Inhabited since prehistoric times, Chur is a picturesque alpine city and one of the oldest settlements in Switzerland. Winding streets lead through its pedestrian-friendly Old Town, which is clustered with historic cathedrals and palaces. Sweeping mountain views are on offer from the city’s aerial cableway, leading to a network of ski slopes in the winter months and summer hiking trails.
Things to do in Chur
Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town to admire the 13th-century Cathedral of the Assumption, which lies adjacent to the episcopal palace of the bishop of Chur. Take note of the cathedral’s Romanesque portal before stepping inside to see the late-Gothic high altar that was crafted in the 15th century by Jakob Russ.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to the Bündner Kunstmuseum, a contemporary art gallery that combines a 19th-century villa with a striking modern annex. Chur also boasts plenty of picturesque parks where you can watch the world go by, including the flower-filled Fontana Park and the sprawling Quaderwiese, a popular destination for sunbathing and playing soccer in the summer months.
For the best views of Chur, ride the aerial cableway that leads to the 2,174-metre-high peak of Brambrüesch, with the option to ski in the winter months or go hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Chur can also be used as a base for exploring the Bündner Herrschaft winemaking region. Its scenic vineyards hug the River Rhine and are renowned for producing high-quality Pinot Noir.
Getting there
Zurich International Airport is the closest airport to Chur, with direct trains connecting from the airport to the Chur railway station. By road, Zurich is just over 1.5 hours away. Both taxis and buses operate in Chur, although the Old Town is car-free and best explored on foot.