We have 2 days at the end of a visit to Italy and want to travel by train through Swiss Alps and fly out of Zurich. We are considering the following and looking for comments advice: May 6 through 8, 2012 by train: Rome (via Milano) to Tirano in morning; arrive Tirano for late aft stroll, dinner, overnight stay (May 6) Tirano to Pontresina (or St Moritz?) via Berina Express: Morning train Lunch/Walk around Pontresina or St Moritz for a few hours Train to Zurich via Chur (afternoon-early eve) Stay in Zurich hotel close to airport (May 7) May 8: 1 pm flight home to Hawaii (23 hours)
Sound do-able, enjoyable? alternate suggestions? Is Pontresina a good town to spend a few hours in? Leads on (moderately priced) places to stay in Tirano? Zurich? Is it necessary, recommended to make reservations on any/all of these trains in advance?
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17435 posts
I have long wanted to take that route but haven't yet, so I don't have specific suggestions for Tirano or Pontresina. I will point out that with a 1 pm flight you do not need to stay near the airport, or even in Zurich. You could stay in Luzern if you find that town more appealing. Mit is onlyban hour to the Zurich airport by train. (from downtown Zurichnonly 12 minutes or so).
Posted by
OP
Kamuela, Hawaii USA
39 posts
Thanks, Lola. Any accomodation recommendations for Luzern? you mentioned earlier they tend to be expensive, but a high standard.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17435 posts
Yes, anything near the train station and old town center will be around 250 CHf or more. We have never stayed in Luzern for that reason. But given the choice of paying 250 for a Luzern hotel or a Zurich hotel, I would pick Luzern next time. Maybe we have been in Zurich too many times! I know people who rely like Hotel des Balances, with a view of the famous bridge. Hotels Alpes is in a similar location and less expensive, but some find it creaky and a bit old. If we were going to stay there, the 2 places I like, from seeing photos and reading reviews, are Hotel zum Rebstock and the Waldstätterhof. But mind you, I have no personal experience with either. They just appeal to my sense of Swiss charm.
Posted by
OP
Kamuela, Hawaii USA
39 posts
Thank you! last question, I promise. Any accomdations to suggest in Zurich, in case we decide to stay there? in an part of town we could walk around after a long tran ride :)