PalenQ

Yeh I guess it is not a big deal what with those all-glass practically cars anyway but I still like to hop back and forth and on the locals you can actually open the windows and stick your head out (watching for the catenaire poles however! Nice to have the windows open IME - in summer some of the local trains have special flat bed cars with no walls - just a platform moving thru such awesome scenery - a real treat and IMO better than the panoramic cars - no windows at all just open-air cars.

yestravel

Thanks! We may just wait and see what the weather is on the day we leave. If we can get the BE at the last minute we might take it. I looked at the site and ther are plenty of seats now. It appears that the difference between the 2 trains pricewise is the reservation fee.

PalenQ

I've observed many a Bernina Express train and they are usually full with tour groups - those unreserved seats could go quick but you really can't lose on either type of train.

PalenQ

https://www.rhb.ch/en/panoramic-trains/bernina-express

the official site of Rhaetian Railways which runs the Bernina Express and local trains. OP has seen it but I mention it for others seeking info on this wonderful rail ride.