Chur travel guide

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Introduction to Chur

Chur, known for its incredible Bernina Express, Chur Bergbahnen (Brambrüesch), and Quaderwiese, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This capital of the Swiss canton of Graubünden and lies in the northern part of the canton has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 35 thousand people, Chur is truly one of the main highlights of Switzerland.

For a deeper understanding of the city's history, culture, and local events, the official website of Chur is a treasure trove of knowledge.

Travelers looking to experience the best of Switzerland often choose to stay in Chur. Easily accessible, Chur is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Switzerland.

Top services in Chur

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Chur, Switzerland. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Chur, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Switzerland. Check out the best things to do in Chur by browsing over 10 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Chur with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Chur from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Chur with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Chur travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Chur!

Learn more about Switzerland

With destinations such as Chur, a trip to Switzerland needs no further explanation. Spanning over 41,285 square kilometers, Switzerland is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Switzerland has something to enchant every traveler.

In Chur alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Bernina Express, Chur Bergbahnen (Brambrüesch), and Quaderwiese. Thus, a trip to Switzerland becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Switzerland offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Switzerland. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Switzerland and its offers.

Best time to visit Chur

The best time to explore Chur is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is typically warm, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. This period also coincides with the Chur Festival, the city’s largest summer event featuring music, food, and local culture. However, if you prefer a quieter visit and are a fan of winter sports, consider traveling between December and February. During these months, Chur transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering a splendid backdrop for skiing and snowboarding. Note that it can be quite crowded during Christmas and New Year's Eve, so booking in advance is advisable. Alternatively, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Chur's enchanting old town and beautiful surrounding landscapes are sure to captivate you.

Weather in Chur

Chur, located in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, experiences a mild climate with significant seasonal variations. The summers, from June to August, are warm but not excessively hot, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, but summer storms can occasionally bring heavy downpours.

The winters, from December to February, are cold but not severe, with temperatures usually falling between -2°C and 5°C. Snowfall is common during this period, transforming Chur into a winter wonderland, but it can also cause disruption to travel. Spring and Autumn see moderate temperatures and are generally more peaceful times to visit. One notable feature of Chur's climate is the Föhn, a warm wind that can cause sudden and dramatic increases in temperature. Travelers should therefore be prepared for unexpected weather changes.

Local tip for visiting Chur

While many tourists flock to Chur for its historical sites and stunning natural beauty, an insider tip is to explore its vibrant local market, held every Saturday in the old town. This is not just an ordinary market, but a treasure chest where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and homemade jams to handcrafted jewelry, and antiques. It's a fantastic opportunity to taste the local cuisine, interact with the locals, and even pick up a unique souvenir. Make sure to stop by the bakery stalls for a taste of traditional Swiss pastries like Nusstorte and Bündnerfleisch. Remember, the market opens early and most of the vendors wrap up by noon, so plan your visit accordingly. Exploring this local market will give you a more authentic experience of Chur, bringing you closer to the daily lives of its residents.

What to see in Chur

photo of view of Chur, Switzerland.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Chur, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Chur offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Chur travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Chur

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Chur is more than just a wonderful city in Switzerland. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Switzerland's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Chur is the unforgettable Bernina Express. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Chur.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Chur, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Chur, including the fascinating Bernina Express, Chur Bergbahnen (Brambrüesch), Quaderwiese, Bündner Naturmuseum, and Bündner Kunstmuseum.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Chur.

Things to do in Chur

photo of view of Chur, Switzerland.

You've explored Chur's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Chur. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Chur, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Chur

A visit to Chur gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Photography Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Chur, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Chur. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Chur offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Chur

In Chur, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 7 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Chur also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Chur Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour, for example, is the cheapest Walking Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 15 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Chur adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Chur right below.

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All Experiences in Chur

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Search for things to do in Chur

Discover the best things to do in Chur. Choose from 10 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Chur. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Chur.

What to eat in Chur

Starting your culinary journey in Chur, you'll be greeted by the harmonious blend of traditional Swiss and international cuisines. The charming streets of the Old Town district are dotted with cozy bistros and patisseries, while Bahnhofstrasse is home to high-end restaurants serving gourmet meals. One of the best places to eat in Chur is the Zunfthaus zur Rebleuten, a historic restaurant known for its traditional Swiss fare. Don't miss out on Chur's local specialties, which include capuns, a hearty dish made from Swiss chard, dough, and cured meat, and pizokel, a type of homemade pasta. For a sweet finish, try the bündner nusstorte, a delicious caramelized nut-filled pastry. If you're looking for a unique culinary experience, consider enrolling in a local cooking class to learn the secrets of Chur's cuisine. Moreover, the weekly Saturday market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a variety of fresh regional produce and local delicacies. Combining these suggestions will surely elevate your dining experience in this Swiss city.

Best shopping in Chur

Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, is not only renowned for its history but also its unique shopping experience. The Old Town is the best place to go shopping in Chur. The cobbled streets are lined with a variety of local boutiques, offering everything from traditional Swiss watches to handmade crafts and delicate confectioneries. Don't miss out on the Bahnhofstrasse, a bustling street filled with high-end fashion stores, bookshops, and antique dealers. For those seeking a more modern shopping experience, City West is a contemporary retail complex housing international brands and a gourmet supermarket. Chur's distinct fashion sense can be seen in the locally produced alpine clothing, perfect for the cold Swiss winters. A must-buy souvenir is the Bündner Nusstorte, a delicious nut-filled pastry that is a regional specialty. Remember, most shops in Chur close early and are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping trip accordingly.

Best Free Things to do in Chur

Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, offers a wealth of experiences that don't cost a penny. One of the best free things to do in Chur is to take a leisurely stroll through the Altstadt, the old town. Here, you can marvel at the medieval buildings, visit St. Martin's Church and the Raetisches Museum without spending a dime. The charming squares, narrow lanes and hidden corners are a delight for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike. For nature lovers, the Brambrüesch hiking trail offers panoramic views of the majestic Alpine landscape. Starting from the city centre, the trail winds through meadows and forests, culminating in a breathtaking vista. If you happen to visit on a Saturday, don't miss the weekly market in the Postplatz and Arcas. It's an excellent opportunity to mingle with the locals, sample the region's produce and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Chur also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions and festivals, many of which are free. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover or culture vulture, Chur has a multitude of free experiences to offer.

Car rentals in Chur

photo of view of Chur, Switzerland.

To navigate Chur effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Chur, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Chur start at 60 EUR per day or 420 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Seat Leon. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Chur, starting at 51 EUR per day or 356 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Peugeot 208.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Chur, Switzerland below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Chur

Renting a car in Chur is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Chur, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Chur for your upcoming adventures in Switzerland below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Chur

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Chur. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Chur, Switzerland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Chur

photo of view of Chur, Switzerland.

The city of Chur is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Switzerland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Switzerland has it all.

Each destination in Switzerland offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Switzerland that are as magical as the city of Chur. The most popular travel destinations in Switzerland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Switzerland

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Switzerland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Chur

Chur, being the oldest town in Switzerland, provides easy and convenient transportation for locals and visitors alike. The city's public transit system includes buses and trains, which are well-connected and provide frequent service to different parts of the city and its surrounding areas. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offers regular services to other major Swiss cities, making it easy to explore more of the country from Chur.

Taxis are also readily available in Chur for a more private and direct mode of transportation. Additionally, there are several car rental agencies in the city, offering the flexibility to explore at your own pace. For those looking for a more adventurous mode of transportation, the town offers the unique experience of the Rhaetian Railway. This iconic railway line passes through the stunning Alpine landscapes and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether you are exploring the heart of the city or venturing into the Swiss Alps, Chur offers a range of efficient and enjoyable transportation options.

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