you prefer modern trains

Choose the Jungfrau Railway if:

reaching the “Top of Europe” is on your bucket list
you want snowy mountain views
you’re visiting the Jungfrau region anyway
you don’t mind splurging on a once-in-a-lifetime experience

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The Best Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland

From vintage Belle Époque carriages to panoramic trains winding through glaciers and mountain passes, these are the Switzerland train journeys we think are most worth adding to your itinerary.

Some are luxurious, some are dramatic, and some are simply the easiest way to experience the Swiss Alps without hiring a car, but all of them offer unforgettable scenery along the way.

1. GoldenPass Belle Époque

The vintage luxury train through the Swiss Alps

Route: Montreux – Zweisimmen

Out of all the trains we’ve researched and travelled on in Switzerland, this is probably the one that feels the most unique.

The GoldenPass Belle Époque isn’t about speed or dramatic engineering. It’s all about the atmosphere.

Think velvet seats, old-fashioned carriage interiors, huge windows and a journey that feels like stepping back into the golden age of train travel.

The route climbs from the shores of Lake Geneva up into the Swiss Alps, passing vineyards, mountain villages and rolling countryside along the way.

This is the train for people who love the experience just as much as the scenery.

Why we think it’s worth it

One of the most unique train interiors in Switzerland
Feels far more luxurious than the price suggests
Beautiful route without being overwhelming
Perfect for first-time Switzerland visitors

Good to know

The Belle Époque is included with the Swiss Travel Pass, but seat reservations still need to be paid separately.

If you want the full vintage experience, double check you’re booking the Belle Époque service specifically and not the standard GoldenPass trains.

We’ve covered the full booking process, seat reservations, route details and what the journey is actually like in our full GoldenPass Belle Époque guide.

2. Bernina Express

The most dramatic train journey in Switzerland

Route: Chur – Tirano

If we had to recommend just one scenic train journey in Switzerland for first-time visitors, it would probably be the Bernina Express.

The scenery changes constantly.

One minute you’re passing glaciers and frozen lakes, the next you’re winding through mountain passes before eventually descending into palm trees and Italian landscapes in Tirano.

It almost feels like multiple countries packed into one train ride.

The route crosses the famous Landwasser Viaduct, climbs to over 2,200 metres above sea level and travels through some of the most impressive mountain scenery we’ve ever seen.

We spent most of the journey glued to the windows.

Why we think it’s worth it

Probably the best scenery-to-duration ratio in Switzerland
Constantly changing landscapes
Easier to fit into shorter itineraries than the Glacier Express
Connects Switzerland and Italy in one journey

Our biggest tip

If you’re travelling in peak season, reservations can sell out surprisingly early.

Also, don’t overlook the regional trains on this route. They follow the exact same scenery and can actually feel less touristy and more relaxed.

If you’re planning the route yourself, our Bernina itinerary guide covers exactly how we travelled from Italy into Switzerland using the Bernina line.

3. Glacier Express

Switzerland’s famous luxury panoramic train

Route: Zermatt – St. Moritz

The Glacier Express is probably Switzerland’s most famous train journey.

Known as the “slowest express train in the world”, this panoramic train takes around eight hours to cross the Swiss Alps between Zermatt and St. Moritz.

This isn’t a fast-paced experience.

It’s a full day of mountain views, deep valleys, bridges, tiny alpine villages and panoramic windows designed to make the most of the scenery.

Unlike the Bernina Express, which feels dramatic and constantly changing, the Glacier Express feels slower, calmer and more luxurious.

Is the Glacier Express worth it?

This really depends on your travel style.

If you love:

slow travel
luxury train experiences
relaxing scenic journeys
panoramic dining experiences

…you’ll probably love it.

If you prefer shorter, more dramatic journeys, the Bernina Express may impress you more.

Why people love it

Huge panoramic windows
One of the world’s most famous scenic railways
Beautiful winter scenery
Feels like a true bucket list experience

Good to know

The Swiss Travel Pass covers the base ticket, but reservations are still mandatory and can become expensive during peak season.

4. GoldenPass Express

One of the easiest scenic train journeys in Switzerland

Route: Montreux – Interlaken

The GoldenPass Express is one of Switzerland’s newer panoramic trains and links Montreux directly with Interlaken without requiring passengers to change trains at Zweisimmen.

This route is incredibly scenic but also very practical.

You get lakes, vineyards, mountains, alpine villages and some stunning views across the Bernese Oberland, all while travelling between two hugely popular Switzerland destinations.

It’s one of the easiest scenic train journeys to fit into a standard Switzerland itinerary.

What makes it different from the Belle Époque?

While the Belle Époque focuses on vintage luxury, the GoldenPass Express is more modern and panoramic.

Think:

huge windows
bright modern interiors
sweeping mountain views
smooth direct connections

Both are beautiful, just very different experiences.

Why we think it’s worth it

One of the easiest scenic routes to include in an itinerary
Great combination of lakes and mountains
Connects major tourist destinations
Less time commitment than the Glacier Express

If you’re deciding between the two GoldenPass trains, our full GoldenPass Express guide compares the modern panoramic experience with the more vintage Belle Époque journey.

5. Jungfrau Railway

The train journey to the “Top of Europe”

This is less about the train itself and more about where it takes you.

The Jungfrau Railway climbs through tunnels carved directly into the mountains before reaching Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.

At the top, you’ll find glaciers, snow-covered peaks, viewing platforms and panoramic mountain scenery that feels surreal.

It’s one of Switzerland’s biggest bucket list experiences for a reason.

Is Jungfraujoch expensive?

Yes. Very.

This is easily one of the most expensive train experiences in Switzerland, especially for families.

But if the weather is clear, the views are incredible.

Good to know

The Swiss Travel Pass only partially covers the Jungfrau journey, so you’ll still need to pay extra for the final section.

Our biggest advice

Check the weather carefully before booking.

A blue-sky day completely transforms the experience, while poor visibility can make the cost much harder to justify.

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Are Scenic Trains in Switzerland Worth It?

Yes.

Even if you only choose one or two, scenic train journeys are a huge part of what makes travelling around Switzerland feel so special.

You’re not just travelling between destinations. The journey itself becomes one of the highlights of the trip.

And while Switzerland definitely isn’t the cheapest country to explore, these are the kinds of experiences that stay with you long after you come home.

More Switzerland Travel Guides

You may also find these Switzerland guides useful:

6 Day Switzerland Rail Itinerary: Interlaken & Scenic Trains

Scenic Train Journeys, Mountain Villages & Lakeside Views Across Switzerland

Planning a Switzerland rail trip but feeling overwhelmed by routes, trains and where to actually base yourself?

This 6 day Switzerland rail itinerary combines some of the country’s most scenic train journeys with mountain villages, lakeside towns and famous viewpoints, all without needing to hire a car.

The route includes:

- the GoldenPass Express

- the GoldenPass Belle Époque

- Interlaken

- Lauterbrunnen

- Grindelwald

- Lake Brienz

- Jungfraujoch

It’s a fast-paced itinerary, but one that works really well for first-time Switzerland visitors wanting to experience a mix of scenic rail travel and the Swiss Alps in one trip.

I've personally travelled this route and designed this itinerary around train travel being part of the experience, not just the transport between destinations.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

At a Glance: 6 Day Switzerland Rail Itinerary

Day 1: Geneva → Montreux → GoldenPass Express → Interlaken

Day 2: Interlaken, Harder Kulm & Lauterbrunnen

Day 3: Grindelwald First & Glacier Canyon

Day 4: Lake Brienz & Brienz Rothorn Railway

Day 5: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Day 6: GoldenPass Belle Époque → Montreux → Geneva Airport

Where You'll Stay

This itinerary uses Interlaken as a single base for 5 nights, making it easy to explore the Jungfrau region without constantly changing hotels.

From Interlaken, you can easily reach Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Lake Brienz and Jungfraujoch by train, while still enjoying some of Switzerland's most scenic rail journeys along the way.

Why We Think Interlaken Works So Well as a Base

For a Switzerland rail itinerary, Interlaken is genuinely hard to beat.

Not only is it surrounded by incredible scenery, but it also gives you easy train access to:

- Lauterbrunnen

- Grindelwald

- Lake Brienz

- Jungfraujoch

- scenic mountain railways

- boat trips

- the GoldenPass line

This means you can experience a huge amount of Switzerland without constantly changing hotels.

For this itinerary, we’ve also included Montreux at the start and end of the route, allowing you to experience both the modern Goldenpass Express and the vintage Belle Époque train.

Before You Start This Switzerland Rail Itinerary

A few things we’d recommend knowing before booking:

You don’t need a car

Switzerland’s public transport network is incredibly easy to use and the train journeys themselves become part of the experience.

For this route, travelling by train is genuinely easier than driving.

This itinerary is quite fast-paced

You’ll see a lot in six days, but there are some busy travel days involved.

If you prefer slower travel, we’d recommend extending the trip slightly or removing one or two activities.

Scenic trains often require reservations

If you’re planning to use:

- the GoldenPass Express

- GoldenPass Belle Époque

- panoramic trains

Seat reservations may still be required even with a Swiss Travel Pass.

Our Swiss Travel Pass guide explains this in much more detail.

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Day 1: Geneva to Montreux & the GoldenPass Express to Interlaken

Start your Switzerland rail trip with lakeside views and one of Switzerland’s most scenic train routes

I’d recommend flying into Geneva for this itinerary because it gives easy rail access to Montreux and the GoldenPass line.

From Geneva Airport, trains to Montreux take around 1 hour 15 minutes.

Montreux feels very different to the mountain villages later in the itinerary, which is one of the reasons we really like starting the trip here.

Spend a few hours exploring:

- Lake Geneva

- the Freddie Mercury statue

- Montreux promenade

- Chillon Castle if time allows

The lakeside setting almost doesn’t feel like the Switzerland most people picture initially, which makes the transition into the Alps later in the day feel even more dramatic.

In the afternoon, board the GoldenPass Express from Montreux to Interlaken.

This is one of the easiest scenic train journeys to include in a Switzerland itinerary and gives you huge panoramic windows overlooking lakes, vineyards and mountain scenery throughout the journey.

If you’re deciding between the GoldenPass trains, our GoldenPass Express guide and GoldenPass Belle Époque guide explain the differences in much more detail.

Spend your evening settling into Interlaken ready for the next few days exploring the Jungfrau region.

Day 2: Lauterbrunnen & Harder Kulm

After breakfast, spend some time exploring central Interlaken.

One of the things I loved most here was simply walking through Höhematte Park watching paragliders floating down against the mountain backdrop.

Later in the morning, head up to Harder Kulm using the funicular railway from Interlaken.

The views over Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and the Jungfrau region are incredible on a clear day.

Afterwards, take the short train journey from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen.

Lauterbrunnen is one of those places that somehow looks even better in real life.

The valley is surrounded by huge cliffs and waterfalls, with tiny traditional Swiss buildings scattered throughout the village.

This is somewhere we’d strongly recommend slowing down slightly rather than rushing through.

Spend the afternoon:

- walking through the valley

- photographing Staubbach Falls

- stopping for food

- simply enjoying the scenery

Return to Interlaken in the evening.

Day 3: Grindelwald, Grindelwald First & Glacier Canyon

One of the most adventurous days in the itinerary

Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald early in the morning.

If you’re visiting Grindelwald First, we’d strongly recommend arriving as early as possible because queues can become very busy later in the day.

At First, you can:

- walk the First Cliff Walk

- hike to Bachalpsee Lake

- try the First Flyer zipline

- ride mountain carts

- take the gondola back down

Even without the activities, the scenery here is incredible.

After returning to Grindelwald village, head to Glacier Canyon.

This natural gorge was formed by glacial water over thousands of years and feels completely different to the open mountain scenery elsewhere in the itinerary.

The walkways through the canyon and tunnels are surprisingly dramatic.

Return to Interlaken for the evening.

Day 4: Lake Brienz & the Brienz Rothorn Steam Railway

One of the most scenic and relaxing days of the trip

After a few busy days, this part of the itinerary feels much slower and calmer.

Start the morning with a boat trip across Lake Brienz from Interlaken.

The colour of the water here genuinely doesn’t look real sometimes.

If time allows, spend some time exploring Brienz itself, particularly Brunngasse, which is often described as one of the prettiest streets in Switzerland.

Later in the day, ride the Brienz Rothorn steam railway.

This historic mountain railway climbs slowly into the Alps with incredible views across the lake and surrounding mountains.

Compared to some of Switzerland’s larger tourist attractions, this experience feels slightly quieter and more traditional.

Return to Interlaken in the afternoon for a more relaxed evening.

Day 5: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Visiting the highest railway station in Europe

This is probably the biggest bucket list day of the itinerary.

The Jungfrau Railway climbs through tunnels carved directly into the mountains before arriving at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.

At the top, you’ll find:

- glaciers

- snow-covered peaks

- viewing platforms

- the Ice Palace

- restaurants

- snow activities during parts of the year

This is also one of the most expensive parts of the trip, so we’d strongly recommend checking the weather forecast carefully before booking.

On a clear day, the views are incredible.

In poor visibility, it can feel very different to the experience people imagine from the photos.

Allow most of the day for this excursion before returning to Interlaken for your final evening.

Day 6: GoldenPass Belle Époque & Return to Geneva

Finish the trip aboard one of Switzerland’s most beautiful vintage trains

For the return journey, we’d recommend travelling back via the GoldenPass Belle Époque.

This gives the itinerary a completely different feel compared to the modern panoramic GoldenPass Express at the start of the trip.

Travel from Interlaken towards Gstaad before changing onto the Belle Époque service towards Montreux.

The vintage carriages, old-world interiors and huge windows make this one of the most unique train experiences in Switzerland.

It feels far more luxurious than many people expect.

Once back in Montreux, continue onwards to Geneva Airport for your flight home.

Is This Switzerland Rail Itinerary Worth It?

If you’re looking for:

- scenic train journeys

- mountain villages

- lakes

- famous viewpoints

- Switzerland without driving

Then we think this route works incredibly well for a first Switzerland trip.

It combines some of the country’s most famous rail experiences with enough flexibility to adapt the pace depending on your own travel style.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

One of the reasons we like using Interlaken as a base is the huge range of accommodation available, whether you're travelling solo, as a couple or with family.

Budget Solo Travellers

For solo travellers, I'd personally recommend Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof Hostel, where I stayed during my own Switzerland trip.

It's clean, well located, within walking distance of the train station and a great base for exploring the Jungfrau region without spending a fortune on accommodation.

Budget Family Option

If you're travelling during the summer months, campsites can offer excellent value for families visiting the Jungfrau region.

Manor Farm Campsite, located on the shores of Lake Thun just outside Interlaken, can be a great option for keeping accommodation costs under control while still having easy access to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald by public transport.

For families, having self-catering facilities and extra space can often work out significantly cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms, particularly during the school holidays.

Budget to Mid-Range Couples

For couples wanting a comfortable base without luxury hotel prices, I'd look at:

Stella Swiss Quality Hotel

Boutique Hotel Bellevue

Both offer good locations and easy access to Interlaken's train stations and attractions.

Luxury Hotels

If you're looking for something a little more special, consider:

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Royal St. Georges Hotel Interlaken – MGallery Collection

Both offer a more luxurious stay while still providing convenient access to the town and surrounding rail network.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Splurge

If budget isn't a concern and you want one of the most iconic hotels in Switzerland, it's hard to look past the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa.

With its incredible setting beneath the Jungfrau mountains, luxury spa facilities and grand historic interiors, this is the kind of hotel that becomes part of the experience itself.

Planning a Switzerland Trip?

- Is Switzerland Expensive?

-How to do Switzerland on a Budget

- Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It?

- Bernina Express Guide

- Bernina Express vs Red Train

- Our Bernina Route Itinerary

- GoldenPass Belle Époque Guide

- GoldenPass Express Guide

- 5 Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland

GoldenPass Trains Guide (2026)

The GoldenPass route in Switzerland isn't actually one train.

Before planning my own Switzerland trip, I assumed GoldenPass simply meant booking one scenic journey between Montreux and Interlaken and hopping onboard.

It was only when I started researching that I realised there are actually several different train experiences along the route.

From modern panoramic carriages and Prestige seating to vintage-style Belle-Époque interiors, each train offers something slightly different.

I've travelled on both the GoldenPass Express and GoldenPass Belle-Époque and although they share parts of the same route, they felt surprisingly different experiences.

If you're trying to decide which GoldenPass train is right for your own trip, here's a guide to all three.

Sarah

Build a Break

I've completed specialist Swiss public transport training and regularly update my knowledge with the Swiss Tourist Board, alongside exploring Switzerland myself.

Switzerland Tours & Activities Switzerland Hotels Save 5% on Swiss Passes with code BUILDABREAK5

Watch the Video of Goldenpass Trains

Quick Facts

📍 Main route: Montreux → Zweisimmen → Interlaken

🚆 Number of train experiences: 3

🎫 Swiss Travel Pass accepted: Yes

💺 Seat reservations: Recommended

🧳 Luggage allowed: Yes

🍴 Food onboard: Available depending on service

What is the GoldenPass route?

The GoldenPass route runs through some of Switzerland's most scenic landscapes, linking Montreux with Interlaken through vineyards, lakes, forests and mountain scenery.

Rather than being one specific train, GoldenPass is actually a collection of train experiences operating along the route.

Depending on which service you choose, you'll either travel the full route between Montreux and Interlaken or a section of the route between Montreux and Zweisimmen.

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GoldenPass Express

The GoldenPass Express is the newest and most modern option within the GoldenPass collection.

Large panoramic windows stretch upwards towards the roof and are designed to make the scenery part of the experience.

I travelled in Prestige Class on both legs of my own journey and for me this felt much more than simply travelling between destinations. Sitting slightly higher than the rest of the carriage meant you almost felt surrounded by the scenery rather than just looking out of a train window.

Journey time: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes

Route: Montreux → Interlaken

Classes available:

⭐ Prestige Class
🚆 First Class
🚆 Second Class

Best for:

✔ First-time Switzerland visitors
✔ Panoramic scenery
✔ Longer scenic journeys
✔ Travellers wanting a more premium experience

→ Read my full GoldenPass Express review

GoldenPass Belle-Époque

The Belle-Époque feels completely different from the GoldenPass Express.

Instead of modern panoramic windows and sleek interiors, this train focuses much more on atmosphere and nostalgia.

The vintage-style carriages feature wood-panelled interiors, brass details and traditional seating inspired by luxury rail travel from the early twentieth century.

I travelled on the Belle-Époque from Montreux to Zweisimmen and what stood out immediately was how different it felt from a normal train journey. I spent much of the trip with a glass of wine simply enjoying the slower pace and scenery outside.

Journey time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes

Route: Montreux → Zweisimmen

Classes available:

🚆 First Class
🚆 Second Class

Best for:

✔ Vintage train lovers
✔ Unique experiences
✔ Slower travel
✔ Travellers wanting atmosphere over panoramic windows

→ Read my full GoldenPass Belle-Époque review

GoldenPass Panoramic

The GoldenPass Panoramic offers another way to experience the route between Montreux and Zweisimmen.

It sits somewhere between the modern GoldenPass Express and the more historic Belle-Époque experience.

Large panoramic windows allow passengers to enjoy the scenery throughout the journey, but without the additional Prestige seating and luxury extras available on the Express.

Journey time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes

Route: Montreux → Zweisimmen

Classes available:

🚆 First Class
🚆 Second Class

Best for:

✔ Travellers focused on scenery
✔ Scenic journeys without luxury extras
✔ Flexible Switzerland itineraries

Can you use a Swiss Travel Pass on GoldenPass trains?

Yes.

All three GoldenPass train experiences are included with the Swiss Travel Pass, although seat reservation fees can still apply depending on the service and class you choose.

If you're planning multiple train journeys around Switzerland, a Swiss Travel Pass can quickly become worthwhile.

Which GoldenPass train should you choose?

After travelling on both the GoldenPass Express and the Belle-Époque, I honestly don't think there is a wrong choice because they felt very different.

⭐ Choose the GoldenPass Express if you want:
✔ Panoramic windows
✔ A longer journey between Montreux and Interlaken
✔ A more modern experience
✔ Prestige seating options

🚆 Choose the GoldenPass Belle-Époque if you want:
✔ Vintage-style carriages
✔ A slower pace
✔ Atmosphere over modern luxury
✔ Something that feels a little different

🏔 Choose the GoldenPass Panoramic if you want:
✔ Scenic views
✔ A simpler train experience
✔ Flexibility without additional luxury extras

If you're deciding specifically between the GoldenPass Express and Belle-Époque, I've also put together a more detailed comparison guide.

Related Switzerland Train Guides

🚆 GoldenPass Express Review
🚆 GoldenPass Belle-Époque Review
🚆 GoldenPass Express vs Belle-Époque (coming soon)
🚆 Swiss Travel Pass Guide
🚆 Bernina Express Review