Attractions and Places To See around Chur - Top 20

Chur, as Switzerland's oldest city, offers a rich history. You can wander through the car-free Chur Old Town (Altstadt) with its medieval architecture. Key historical landmarks include the 12th-century Chur Cathedral (Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption), the prominent St. Martin's Church, and the unique Town Hall. Don't miss the remaining medieval city fortifications like the Obertor, Malteser Tower, and Sennhof Tower. For a deeper dive into the region's past, visit the Rätisches Museum or see the Roman excavations.

Absolutely. Chur is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can visit Tamina Gorge, a wild and romantic gorge known for its healing thermal springs. For panoramic views, head to Weisshorn Summit (2,653 m), accessible by hike or cable car, or the Pizalun Summit and Viewpoint. Chur's local mountain, Brambrüesch, also offers fantastic views and hiking opportunities. The Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta), often called the 'Swiss Grand Canyon,' is a breathtaking natural wonder nearby.

The region around Chur is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, walking, and biking on Brambrüesch, Chur's local mountain. The Rhine Gorge offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and even rafting. For cycling, consider routes like Kunkelsstrasse, a mountain pass with beautiful panoramas. Komoot offers various routes, including challenging MTB Trails, scenic Running Trails, and diverse Gravel Biking routes.

Chur offers several options for families. Exploring the car-free Chur Old Town is a pleasant activity for all ages, with its charming streets and squares like Arcas Square. The cable car ride up to Brambrüesch provides easy access to a high plateau with hiking trails suitable for families. Additionally, the nearby village of Maienfeld is famous as the setting for the 'Heidi' books, offering a delightful experience for children and adults alike.

Beyond its historical buildings, Chur has unique cultural spots. The Bündner Kunstmuseum, housed in Villa Planta, showcases significant art from Graubünden. For a truly distinctive experience, visit the H.R. Giger Bar, opened in the hometown of the 'Alien' creature creator, featuring skeletal chairs and eerie sculptures. Don't miss the vibrant Churer Wochenmarkt (Weekly Market) for local produce and specialties.

Yes, Chur is a renowned starting point for two of Switzerland's most famous panoramic train journeys. You can board the Bernina Express, which travels to Tirano, Italy, or the Glacier Express, heading to Zermatt. Both routes offer breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, impressive viaducts like the Landwasser Viaduct, and charming villages.

Chur's local mountain is Brambrüesch, easily accessible by cable car directly from the city center. It's a popular destination offering a high plateau with extensive hiking trails, panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, and opportunities for walking, jogging, and biking. It's a great spot for both leisurely strolls and more active outdoor pursuits.

The Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta), often referred to as the 'Swiss Grand Canyon,' is an impressive natural landmark carved by the Rhine River. It features breathtaking views and unique rock formations. You can experience it through hiking, biking, or rafting. Scenic train rides also traverse the gorge, offering spectacular perspectives of this natural wonder.

Yes, a significant historical monument is the Dreibündenstein Monument. Located on a hill south of Chur, this historical site marks the former triple border point of the Free State of the Three Leagues until 1798. The monument bears the coats of arms of these three Rhaetian leagues and commemorates the freedom fighters of Graubünden.

The best time to visit Chur for outdoor activities largely depends on the specific activity. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming landscapes. Summer is ideal for higher alpine hikes and water activities. Winter transforms the region into a snowy paradise, perfect for winter sports on mountains like Brambrüesch.

Chur's Old Town is home to numerous boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a charming atmosphere for dining and shopping. The Churer Wochenmarkt (Weekly Market) is a great place to discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties. Additionally, the nearby Bündner Herrschaft is a wine-growing area known for its robust red wines, offering opportunities for wine tasting.

While many trails around Chur can be challenging, the high plateau of Brambrüesch, accessible by cable car, offers easier walking paths with stunning views. The car-free streets of Chur Old Town also provide a pleasant and accessible environment for leisurely strolls. For specific easy routes, it's recommended to check local trail guides or Komoot's Running Trails around Chur, which include moderate options like the 'View of the Rhine Gorge loop from Obere Au'.