Welcome to Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city and a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Alps. As I stepped off the train and into this charming town, I was immediately struck by the perfect blend of ancient history and modern Swiss efficiency. From the winding cobblestone streets of the Old Town to the breathtaking mountain views, Chur offers a unique experience that captures the essence of Switzerland in one compact package.
In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do in Chur, from exploring its rich cultural heritage to embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a taste of authentic Swiss life, Chur has something special in store for you. Join me as we uncover the secrets of this Alpine treasure and discover why it should be at the top of your travel list.
🏠 Where to Stay in Chur
- 🏨 4-Star: Mercure Chur City West
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ambiente Hotel Freieck
- 💸 Cheap: Zentral Altstadt Chur - Bahnhofsnah - Ferienwohnung
- 🏢 Apartment: Haus zur Eiche Private 1 Zimmerstudios
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: ABC Swiss Quality Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Stern Chur
💁 Best Guided Tours
- Photogenic Chur with a Local from CHF 90 (⭐4.8/5)
- Churer Altstadt: Guided City Tour from CHF 25 (⭐4.9/5)
- Discover Chur in 60 Minutes with a Local from CHF 85 (⭐4.7/5)
- Guided Tour Through the Old Town of Chur from CHF 150 (⭐5.0/5)
Best Things To Do in Chur, Switzerland
1. Bernina Express
Iconic railway journey. The Bernina Express isn’t just a train ride—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage experience that begins right in Chur. I boarded the famous red train with its panoramic windows at Chur station, ready for one of Switzerland’s most spectacular journeys.
Alpine wonders. As the train climbed through the mountains, I was mesmerized by the dramatic landscape transformations. The route passes 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, including the impressive Landwasser Viaduct where the train seems to disappear directly into the mountainside.
Seasonal spectacle. Each season offers a unique perspective:
- Summer: Lush green valleys and wildflower meadows
- Autumn: Fiery foliage against snow-capped peaks
- Winter: Pristine snowscapes and frozen lakes
Practical details. The complete journey from Chur to Tirano (Italy) takes about 4 hours. I recommend booking seats on the right side of the train when heading south for the best views of the Morteratsch Glacier and Lago Bianco.
Price guide:
Ticket Type | Price (CHF) | Price (USD) |
---|---|---|
2nd Class One-Way | 73 | ~81 |
1st Class One-Way | 128 | ~142 |
Seat Reservation (required) | 14-24 | ~16-27 |
Pro tip: The Swiss Travel Pass covers the train fare (but not the seat reservation). Book at least 2-3 months in advance during peak season (June-September).
⭐ Best Activities
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Photogenic Chur with a Local – Discover the most beautiful spots in Chur with a knowledgeable local photographer who will show you the best angles and hidden gems while sharing stories about Switzerland’s oldest city.
2. Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
Architectural marvel. Standing in front of Chur’s cathedral, I was struck by its imposing presence. Built between 1150 and 1272, this Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece dominates the old town skyline with its distinctive three-nave basilica structure.
Artistic treasures. Inside, I discovered a wealth of historical artifacts. The 12th-century high altar features intricate carvings, while the medieval choir stalls showcase remarkable craftsmanship. Don’t miss the late Gothic altarpiece from 1492 by Jakob Russ—it’s considered one of Switzerland’s most important religious artworks.
Hidden gems. The cathedral crypt houses ancient Roman foundations, revealing Chur’s deep historical layers. I was particularly fascinated by the 8th-century Lucius Box, a silver reliquary containing what are believed to be the remains of St. Lucius, Chur’s patron saint.
Panoramic views. Climbing the 186 steps to the cathedral tower (open April-October) rewarded me with breathtaking views across Chur and the surrounding mountains. The modest 5 CHF (~5.50 USD) entry fee was well worth it.

Visitor information. The cathedral is open daily from 9am-6pm (May-October) and 9am-5pm (November-April). While entry to the main cathedral is free, the treasury museum costs 8 CHF (~9 USD) and displays precious religious artifacts spanning over 1,500 years.
⭐ Best Activities
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Churer Altstadt: Guided City Tour – Explore the charming Old Town of Chur on this guided walking tour where you’ll learn about the rich history of Switzerland’s oldest city while visiting its most significant landmarks and hidden corners.
3. Forum Würth Chur
Contemporary art haven. I was pleasantly surprised to find this modern art gem in Chur. The Forum Würth houses rotating exhibitions from Reinhold Würth’s vast collection of over 18,000 artworks, one of Europe’s most significant private art collections.
Architectural statement. The building itself is a work of art—a sleek, modern structure designed by Swiss architect Gigon/Guyer that stands in striking contrast to Chur’s medieval core. The light-filled exhibition spaces create the perfect environment for appreciating contemporary art.
Diverse exhibitions. During my visit, I enjoyed works by renowned artists like Picasso, Chagall, and Christo alongside emerging talents. The collection focuses primarily on modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries, with new exhibitions rotating every 4-6 months.
Accessibility for all. What impressed me most was the museum’s commitment to making art accessible. Entry is completely free, and the guided tours (available in English upon request) provide fascinating insights into the exhibitions.
Beyond viewing. The museum offers:
- Interactive workshops for children and adults
- Regular concert series in the exhibition spaces
- A well-curated museum shop with art books and unique gifts
⭐ Best Activities
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Discover Chur in 60 Minutes with a Local – Perfect for travelers short on time, this express tour with a local guide covers the essential highlights of Chur in just one hour, giving you a quick but comprehensive introduction to the city.
4. Urban Golf
City-wide course. I discovered a truly unique way to explore Chur through Urban Golf, an innovative activity that transforms the entire city into a golf course. Unlike traditional golf, this version uses special soft balls that won’t damage buildings or injure passersby.
Historical backdrop. Playing through Chur’s ancient streets gave me a fresh perspective on the city. Each “hole” took me past architectural treasures and hidden corners I might have otherwise missed, from medieval fountains to tucked-away courtyards.




Beginner-friendly fun. No previous golfing experience is needed! I was a complete novice but quickly got the hang of it. The equipment is provided at the tourist office, including clubs, scorecards, and a city map marking all 9 urban “holes.”
Social experience. What made this activity special was sharing it with others. I joined a small group tour (25 CHF/~28 USD per person), though you can also rent equipment independently for 15 CHF (~17 USD) and play at your own pace.
Practical details. The complete course takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Book at least one day in advance through the Chur Tourism office on Bahnhofplatz. Available year-round, though particularly pleasant in spring and autumn when the streets are less crowded.
5. Bündner Naturmuseum
Natural wonders. The Bündner Naturmuseum captivated me with its comprehensive collection showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Graubünden canton. Located in a historic building near the old town, this natural history museum offers a fascinating journey through the region’s geological and biological heritage.
Interactive learning. What impressed me most were the hands-on exhibits designed for visitors of all ages. I particularly enjoyed the interactive displays about Alpine ecology, where touch screens and audio guides explained complex natural processes in accessible ways.
Prehistoric treasures. The museum houses an impressive collection of fossils, including the complete skeleton of a 210-million-year-old Plateosaurus discovered in the nearby village of Fideris. Standing before these ancient remains gave me a profound sense of the region’s deep history.
Wildlife encounters. The expertly crafted dioramas featuring stuffed specimens of local wildlife—from ibex and chamois to golden eagles and bearded vultures—provided an up-close look at animals I’d only glimpsed from afar on mountain hikes.
Visitor information. Entry costs 7 CHF (~8 USD) for adults and is free for children under 16. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm (closed Mondays). The museum offers audio guides in English, German, Italian, and French for an additional 3 CHF (~3.30 USD).
6. Bündner Kunstmuseum
Artistic heritage. The Bündner Kunstmuseum (Graubünden Art Museum) surprised me with its exceptional collection spanning five centuries of art. Housed in the elegant Villa Planta and a striking modern extension, this museum offers a perfect blend of historical and contemporary artistic expressions.
Local masters. I was particularly moved by the works of the Giacometti family—Giovanni, Augusto, Alberto, and Diego—whose artistic legacy is deeply connected to the Graubünden region. The museum holds one of the most significant collections of Giacometti works outside of Zurich.
Architectural contrast. The museum itself represents a fascinating dialogue between old and new. The neoclassical Villa Planta (1875) connects seamlessly to the award-winning minimalist extension completed in 2016. Moving between these spaces creates a thought-provoking architectural experience.
Diverse collection. Beyond the Giacomettis, I discovered works by other Swiss artists like Ferdinand Hodler and Giovanni Segantini, alongside international names. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and video installations, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic developments.
Practical details. Admission costs 12 CHF (~13 USD), with discounts for students and seniors. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm (Thursday until 8pm, closed Mondays). The audio guide (5 CHF/~5.50 USD) is available in English and German and offers valuable insights into key works.
⭐ Best Activities
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Guided Tour Through the Old Town of Chur – Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Switzerland’s oldest city on this comprehensive guided tour through Chur’s medieval Old Town, visiting historic places, churches, and picturesque squares.
Things to Do in Chur with Kids
1. Clà Ferrovia Scavenger Hunt
Family adventure. I stumbled upon the perfect way to explore Chur with children—the Clà Ferrovia Scavenger Hunt. This cleverly designed interactive experience follows the adventures of Clà, a fictional railway worker, through a series of puzzles and challenges across the city.
Educational fun. What makes this hunt special is how it seamlessly blends entertainment with learning. My kids were so engaged in solving the clues that they didn’t realize they were absorbing fascinating facts about Chur’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Treasure trail. The hunt took us to spots we might have otherwise missed, including:
- The ancient Roman quarter with its preserved foundations
- Hidden courtyards behind medieval facades
- The historic Chur railway station with its unique architecture
- Secret passages through the Old Town
Practical details. The adventure pack costs 15 CHF (~17 USD) and includes a detailed map, activity booklet, and small prize upon completion. Available year-round from the tourist information center on Bahnhofplatz.
Time well spent. The complete hunt takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. I recommend bringing a small backpack with water and snacks, as the excitement can make little explorers hungry!
2. Quaderwiese Ice Rink
Winter magic. Gliding across the Quaderwiese Ice Rink under twinkling lights became one of my most cherished Chur memories. This seasonal outdoor rink transforms the city park into a winter wonderland from mid-November through February.
Scenic setting. What makes skating here special is the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the illuminated Old Town. The rink is particularly magical after sunset when colorful lights create a festive atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors.

Family-friendly. I appreciated the thoughtful amenities for families:
- Skating aids for beginners (penguin figures children can push for balance)
- Separate practice area for first-timers
- Heated changing rooms with lockers
- Cozy refreshment stand serving hot chocolate and glühwein
Budget-friendly fun. Entry costs just 5 CHF (~5.50 USD) for adults and 3 CHF (~3.30 USD) for children, with skate rental available for 7 CHF (~8 USD). If you bring your own skates, it’s one of the most affordable winter activities in Chur.
Practical tip. The rink is busiest on weekend afternoons and Friday evenings. For a more peaceful experience, I recommend visiting on weekday mornings when you’ll have more space to practice your moves or simply enjoy the scenery.
3. Aquamarin Adventure Pool
Aquatic paradise. After days of sightseeing, Aquamarin Adventure Pool offered the perfect family relaxation. Located just a short bus ride from the city center, this modern aquatic complex combines fun water features with wellness facilities.




Splash zones. The facility caters to all ages with distinct areas:
- Toddler splash zone with shallow water and gentle features
- Adventure pool with water cannons and play structures
- 80-meter water slide that my children couldn’t get enough of
- Olympic-sized swimming pool for serious swimmers
- Outdoor pool area (open in summer) with mountain views
Wellness retreat. While the kids played, I indulged in the adult wellness section. The various saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas provided a welcome respite. The panoramic views from the outdoor relaxation deck were particularly soothing.
Refreshment options. The on-site café serves reasonably priced meals and snacks. I paid 14 CHF (~15.50 USD) for a generous portion of pasta and 5 CHF (~5.50 USD) for a fresh fruit smoothie—much better value than most tourist attractions.
Visitor information. Entry costs 18 CHF (~20 USD) for adults and 9 CHF (~10 USD) for children, with family tickets available for 45 CHF (~50 USD). Open daily from 9am-9pm (10pm on Fridays and Saturdays). Bring your own towels to avoid the 5 CHF rental fee.
Free Things to Do in Chur
1. Old Town
Cobblestone charm. As I wandered through Chur’s Old Town, I felt transported back in time. With over 5,000 years of settlement history, it’s the oldest city in Switzerland and one of the most intact old towns in the country. The medieval architecture and quaint squares whisper stories of centuries past.
Historical treasures. Red signs guide visitors to the most beautiful sights, including:
- The episcopal locksmith’s castle
- The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Numerous historic buildings with preserved medieval facades
Vibrant atmosphere. The old town serves as a meeting place with cafés, restaurants, bars and over 500 stores and boutiques. The car-free streets make exploration particularly pleasant and safe, creating a Mediterranean charm that delights visitors from around the world.
Cultural immersion. Those interested in culture can discover the history and architecture of the Grisons capital on guided tours or themed tours. The Art Museum Graubünden is particularly worth visiting, with its collection of some 8,000 works ranging from the 18th century to the present.
2. Brambrüesch Trails
Scenic ascent. Brambrüesch is Chur’s local mountain, offering nature right on the doorstep of the city. The journey happens in two stages – first to Känzeli middle station (1,170m) and then up to Brambrüesch summit station (1,595m).
Outdoor paradise. What makes Brambrüesch special is how quickly you can transition from city life to mountain adventure. The network of hiking trails caters to all levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks across:
- Dreibündenstein circular hikes
- Moorparcours Riedboden moorland trail
- Routes connecting to neighboring regions
Adrenaline options. For adventure seekers, Brambrüesch offers exciting activities in the Alpenbikepark, which features five downhill/freeride trails. The Antennatrail Brambrüesch is particularly popular – a highly rated 3 km red singletrack trail that takes about 29 minutes to complete.
Panoramic views. From the summit at 2,174m, I enjoyed breathtaking views across the city of Chur and into the Chur Rhine Valley. The vista extends to the Calanda, from Piz Beverin to the Heinzenberg, the Safierberge mountains to the Vorab and the Sardona mountain chain.

Getting there: Take the train to Chur, then bus no. 1 toward Domat/Ems to the Brambrüeschbahn valley station. From there, take the cable car and gondola lift via Känzeli to Brambrüesch. Alternatively, walk from Chur train station through the old town, via Obere Gasse and Obertor to the cable car station.
3. Street Art
Urban canvas. Chur has developed into a surprising street art destination over the past decade. In summer 2014, the city opened up the first wall surfaces for legal graffiti art, allowing creative expression that has transformed the urban landscape.
Local talent. The city is the hometown of internationally renowned street artist Fabian Florin, known as “BANE.” His story is particularly inspiring – after struggling with addiction and homelessness for 14 years, he found redemption through art and has since created several extraordinary works in Chur, including:
- The Mühleturm mural – the largest in Switzerland
- “The Plessurfischer” – a stunning 3D picture of a local fisherman created in 2021
- “I have a dream” – a collaborative work from 2015 showing a book transforming into a sparrow
Legal zones. If you’re feeling creative, the city provides several approved walls for legal graffiti, including:
- Both sides of the A13 highway underpass on Rheinstrasse
- The retaining wall on Untere Plessurstrasse
- Both sides of the Giacomettistrasse railroad underpass
Finding the art. The city encourages artists to tag their artwork on social media with the hashtags #streetartchur or #churkultur. As a visitor, these hashtags can help you discover the latest additions to Chur’s open-air gallery.
Seasonal Activities
Christmas in Chur
Festive atmosphere. The Chur Christmas Market transforms the city into a winter wonderland. This year, the market will take place on November 28-29, at Sankt Martinsplatz in the historic old town. Over 160 vendors will be present during the opening weekend, creating a magical shopping experience.
Traditional charm. St. Martin’s Square provides the perfect backdrop for this pre-Christmas spectacle, with its cobblestone alleys and historic buildings. The festively decorated stalls create a cozy atmosphere where you can watch artisans like glassblowers, potters, and blacksmiths demonstrate their crafts.
Culinary delights. I couldn’t resist sampling the local specialties:
- Raclette – melted cheese served with potatoes
- Mulled wine (Glühwein) – perfect for warming up
- Grisons nut cake – a regional sweet treat
Family activities. The market offers plenty for children, including Christmas fairy tales presented in the local Bündner dialect. On the first Sunday of Advent, St. Nicholas himself arrives in town at 5pm, handing out nuts and tangerines to excited children.
Winter fun. Beyond the market, don’t miss the outdoor ice rink at Quaderwiese, romantically lit with fairy lights. It’s perfect for ice skating or watching a game of ice hockey in a festive setting.
Summer Festivals and Events
Churer Fest. The largest summer event in southeastern Switzerland will take place on August 9-10, in Chur’s Old Town. This vibrant folk festival transforms the city into one big celebration with music ranging from traditional Ländler to hearty rock.
Cultural diversity. What makes Churer Fest special is its blend of music and culinary delights from around the world. Multiple festival sites spread throughout the city create a lively atmosphere where locals and tourists mingle freely.
Entertainment options. The festival offers something for everyone:
- Live music across multiple stages
- International food stalls
- Attractive tombola with prizes
- Family-friendly activities
Practical details. The festival runs from 10:00 to 02:00 on August 9th and from 10:00 to 16:00 on August 10th. It’s centrally located in Chur’s Altstadt (Old Town), making it easily accessible by public transportation.
Local tip: Arrive early on Saturday to secure a good spot at the main stages, as this is the busiest day of the festival with performances continuing late into the night.
Spring Blooms in Parks
Colorful awakening. Spring transforms Chur’s parks and gardens into vibrant oases as roses, tulips, and daffodils burst into bloom. The city awakens from its winter slumber with renewed energy and color.
Fontana Park. This serene spot in Chur offers a perfect retreat to enjoy spring flowers and greenery. The well-maintained gardens showcase a variety of seasonal blooms, creating a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling city center.
Alpine wildflowers. For a more natural display, take the cable car to Brambrüesch in late spring. The alpine meadows come alive with colorful wildflowers, creating a stunning contrast against the mountain backdrop.
Photography opportunities. Spring in Chur provides excellent conditions for nature photography, with the combination of blooming flowers, historic architecture, and mountain views creating picture-perfect scenes.
Seasonal tip: If you’re visiting in April, consider a day trip to the Merian Gardens in Basel or the magnificent Camellia Park in Locarno for even more spectacular spring displays.
Autumn Foliage Walks
Golden landscapes. Autumn in the Swiss Alps reveals stunning amber and golden tones, with the foliage typically reaching its peak from late September to late October. The crisp mountain air and clear skies make this an ideal time for hiking around Chur.
Scenic trails. The forests surrounding Chur transform into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and yellow hues. The network of well-marked hiking paths allows you to immerse yourself in this colorful spectacle while enjoying panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Rhine Gorge in autumn. One of the most spectacular autumn walks is through the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon. The combination of white limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and golden autumn foliage creates a breathtaking landscape unlike anywhere else in the Alps.
Perfect conditions. Fall is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, as the summer crowds have dispersed and the temperatures remain pleasant during the day.
Photography tip: For the most vibrant colors, plan your autumn walks for mid-morning when the sun has risen high enough to illuminate the foliage but isn’t yet creating harsh shadows.
Day Trips from Chur
1. Glacier Express to Zermatt
Iconic journey. The famous Glacier Express connects Chur with Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn. This panoramic train journey is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular experiences, taking you through UNESCO World Heritage landscapes.




Scenic route. From Chur, the train climbs through dramatic mountain scenery, crossing 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, including the impressive Landwasser Viaduct. The panoramic windows offer unobstructed views of the Alps as you travel toward the Matterhorn.
Seasonal beauty. Each season offers a unique perspective:
Season | Highlights |
---|---|
Winter | Snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes |
Spring | Blooming alpine meadows and rushing waterfalls |
Summer | Lush green valleys and clear mountain views |
Autumn | Fiery foliage against snow-capped peaks |
Booking tip: Reserve your seats at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season (June-September). A seat reservation is mandatory and costs between 14-24 CHF (~16-27 USD) in addition to your train ticket.
⭐ Best Activities
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Glacier Express: Scenic routes between St. Moritz & Zermatt – Experience the slowest express train while admiring the one-to-remember panoramic journey on the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps.
2. Rhine Gorge
Natural wonder. The Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta) is often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon and is located just 20 minutes from Chur. This spectacular landscape features raging waters, steep white limestone walls, and extensive forests, making it one of the most diverse ecosystems in the Alps.
Outdoor paradise. I found numerous ways to explore this natural marvel:
- Hiking trails of varying difficulties
- Mountain biking routes along the gorge
- Scenic train rides on the Rhaetian Railway
- River rafting for adrenaline seekers
Wildlife sanctuary. The quiet lakes and alluvial forests are home to rare birds and insects. If you’re lucky, you might spot orchids growing wild in this protected natural environment.
Viewpoints. Don’t miss the panoramic platforms at Islabord and Wackenau, which offer breathtaking vistas of the mesmerizing landscape. These spots are perfect for photography or simply taking in the magnificent scenery.
Getting there. Three train stations (Trin, Versam-Safien, and Valendas-Sagogn) provide easy access to the gorge. I recommend taking the train rather than driving, as it offers the best views and is more environmentally friendly. The ride through the gorge takes about 30 minutes.
❓ FAQ about Things to Do in Chur
When is the best time to visit Chur?
The best time to visit Chur is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when you’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and breathtaking scenery. Winter (December-February) is excellent for ski enthusiasts, while summer offers warm weather but comes with higher prices and more tourists.
What are the top attractions in Chur’s Old Town?
Chur’s Old Town is one of the most intact historical centers in Switzerland, featuring cobblestone streets, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, and the Bishop’s Palace. Red signs guide visitors to the most beautiful sights, including numerous historic buildings with preserved medieval facades.
How do I get around Chur and the surrounding area?
Chur has excellent public transportation with an efficient bus network covering almost every corner of the city and a train station serving as a major hub connecting to other Swiss destinations. The Rhaetian Railway offers scenic journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the famous Bernina Express and Glacier Express routes.
What unique experiences can I have in Chur?
You can play Urban Golf through the picturesque streets, follow the Clà Ferrovia Scavenger Hunt to explore the city while solving clues, or discover street art by renowned artists like BANE. The city also offers a unique view from Haldenhüttli, providing the distinctive postcard panorama of Chur with vineyards in the foreground.
What seasonal activities are available in Chur?
In winter, you can enjoy the Christmas Market at Sankt Martinsplatz and ice skating at the romantically lit Quaderwiese Ice Rink. Summer brings the vibrant Churer Fest folk festival, spring offers blooming parks and gardens, while autumn provides spectacular foliage walks with golden landscapes.
What day trips can I take from Chur?
From Chur, you can embark on the scenic Glacier Express train journey to Zermatt or explore the Rhine Gorge, often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon. Nearby destinations like Arosa or Lenzerheide provide alpine charm and outdoor activities that make for perfect day excursions.
Is Chur suitable for budget travelers?
Chur offers relatively plentiful and affordable accommodation compared to more scenic towns like St. Moritz and Pontresina, making it a budget-friendly alternative. The city also provides numerous free activities, including exploring the Old Town, hiking Brambrüesch trails, and admiring street art throughout the city.
What local foods should I try in Chur?
In Chur, you should sample local specialties like Capuns (Spätzle dough wrapped in Swiss chard leaves) and Maluns (crispy potato crumbles with butter and apple sauce). Don’t miss the Bündner Nusstorte (walnut pie) for dessert, and consider pairing your meals with local wines from the Bündner Herrschaft region, known for excellent Pinot Noir.
What is the historical significance of Chur?
Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland with evidence of habitation dating back to around 12,000 BC and continuous settlement since 5,000 BC. The city rose to prominence as a religious center with the establishment of its bishopric around the 4th century and later became a bustling trade hub due to its strategic location between Italy and Germany.
What shopping opportunities are available in Chur?
Chur’s historic Old Town offers boutiques, artisanal shops, and local markets, while Bahnhofstrasse features international brands and Swiss designers. The Saturday market at Arcas Square is perfect for purchasing fresh produce, regional delicacies, and handmade goods that make for memorable souvenirs.