There is a coach with panoramic views in first class AND in second class. In my view the best option and most economic way is the second class coach with panoramic views. First class has a bit more space. We bought our tickets on the spot and the train was almost empty (beginning of February and during the week).

When booking the Bernina Express in 2026, the "best" coach depends on whether you value social atmosphere or quiet luxury. For most travelers, the First Class (1st Class) panoramic coaches are the superior choice; these carriages feature a 1+2 seating configuration, meaning one side of the train has single seats that are perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a window to themselves. The seats in First Class are wider, have more legroom, and offer a more serene environment for viewing the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes. However, the Second Class (2nd Class) coaches are also excellent, featuring the same floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows as First Class but with a 2+2 seating layout. If you are looking for the "pro" tip for 2026: try to book the "Allegra" railcar section at the very front or back of the train. While these aren't the official "panoramic" cars, they have windows that actually open, allowing you to smell the mountain air and take glare-free photographs of the Brusio Spiral Viaduct and the Landwasser Viaduct, something you cannot do through the sealed glass of the standard panoramic coaches.