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Bus Tirano to Lugano on Bernina Express

It the 3 hr bus ride from Tirano to Lugano very scenic or should I skip it along with Lugano and just return back up to Chur? The thought of being cooped up in a full bus for 3 hrs. doesn't sound inviting unless the scenery is spectacular or Lugano is a "must see".

Posted by
6916 posts

Unless you are actually planning to stay in Lugano (worthwhile!), definitely skip it; it would make for a grueling day trip... Parts of the drive are scenic but there is no comparison with the Albula+Bernina railways from Chur.
What is your overall route in Switzerland?

EDIT: saw the other thread. If you do decide to go spend 1-2 nights in Lugano, then yes, St Moritz-Tirano-Lugano is the best route. But it will be a lot of travel time for 11 days.

Posted by
4650 posts

I took the bus from Tirano to Lugano and thought it was quite scenic. Sit on the left side of the bus for the best views.

I didn't think it was particularly grueling, but then I was enjoying the scenery.

Posted by
4650 posts

I had a room in Melide (a short train ride from Lugano) with a balcony facing Lake Lugano. It was one of my most scenic stays. The hotel had a terrace at the edge of the lake where breakfast was served. Well worth the upcharge for the lake view room, though I recall seeing that hotels have gotten dramatically more expensive in Melide.