St Moritz St Moritz

12 Things To Do in St Moritz, Switzerland 🇨🇭: Ultimate Swiss Vacation

Saint Moritz is a glitzy ski resort located in the Engadin Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. Known as the birthplace of alpine winter tourism, it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for skiing and winter activities. With over 350 km of ski runs, visitors can enjoy world-class slopes on Corvatsch and Muottas Muragl, or explore the scenic Bernina Pass.

🏡 Where to stay in Saint Moritz:

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

Things To Do in St Moritz, Switzerland

1. Lake St Moritz

Scenic beauty. Lake of St. Moritz is one of the most picturesque spots in the alpine landscape, offering year-round activities. During winter, this frozen lake becomes the heart of St. Moritz, hosting events like snow polo and White Turf horse racing. In summer, it transforms into a serene destination for sailing, windsurfing, and lakeside walks.

Seasonal activities. Summer brings a complete transformation to lake. The crystal-clear waters become a haven for sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts. I spent a delightful afternoon watching colorful boats dance across the water, powered by the famous Maloja wind that typically picks up after 10-11 am each day. If you’re not into wind or kite-surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are excellent alternatives for enjoying the alpine waters.

Lakeside walks. One of my favorite experiences was the leisurely walk around the lake. The path is mostly flat and takes about 60-90 minutes to complete, though I spent nearly two hours as I stopped frequently to take photos and enjoy a coffee at one of the lakeside cafÊs. The trail offers constantly changing views of the mountains, woods, and town, making it perfect for a relaxing morning activity.

Visitor Information:

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Best Visiting Hours: Summer: 9AM-7PM, Winter: 10AM-4PM (for ice activities)
  • Location: Bottom of Saint Moritz town
  • Walking Time: 60-90 minutes around the lake

Budget Tip: The covered escalators between the train station and town make accessing the lake much easier, especially when returning uphill. This free service saved me both time and energy after a long day of exploration.

⭐Best activities

2. Segantini Museum

Alpine masterpieces. The Segantini Museum showcases the works of Giovanni Segantini, a Swiss painter who drew inspiration from the Upper Engadin and its majestic mountains. This museum is a must-see for art lovers visiting this culturally unique destination.

Unique collection. What makes this museum special is the concentration of significant works in one place. The collection includes 37 paintings and 26 drawings, making it an unparalleled showcase of Segantini’s talent. I was particularly impressed by famous works like “Ave Maria Crossing the Lake” and “Midday in the Alps,” which demonstrate his mastery of light and composition.

Museum history. I learned that the museum was primarily initiated by the city citizens and friends of Segantini’s art. What touched me was discovering how the community came together through public subscriptions to purchase the paintings, especially the effort to reunite the three panels of the Alpine Triptych. This sense of local pride and dedication to preserving artistic heritage adds another dimension to the visit.

Insider Tip: Visit on Thursday when the museum stays open until 6 PM instead of the usual 5 PM closing time. I found this extra hour allowed me to appreciate the details of Segantini’s work without feeling rushed.

Detail Information
Entrance Fee CHF 15 (adults), CHF 10 (16-25), CHF 3 (6-15), Free (under 5)
Opening Hours Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun: 11AM-5PM, Thu: 11AM-6PM, Closed Mondays
Location Via Somplaz 30, St. Moritz
Seasonal Opening May 20-Oct 20 and Dec 16-Apr 13

3. Skiing

Winter paradise. Corviglia is the home mountain of the city and offers some of the most spectacular skiing I’ve experienced. With 163 kilometers of slopes spread across 31 runs, there’s something for every skill level. I spent most of my time on the intermediate runs, which make up 87 kilometers of the total terrain. The views from the highest point, Piz Nair at 3,057 meters, are absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip even if you don’t ski.

Freestyle fun. The Corviglia “Crowland” snow park was a highlight of my visit. Located at the Engadin Mountain station in the direction of Marguns, this park caters to both beginners and experienced freeskiers and snowboarders. I watched in awe as riders tested their skills on various kickers, rails, and boxes. The park is typically open from mid-December to early April, depending on snow conditions.

Summer activities. What surprised me most about Engadin Mountain was its transformation in summer. The ski slopes become hiking and mountain biking trails, offering a completely different but equally enjoyable experience. I took the cable car up to Piz Nair and hiked down, stopping at mountain restaurants along the way to sample local Engadin specialties.

Visitor Information:

  • Ski Pass (Day): CHF 89 (adults), CHF 62 (youth), CHF 31 (children)
  • Operating Season: Winter: December-April; Summer: June-October
  • Location: Accessible via cable cars from Saint Moritz Dorf, Saint Moritz Bad, and Celerina
  • Vertical Drop: 1,500 meters (from Piz Nair to valley)

Common tourist mistake: Many visitors only consider Engadin Mountain for winter sports, but missing its summer offerings is a huge oversight. The panoramic views and alpine flora are spectacular from June through September.

⭐ Best Tours

4. Olympia Bob Run

Historic thrill. The Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina is truly unique – it’s the world’s oldest bobsleigh run still in operation and the only remaining natural ice track in the world. Built in 1904, this 1,722-meter ice channel runs from the city to Celerina and is essentially the world’s largest snow sculpture, requiring 15,000 mÂł of snow and 10,000 mÂł of water to construct each season.

Olympic legacy. Walking alongside this historic track, I felt the weight of its impressive history. The run has hosted numerous European and World Championships, as well as two Olympic competitions. Unlike modern bobsleigh tracks that require artificial refrigeration, this one is created entirely from snow, water, and muscle power – a testament to traditional Swiss craftsmanship.

Passenger experience. The highlight of my visit was taking a taxi bob ride – an adrenaline-pumping experience I’ll never forget. As a passenger in positions 2 or 3 of a modified four-man bobsled, I was sandwiched between an experienced pilot at the front and a brakeman at the back. The 75-second journey reached speeds up to 130 km/h, with the “Horse Shoe” curve exerting nearly five times my body weight. My respect for professional bobsledders increased exponentially after this heart-racing adventure.

Budget Tip: If a taxi bob ride exceeds your budget, you can still experience the excitement by watching training runs and competitions, which are often free to spectators. The atmosphere during race days is electric and gives you a taste of the bobsled culture without the high price tag.

Detail Information
Taxi Bob Ride CHF 250-300 per person
Opening Hours End of December to early March, 9:30AM-12:30PM daily
Location Starting point behind Hotel Bären, Saint Moritz
Access 10-minute walk from village center or Bus No. 2 to “St. Moritz Bären” stop

5. Chesa Futura

Architectural marvel. Chesa Futura, which means “house of the future” in Romansch, is one of the most fascinating buildings I’ve encountered in my travels. Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, this bubble-like structure stands out dramatically against the traditional Alpine architecture of the city. Despite its futuristic appearance, the building actually utilizes timber construction – one of the oldest and most environmentally sustainable building methods.

Innovative design. What fascinated me most was learning how this unique structure fuses cutting-edge computer design with centuries-old construction techniques. The building is elevated on eight pilotis (support columns), allowing all three stories of apartments to benefit from unobstructed views of the Engadin Valley and Lake Saint Moritz. This elevation also follows the Swiss tradition of raising buildings to prevent wood decay from prolonged snow exposure.

Natural elements. As I circled the building, I noticed the beautiful larch wood shingles covering the exterior. These respond naturally to the elements, changing color over time to a silver-grey patina, and are expected to last a century without maintenance. The southern side features open balconies to capture sunlight and views, while the northern facade is more closed with deep window openings in traditional Engadin style.

Visitor Information:

  • Location: Via Tinus 25, Saint Moritz, Switzerland
  • Best Viewing Time: Daytime, especially mornings for optimal lighting
  • Access: 15-minute walk from St. Moritz center or Bus line 1 to “St. Moritz, Via Tinus” stop
  • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (exterior viewing only)

Insider Tip: Visit during daylight hours for the best photography opportunities. I found that morning light creates a beautiful contrast between the wooden structure and the blue sky, while afternoon light highlights the unique curves of the building against the mountain backdrop.

⭐ Best Activities

  • St. Moritz Private Walking Tour – Discover the elegant alpine resort town with a personalized walking tour that showcases its rich history and glamorous reputation.

Things to Do in Saint Moritz with Kids

1. Ovaverva Hallenbad, Spa & Sportzentrum

Family splash paradise. When traveling with kids in the city, Ovaverva Hallenbad quickly became our family’s favorite retreat. This massive 3,200-square-meter aquatic wonderland offers something for every age group. My children couldn’t get enough of the three water slides, especially the “Turbo” – the steepest water slide in the Engadin that plunges you into a black hole with a flood of water! The competitive “Racer” slide was another hit, where they could race each other down three lanes with their times recorded.

Beginner-friendly zones. What impressed me most was how thoughtfully the facility caters to different swimming abilities. The dedicated training area with a learners’ pool was perfect for my youngest, who was still mastering basic swimming skills. Meanwhile, the splash and paddle pool allowed even toddlers to safely experience water play. I watched parents relaxing nearby as their little ones squealed with delight in the shallow waters, completely carefree and protected.

Weather-proof fun. The best part about Ovaverva is that it’s an all-weather attraction. When spring rain interrupted our hiking plans last April, this indoor haven saved our family vacation day. With its consistent 28°C water temperature year-round, it provides a warm escape even when snowstorms rage outside. I’ve visited the city in multiple seasons, and Ovaverva has always been our reliable backup plan for entertaining the kids regardless of Alpine weather surprises.

Visitor Information:

  • Entrance Fee: Adults CHF 16, Children CHF 8
  • Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Tuesdays from 8:00 AM), last entry 1 hour before closing
  • Location: Via Mezdi 17, 7500 Saint Moritz
  • Access: By bus from St. Moritz train station to “St. Moritz Bad, Hallenbad” stop or by car (public parking available)
  • Facilities: 5 pools, 3 water slides, whirlpool, sauna, massage services, restaurant

2. Eisarena Ludains

Ice adventures. The Eisarena Ludains offers a magical winter experience that captivated my children from the moment we stepped onto the gleaming ice. This open-air artificial ice rink provides the perfect setting for families to glide, twirl, and laugh together. During our visit last winter, my kids quickly progressed from cautious shuffling to confident skating across the smooth surface. The natural backdrop of snow-capped mountains created a quintessential Alpine atmosphere that made even simple skating feel special.

Year-round skating. What many visitors don’t realize is that ice skating isn’t limited to winter months in St. Moritz! Thanks to a clever new building that connects the historic riding hall with the existing Ludains Ice Arena, families can enjoy indoor skating even during summer. This was a delightful surprise during our July visit, when we could cool off on the ice after a morning of hiking. The covered year-round rink meets Olympic standards while remaining welcoming to beginners and children of all ages.

Budget-friendly activity. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for activities that deliver high value without breaking the bank. Eisarena Ludains ticks this box perfectly. With reasonable entrance fees and affordable equipment rental, it’s one of St. Moritz’s most accessible family attractions. We spent nearly three hours here for less than what we’d pay for a single lunch in town. The free hockey stick rentals were an unexpected bonus that delighted my son, who spent hours practicing his shots on the ice.

Visitor Information:

  • Entrance Fee: Adults CHF 5.50, Children CHF 3.50 (from 6 years)
  • Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM (December 21- April 13), plus Wednesday evenings 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Location: Via Ludains 5, 7500 St. Moritz
  • Equipment Rental: Skates CHF 7 for adults, CHF 6 for children per day; hockey sticks available free of charge

Insider Tip: Visit on Wednesday evenings when the rink offers special night skating hours from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The atmosphere under the stars is magical, and the crowds are typically smaller than during daytime hours.

Free Things to Do in Saint Moritz

1. Schiefer Turm

Leaning tower surprise. When I first stumbled upon the Schiefer Turm (Leaning Tower) of the city, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Standing at a noticeable tilt in the heart of this glamorous Alpine resort was a 12th-century tower that rivals Pisa in its slant! This medieval bell tower belongs to the old Church of St. Mauritius and leans at an angle of 5.5 degrees – making it Switzerland’s answer to the more famous Italian landmark. The best part? Unlike many attractions in this luxury resort town, visiting this historical gem won’t cost you a single Swiss franc.

Historical significance. As I circled the tower, I learned it dates back to around 1139, making it one of the oldest buildings in the Engadin Valley. The tower’s distinctive lean isn’t a design feature but the result of centuries of ground settlement. What fascinated me most was discovering that the tower once served as both a watchtower and a beacon for travelers crossing the Alpine passes. Standing beside these ancient stones, I felt connected to the countless travelers who had passed through the city long before it became a playground for the wealthy.

Insider Tip: This hidden spot offers a genuine connection to local history that many visitors miss.

Visitor Information:

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: Exterior viewable 24 hours daily
  • Location: Via Maistra, next to the Protestant Church, St. Moritz
  • Best Viewing Time: Morning for photography, or evening for fewer crowds.

2. Holzbrßcke

Architectural marvel. The HolzbrĂźcke (wooden bridge) spanning Lake St. Moritz is one of the town’s most charming free attractions. During my winter visit, I was immediately struck by how this simple wooden structure creates a perfect frame for the surrounding Alpine panorama. Built in traditional Swiss style without a single nail – using only wooden pegs and precise joinery – the bridge showcases the remarkable craftsmanship that Switzerland is famous for. The weathered wood contrasts beautifully with the pristine snow and ice of winter, or the sparkling blue waters during summer months.

Cultural connections. Walking across the bridge, I felt a connection to the city’s past, before it became synonymous with luxury and glamour. The HolzbrĂźcke represents a simpler time in the Engadin Valley’s history, when such structures were vital links between communities. I noticed how locals still use the bridge daily, not just as a practical crossing but as a meeting point. Elderly residents often gather here to chat and watch the activities on the lake, creating a sense of community that visitors can observe and appreciate.

Budget Tip: Pack a simple picnic from the local Coop or Migros supermarket (where prices are much more reasonable than restaurants) and enjoy it on the bridge or the small grassy area nearby.

Visitor Information:

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: Accessible 24 hours
  • Location: Southern end of Lake Saint Moritz, connecting the eastern and western shores
  • Best Visiting Time: Sunrise or sunset for spectacular lighting
  • Access: 15-minute walk from the city center, or take bus line 1 to “Saint Moritz Bad” stop

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

White Turf Festival. Held annually on the frozen Lake St. Moritz, this horse racing event is a must-see during February weekends. Riders compete in traditional races and skijoring, where skiers are pulled by galloping horses. Spectating is free, and the atmosphere is electric, combining sport and luxury.

Christmas Market. From December 6-8, the town center transforms into a festive market with wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, mulled wine, and local delicacies like Engadin nut tarts. It’s a great way to experience Swiss Christmas traditions without spending much.

Cresta Run Skeleton Track. Open mid-December to February, this natural ice track offers thrilling rides for visitors or free spectating opportunities for those less daring.

Visitor Information:

  • White Turf Festival: February weekends; free to spectate
  • Christmas Market: December 6-8; free entry
  • Cresta Run: Mid-December to February; rides from CHF 250

Summer

Mountain Biking Trails. Explore over 400 km of trails with varying difficulty levels. The Corviglia Flowtrail is ideal for intermediate riders, while cable cars make uphill climbs effortless. Rentals start at CHF 45/day for standard bikes.

Lake Activities. Rent paddleboards or windsurfing gear from Segelclub St. Moritz (CHF 25/hour). The Maloja wind creates perfect conditions for water sports by midday.

St. Moritz Art Masters Festival. From August 25-29, the town becomes an open-air gallery showcasing contemporary art installations and exhibitions in unexpected places like shop windows and parks.

Visitor Information:

  • Bike Rentals: CHF 45/day (standard), CHF 80/day (e-bike)
  • Art Masters Festival: August 25-29; free entry
  • Lake Activities: Paddleboarding CHF 25/hour

Spring

Wildflower Hikes in Val Fex. Mid-May marks peak wildflower season in the Engadin Valley, with trails showcasing vibrant blooms like gentians and alpine asters. Accessible by horse-drawn carriage or hiking trails.

Morteratsch Glacier Tours. Guided tours (CHF 45/person) run daily from April 15, offering close-up views of ancient ice formations and meltwater streams while highlighting climate change impacts.

Engadin Festival of Classical Music. Held from April 12-20, this intimate festival features world-class performances in venues like the Hotel Reine Victoria ballroom, with tickets starting at CHF 30.

Visitor Information:

  • Wildflower Season: Mid-May to June; free hiking trails
  • Glacier Tours: CHF 45/person; daily tours at 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM
  • Classical Music Festival: April 12-20; tickets CHF 30+

Autumn

Golden Larch Forests. Late September to mid-October offers stunning foliage views in the Engadin Valley, with golden larch trees reflecting in Lake St. Moritz’s waters—perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Mushroom Foraging Tours. Join guided tours (CHF 60/person) to hunt porcini and chanterelles in nearby forests, followed by cooking your harvest at local restaurants like Lej da Staz for a fresh mushroom risotto experience.

Castasegna Chestnut Festival. Held on October 15 in the Bregaglia Valley, this day trip features chestnut-based dishes, crafts, and traditional roasting demonstrations amid autumn scenery just a short bus ride away from St. Moritz (CHF 23 round-trip).

Visitor Information:

  • Peak Foliage: Late September to mid-October; free hiking trails
  • Mushroom Tours: CHF 60/person; September–October
  • Chestnut Festival: October 15; free entry

Day Trips from Saint Moritz

1. Diavolezza

Glacier views. Standing at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level, Diavolezza offers the most spectacular glacier panorama I’ve experienced in Switzerland. The cable car ride itself is thrilling, climbing from Bernina-Diavolezza station at 2,093m to the summit at 2,978m in just minutes. Once at the top, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking views of Piz Bernina (4,049m) and Piz PalĂź with the massive Pers and Morteratsch glaciers sprawling below.

Outdoor jacuzzi experience. One of my most memorable mountain experiences was soaking in Diavolezza’s outdoor jacuzzi while gazing directly at the four-thousand-meter peaks. The contrast between the warm water and crisp mountain air created a sensory experience unlike any other. At CHF 15 for a 30-minute session, it’s worth every franc for this unique alpine spa experience.

Hiking opportunities. During my spring visit, I tackled the glacier trek down to Morteratsch station. This guided 4-hour hike across the glacier requires proper equipment but rewards with close-up views of ice formations and crevasses. For less adventurous visitors, several panoramic viewpoints near the station offer equally impressive vistas without the physical demands.

Visitor Information:

  • Location: Bernina-Diavolezza station, accessible by train or bus from Saint Moritz
  • Cable Car Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last ascent 4:30 PM)
  • Round-Trip Fare: CHF 49 adults, CHF 24.50 children
  • Facilities: Restaurant, outdoor jacuzzi, viewing platforms
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for clearest mountain views

⭐ Best Activities

2. Corviglia

Sports mountain. Corviglia is the city’s signature mountain playground, offering completely different experiences depending on the season. During my winter visit, I enjoyed 155 kilometers of perfectly groomed ski slopes served by 24 lifts. In summer, these same slopes transform into mountain biking trails and hiking paths with panoramic Alpine views.

White Carpet experience. I highly recommend the “White Carpet” early morning ski experience. Arriving at 7:45 AM on the first Chantarella funicular, I was rewarded with pristine, freshly groomed slopes all to myself. Carving first tracks down empty runs while watching the sunrise illuminate the Engadin Valley was worth the early wake-up call.

Mountain dining. The culinary options on Engadin Mountain surprised me with their quality and variety. From rustic mountain huts serving traditional Swiss fare to stylish restaurants with sun terraces, there’s something for every taste. My favorite spot was El Paradiso, where I enjoyed rĂśsti with mountain herbs while overlooking the valley from their panoramic terrace.

Visitor Information:

  • Location: Accessible via cable cars from Saint Moritz Dorf, Saint Moritz Bad, or Celerina
  • Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (extended to 5:00 PM in peak season)
  • Day Pass: CHF 89 adults, CHF 31 children (winter); CHF 45 adults, CHF 22 children (summer)
  • Highest Point: Piz Nair at 3,057m
  • Facilities: Multiple restaurants, viewing platforms, sports facilities

3. Tirano

Scenic railway journey. The Bernina Express train ride from Saint Moritz to Tirano was the highlight of my Swiss travels. This UNESCO World Heritage route crosses 196 bridges and passes through 55 tunnels while climbing to the Ospizio Bernina station at 2,253 meters. The panoramic carriages with oversized windows provide unobstructed views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and dramatic mountain passes.

Alp Grßm viewpoint. My favorite stop along the route was Alp Grßm station, where the train pauses long enough for passengers to step outside and photograph the Palß Glacier. The restaurant here serves excellent mountain specialties on its sun terrace with the same million-dollar views. I recommend the local cheese board with a glass of Valtellina wine from nearby Italy.

Italian excursion. Arriving in Tirano, Italy after the 2.5-hour journey, I spent several hours exploring this charming border town. The Sanctuary of Madonna di Tirano with its ornate Renaissance architecture provides a cultural contrast to the Alpine scenery. I enjoyed a leisurely Italian lunch of pizzoccheri (local buckwheat pasta) and gelato before catching the afternoon train back to St. Moritz.

Visitor Information:

  • Location: Departs from Saint Moritz train station
  • Journey Time: Approximately 2.5 hours each way
  • Ticket Price: CHF 70-100 one-way (depending on class)
  • Schedule: Multiple departures daily, year-round
  • Reservation: Required for panoramic carriages, available at sbb.ch

⭐ Best Activities

FAQs

What does Saint Moritz offer to visitors?

Saint Moritz offers a mix of alpine skiing, boutique shopping, luxury dining, and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Engadine Valley, explore art inspired by the region, and participate in unique winter events like snow polo.

Where is Saint Moritz located?

Saint Moritz is located in the Engadine Valley in southeastern Switzerland, at an altitude of 1,856 meters, making it one of the highest ski resorts in Europe.

How can I get to Saint Moritz from Zurich?

You can travel from Zurich to Saint Moritz by car (approximately 3 hours) or take the scenic Glacier Express or Bernina Express trains for a picturesque journey through the Swiss Alps.

What are some must-see attractions in Saint Moritz?

Top attractions include the Lake of Saint Moritz, the works of Swiss painter Giovanni Segantini, the Famous Alpine Triptych, and historic landmarks like the Kulm Hotel, one of the oldest in Switzerland.

What is Saint Moritz known for?

St. Moritz is famous as the birthplace of alpine winter tourism, hosting two Winter Olympics (1928 and 1948), its glamorous reputation, and unique events like snow polo and White Turf horse racing on the frozen lake.

What cultural experiences can visitors enjoy in Saint Moritz?

Visitors can explore art by Giovanni Segantini and Giovanni Giacometti, inspired by the Upper Engadine landscape, or visit galleries showcasing works by artist Peter Robert Berry. The town also celebrates its domestic culture with traditional festivals and cuisine.

Is Saint Moritz a good destination for first-time skiers?

Yes, Saint Moritz offers excellent facilities for adult first-time skiers, including beginner-friendly slopes, ski schools, and easy access to lifts at Engadin Mountain and Corvatsch ski areas.

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