Chur

Chur sits at 594 meters on the Plessur River, where the Rhine valley opens toward the passes of Graubünden. Archaeological evidence shows continuous settlement for about 5,000 years, which is why the city is called the oldest in Switzerland. Its position at the crossroads of alpine routes made it important to the Celts, then to the Romans, who knew it as Curia, and later to the bishops who ruled the region for centuries.

History and Heritage The old town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, medieval guild houses and hidden courtyards, closed to most traffic. The 12th-century Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption (Churer Dom) dominates the upper town, with Romanesque architecture and a treasury displayed in the Domschatzmuseum. The Rätisches Museum follows regional history from prehistory to the present, while the Graubünden Museum of Art and the Museum of Nature present local art and natural history. The Rathaus (town hall), Fontana Park and the Obertor city gate also recall the city’s long past. The city has been the seat of a bishop since at least the 5th century, and the cathedral district, the Hof, remains a church precinct today, with the Domschatzmuseum in the baroque Episcopal Palace. The Rhaetian Railway, whose Albula and Bernina lines are a UNESCO World Heritage site, has its headquarters in Chur, a reminder of how closely the city is tied to the mountain railways.

Main Attractions Chur is a gateway to the Alps and the start of two of Switzerland’s most scenic train journeys, the Bernina Express and Glacier Express. The Chur-Brambüesch gondola carries visitors from the city centre to hiking and skiing areas in minutes, and the Dreibündenstein panorama trail leads from the plateau to the village of Feldis. The Rhine Gorge, near Reichenau, shows a landscape of white cliffs and green water. The Giger Bar honours H. R. Giger, the artist behind the film creature Alien, who was born in Chur. Lively markets and boutique shops fill the lanes.

Activities Outdoor enthusiasts will find a lot to do around Chur. In summer, hiking and mountain biking trails lead into the surrounding mountains and valleys, while winter brings skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing within easy reach. The city hosts festivals, concerts and cultural events, including the Churer Fest and the Chur Music Festival. Food lovers can try Graubünden specialities such as capuns, barley soup and local wines in the city’s restaurants and markets.

Getting There Trains run from Zurich, St. Gallen and other Swiss cities, with the main station a short walk from the old town. By car, the city is reached via the A13 motorway, with parking near the centre. The compact layout suits walking, and Chur is also a hub for regional buses and trains to alpine resorts and villages across Graubünden.

Seasonal Advice May to September brings mild weather, a lively old town and good conditions for mountain days. Spring and autumn offer colourful landscapes and fewer crowds, and winter combines city culture with nearby snow sports. At any time, Chur’s blend of history, culture and alpine scenery makes it a rewarding Swiss city. The railway station and the old town sit close together, so a stop between trains is rewarding even when time is short.