While staying in Varenna Italy, I plan to take the Bernina express route train (the regional train) for a day trip from Tirano to Pontresina or possibly Samedan and back in mid-October. I may spend a couple hours in Pontresina and/or Samedan and probably want to have something to eat and take a local bus from the train station. Will credit cards suffice (I hope) or will I need to get some Swiss francs in cash?
Posted by
San Diego, California
5604 posts
For Pontresina, If you ride to the next stop, a few minutes away, to Surovas, you'll be two minute walk from Pontresina. This is a "Stop by Request"- push the button by the train door. It's a beautiful charming little train station in the cedar woods. Follow the middle, somewhat larger path.
When at the train station waiting to return, Push the "Stop by Request" button at the train station.
Enjoy the whole experience!
Posted by
Green Bay
21142 posts
Credit card use i pretty common in Switzerland. Also, in my experience, you can often pay with EUR cash in shops, but your change will be in CHF, much like using USD in Canada. I have no experience with buses.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5604 posts
I'm directionally challenged. Coming from Tirano, the Surovas train station is right before Pontresina. Double check my info, please! ( wink emoji)
Safe travels.
Posted by
OP
Washington, DC USA
491 posts
Pat; Thanks for the correction. I found a route map online and your second message is correct. Coming from Tirano, Surovas is the station before Ponsetrina.