Chur (Summer)

Chur is the largest city in the canton of Graubunden, and the main transport hub for the region, with direct train connections to Zurich and several European capitals. Most travelers use Chur as a staging area for the Alpine resorts of Davos, Klosters, Arosa, Lenzerheide and the Surselva (Flims and Laax). However, the city and its environs are well worth a short visit. Chur is said to be Switzerland’s oldest city — since Roman times it’s been an important stop on the land route over the Alps to Italy. Within the city walls you’ll find a well-preserved old town, with numerous architectural treasures, including the 12th-century cathedral, ...

Chur is the largest city in the canton of Graubunden, and the main transport hub for the region, with direct train connections to Zurich and several European capitals. Most travelers use Chur as a staging area for the Alpine resorts of Davos, Klosters, Arosa, Lenzerheide and the Surselva (Flims and Laax). However, the city and its environs are well worth a short visit. Chur is said to be Switzerland’s oldest city — since Roman times it’s been an important stop on the land route over the Alps to Italy. Within the city walls you’ll find a well-preserved old town, with numerous architectural treasures, including the 12th-century cathedral, several other ornate churches, lovely squares and quaint shops. Three small museums showcase the art, history and nature of canton Graubunden. Science fiction fans should have a drink at the Giger Bar, designed by local artist H. R. Giger (of Alien fame). The nearby region of the Buendner Herrschaft (around Malans and Maienfeld) produces some of Switzerland’s finest red wines.

About the Expert

Charlie Morris is the author of the Open Road guidebooks Best of Honduras, Best of Costa Rica, Best of Belize, and Switzerland Guide.