In September 2024, I had the pleasure of traveling through Zurich, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy, two cities that offered stark contrasts but were connected by an unforgettable train journey—the Bernina Express. This scenic train ride between Chur, Switzerland, and Tirano, Italy, was the highlight of my trip, but let’s start with my arrival in Zurich.

Discovering Zurich

When I first landed in Zurich, I had some reservations about how friendly the locals might be. I had heard that Swiss people can be a bit reserved. To my surprise, I found the opposite. From the moment I needed help navigating the city’s tram system, I was met with kindness. At the airport, unsure of how to purchase a day pass for the tram, I asked the person behind me for assistance. They not only spoke English but also took the time to help me buy the right ticket.

Walking around Zurich, the signs of the city’s affluence were unmistakable—BMWs and Mercedes-Benz cars everywhere you looked, luxury shopping, and an overall sense of wealth. Prices were noticeably higher than what I’m used to in Dublin, but it seemed like this was no problem for the locals. Another thing that stood out was the absence of homelessness. It’s clear that Switzerland enjoys a strong economy, and the high standard of living was visible in every corner.

While Zurich’s cityscape was pleasant, I found that it didn’t offer much in terms of major attractions. The architecture was pristine, and the streets were spotless, but the real draw for me was yet to come: the Bernina Express.

The Bernina Express: From Chur to Tirano

The main reason for my visit to Zurich was to experience one of Europe’s most scenic train rides—the Bernina Express. The journey starts in Chur, Switzerland, and winds its way through the Alps, eventually descending into the charming town of Tirano, Italy. This ride is not just a train journey; it’s an experience.

The train tickets were on the pricier side, but I was fortunate enough to be upgraded to first class, which came with panoramic windows offering sweeping views of the breathtaking landscape. As we journeyed through high-altitude mountain passes, glaciers, and serene alpine lakes, the world outside felt like a series of paintings coming to life. Every turn brought something new—forests in brilliant shades of green, towering peaks, and picturesque villages that seemed untouched by time.

The Bernina Express is known for being one of the most beautiful train rides in Europe, and it did not disappoint. The entire journey felt like an unfolding postcard, each frame more captivating than the last. The contrast of the snow-capped mountains against the bright, clear skies was simply mesmerizing.

When we arrived in Tirano, the landscape had shifted dramatically from the alpine terrain of Switzerland to the sun-kissed valleys of northern Italy. It was time for the next leg of my journey—onward to Milan.

Exploring Milan

After the Bernina Express, I took a regional train from Tirano to Milan, a bustling city that felt different from the more leisurely pace of Switzerland. Milan, Italy’s fashion and business capital, was a whirlwind of sharp-dressed locals and fast-paced energy. The city’s architecture is impressive, especially the iconic Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the central square.

Milan’s public transportation system, particularly the underground, was efficient but not as intuitive as others I’ve experienced. The train lines all converge at the city center, meaning you have to travel into the heart of Milan to switch lines, which isn’t ideal for moving around the outskirts. It’s a bit different from cities with circular routes, which makes exploring outside the core more time-consuming.

One of the surprises in Milan was how many Sri Lankans I encountered, which made me feel a bit more at home. I stumbled upon a Sri Lankan restaurant, where I treated myself to a delicious plate of fried rice, offering a taste of my roots amidst the European surroundings.

Final Thoughts

This trip gave me a deeper appreciation of Europe’s diversity—from Zurich’s wealth and precision to the picturesque scenery along the Bernina Express, and finally, the vibrant, stylish streets of Milan. The train ride through the Alps was undoubtedly the highlight, offering some of the most stunning views I’ve ever seen. If you ever find yourself in Switzerland or northern Italy, the Bernina Express should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just a mode of transport—it’s a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes Europe has to offer.