tourist attractions in st.moritz switzerland

The 9 Best Things to Do in St. Moritz, Switzerland

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Dubbed the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz lures in visitors with its unique combination of incredible outdoor activities and unrivaled luxury. Whether you visit in the summer or the winter, the town is equally buzzy—in the winter, guests cozy up to fireplaces or take horse-drawn carriages through town, while summertime guests spend their days riding electric bikes on the myriad of trails encircling the surrounding mountains. Plus, with more than 300 days of sunshine each year and relatively mild temperatures, there's rarely a bad day in St. Moritz.

Marvel at World-Class Contemporary Art

 Courtesy of Stalla Madulain

Basel might be the Swiss name most associated with contemporary art, but St. Moritz is no slouch. The town itself is home to many major players in the gallery scene — Vito Schnabel has an outpost here, as does Hauser & Wirth. Even public art here is impressive: works by the likes of Joel Shapiro dot the streets, while James Turrell has installed one of his famous "Sky Scapes" in nearby Zuoz. One of the area's more unique galleries is Stalla Madulain , housed in a 500-year-old barn. The gallery showcases works by up-and-coming contemporary powerhouses like Not Vital and Jani Leinonen.

Listen to World-Class Jazz in an Exclusive Club

Courtesy of Festival da Jazz

St. Moritz's Dracula Club is the stuff of legends. Founded in 1974 by European bon vivant Gunter Sachs, the club is almost exclusively open to life members. Suffice it to say, unless you're a European playboy or a Swiss hedge-fund manager, you're not getting in—but there's one exception. The club opens its doors to the public each year during the annual Festival Da Jazz , a month-long celebration that runs from early July through early August. Past performers at Drac's, as it's referred to, include Norah Jones and Aloe Blacc.

Stay in St. Moritz's Oldest Hotel

Courtesy of Kulm Hotel

While there is no shortage of luxurious hotels in St. Moritz, only one can stake its claim as the true birthplace of the town's winter tourism—and it all started because of a bet. Kulm Hotel , perched in an idyllic spot overlooking the lake, has been around since 1855, when it mostly served summer guests from England. Wanting to drum up wintertime business, Kulm's owner, Johannes Badrutt, wagered with his summertime English guests that they would also love St. Moritz in the winter and invited them to visit for the season. If they didn't love it, Badrutt promised, they would be reimbursed for the cost of their stay. Alas, the rest is history: Badrutt's guests returned to their native England happy and tanned and winter tourism in St. Moritz—and the Kulm—have thrived ever since.

Hike to a Glacier

Markus Bolliger / Getty Images

One of the best ways to get up close and personal with the Engadine Valley is to hike to a glacier, a popular summertime activity for locals and visitors alike. The walk to Morteratsch is around three miles each way and traverses a wide dirt and gravel trail with a gentle elevation change, making this a great hike for kids and adults alike. Along the way, the trail is lined with mountain streams, wildflowers, and stunning views of the valley. Enlightening signs along the path indicate how far the glacier has receded each year due to climate change.

Go Skiing Under the Moonlight

 Courtesy of Corvatsch

If you're visiting St. Moritz during the winter, it's likely that you're planning to hit the slopes—but imagine doing it at night. On Friday nights during the ski season, the runs open at 7 p.m. at nearby Corvatsch , an 11,000-foot peak about five minutes outside of St. Moritz. The floodlit runs look stunning beneath moonlight, creating a truly unique experience. Want the mountain all to yourself? Also on offer is a private rental of the mountain for up to 10 guests. The deal even comes with a DJ and, of course, plenty of fondue for keeping warm.

Take a Scenic Train Ride

 Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images

Getting to St. Moritz is half the fun! Switzerland's extensive train network is the stuff of dreams—the trains run on time, are incredibly comfortable, and, on the trip from Zurich to St. Moritz, offer views so picturesque that you might be convinced you're actually looking at an oil painting. New in 2019, a ticket in the Glacier Express' Excellence Class includes a seat in a deluxe panoramic car, a five-course meal, and complimentary champagne, among other perks.

Be Active on the Lake

Apostoli Rossella / Getty Images

While St. Moritz's iconic lake isn't ever warm enough to just jump in, it's a center of physical activity for the town. Runners and cyclists traverse the surrounding path, while rowers and paddle boarders take to the calm, clear waters in the early morning hours. The St. Moritz Sailing Club, situated right on the lake, rents boats and offers lessons as well. During the winter, the town hosts the Snow Polo World Cup and horse races directly on the frozen lake.

Dine In a Star Architect's Creation

Courtesy of Kulm Country Club

The alpine-chic Kulm Country Club got its start as the host structure for the winter Olympic Games in 1928 and 1948. Today, the stunning building is now a restaurant featuring a sleek redesign by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Norman Foster. The chef, Daniel Müller, is a St. Moritz local who serves a menu that includes rich mountain dishes like beef tagliata, tartare made with local beef, and an arugula salad with porcini mushrooms and fontina.

Drink From the World's Largest Whisky Collection

Courtesy of Waldhaus am See

Surprisingly, the world's largest whisky bar lives in St. Moritz. The Devil's Place , housed in the lakefront Waldhaus am See, is home to more than 2,500 varieties, earning a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. The list focuses on single-malts from Scotland, as well as Irish whiskeys, bourbon, and other grain spirits.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Things to Do in St. Moritz (Switzerland)

15 Best Things to Do in St. Moritz (Switzerland)

In the eastern Alps’ Engadin Valley, St. Moritz is a glamorous mountain resort synonymous with privilege and old money. British aristocrats had a hand in St. Moritz’s early success, and their presence lingers in the members clubs, like the men’s only Cresta Skeleton Run.

St. Moritz is the kind of destination where they play polo on a frozen lake, and where apartment blocks are designed by Norman Foster. The resort has real sporting pedigree, hosting the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948, and boasting the oldest bobsleigh run in the world. You have 350 kilometres of pistes a stone’s throw away, and in summer you can catch gondolas and funiculars for unforgettable mountain experiences. You could hike on a glacier or survey the cinematic majesty of the Engadin Valley’s from soaring lookouts.

Let’s explore the best things to do in St. Moritz :

1. Muottas Muragl

A 20-minute funicular brings you to an outlook on the southern side of Blais da Muottas.

At 2,454 metres, Muottas Muragl is like a natural balcony above the Upper Engadin Valley and its lakes.

The word is that this vantage point was discovered by the painter Giovanni Segantini, who we’ll come to later.

The inspiring scenery goes well with a meal, most of all at sunset, so if you’re flush for cash you could book a table at the panoramic restaurant.

While you’re enchanted by the beauty of the lookout, it can be easy to forget that there are lots of activities available from the station at Muottas Muragl.

One is the fastest toboggan run in Switzerland descending 718 metres in 4.2 kilometres, and incorporating some hair-raising turns.

2. Piz Nair

Grab the funicular and then the cable car for this 3,000-metre peak to the west of the resort.

At the upper station you’ll be just 30 metres shy of the summit and can sip a hot chocolate at the panoramic restaurant.

You’ll be treated to a 360° view of the Upper Engadin, and with a map or phone you can identify the lakes and mountains in the Bernina Range, near and far.

The precipitous drop at the Piz Nair Wall creates is a notoriously demanding start to ski runs: The downhill events at the 1948 Olympics were staged here, and it has hosted the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships several times, most recently in 2017.

3. Lake St. Moritz

When it’s warm, one the best free things to do in St. Moritz is to take a restful walk around the shore of the resort’s own lake.

The trail is five kilometres or so, and takes between one and two hours.

It all depends on how often you stop to photograph the greenery, Alpine wildflowers, dark forest and brooding peaks like the 3,000-metre Piz Rosatsch.

Although the water might be a little chilly for swimming, you can still hire a stand-up paddleboard or canoe and take a self-guided trip over the lake.

When the lake freezes in winter, the surface is used for polo, and three weekends of horseracing are scheduled every February.

4. Segantini Museum

The late-19th century landscape painter Giovanni Segantini settled in St. Moritz and passed away here in 1899. In the previous 20 years he produced a massive volume of paintings of rural scenes around the Engadin.

The museum in his honour opened within a decade of his death and holds around 50 of his works from all phases of his career.

The building was designed according to plans that Segantini himself had drawn up, and could almost be a Byzantine church for its rotunda and dome.

Under the dome inside is maybe Segantini’s most valued work, a symbolist triptych representing Life, Nature and Death in Alpine landscapes.

5. Bernina Express

St. Moritz is a mid-way point on a train journey from Chur down to Tirano, considered one of the most scenic in the world.

You can ride in either direction from St. Moritz, and for a few extra Francs there are panoramic carriages offering widescreen views of the Bernina Range.

If you’re staying in St. Moritz in winter, the journey from the resort down to Tirano is dreamlike, taking in the Bernina Pass and with a sumptuous view of Piz Bernina, the highest summit in the Eastern Alps.

Also try making the trip in spring, when there’s a spectacular contrast between snow-capped peaks and green valleys.

6. Diavolezza

A combination of train and gondola will deliver you to another awesome mountain lookout.

Be sure to wrap up warm, as even in summer there may be snow at this elevation as you contemplate the frozen beauty of the Pers and Morteratsch Glaciers.

For a lot of people Diavolezza is the first step on a hike or climb to remember.

You can hike over both glaciers on the way to the Morteratsch station, but you’ll need an experienced guide to help.

Mountaineers could make an ascent of Piz Palü, which is almost 4,000 metres, while casual walkers could simply conquer the smaller Munt Pers and have a picnic the picnic of a lifetime.

7. Lake Staz

East of Lake St. Moritz is a body of water that is better for swimming in summer.

As a shallow moor lake, Staz warms up well in July and August and has a small, but well looked-after beach area with wooden jetties.

A rustic restaurant sits a few metres from the shore, while many of the people who visit the lake in summer bring their own food for a barbecue next to the water.

The walk to get to the lake is also part of the joy, on a gentle trail in the larch and pine Staz forest.

8. Piz Corvatsch

After a couple of swift gondola trips you’ll find yourself at the highest accessible point by transport in the St. Moritz area.

This peak is on the south side of the Engadin Valley, and its north-facing slope is deep in snow during the winter.

From the station you can see right down to the lakes on the valley floor, and will be spellbound by the panorama of Piz Palü, Piz Bernina and Piz Roseg.

But maybe the best reason to make the journey is for the Corvatsch Glacier Walk, which you can do without a guide and allows you to step onto the glacier.

9. Olympic Bobrun

If you’ve ever watched the Winter Olympics and wanted to try bobsleighing for yourself, St Moritz has the world’s oldest track.

The St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun was created in 1904 for British tourists, and hosted the bobsleigh events at the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics.

It is also the only naturally refrigerated run in the world.

The track is just over 1.7 kilometres long, and if you book in advance you can take a high-speed, g-force heavy ride down in a sleigh with two pros.

One will be steering at the front, while the other will be operating the brakes.

And as you go you’ll hear the pair calling to each other as they would in an Olympic run.

10. Engadiner Museum

This museum, founded at the start of the 20th century goes into the history and heritage of the Engadin Valley.

The museum building isn’t quite as old as it looks, and was purpose-built when the attraction was founded, mimicking the architecture of the valley in the 16th and 17th century.

Across 14 rooms you can peruse traditional furniture, decoration and interiors.

In many instances, these rooms have been brought here in their entirety, like the wood-panelled interior of a Late-Gothic inn from Savognin, dating to 1579.

11. Leaning Tower

More than just an oddity, the 33-metre-high Leaning Tower has been the town’s main identifier for centuries and warrants a passing look and photograph.

Standing with a 5.5% tilt, which is more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the tower was originally part of the Church of St Mauritius and dates to the 1570s.

In the 1890s the nave was demolished and in that same decade the bells in the tower were removed to try to rectify the tilt.

The mountains encircling St. Moritz provide more than 350 kilometres of pistes, all served by gondolas, ski lifts and funiculars serving the mountainsides in record time.

There are four areas in touching distance of the resort: Corviglia, Corvatsch, Diavolezza and Zuoz, and the high elevation (topping out at 3,500 metres), means long seasons and good snow cover.

If you’re a seasoned skier, Corviglia is a great starting point for that World Cup run at Piz Nair and a snow park with obstacles to let freestylers express themselves.

On Friday nights the longest illuminated ski run in Switzerland, at Corvatsch stays open until 02:00.

13. Mountain Biking

With a bowl of epic slopes close at hand, it’s hardly surprising that mountain biking is a growing activity in St. Moritz in summer time.

If you’re not up for high-speed descents, Corviglia’s three landscaped flow trails meander down the slope and are like rollercoasters for people on two wheels.

Kids as young as 12 can take part here, while hardened tourers can set a course for the St. Moritz Railway Tour.

This medium-distance route that traces the tracks of the resort’s funiculars for a total descent of almost 6,500 metres.

14. Cresta Run

Those echoes of old money and nobility are especially loud at the world’s oldest skeleton run.

Daring gentlemen have been careering down this natural ice track since 1884. We say “gentlemen”, because women aren’t allowed to compete or even use the track until the last day of the season.

We did say it was old-fashioned.

The Cresta Run is a British-founded members’ club anchored in the 19th century, and for decades the only members were American or British.

Now it’s much more international, although announcements on race days, between December and March are only in English.

Thrill-seekers with money to burn can come to take a lesson from a member, while there are events throughout the winter if you want to see the human missiles from the Olympics in real life.

15. Food and Drink

If you’re the kind of tourist who always has to taste something local, then it doesn’t get much more local or authentic than an Engadine walnut tart.

Made with a shortcrust pastry the recipe has been handed down many generations, and contains caramel, cream and generous heaps of walnuts.

Confiserie Hauser and Conditorei Hanselmann are just a couple of the local establishments that make a mean walnut tart.

And lastly, for a drinking experience to tell your friends about, the Hotel am Waldsee in the valley has a bar known as Devil’s Place, which is stocked with up to 2,500 varieties of whisky.

According to the Guinness Book of Records it’s the most extensive whisky bar in the world.

15 Best Things to Do in St. Moritz (Switzerland):

• Muottas Muragl
• Lake St. Moritz
• Segantini Museum
• Bernina Express
• Piz Corvatsch
• Olympic Bobrun
• Engadiner Museum
• Leaning Tower
• Mountain Biking
• Food and Drink

Must-see attractions in St Moritz

Segantini Museum

Housed in an eye-catching stone building topped by a cupola, this museum shows the paintings of Giovanni Segantini (1858–99). The Italian artist…

Chesa Futura

The Norman Foster–designed Chesa Futura ('House of the Future' in Romansch), an eco-friendly apartment building of breathtaking architectural design, can…

Engadiner Museum

For a peek at the archetypal dwellings and humble interiors of the Engadine Valley, visit this museum showing traditional stoves and archaeological finds.

Top 20 Things to Do in St. Moritz, Switzerland on Your Next Vacation

Located in the Engadin Valley in Switzerland, the small town of St. Moritz is one of the most famous luxury Alpine resort towns. Home of gorgeous lofty mountains, broad and green valleys, placid and glassy lakes, St. Moritz should be your next holiday destination, providing the best city breaks you have experienced in a while. Here are the best things to do in St. Moritz on your next vacation.

Muottas Muragl

Piz Corvatsch

We have yet another mountain on our list, but we promise this too is worth the trip. Piz Corvatsch is located in the Bernina Range of the Alps with a view of the lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana, so you can imagine the kind of scenery the visitors get. This peak is the highest altitude in the Engadin accessible by cable car. Piz Corvatsch offers tourists many activities to take part in, including a glacier tour, winter sports , and even a petting zoo.

Walk around St. Moritz Lake

Day Trip to Sils and Val Fex

Sils im Engadin is a small municipality and a famous summer and winter sports resort in the upper Engadin region, with Val Fex as one of its beautiful valleys. This region has delightful Engadin-style houses, and various trails that lead to the old castle remains, an enchanting waterfall, and the famous Hotel Fex. Some of these paths do not allow cars which means you will enjoy the scenic routes on foot or by horse-drawn carriages.

Heidi Hutte and Blumenweg

Otherwise known as Heidi’s hut and flower trail, Heidi Hutte and Blumenweg is a famous tourist attraction in St. Moritz, and for good reason. If the name Heidi reminds you of the popular children’s movie, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that you can visit the mountain hut shown in the movie. And on your way there from Chantarella, you will follow an approximately one-kilometer trail and see thousands of plants and flowers in full bloom on the Blumenweg.

Skiing and Winter Sports

Water Sports

If you don’t enjoy cold-weather sports, you will find plenty of summer sports and activities to participate in when in St. Moritz. The lake of St. Moritz offers an assortment of activities for the tourists throughout the day during the summer season, including stand-up paddling, rowing, windsurfing, sailing, etc.

At 2,152 m above sea level, Hahnensee is one of the glorious lakes you can visit located above St. Moritz. The Hahnensee lake offers magnificent scenery, which can be relished on the restaurant terrace of the nearby hotel. There are several hiking trails to take to the Hahnensee lake and many splendid forest paths where you can have a relaxing walk.

The Glacier Express

Ride the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympia Bob Run

If you are an adrenaline junkie visiting St. Moritz, taking a ride on the one natural bobsled run in the world must be on your bucket list. Coincidentally, the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympia Bob Run is also the oldest one in the world. You can take part in such activity firsthand by riding with professional bobsledders or simply enjoy watching an Olympic sport live as a spectator.

Engadine Museum

There is something in St. Moritz even for history buffs. The Engadine museum is home to more than 4,000 artifacts displaying life in St. Moritz through the centuries. Some of the things visitors can expect to see are furnished rooms with Alpine carving, embroidery, costumes, household utensils, and other items necessary for living in an Alpine region.

Segantini Museum

If you are looking for a museum to see beautiful old paintings of Alpine scenery and the same scenery as you walk out of the museum, you have found it. The Realistic Symbolism artist Giovanni Segantini became famous for his painting of the Alpine life in the St. Moritz region. The museum was built in 1908, following the drawings found in Segantini’s house. 

St. Moritz Design Gallery

Stay put, art enthusiasts, as we are not done yet. The St. Moritz Design Gallery is special not only for its bizarre location but for the art displayed as well. It consists of 31 big vitrines that showcase precious posters and photographs on a theme that changes yearly. This gallery is located in the Serletta car park, between the train station, the lake, and the Palace Hotel.

Shopping in St. Moritz

If you find yourself in St. Moritz and the shopaholic in you can’t be suppressed; this town, though small, offers many stores to shop in, including brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gucci, Boss, Moncler, etc.

Forest Bathing

There are many different ways to enjoy nature, and forest bathing is one of them. Forest Bathing is a Japanese relaxation practice in which you enjoy what nature has to offer while being calm and quiet and engaging your other senses when among the forest trees. This technique is an amazing way to release stress and boost your health. St. Moritz has beautiful, snow-covered forests, perfect for practicing forest bathing.

Helicopter Ride Over St. Moritz

If you are wondering what the best spot for seeing all the mountains of St. Moritz without getting on a plane is, you have found it. The Diavolezza is a ski resort with a perfect location that grants you a view of the majestic Piz Bernina and Piz Palü mountains as well as the Pers Glacier and Morteratsch Glacier. Whether you are on a simple day trip, a hike, or looking for a winter sports resort, Diavolezza is the place for you.

Bottom Line

As you have probably deduced from our list, if you are not a mountain person, then steer clear of the town of St. Moritz, but I mean, who isn’t, right? St. Moritz truly is a dream destination for most people as it offers a variety of sites and activities to include everyone.

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Top Tourist Attractions in St Moritz

• Switzerland
• Things To Do In St Moritz

Best Things To Do in St Moritz, Switzerland

Are you looking for what to do in St Moritz?

PLACES TO SEE

• Lake St. Moritz: With a surface area of 0.78 square kilometres, it is smaller than the prominent lakes in the Engadin valley but is nevertheless beautiful.
• Piz Nair and Corviglia Ski Area: A peak in the Albula Alps, Piz Nair towers upto 3056 metres above the sea level and overlooks the St. Moritz in the canton of Graubunden.
• Lake Sils: Lying at an altitude of 1800 metres, Lake Sils is one of the most picturesque lakes in the Engadin. Idyllic hiking and cycling tracks pass dotting the lake and the entire area looks straight out a portrait.
• Piz Julier: Located in the canton Grisons, the Piz Julier is a mountain towering at 3380 metres. Belonging to the Albula group and the Rhaetian Alps, the mountain is known for its summit Vadret Guglia which is the last small glacier in the area.
• Lake silvaplana: Overlooking the mountains like Piz Corvatsch, Piz Julier and Piz Surlej, the lake’s drainage basin comprises of several glaciers and the Vadret dal Tremoggia is the largest.

WHERE TO BE

• Gamble, drink and enjoy your evening at the Casino Saint Moritz which is located at a height of 1850 metres above the sea level.
• Go Sking at Hahnesse.
• Take a Sledge ride on Celerina Olympia Bobrun.
• Walk pass the The St. Moritz Design Gallery.

Below we have a list of things to do in St Moritz and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your St Moritz getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to St Moritz with confidence.

• Adventure activities in St Moritz
• Things to do with Family & Kids in St Moritz
• Leisure Activities in St Moritz
• Entertainment Activities in St Moritz
• Museums in St Moritz
• Art & Cultural Attractions in St Moritz

Tourist Attractions in St Moritz

Here is the list of things to do in St Moritz and tourist attractions in city.

Muottas Muragl

View Point, Food And Drinks, Restaurant, Nature

View Point, Cable Car, Nature, Resort

Piz Nair And Corviglia Ski Area

View Point, Food And Drinks, Restaurant, Peak

Piz Corvatsch

View Point, Hiking Trail, Adventure Sport, Nature

Lake St. Moritz

View Point, Lake, Picnic Spot, Nature

Lake Of Staz

Water Body, View Point, Lake, Valley

View Point, Hiking Trail, Golf Course, Biking Trail

Segantini Museum

Museum, View Point, Photo Gallery

Casino St. Moritz

Food And Drinks, Casino, Entertainment, Adults

Celerina Olympia Bobrun

Race Track, Adventure Sport

Water Body, View Point, Hiking Trail, Lake

View Point, Nature, Resort

Lake Silvaplana

View Point, Walking Area, Adventure Sport, Lake

The Saint Moritz Design Gallery

Art Gallery, Exhibition

Samedan Airport (Engadin Airport)

• Created with Fabric.js 5.2.4

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• What to do in St Moritz in 3 days
• What to do in St Moritz in 5 days

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written by Becca Blond and Joni Sweet Updated Mar 20, 2024

Switzerland's natural beauty is as addictive as its mouthwatering chocolates – one taste and you'll be left craving more. Whether you are on the hiking trails outside Zermatt, laying eyes on the iconic Matterhorn for the first time, or marveling at the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains schussing down a ski trail beginning atop the Jungfraujoch, Switzerland seduces quickly.

This landlocked central European country is home to two mountain ranges, the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. But Switzerland's natural attractions don't stop with peaks and glaciers. You'll also find glimmering turquoise lakes, emerald valleys where tingling bell-wearing cows and sheep graze, charming chalets, and flower box-filled villages that look ripped from the pages of a fairytale storybook.

Amid all this natural beauty are also some fantastic urban diversions and places to visit. With four official languages (French, German, Italian, and Romansch), Switzerland has a multicultural sophistication to its cities, which all offer something different when it comes to history and culture.

French speaking Geneva is home to four major offices of the United Nations and has a large international population. German speaking Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and financial center, known for its shopping, museums, and nightlife. The capital city of Bern boasts a medieval old town with a famous moving puppet clock tower and a stunning riverfront locale.

Switzerland is a four-season destination with countless things to do for outdoor adventurists. In winter you can partake in snow sports at world-class resorts, while summers are perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and paragliding.

Getting around Switzerland is easy. Although you can rent a car and drive, we recommend utilizing its excellent train system that goes almost everywhere in the country. Trains are fast, mostly on time, and allow you to just sit back and soak up the stunning scenery.

Explore in more depth by checking out our list of top attractions and places to visit in Switzerland

1. The Matterhorn

3. jungfraujoch: the top of europe, 4. interlaken, 6. lake geneva, 7. chateau de chillon, montreux, 8. st. moritz, 10. lake lugano and ticino, 12. the rhine falls, 13. swiss national park, 14. the albula/bernina railway line, 15. oberhofen castle, 16. swiss grand canyon, 17. gruyères, best time of the year to visit switzerland.

You'll never forget the first time you see Switzerland's most symbolic mountain, the Matterhorn. Maybe you arrive in the charming village of Zermatt, at its base , on a clear blue day and the 4,478-meter high , tooth-shaped mountain looms clearly in front of you. Or maybe it is spitting rain when you first set foot in the car-free town, and it isn't until the next morning that you witness the emblematic peak emerging from a sea of dissipating clouds. Whichever way you first see this legendary mountain, it will remain seared into your memory for years to come. It's that impressive.

One of the highest mountains in the Alps, the Matterhorn sits on the border with Italy. It has four steep faces rising to its craggy tip. Climbers have been intrigued by this mountain from the first successful summit in 1865 by British climber Edward Whymper and his team. The trip still ended tragically when four of the climbers fell to their deaths during the descent.

Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here in a summit bid each summer. There are several routes to the top of this mountain, which is not accessible by cable car. The easiest route is the Hörnligrat, which begins in Zermatt.

Things to Do at the Matterhorn

If you don't have the skills to summit the Matterhorn, there are still plenty of ways to experience the mountain. One top excursion is to ride the Gornegrat Bahn cog railway to the summit of the 1,620-meter Gornergrat mountain for stunning Matterhorn views. Europe's highest open-air cog railway, and the first fully electric train of its kind, departs from Zermatt station multiple times per day.

The ride itself is also bound to leave you speechless. Taking 33 minutes and climbing 1,469 meters it crosses dramatic bridges, passes turquoise-hued mountain lakes, and at times clings to the side of the mountain with views down into rocky ravines.

Once you reach the mountaintop, you'll find an observation deck with views in all directions including a view of Switzerland's highest mountain and the second biggest glacier in the Alps. Keep an eye out for wild ibex near the viewing platform in summer.

Europe's highest-altitude hotel, the Kulmhotel Gornegrat is also here. Besides lodging, it has a restaurant and shops open to the public. There is excellent hiking in summer, while Switzerland's highest sledding hill provides winter fun.

At the foot of the Matterhorn, lies the charming village of Zermatt, a top international resort that is one of the most popular ski destinations in Switzerland , and a hiking, biking, and climbing paradise in summer.

Laid out along just a few main streets with a surreal-looking blue river running through it, motorized vehicles except for official electric taxis are banned to preserve the air quality and the town's peaceful ambiance.

Zermatt can also only be reached via helicopter (very pricy) or the Matterhorn Gotthard railway via the towns of Visp or Brig. If you drive to the region, you'll need to park your car down the valley in the town of Tasch, and then continue by train. As such, staying in Zermatt truly feels like you hiked into a remote mountain paradise.

In the winter, skiers can play on more than 300 kilometers of slopes accessed via a funicular and the Blauherd and Rothorn gondolas. In the summer, these slopes turn into hiking and mountain biking trails.

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most popular hikes, beginning at the top of the Blauherd gondola and eventually taking you back to town via a series of five lakes, three of which you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn in on a clear, windless day. If you want to paraglide, this is also available.

Back in town, you'll find dozens of shops, restaurants (order Raclette, a cheese and potato dish that is a regional specialty), and hotels. If you are interested in history, pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum , which tells the story of the mountain village turned international holiday resort. It also provides facts and photos from the Matterhorn's first ascent.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Zermatt & Easy Day Trips

Since 1912, tourists have been making their way to the fairytale-like village of Grindelwald for an excursion to the Top of Europe (also known as Jungfraujoch). As its name suggests, it's the highest train station in Europe.

It offers panoramic views of the UNESCO-recognized Jungfrau region that will make your jaw drop. The Sphinx Observatory, an astronomical observatory that looks like a Bond villain lair perched 3,454 meters above sea level, is the best place to see the magnificent Aletsch Glacier and the 4,000-meter peaks that flank it. With snow 365 days per year, it's also a prime spot to get a break from Europe's heat in the summertime.

This famous attraction has come a long way in the last 100 years, giving tourists lots of things to do at the top. Step into the 360-degree cinematic experience room for a closer look at the glacier and the Swiss Alps (perfect for ensuring you still get a wonderful view on a foggy day). Walk through a 250-meter-long corridor with artifacts and exhibits on the history of the miners who built the railway to Jungfraujoch—the antique mining equipment hanging on the walls will give you a deeper respect for these early pioneers.

Peek inside a giant snow globe that depicts the region with charming moving figures, like yodelers and gondolas. Then, glide through the Ice Palace. Frozen from floor to ceiling, it features smooth, icy hallways filled with ice sculptures of animals, including several penguins around an igloo.

Jungfraujoach's highly sustainable cable car, the Eiger Express , shortened the journey between Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes when it opened in late 2020. That makes it possible to summit the Top of Europe on a day trip from Interlaken or even Zurich, but if you have time, it's worth sticking around Grindelwald to hike for a few days .

The trails here are among the most beautiful in the world and most trailheads are easily accessible through the town's network of cable cars and gondolas. The aptly named Panorama Trail takes you along paths lined by wildflowers with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, while the Grindelwald First cable car station puts you on the path to the world-famous Bachalpsee lake.

You can also break up your days of hiking with adventure activities. Grindelwald First is home to a zip line that soars at 80 kilometers per hour and a mountain cart attraction that lets you race down winding gravel paths, plus a trail you can tackle on a "trottibike"—a unique cross between a scooter and a bike that's surprisingly fast.

Nestled on a strip of land between two glassy lakes, Interlaken looks like a postcard brought to life. The enchanting resort town has been a popular vacation destination for centuries, giving tourists a home base to explore the Bernese Oberland. Visit in the spring or summer to take in the striking sight of the town's lush gardens blooming with the snow-dusted Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch towering in the background.

Interlaken's proximity to Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, along with soaring alpine mountains, has helped it become the "Adventure Capital of Europe" —and it offers thrills for any taste.

Want to hike? Take a 10-minute ride on the Interlaken Harderbahn, a funicular railway that's more than 100 years old, to the Harder Kulm (Interlaken's closest mountain). A brick path lined with quirky Swiss statues takes you to the trailhead for the Harder Kulm Circular Path , a relatively easy, forested path that opens up to panoramic views of Interlaken.

From mountainside slopes, you can also take the sky on a paragliding adventure in the summer, or slip on a pair of skis and zip down fresh powder in one of five winter sports areas around Interlaken. It's also a lovely place to get out on the water. Rent kayaks, row boats, and pedal boats for a serene experience on the lakes. Or challenge yourself to wakeboarding, windsurfing, or water skiing.

The beautiful part about Interlaken, though, is that it's as much a place for excitement as it is for a laid-back retreat. Once you've gotten your share of adrenaline, wind down with a stroll on the Höheweg , Interlaken's main boulevard, or find a moment of peace at the Garden of Friendship, the country's first Japanese garden.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken & Easy Day Trips

Imagine a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains, a car-free medieval old town, covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains. No wonder Lucerne (in German, Luzern) is a top spot for tourists.

Famed for its music concerts, this quintessential Swiss town lures renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to its annual International Music Festival . The Culture and Convention Center is home to one of the world's leading concert halls.

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Chapel Bridge , built in the 14th century. In a small park, lies the famous Lion Monument , a poignant sculpture of a dying lion, which honors the heroic death of Swiss Guards during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution. History buffs will enjoy the Swiss Transport Museum with extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.

For beautiful views of Lucerne, the Alps, and the lake, ride the funicular to the Dietschiberg on the north side of Lake Lucerne; cruise up Mt. Pilatus on the cableway; or head to the Rigi , a famous lookout point.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

Lake Geneva, Europe's largest Alpine lake , straddles the Swiss/French border, and laps at the shores of some of Switzerland's most popular cities. The city of Geneva (in French Genève; in German Genf) sits between pretty snowcapped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva.

This French-speaking "capital of peace" is the European seat of the United Nations and exudes a pleasing blend of French joie de vivre and Swiss structure. Promenades, parks, and gardens surround the lake, and the old town is a lovely spot to stroll among the historic buildings. The Jet d'Eau , a fountain in Lake Geneva shooting water 150 meters into the air, is a famous landmark. Cultural attractions include the Opera House and the Grand Théâtre , which stages international acts.

Also on the lake, about 62 kilometers from Geneva, Lausanne boasts lovely views over the surrounding region and the lake, with the Alps rising in the distance. Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its cute cafés and boutiques and stunning Gothic cathedral. At the foot of the Alps, on Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in June/July.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Geneva

On the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux , the Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Lord Byron, Jean Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo are among the luminaries who have written about this architectural treasure.

Once the stronghold of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy from the 12th century, the complex encompasses about 25 buildings clustered around three courtyards. Highlights include the Great Halls, with magnificent views of Lake Geneva; the Gothic underground rooms; the Chapel , adorned with 14th-century paintings; and the Camera Domini , a bedroom occupied by the Duke of Savoy decorated with medieval murals.

St. Moritz is a city of firsts. The world's first electric light clicked on here in December 1878. In 1889 it hosted the Alps' first golf tournament and in 1935 began operating one of Switzerland's first ski lifts. Additionally, the town is considered the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism after a hotelier convinced British summer guests to winter here in 1864. It went on to host the Winter Olympics twice (1928 and 1948).

In the Upper Engadin region in southeast Switzerland, in a valley surrounded by the Alps, today it is one of the world's most ritzy ski resorts , favored by billionaires and celebrities. It has 350 kilometers of ski and snowboard runs with some of Switzerland's steepest terrain.

Winter sports run the gamut, from skiing, snowboarding, skating, and bobsledding to tobogganing. One of the oldest natural ice runs for toboggans on the planet is found here, the famous 1.2-kilometer-long Cresta Run . There is also a snowboard fun park and 150 kilometers of winter walking and cross-country ski trails.

In summer, St. Moritz attracts hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. If you prefer to golf, you can play four courses with fantastic mountain views. You can also enjoy the iron-rich natural mineral hot springs here year-round. They were discovered about 3,000 years ago.

Adding to all this spectacular mountain scenery, St. Moritz is a cultural crossroads. Romansch, German, Italian, French, and English are all spoken in the surrounding areas, not to mention the different languages of the many well-heeled international visitors and expats.

The town is divided into two parts: St. Moritz Dorf sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lake of St. Moritz. The other part of town, lakeside St. Moritz Bad on the valley floor, is a health resort with less expensive lodging.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in St. Moritz & Easy Day Trips

In a stunning location, perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, the Swiss capital of Bern exudes old-world charm, and the city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can explore the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, with panoramic views from its tower; 16th-century fountains; the Zytglogge medieval clock tower with moving puppets; and six kilometers of shopping arcades, called " Lauben " by the locals. The Rose Garden (Rosengarten) offers beautiful views of the old town center.

Bern has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered, including excellent museums. Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, the world's largest collection of works by this famous artist, and the Bern Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum).

Don't miss the markets, held in the Bundesplatz (parliament square) with views of the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building (Bundeshaus). Families will also enjoy a visit to the Bear Park.

Lake Lugano lies on the Swiss/Italian border in Ticino, Switzerland's only official Italian-speaking canton, and offers a tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean. Citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate here–even as snowcapped peaks beckon in the distance.

In the towns around Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore to the west, the feel of Italy is unmistakable in the architecture, the piazzas, and the passion for fine food, which spills over the Italian borders from the south, east, and west.

Visitors can explore the area by touring the lake on one of the white steamers or renting a boat. For a panoramic overview, Monte San Salvatore offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, lake, and snow-capped peaks.

Lugano , a financial center and the largest and most significant town in Ticino, is a popular summer resort. Northwest of Lugano, in sun-drenched Locarno on Lake Maggiore, Swiss lakeside living takes on a subtropical touch with warm days, blossoming gardens, and palm-studded estates. In Bellinzona , capital of the canton, three magnificent castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino Region

Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, a major transportation hub, and a top starting point for travelers. The city lies at the northwestern end of Lake Zurich astride the river Limmat. Beyond its buttoned-up façade, this affluent banking capital boasts a rich line-up of cultural treasures.

A great place to begin a walking tour is the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. Mile-long Bahnhofstrasse , one of Europe's finest shopping strands, beckons with designer stores selling fashion, watches, and jewelry.

Venturing away from the boutiques, visitors will find more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as many other tourist attractions . A top pick is the Kunsthaus Zürich , the museum of fine arts, with an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Another favorite is the Rietberg Museum , which focuses on non-European art with many works from China, India, and Africa.

A short stroll from Zürich's main station, the Swiss National Museum , in a Gothic chateau, spotlights Swiss cultural history. Families will love the Zurich Zoo with an elephant park, penguin parade, and Madagascar pavilion. From the city, take a train ride to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and countryside.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

Spanning 150 meters, the Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) at Schaffhausen are the largest falls in Europe. The best time to visit is during June and July when the mountain snow melts, and the falls swell in volume to spill over a 21-meter-high ledge of Jurassic limestone.

Boat trips up the Rhine provide excellent views of the falls, as do the viewing platforms on both sides of the river.

Founded in 1914, Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley is the oldest reserve in the Alps. The park sits right on the border with Italy and encompasses more than 170 square kilometers of flower-dotted hollows, fast-flowing rivers, and limestone crags. The scenery is especially dramatic in winter when the forested mountains are covered in a blanket of snow, and the views from the cross-country ski trails are stunning.

Nature lovers can explore the region on the large network of trails, though veering off these paths is forbidden in an effort to preserve the natural ecosystems. More than 5,000 species of wildlife call the park home, including marmot, red deer, chamois, ibex, fox, and more than 100 species of birds.

One of the very few railway lines in the world designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage listing, the Albula/Bernina line on the Rheatian Railways offers a majestic ride not to be missed. The route extends throughout the Albula and Bernina landscapes, covering 122 kilometers and winding through almost 200 bridges, the Graubünden mountains, and a number of tunnels and viaducts along the way.

A ride on this train means panoramic seats that overlook unspoiled mountain landscapes, including the Piz Bernina, the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps at just over 4,000 meters tall. The train operates all year long, and the views are just as magical in summer as they are in winter.

Right on the shore of Lake Thun and surrounded by a 2.5-hectare park, this 13th-century castle is one of the most breathtaking in Switzerland. Because Oberhofen Castle changed hands many times through the centuries, and new owners kept adding rooms to it, the result is a magical mix of many styles: Bernese Baroque-style buildings, Romantic-style facades, and Prussian-inspired exotic new areas (including a library and a smoking room).

The castle also houses a living museum showcasing the times and lives of feudal societies that called the castle (and its surroundings) home from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Ruinaulta (also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon") is a deep gorge surrounded by expansive meadows and forested cliffs. Located in Eastern Switzerland, it was created over 10,000 years ago–when the Ice Age Rhine Glacier retreated, it led to a chain of events that resulted in a massive rockslide in the Rhine Valley. As the Rhine River seeped through the rock walls, the gorge was filled with water.

Today, the Swiss Grand Canyon is not only one of the most beautiful areas in Switzerland, but also a preferred destination for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature lovers. It's possible to raft the rapids here between May and October, or rent a canoe or kayak for a gentler route with stunning views of the steep cliffs all around.

Even if you don't know anything about this small medieval town, you've probably heard about the hard yellow cheese that made its name famous. Today, that's one of the town's main attractions. Visitors can tour a cheese factory, sample the local specialties, and wave to the cows that call the surrounding green hills home. If cheese isn't enough, the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory also operates in town.

Gruyères might be tiny – it covers an area of just 28.4 square kilometers and is home to around 2,000 permanent residents – but it makes up for it with plenty of things to do, including the 13 th -century Castle of Gruyères and its two small arts and regional museums, as well as Saint-Germain Castle, which was bought by Swiss surrealist painter and sculptor H. R. Giger, and it now houses a museum dedicated to his work. The Tibet Museum, housed in an old church in town, is also worth a visit.

Stunning landscapes surround Gruyères, including the Gorges de la Jogne (favorite with hikers) and the nearby Mont Moléson, popular with climbers in the warmer months and home to ski and snowshoe trails during winter.

The best time to visit Switzerland depends partly on why you're going there. If you're going for the skiing, then of course winter is the best time to visit. For mountain hiking, summer is best, as it's warm even high up in the mountains, and you won't encounter much rain to disrupt your outdoor plans.

If your visit to Switzerland will include a bit of everything, then the months between April and June are your best choice . You'll still find some snow if you arrive early in this period, and warm days if you arrive later on.

Temperatures vary between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, and you'll get a bit of rain, but you'll also see long days with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking and sightseeing . May is the most unpredictable month weather-wise – you might see rain and cold evenings or sunshine with temperatures in the low 20s.

Since the summer crowds don't arrive until July, and the winter crowds are long gone, you'll get more privacy and a chance to grab better deals on flights and accommodations .

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4 Quaint Mountain Towns To Visit Near St Moritz, Switzerland

• Destinations
• Switzerland

St Moritz is one of the premier ski resorts in Switzerland, attracting the rich and famous. High in the Swiss Alps, well-to-do Europeans love the challenging ski trails and the charming town of St Moritz. There are a number of quaint villages and towns near St Moritz in the Engadine region, plus an amazing national park, all of which are worth visiting. 

The Swiss National Park 

The Swiss National Park is the only official national park in all of Switzerland, and it’s also registered as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Founded in 1914, it is one of the earliest designated national parks in Europe. Spanning 65 square miles of pristine alpine mountains, the park has close to 50 miles of nature trails and marked hiking paths, with 21 routes from easy to super challenging.

Stop by the visitor center in Zernez for comprehensive information about the park. In the summer they feature nature-related exhibitions. The park offers guided private and group full-day tours and a list of children’s activities. If you visit the park, they recommend bringing the following list of items, as the weather can be unpredictable:

• Warm clothes
• Ample food and drink
• A change of clothes
• Binoculars for bird watching

Besides being the gateway to the Swiss National Park, Zernez is a lovely village with tons of indoor and outdoor activities available including a swimming pool and spa center, miniature golf, a skate park, hiking, ice skating, cycling, and mountain biking. There are also campgrounds in Zernez.

Where To Eat In Zernez: Grotta Pizzeria Mirta 

Since the Engadine region is close to Italy, there are many authentic Italian restaurants. Grotta Pizzeria Mirta makes excellent wood oven pizzas. 

Where To Stay In Zernez: Baer And Post Hotel 

Resembling a lodge more than a hotel, the Baer and Post has comfortably appointed rooms with padded headboards, natural pine paneled walls, feather-down quilts, free mountain drinking water, and thick, terry cloth robes. There are single rooms available for solo travelers, and the price of the rooms includes a breakfast buffet. 

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and has a versatile menu of Swiss and Italian cuisine, plus salads and vegetarian options. 

Scuol is an excellent, centrally located town to use as a base to explore the other villages in the region. 

Known for its healing mineral springs, Scuol has a spa with the first Irish and Roman therapeutic baths, which combines a treatment of brisk soap and brush massage to exfoliate and stimulate the skin, followed by being wrapped in a warm blanket to relax. The spa also has a large indoor pool and jacuzzi, and in the summer, there’s an outdoor pool with spectacular views of the Dolomite mountain range and Piz Pisoc, the highest mountain in neighboring Swiss Mountain Park. Scuol has pure, refreshing drinking water derived from the mineral springs. 

The beginnings of Tarasp Castle were believed to have been built here in either the 10th or 11th century. Located on top of a steep mountain road, Tarasp Castle has been modified and rebuilt a number of times over the centuries. In 1919, it became a museum and in its current standing, it was bought by local-born artist Not Vital and is now an art foundation. The only way to visit the castle is to take a one-hour guided tour organized by the foundation. Click here for more information. In summertime, you can enjoy the on-site cafe. 

Where To Eat In Scuol: Trais Portas And Hotel Astras

If you are lucky enough to land a reservation at Trais Portas , the smallest restaurant in Scuol, you are in for a treat. Primarily a steakhouse, Trais Portas is a converted house with three, intimate rooms for dining — one of them a former dungeon. In the summer, there’s a lovely outdoor dining garden. Deer and bison are popular dishes, and the Toblerone mousse is a knockout.

There’s also the reasonably priced restaurant inside the Hotel Astras , which has an eclectic menu of Swiss and Italian fare, such as pizzas and pastas and an ample vegetarian selection. The cozy inside has pine walls and red cloth-covered banquettes, and in the warmer months, there’s an outside patio with spectacular mountain views. 

Where To Stay In Scuol: Guardaval Hotel 

An authentic, preserved Swiss house is now the Guardaval Hotel . The 36 spacious rooms are well designed and many of them have terraces with jaw-dropping mountain views. Room amenities include flat-screen televisions, in-room safes, terry cloth bathrobes, slippers, and a bag packed with bath towels so guests can visit the Engadin Bad Scuol Spa, which has free entry for hotel guests. There’s an indoor tunnel that connects the hotel to the spa. The hotel supplies free backpacks for local hiking and mountain climbing, too. 

Gueardaval has four restaurants: the Gault Millaut rated gourmet restaurant; Nam Thai restaurant; the Allegra, with hearty local fare; and the modern designed Bistro Belvair with a Mediterranean menu. 

The tiny town of Sent is a charming mountain village with a population of fewer than 1,000 people. In the 1700s, Sent was a center where wealthy businessmen built their mansions with features such as tented roofs and Senter-Giebel, an exterior gable adorning them. After a great fire in 1823, most of the homes were rebuilt, although there are a handful of authentic farmhouses that were saved. Stroll through the narrow streets of Sent to discover the houses and scenic views. In the main town square, see the fountain with potable mountain water. Just below the town is a covered wood bridge constructed in 1868 that runs 180 feet long. 

Where To Eat In Sent: Chasa Veglia

Chasa Veglia is a local favorite with a cozy dining room outfitted with walls of logs and crafted wood chairs. The menu features local Swiss specialties and there’s outdoor dining in the summer months. 

Where To Stay In Sent: Pensiun Aldier Sent Hotel

Opened in 1865, the Pensiun Aldier Sent Hotel has had a variety of owners and transformations, and at one time there was a bakery on the ground floor. In 2012, the Gross family from Italy bought the hotel and lovingly restored and updated it. The rooms are a mix of traditional Swiss elements such as half-paneled wood walls and contemporary, minimalist furniture.

Carlos Gross is a collector, and the hotel has an extensive library. In the lower level of the hotel is a museum that houses Gross’s personal collection of artist Alberto Giacometti’s works including drawings and bronze sculptures of his brother Diego Giacometti. The hotel restaurant serves a menu filled with locally sourced ingredients such as mushrooms and meat sourced only from alpine animals. 

One of the most beautiful villages of the Engadine region, Guarda won the Wakker Prize, given annually by the Swiss Heritage Society for outstanding architectural preservation, in 1975. Propped up at 5,400 feet, Guarda faces south and gets abundant sunshine year-round. The facades of the farmhouses from the 1600s are hand-painted, and in summer, you’ll see overstuffed window boxes with fresh flowers. There are numerous hiking paths throughout Guarda. 

Where To Eat In Guarda: Crusch Alba

Crusch Alba is a highly rated small restaurant that serves dishes such as pizokel , a baked pasta, and other regional specialties. 

Where To Stay In Guarda: Hotel Meisser

Two 15th-century houses have been converted into the Hotel Meisser Resort , which has been family owned since 1893. The rooms have floors and architectural details made of pine and have mountain views. Room sizes range from a cozy, single 150-square-foot room to a 600-square-foot loft with authentic wood beams with a south-facing balcony. 

The stylish turn of the century, art nouveau dining room offers four-course lunches and dinners. The other dining hall serves a hearty mountain Swiss breakfast, and their newest restaurant, Dalet, serves a small plates menu. 

The hotel provides accessories and equipment for summer and winter activities including bike and hiking stick rentals, backpacks with binoculars, sleds, bobsleds, skates, and snowshoes for rent. Free activities include a curling rink, an igloo, and heated storage rooms for winter sports equipment. 

The main airport serving St Moritz and the Engadine region is Zurich, and from there, you’ll have a three- to four-hour train ride with gorgeous views of the mountains. You will need to change trains at least once to reach St Moritz. Or, if you prefer, you can rent a car at the Zurich airport. Driving time to St Moritz and the other towns of the Engadine listed above takes a little over three hours.

German and Swiss German are the main languages spoken in the Engadine with Italian being the third most spoken, but English is spoken in most establishments including restaurants, hotels, shops, and park facilities. The currency is Swiss francs, not euros, although euros are sometimes accepted.

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.