Imagine standing atop a mountain, surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps, with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. Graubünden, Switzerland’s largest canton, offers an unforgettable experience amidst its picturesque landscapes.
You can explore historic cities, enjoy panoramic train journeys, and visit some of the most beautiful mountain villages in the Alps. Whether you’re planning a summer hiking adventure or a winter ski trip, this region has something for every kind of traveler, making it a perfect destination for your next trip.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities, Graubünden is a must-visit destination that will leave you with lifelong memories of your experience in this beautiful country.
Discovering the Alpine Gem of Switzerland
Located at the edge of the Swiss Alps, Graubünden is a region of breathtaking natural beauty. This little slice of alpine heaven shares its borders with Liechtenstein, Italy, and Austria, making it a unique cultural melting pot.
Graubünden stands as Switzerland’s largest canton, encompassing a diverse landscape of towering mountains, pristine valleys, and charming alpine villages nestled in the eastern Swiss Alps. The region boasts 615 lakes, 150 valleys, and 937 mountain peaks, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic alpine experiences.
The area is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a culturally rich region where three of Switzerland’s four national languages are spoken (German, Italian, and Romansh). This unique cultural tapestry is unlike anywhere else in the country.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Lakes | 615 |
| Valleys | 150 |
| Mountain Peaks | 937 |
Historically, Graubünden was once part of the Roman province of Raetia and later became the only true democracy in Europe during the Middle Ages through its Three Leagues alliance system. The dramatic slopes and pristine nature have attracted visitors for centuries.
When to Visit Graubünden: Seasonal Highlights
The best time to visit Graubünden largely depends on your preferred activities and the experiences you’re looking for.
Graubünden’s climate varies significantly across seasons. Summer (June to September) brings warm temperatures, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring alpine meadows. In contrast, winter (December to March) transforms the region into a skier’s paradise with world-class slopes.
- Summer: Warm weather (65-80°F/18-27°C) perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
- Fall (late September to November): Spectacular foliage and fewer tourists.
- Winter: Excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
- Spring (April to May): A beautiful transition period with wildflowers blooming in the valleys.
For a day trip focused on scenic train journeys, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May or September) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
By planning your visit according to your interests, you can make the most of your time in Graubünden.
Explore Chur: Switzerland’s Oldest City
As you step into Chur, you’re immediately immersed in a world of ancient charm and modern vibrancy. This city, pronounced “Kour,” is a treasure trove of history, boasting over 5,000 years of heritage. Chur is not just any town; it’s Switzerland’s oldest city, offering a unique blend of medieval architecture and contemporary culture.
One of the highlights of visiting Chur is exploring its entirely car-free Old Town. Wander through the maze of cobblestone streets, discover hidden courtyards, and admire the well-preserved medieval buildings. Chur is also the starting point for the famous Chur-Tirano Bernina Express train journey, making it both a destination and a gateway to further adventures.
Chur’s Street Art Scene
Chur’s street art scene is a surprising modern contrast to its ancient architecture. Native artist Fabian Florin, known as Bane, has created some remarkable works, including Switzerland’s largest mural at the Mühleturm (Mill Tower). Other notable pieces include “Die Wachterin der Drei Bunde” (the Guardian of the Three Leagues) and “I have a dream” on the facade of the Lachen school building.
Best Viewpoints in Chur
For the best viewpoints in Chur, head to the Haldenhüttli observation deck, especially at sunset, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the historic city framed by the surrounding Alps. The Rhine River Trail provides another excellent perspective, with a 7.6km circular route that offers both urban and natural scenery.
Ride the World-Famous Bernina Express
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps with the Bernina Express, a train ride like no other. The Bernina Express is a world-renowned panoramic train that departs from Chur to Tirano daily, covering a distance of 122km through stunning Swiss Alps scenery, picturesque viaducts, and mountain tunnels.
This famous cherry-red train takes you from the heart of Graubünden, Chur, through mountain passes and breathtaking sceneries across the border to the city of Tirano in Italy. During the 4-hour train ride, you get to see some of the best views of the Swiss Alps, all by just sitting in a cozy, modern train.
The Bernina Express is widely considered one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world. You’ll travel aboard a distinctive cherry-red train featuring panoramic windows designed to maximize your views of the stunning Alpine scenery throughout the journey. The ride traverses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels while climbing gradients of up to 7% without the use of a rack-and-pinion system—an engineering marvel that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Some highlights of the ride include crossing the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, a curved limestone viaduct that stands 65 meters high and offers spectacular photo opportunities. The journey takes you through the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters above sea level, making it the highest railway crossing in the Alps and providing some of the most dramatic mountain views.
For the best experience, try to secure a window seat on the right side when traveling from Chur to Tirano, as this offers the most impressive views of valleys and viaducts. The train typically departs Chur between 8:00-9:00 AM daily, with the entire scenic train journey to Tirano taking approximately 4 hours. A one-way ticket costs approximately 63 CHF per person, with an additional 14 CHF for a seat reservation in the panoramic wagon.
Experience the Glacier Express Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking journey with the Glacier Express, a train ride that epitomizes the beauty of the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express, loved as the world’s slowest express train, provides an 8-hour experience across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels as part of an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Unlike the Bernina Express, which runs southeast to the Italian border, the Glacier Express heads southwest, finishing in Zermatt, with its enviable Matterhorn views. Departures from Chur in the late morning are available year-round, and the ride offers panoramic views of the Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” with its dramatic cliffs and winding river.
The scenic train ride continues over the Oberalp Pass, the highest point at 2,033m, passing charming villages, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and majestic peaks enroute. Your train rides will take you across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, including passage through the Rhine Gorge with its dramatic white cliffs and turquoise waters.
For the ultimate luxury experience, consider booking the Excellence Class, which includes guaranteed window seating, a five-course meal with regional specialties, and access to a dedicated bar area. The full journey takes approximately 8 hours, but many travelers choose to break it up with overnight stays in picturesque towns along the route.
Graubünden, Switzerland: Best Things to Do in Summer
Graubünden in the summer is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The region offers some of the best things to do in Switzerland between June and September when alpine meadows burst with wildflowers and hiking trails are fully accessible.
The warm weather and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal time to explore the region’s charming villages and enjoy a leisurely tour through the picturesque landscapes.
Hiking to Sertig Dörfli and Other Alpine Villages
Hiking to Sertig Dörfli provides one of the most rewarding experiences in the region. This enchanting alpine village, nestled between mountain slopes, features traditional wooden houses and a picturesque white church that seems straight out of a fairytale.
The most scenic route to Sertig Dörfli begins with a cable car ride up Jakobshorn from Davos Platz, followed by a ridge hike that takes approximately six hours and offers spectacular panoramic views throughout.
Beyond Sertig Dörfli, you’ll find numerous other charming alpine villages worth exploring, including Monstein, famous for its craft brewery, and Maienfeld, the setting for the Heidi stories.
E-Bike Through Heidiland’s Vineyards
For a different summer adventure, consider taking the Gourmet E-bike tour through Heidiland’s vineyards, where electric bikes make the hilly terrain accessible to riders of all fitness levels.
The e-bike tour includes stops at local wineries and restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a three-course meal spread across different locations while taking in the stunning scenery and savoring the local wine.
Cable Car Adventures and Mountain Views
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Graubünden’s mountains with a cable car adventure. Graubünden is home to some of the most spectacular cable car rides in the Alps, offering easy access to breathtaking mountain views without the need for strenuous hiking.
Cable car adventures offer some of the most accessible ways to experience the breathtaking mountain views of Graubünden. The Schatzalp cable car in Davos provides one of the easiest and most rewarding mountain experiences, running frequently from dawn until after dusk and taking you directly from the town center to spectacular viewpoints.
Schatzalp and Alpine Botanical Gardens
At Schatzalp, you can explore the Alpine Botanical Gardens, which feature over 800 plant species from mountain regions worldwide. The gardens were established in 1907 and showcase alpine flora from the Pyrenees, Caucasus, Himalayas, and the Swiss Alps, creating a colorful display against the backdrop of dramatic slopes and peaks.
The Brambrüesch cable car near Chur offers a two-stage journey to 1,600 meters, where you’ll find mountain restaurants with sunny terraces perfect for taking in the alpine views while enjoying local cuisine. Many cable car stations serve as starting points for hiking trails of varying difficulties, allowing you to ride up and then walk down (or vice versa) for a more relaxed mountain experience.
Savor Local Culinary Delights
As you explore Graubünden, you’ll discover a rich culinary scene that blends Swiss, Italian, and Alpine flavors. The region is renowned for its hearty local dishes, which are perfect for replenishing energy after a day of exploring the mountains. One of the must-try dishes is Alpler Macaroni, a comforting meal that combines pasta, potatoes, and cheese, served with applesauce on the side.
Graubünden’s culinary scene is characterized by its diverse influences, resulting in unique specialties such as Capuns, made with spätzle dough, herbs, and dried meat wrapped in Swiss chard leaves. The region is also famous for producing over 40 varieties of artisanal cheese, with alpine cheese being particularly distinctive due to the herb-rich pastures where the cows graze.
Wine Tasting in Maienfeld
Maienfeld, known for its connection to the Heidi stories, is home to some of Switzerland’s most impressive vineyards. Visitors can sample excellent Pinot Noir, locally known as Blauburgunder, and other regional wines. For an authentic wine tasting experience, Stall247 in Maienfeld is a must-visit. This converted barn serves as a community center and wine experience venue, showcasing local vineyards and products.
At Stall247, you can enjoy a variety of local products, including juices and jams, and savor dishes made with local produce in their kitchen. It’s an ideal spot to experience the best of Graubünden’s culinary delights in a rustic setting, surrounded by the beauty of the region.
Discover Natural Wonders and Wildlife
Graubünden’s untouched wilderness and stunning natural beauty make it the perfect destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The region is home to some of Switzerland’s most spectacular natural landscapes, including pristine mountain lakes, dramatic gorges, and protected wilderness areas.
The Swiss National Park, founded in 1914, is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. With a network of 21 hiking trails covering 100km, visitors can spot native wildlife such as chamois, red deer, and ibex. The park offers binoculars and telescopes for rent at the Swiss National Park Center, increasing the chances of spotting animals during early morning nature walks.
The 5 Lakes Hike at Pizol
The 5 Lakes Hike at Pizol is one of Graubünden’s most celebrated trails, taking you on a moderately challenging 10km loop past five stunningly beautiful alpine lakes. Starting with a cable car ride to 2,227 meters, this hiking trail offers breathtaking mountain scenery throughout.
The hike is approximately 4-5 hours long, allowing ample time to take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lakes. Visitors can join guided nature tours or explore the trail independently, making it an ideal activity for visitors of all experience levels.
Where to Stay in Graubünden
Whether you’re looking for luxury, authenticity, or adventure, Graubünden’s accommodation options cater to all preferences and budgets. The region offers a diverse range of hotels, guesthouses, and mountain huts, ensuring that every visitor finds a suitable place to stay.
In the heart of Davos lies the Hard Rock Hotel Davos, the first Hard Rock Hotel on the European mainland. This hotel is perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking, with its incredible spa, delicious food at the Hard Rock Café, and hiking opportunities right outside its doorstep.
For those staying in Chur, the historic Hotel Stern provides an authentic stay in the heart of Switzerland’s oldest city. It offers comfortable, ensuite rooms, friendly service, and a central location perfect for exploring the Old Town and catching the scenic trains.
Graubünden’s accommodation options include:
- Luxury mountain resorts
- Charming family-run guesthouses
- Alpine huts for a unique experience
- Historic grand hotels in St. Moritz
- Traditional Swiss chalets in Klosters
Many hotels in the area offer half-board options with excellent restaurants serving regional specialties, making them convenient bases for exploring the surrounding mountains. For longer stays, consider basing yourself in different areas of this vast region to minimize travel time.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Graubünden
With its excellent public transportation system, Graubünden is easily accessible by train, making it simple to explore without a car. The Swiss Travel Pass gives you access to all trains in Switzerland, allowing you to plan your trip with ease.
When you visit Graubünden, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for your tour, which covers all trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland. Regional guest cards, like the Davos-Klosters Card, offer free use of local transportation, including mountain cable cars, saving you significant money on daily activities.
- Arrive at the station at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure time for scenic trains that require seat reservations.
- Book tickets for the Bernina Express or Glacier Express well in advance to secure your preferred dates and seats.
- Pack for variable weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), and while credit cards are widely accepted, it’s advisable to carry some cash.
By planning ahead and being prepared, you can make the most of your time in Graubünden and enjoy a stress-free journey.
Conclusion
With its rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Graubünden is a must-visit destination for any traveler. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the authentic Swiss alpine culture, savor local cheese and wine, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the mountains.
From riding the famous train routes like the Bernina Express to hiking among pristine mountain lakes, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Graubünden. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing trip or an action-packed adventure, Graubünden has something for everyone.
By allocating at least 4-7 days to your visit, you’ll be able to maximize your time and create unforgettable memories. With its excellent transportation network, you can easily explore the region and enjoy the scenic train journeys that double as both transportation and experience.
So why wait? Start planning your trip to Graubünden today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Switzerland.
