Graubünden Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, and more in Graubünden, Switzerland. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive guide!


Introduction to Graubünden

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Graubünden is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, it is a dream destination for those seeking the ultimate Swiss experience. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, this region is full of endless possibilities to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Graubünden

Here is a list of must-visit places in Graubünden:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chur: The capital of Graubünden, Chur offers a rich cultural experience with its museums and historical architecture. Visit the Rhaetian Museum to learn about the region’s history.
  • St. Moritz: A popular ski resort town, St. Moritz is also home to the Segantini Museum, which is dedicated to the 19th-century painter Giovanni Segantini.
  • Bellinzona: This town is home to three medieval castles that are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Natural Attractions of Graubünden: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Swiss National Park: Located in the heart of the Engadine Valley, this park is home to various flora and fauna and provides excellent hiking and biking trails.
  • Rhine Gorge: Known as the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland,” it offers a unique landscape of towering cliffs and deep gorges.
  • Lake Silvaplana: A stunning lake located near the town of St. Moritz, it is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Graubünden

With its breathtaking scenery, Graubünden is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Senda Sursilvana: A multi-day trek that takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, this trail offers stunning views, charming villages, and mountain huts.
  • Albula Pass: A challenging bike ride that takes you over the Albula Pass, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Bernina Express: One of the most scenic train rides in the world, the Bernina Express takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views of glaciers and mountain peaks.

Best Things to Do in Graubünden: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and skiing, Graubünden is home to a host of other activities and tours. Here are a few must-do experiences:

  • Horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a romantic ride through the picturesque mountain landscape in a traditional horse-drawn carriage.
  • Cheese-making workshop: Learn how to make traditional Swiss cheese in an interactive workshop hosted by local cheese makers.
  • Chocolate-tasting tour: Indulge in some of the most delicious Swiss chocolates and learn about the history of chocolate-making in Switzerland.

Week-Long Itinerary for Graubünden

Here is a seven-day itinerary to explore the best of Graubünden:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Chur, explore the old town and visit the Rhaetian Museum.
2 Take the Bernina Express to St. Moritz and explore the Segantini Museum.
3 Hike the Senda Sursilvana trail to the village of Lumbrein.
4 Take a horse-drawn carriage ride in the idyllic village of Guarda
5 Ski in the world-renowned resort town of Davos.
6 Visit the Swiss National Park and enjoy a cheese-making workshop.
7 Take a chocolate-tasting tour in the charming town of Flims and depart from the regional airport in Chur.

Food and Drink Scene of Graubünden

Graubünden is known for its delicious traditional dishes and locally-produced beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Capuns: Swiss chard leaves stuffed with dough or Spätzle, served with a creamy sauce.
  • Bündnerfleisch: Air-dried beef that is sliced thinly and served with bread and cheese.
  • Pizokel: Traditional dumplings made with wheat flour, buttermilk, and Swiss cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Bündner Röteli: A cherry-flavored liqueur made with local Valais cherries.
  • Rivella: A Swiss soft drink made from milk whey.
  • Heidi Grittibänz: A sweet bread that is traditionally eaten during the winter months in Graubünden.

Where to Stay in Graubünden: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Graubünden offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and cozy guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Grand Hotel Kronenhof: A luxury hotel in Pontresina, offering excellent views and world-class amenities.
  • Youth Hostel St. Moritz: A budget-friendly option located in the heart of St. Moritz.
  • Hotel Walther: A charming, family-run hotel in the village of Pontresina.

What to Buy in Graubünden: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some classic Swiss souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Swiss chocolates: Take home the best Swiss chocolates from renowned brands such as Lindt, Toblerone or Sprüngli.
  • Swiss watches: Known worldwide for their precision, Swiss watches are an excellent souvenir to take home.
  • Bündner Nusstorte: A delicious nut-filled tart that is a specialty of Graubünden.

Local Culture and Customs of Graubünden

Graubünden has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in the traditions of the region. Here are a few customs to keep in mind:

  • Language: The local language is Rumantsch, but German is widely spoken.
  • Music: Traditional Swiss music is an integral part of the cultural heritage of Graubünden, and you can hear it during local festivals and celebrations.
  • Festivals: Graubünden is home to various festivals celebrating local culture and traditions, such as Chalandamarz, which is a procession to welcome spring.

Best Time to Visit Graubünden

The best time to visit Graubünden depends on your interests; for hikers and bikers, the best time is between June to October. Winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Graubünden

Here are a few things to keep in mind during your visit to Graubünden:

Do:

  • Do try the local cheese and wine: Graubünden is known for its fine wines and traditional cheese.
  • Do respect local customs: Respect the traditions and customs of local people and festivals.
  • Do explore the stunning natural landscape: Graubünden is all about outdoor adventures, so don’t miss your chance to explore the stunning natural landscape.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Help keep the environment clean by disposing of your waste in designated bins.
  • Don’t be noisy: Graubünden is a peaceful region, and loud noises can disturb the tranquility of the area.
  • Don’t forget to bring warm clothes: Even during the summer, temperatures can drop quickly, so make sure to bring warm clothes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Graubünden

Graubünden is relatively safe, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Wildlife: Be aware of wildlife when hiking or camping, especially bears.
  • Weather: The weather in Graubünden can be unpredictable, so always be prepared with warm clothes and appropriate gear.
  • Altitude: Some mountain hikes can take you above 3,000 meters in altitude, so take time to acclimate and stay hydrated.

Health in Graubünden

Graubünden has a good standard of healthcare, and there are several hospitals and clinics throughout the region. However, it is always a good idea to have travel insurance before you travel to Switzerland.

Getting to Graubünden: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Graubünden

The nearest airport to Graubünden is Zurich Airport, which is well-connected to other European cities and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Graubünden

The main bus station in Graubünden is located in Chur, with regular connections to other towns in the region.

Other Options

Other options include taking the train, or hiring a car and driving yourself to Graubünden.

How to Get Around in Graubünden

Graubünden has an excellent public transportation network that includes buses, trains, and cable cars. You can easily get around the region using public transport to access the many attractions and sites on offer.

Where to Go Next from Graubünden: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Graubünden, you may want to check out these nearby destinations:

  • Interlaken: A picturesque town situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
  • Zermatt: A famous Swiss ski resort town, home to the iconic Matterhorn mountain.
  • Lucerne: Known for its stunning lakeside setting, charming old town, and the iconic Chapel Bridge.

Conclusion

Graubünden offers visitors a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities. Use our comprehensive guide to plan your perfect trip to this breathtaking Swiss region and take home unforgettable memories.

At the mouth of Morteratsch Glacier At the mouth of Morteratsch Glacier Swiss bank note with texts in German and Romansh. Swiss bank note with texts in German and Romansh. The views not only from the train but of the tracks in their natural environment can be breathtaking in this part of the country, as in the case of the Wiesener Viadukt pictured above The views not only from the train but of the tracks in their natural environment can be breathtaking in this part of the country, as in the case of the Wiesener Viadukt pictured above St.John Abbey in Müstair St.John Abbey in Müstair


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