Bernina Express Tickets

St. Moritz

Guide to St. Moritz: Must-See Attractions, Special Events, Spa & Wellness

Guide to St. Moritz: Must-See Attractions, Special Events, Spa & Wellness

Nestled in the heart of the Engadine Valley in eastern Switzerland, the luxurious alpine resort town of St. Moritz offers a blend of world-class slopes and breathtaking landscapes, catering to winter sports enthusiasts and travelers seeking a lavish escape alike.

Whether you’re stopping by during your Bernina Express tour or planning a longer stay, this complete guide provides everything you need to know. Explore its must-see attractions, discover special events, and indulge in spa & wellness offerings, ensuring a memorable visit to this enchanting destination.

Quick Facts about St. Moritz

  • Coordinates St. Moritz train station: 46.497975° N 9.845769° E
  • Canton (Territory): Graubünden
  • Vineyards: The village is surrounded by terraced vineyards known for producing Cinque Terre wine, characterized by its unique flavor and quality.
  • Altitude: 5978 feet (1822 meters) above sea level
  • Highest altitude in the municipality: Piz Bernina 13281 feet (4048 meters)
  • Area of the municipality: 11,08 square miles (7089 acres, 28,69 square kilometers)
  • Population of St. Moritz village: 5200 (2023, December 31st)

Must-See Attractions in St. Moritz

The Leaning Tower

Dating back to the 12th century, the Leaning Tower is a remarkable landmark that once belonged to the St. Mauritius Church, which was demolished in 1890. Standing at a towering height of 33 meters and with a tilt of 5.5 degrees, this architectural wonder leans even more than the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Via Serlas

Regarded as St. Moritz’s equivalent to Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse or Milan’s Via Montenapoleone, Via Serlas offers a luxurious shopping experience unlike any other. Nestled along this street is the highest luxury mile in the world, where visitors can indulge in upscale shopping amidst a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

The St. Moritz Grand Hotels

Exuding glamour and opulence, the six Grand Hotels Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, Suvretta House, Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains and Hotel Steffani epitomize luxury living with their lavish accommodations and sophisticated ambiance.

Forum Paracelsus

Bringing the history of St. Moritz’s healing springs to life, the Forum Paracelsus features listening stations and touchscreens that offer insights into the town’s rich heritage. Visitors can also sample the naturally acidic water from the drinking fountain.

Olympia Bob Run, Stadium, Cresta Run

Home to the world’s only natural ice bobsleigh track, the Olympia Bob Run stretches from St. Moritz to Celerina. Visitors can witness thrilling bobsleigh races or even enjoy a taxi ride on the track. The stadium, which hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games, continues to exude the Olympic spirit. Additionally, the Cresta Run offers an exhilarating toboggan ride along its icy channel, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers.

Kulm Country Club

A testament to St. Moritz’s Olympic legacy, the Kulm Country Club is a protected site that underwent renovations for the 2017 Ski World Championships. With its historic pavilion, bar, and restaurant boasting a spacious sun terrace, the club offers a delightful blend of history and modernity.

Foster’s Chesa Futura

Embodying avant-garde architecture, Foster’s Chesa Futura stands out with its innovative design featuring 250,000 larch shingles. This architectural marvel pays homage to the Alpine building tradition while embracing contemporary aesthetics.

Chesa Veglia

Dating back to 1658, Chesa Veglia is a charming Engadine farmhouse that now houses three restaurants and two bars. Renowned for its culinary offerings, a visit to Chesa Veglia promises an unforgettable dining experience in St. Moritz.

Piz Nair and the Free Fall

Towering at 10030 feet (3057 meters), Piz Nair offers panoramic views of St. Moritz’s breathtaking landscapes. It is also the site of the men’s downhill race’s spectacular free fall, featuring the world’s steepest slope with a 45-degree start.

Village Church

Located prominently at the heart of St. Moritz, the Reformed Village Church stands as a testament to the village’s rich heritage and cultural significance.

Lake St. Moritz

Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, which lies just outside the town center. In the summer, the lake is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Segantini Museum

Dedicated to the renowned artist Giovanni Segantini, the Segantini Museum showcases his Symbolist and Divisionism paintings that revolutionized mountain landscape art. With its extensive collection, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into Segantini’s artistic legacy.

Engadine Museum

Delve into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region at the Engadine Museum, housed in a charming building designed by Nicolaus Hartmann in the quintessential Engadine style. Explore captivating exhibitions featuring cultural artifacts and folklore collections, offering insights into the vibrant tapestry of Engadine’s past.

Sights around St. Moritz

Corviglia

Just a short distance from St. Moritz, Corviglia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Engadin Valley, while in winter, it transforms into a world-class ski area with pristine slopes for skiing and snowboarding.

Muottas Muragl

Ride the funicular up to Muottas Muragl, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Engadin Valley and the surrounding peaks. This mountain vantage point offers hiking trails for all levels, as well as a restaurant where you can savor local delicacies while taking in the stunning scenery.

Pontresina

A charming village located a short drive or train ride from St. Moritz, Pontresina is known for its traditional Engadin architecture and picturesque setting. Explore the quaint streets, visit the local museums, or embark on hiking adventures in the nearby Bernina Range.

Diavolezza

For a truly unforgettable experience, head to Diavolezza and take the cable car up to the summit. From here, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Bernina Range, including the iconic Piz Palü and Piz Bernina peaks. In the summer, you can hike amidst alpine meadows, while in winter, the area is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.

Roseg Valley

Escape into the tranquil beauty of Roseg Valley, a pristine natural area known for its picturesque hiking trails and abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for ibex, chamois, and marmots as you explore this scenic valley surrounded by towering peaks.

Sils and Silvaplana Lakes

Discover the serene beauty of Sils and Silvaplana Lakes, located a short distance from St. Moritz. These idyllic alpine lakes are perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

Samedan

Explore the historic village of Samedan, situated just a few kilometers from St. Moritz. Wander through the charming streets lined with traditional Engadin houses, visit the local church with its distinctive onion dome, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Alp Languard

Take a cable car ride to Alp Languard and soak in the stunning views of the Upper Engadin Valley and surrounding peaks. From here, you can embark on scenic hikes or simply relax at the mountain restaurant while enjoying delicious Swiss cuisine.

Special Events in St. Moritz

St. Moritz hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere and allure. Here are some notable events to look forward to:

  • White Turf: Held annually in February, White Turf is one of the most prestigious horse racing events on snow in the world. Visitors can witness thrilling horse races on the frozen surface of Lake St. Moritz against the backdrop of the stunning Engadin Valley.
  • St. Moritz Gourmet Festival: Food enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival, typically held in late January. Renowned chefs from around the globe gather to showcase their culinary skills, offering gourmet dinners, cooking classes, and special culinary events at various locations throughout the town.
  • Snow Polo World Cup: Experience the excitement of the Snow Polo World Cup, held annually on the frozen lake in St. Moritz. This prestigious polo tournament attracts top international teams and elite players, providing spectators with thrilling matches set against the breathtaking Alpine scenery.
  • Engadin Art Talks: Engadin Art Talks bring together artists, curators, and cultural enthusiasts for stimulating discussions on contemporary art and culture. Held in January, this event offers insightful talks, exhibitions, and performances, providing a platform for dialogue and creativity.
  • Engadin Skimarathon: Cross-country skiing enthusiasts gather in St. Moritz each March to participate in the Engadin Skimarathon, one of the largest and most renowned cross-country ski races in the world. Participants ski a scenic 42-kilometer trail from Maloja to S-chanf, showcasing their endurance and skill.
  • St. Moritz Music Festival: Music lovers can enjoy world-class performances at the St. Moritz Music Festival, held during the summer months. From classical concerts to jazz performances and contemporary music, the festival offers a diverse program set against the stunning backdrop of the Engadin mountains.
  • St. Moritz Art Masters: Celebrating art, culture, and creativity, the St. Moritz Art Masters is an annual event featuring exhibitions, installations, performances, and discussions with renowned artists and cultural figures. Held in late August, it provides an enriching cultural experience for visitors and residents alike.

Spa & Wellness in St. Moritz

The tradition of bathing in St. Moritz traces back over 3,500 years, with evidence dating back to as early as 1411 BC. The original inhabitants of the Engadin region were well acquainted with the therapeutic properties of the iron-rich waters from the Mauritius Fountain, harnessing its healing powers for various ailments. Today, this ancient wisdom is still very much alive.

In the wellness areas and spas of the esteemed St. Moritz Grand Hotels, this tradition is continued in diverse and luxurious forms. Guests can indulge in the rejuvenating effects of the outdoor and infinity pools while soaking up breathtaking Alpine vistas. Harmonizing body and mind, the Kneipp footpath offers a serene pathway to balance, while invigorating steam baths fortify the immune system.

Beyond water therapies, the spa oases in these grand establishments offer a fusion of relaxation, detoxification, and rejuvenation. Whether through natural remedies or cutting-edge technology, these spa specialists ensure that every guest experiences a revitalizing journey towards enhanced vitality and joy of life.

>> Find the train schedule for the Bernina Express here.

>> Discover the Bernina Express Route in detail to uncover its breathtaking landscapes and attractions.