I would like to go through the Alps to Venice. It was suggested to fly nonstop to Paris and take a fast train to Zurich and then take "a train through the alps." I've been doing some research and everyone wants to sell me a tour. I just want to go to Venice via a very picturesque route. I am stopping in Venice before I head for a writers' retreat in Tuscany, so I will be using a private tour guide in Venice for three days. Conceivably I can leave Aug. 29 from Los Angeles and would like to get to Venice on September 1 more likely September 2. Is this doable?
Posted by
Wengen
3275 posts
This is how I would do it:
- Paris - Pontresina. TGV paris to Zurich, IC to Chur, RhB train to Pontressina. From Chur to Pontressina you travel over the Albula line.
If possible spend two nights there, so you have a day to do some sightseeing in the area...
- Pontresina - Tirano - Milano - Venezia. You could break this up by staying a night or two in Varenna.
Tickets for both routes can be booked on www.sbb.ch
If you want to travel in the panoramic coaches on the Bernina Railway you need a reservation. That you can get at www.rhb.ch
In my opinion that is however not necessary. You can travel in the regular coaches without reservation.
Posted by
Switzerland
48 posts
Adding to WengenK great answer:
- Can't you fly to Zurich? The TGV Paris - Zurich takes forever (4 - 4h30) and if you plan to have it all in one go, there's going to be train fatigue for sure.
- The route Chur - Tirano is served by both Bernina Express (2 trains per day) and regular trains which are less touristy and you can also stop on the way at whatever stop suits you (for instance at the highest point of the route in the Bernina Pass) and simply take the next train after strolling around.
- If you go the DYI route with regular trains, make sure they go through Preda if you want to go the Albula picturesque route (most of the trains have a faster connection through another tunnel).
Have fun!