Chur, the capital of the Grisons and the gateway to Arosa, Lenzerheide and the Surselva, is known by most visitors merely as a transit town. Yet the "oldest city in Switzerland" is a real gem with lots of things to be seen and done. Whether it's the mediaeval old town, the trendy taverns and restaurants, world-renowned artists or simply the perfect starting point for excursions in the region: this small Alpine town will delight you for sure.

Art and culture

Chur's picturesque, car-free old town has plenty to offer leisurely strollers: charming alleys and plazas are paved for sightseeing, hosting weekly markets and quaint eateries. Guild and town houses dating from the 16th to 18th centuries bear witness to the town's most recent heritage. For those interested in Gothic architecture, St. Martin's Church is a must-see. The Episcopal Seat overlooks the old town along with the over 800-year-old cathedral and its late Gothic high altar, which glows in golden splendour. The cathedral is one of the most important heritage sites in Switzerland and was built between 1150 and 1272.

© Chur Tourism

The Grisons Museum of Art exhibits works by many Grisons artists of international renown. Whether it's the rococo-influenced portraits by Angelika Kaufmann (1741-1807) from Chur, the eerily beautiful oil paintings by HR Giger (1940-2014), the works by Not Vital or the sculptures by Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966): Art lovers will definitely get to enjoy themselves here!

Culinary delights
Chur also boasts an impressive culinary scene: looking for a cosy café? Make sure you stop by Kaffee Klatsch. The Brocki ambience is paired with fresh, regional delicacies, giving the coffee a unique touch!

Evviva Plankis is a great gelateria in which people with mental disabilities or illnesses can work in a supervised environment. Their homemade gelati taste great. The Röteli ice cream is highly recommended to those eager to explore, although there is usually no shortage of unique ice creams flavours, such as tomato-basil or strawberry-chilli. You can also try the delicious Bündner Capuns here.

Day trips nearby
Chur is obviously a good starting point for day trips to the surrounding touristic attractions. A funicular connects the town centre to the nearby Brambrüesch mountain. The circular hike over the Dreibündenstein to Feldis and Pradaschier is definitely worthwhile. You can then take the little scenic train and the postal bus back to Chur. By the way, you can go skiing and sledding in Brambrüesch during winter.

For cross-country bikers, the Alpenbikepark Chur features 5 freeride trails as well as spectacular enduro bike tours to explore the terrain several times.

© Chur Tourism

Ambiente Hotel Freieck ***
The Ambiente Hotel Freieck has been part of Chur's townscape for some 500 years. The building survived several fires and is therefore one of the oldest in the town. Despite several renovations, the vaulted ceilings are still visible along the wide corridors on the ground floor, supported by thick retaining walls. Wonderful hospitality ensures that Hotelcard members always feel they are well looked after here.



Book now Central Hotel Post ***
A few steps from the Museum of Art stands the Central Hotel Post. Even though it no longer delivers letters and parcels, it is entirely dedicated to the yellow giant: the reception is shaped after a post office counter, yellow post horns and Swiss stamps decorate the corridors. Yet the main appeal of the hotel remains its location, making it the perfect starting point for a stroll through the city.


Book now Fancy some exquisite Grisons specialities, impressive mountain scenery, winding alleyways and lots of history? Our partner hotels in Chur are looking forward to welcoming you!