Bernina Express First Class

The Honest Truth About First Class

I've traveled the Bernina Express in both classes multiple times. Here's my unvarnished take: the views are identical. Both classes have the same panoramic windows, the same route, and the same stunning scenery. You're not paying for better views.

What you are paying for:

• Space: More room per passenger, both seat width and legroom
• The single seat: First Class's 2+1 layout means one seat per row has no seatmate
• Atmosphere: Generally quieter, fewer passengers, more relaxed
• Comfort: Leather versus fabric, slightly cushier seating

Is this worth 60-70% more? That depends entirely on what you value. I'll break it down.

The 2+1 Seating Configuration Explained

The seating layout is the most significant difference between classes:

First Class: 2+1

Each row has three seats total: two together on one side of the aisle, one alone on the other. This creates:

• Wider seats overall (the car holds fewer passengers)
• One coveted solo window seat per row
• No middle seats—everyone has window or aisle access

Second Class: 2+2

Four seats per row, two on each side. This means:

• Standard seat width
• If traveling as a pair, one person gets the window, one gets the aisle
• Solo travelers may have a seatmate

Who Should Book First Class

Based on my experience and traveler feedback, First Class makes most sense for:

1. Serious Photographers

The single seat gives you unobstructed views in both directions. You can move around more easily when important viewpoints approach. Less crowded cars mean fewer people in your frame when shooting interior/exterior combinations.

2. Solo Travelers

In Second Class, you may share your row with a stranger for four hours. In First Class, the solo seat guarantees privacy. Even if you're in the two-seat side, First Class is typically less full.

3. Taller Passengers

First Class offers genuinely more legroom. If you're over 6'2" (188cm), the extra space prevents the four-hour journey from becoming uncomfortable.

4. Those Celebrating Something Special

Anniversary trip? Birthday journey? The upgrade adds a touch of luxury that enhances the occasion. The leather seats and quieter atmosphere contribute to a premium feel.

5. Anyone Who Hates Crowds

Peak summer Second Class can feel cramped with every seat occupied and passengers standing to photograph. First Class maintains a more relaxed atmosphere even when fully booked.

Who Should Skip First Class

1. Families with Young Children

The communal atmosphere of Second Class is actually better for families. Kids can move around more easily, and the ambient noise means your children's excitement won't disturb quiet-seeking First Class passengers.

2. Budget-Conscious Travelers

If saving €25-30 per person matters to your trip, Second Class delivers the same views. Put that money toward a nice meal in Tirano instead.

3. Groups of 4+

In Second Class, a group of four can book facing seats and create a social space. First Class's 2+1 layout makes this harder.

4. Those Who Just Want the Views

If your primary goal is seeing the glaciers, viaducts, and Alpine scenery, Second Class accomplishes this perfectly. The panoramic windows are identical.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Seats

First Class: Leather-upholstered seats that are noticeably wider. The headrest area is more substantial, and the armrests are individual (not shared). The seat reclines slightly.

Second Class: Fabric-covered seats that are perfectly comfortable for a four-hour journey but narrower. Armrests are shared with your neighbor. Less recline.

Windows

Both classes: Identical floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. This is the point I can't emphasize enough—the views don't improve in First Class. The glass is the same size, the same clarity, the same everything.

Space

First Class: Approximately 30% fewer seats per car means more space per passenger. Luggage storage is less contested. Moving around the car is easier.

Second Class: More passengers, especially in summer. Overhead racks fill up. You may need to place bags at car ends.

WiFi and Power

Both classes: Free WiFi available throughout the train. Signal can be intermittent in tunnels (obviously). Power outlets at seats in both classes.

Catering

Both classes: The same catering trolley serves both classes. Staff push a cart through selling sandwiches, snacks, hot and cold drinks. Prices are Swiss-high regardless of class. First Class doesn't get a different menu or priority service.

Restrooms

Both classes: Clean, modern restrooms available in both class sections. In practice, passengers use whichever is closest and available.

What About Pullman Class?

Rhaetian Railway occasionally offers Bernina Express Pullman Class—an ultra-premium tier above standard First Class. This features:

• Historic restored carriages
• Table seating with white linen
• Multi-course meals served at your seat
• Champagne and wine included
• More intimate group sizes

Pullman Class costs significantly more and operates on select dates. It's an experience rather than just transportation—think fine dining with moving scenery. Worth considering for milestone celebrations.

First Class Seat Selection Tips

If you've decided on First Class, here's how to maximize it:

The Solo Seat

This is seat number ending in 1 or 2 (depending on car numbering). Request it specifically when booking if possible. These go first.

Direction of Travel

Southbound (to Tirano): Seats on the right side offer the best glacier views in the Morteratsch area.

Northbound (to St. Moritz): Left side seats for glaciers, right side for the Brusio Viaduct approach.

Forward vs. Backward Facing

Most panoramic car seats face the direction of travel. If you're prone to motion sickness, confirm your seat faces forward when booking.

Price Comparison by Route

First Class prices vary by season and availability. These are indicative based on official sources.

My Recommendation

After multiple trips in both classes, here's my honest advice:

Book First Class if: You're traveling solo and want the single seat, you value personal space highly, you're a serious photographer, or this is a special occasion.

Book Second Class if: You're traveling with family or friends (the social atmosphere is fine), budget matters, or you simply want to experience the route without premium pricing.

Neither choice is wrong. I've had wonderful journeys in Second Class and occasionally felt First Class was overkill. The train itself—the route, the scenery, the engineering marvels—is the star. Your seat is just where you sit to watch it.

Frequently Asked Questions