Engadin, Switzerland Travel Guide

Discover the stunning alpine landscapes and cultural treasures of Engadin, Switzerland's hidden gem, offering year-round activities from skiing in St. Moritz to hiking in lush valleys.

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Switzerland, Engadin is a breathtaking region that promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear lakes, Engadin offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a lover of history and tradition, this destination caters to all tastes and interests. Engadin is divided into two main areas: the Upper Engadin and the Lower Engadin. The Upper Engadin is home to the famous resort town of St. Moritz, known for its luxury hotels, world-class skiing, and glamorous atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a range of winter sports, from ice skating to snowboarding, or take a scenic train ride on the Bernina Express, which offers spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. During the summer, the region transforms into a hiker's paradise with countless trails that lead through lush meadows, dense forests, and past sparkling lakes. The Lower Engadin, on the other hand, is characterized by its charming villages, traditional architecture, and a slower pace of life. Here, you can explore the quaint streets of Scuol, visit the ancient Tarasp Castle, or relax in one of the area's natural thermal baths. The Lower Engadin also boasts numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including biking, fishing, and paragliding. Regardless of the season, Engadin's pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination in Switzerland.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Engadin.

For the best skiing experience, visit St. Moritz between December and March.
Take the Bernina Express for a scenic train journey with breathtaking views.
Explore the thermal baths in Scuol for a relaxing experience.
Visit during the summer months for excellent hiking and biking opportunities.
Try local Engadin specialties like Bündner Nusstorte and Capuns.

Explore Engadin: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Engadin

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Swiss National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Swiss National Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

4.8

Kreisviadukt von Brusio

Explore the stunning Kreisviadukt von Brusio, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of Swiss engineering in the heart of the Alps.

4.8

Segantini Museum

Explore the Segantini Museum in St. Moritz, dedicated to the captivating works of Giovanni Segantini amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery.

4.4

Leaning Tower of St. Moritz

Experience the Leaning Tower of St. Moritz, a historic bell tower surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery in the heart of the Swiss Engadin region.

4.2

Best landmarks in Engadin

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Swiss National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Swiss National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers in the Swiss Alps.

4.8

Schloss Tarasp

Discover the majestic Schloss Tarasp, a historic castle and art museum in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.

4.4

Segantini Museum

Explore the Segantini Museum in St. Moritz for an unforgettable journey through alpine artistry and the life of a master painter.

4.4

Leaning Tower of St. Moritz

Discover the Leaning Tower of St. Moritz, a captivating medieval landmark immersed in breathtaking alpine beauty.

4.2

Best restaurants in Engadin

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Pier 34

Experience exquisite Italian and Swiss cuisine at Pier 34 in St. Moritz - where alpine charm meets culinary excellence.

4.3

La Stalla Restaurant Pizzeria

Experience authentic Swiss and Italian cuisine at La Stalla Restaurant Pizzeria in scenic St. Moritz.

4.1

Restaurant Piste 21

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Restaurant Piste 21 in Samedan.

4.5

Restaurant Engiadina

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Engiadina in St. Moritz – where tradition meets breathtaking alpine views.

4.6

Best bars in Engadin

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Bobby's Pub

Experience the charm of Bobby's Pub in St. Moritz, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.1

Stübli St. Moritz

Experience the warmth of Swiss hospitality at Stübli St. Moritz, a charming pub nestled in the stunning alpine scenery, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

4.4

Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant

Discover culinary excellence amidst breathtaking alpine views at Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

3.7

Mountain Café Lej da la Pêsch

Discover the charm of Mountain Café Lej da la Pêsch in St. Moritz, where breathtaking views meet delightful Swiss cuisine in a cozy alpine setting.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Engadin

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Bobby's Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bobby's Pub in St. Moritz, where hearty meals and a variety of drinks await in a welcoming setting.

4.1

Dracula's Ghost Riders Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Dracula's Ghost Riders Club in St. Moritz, blending thrilling entertainment with cultural experiences.

4.3

Roo Bar St. Moritz

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Roo Bar St. Moritz, where exquisite cocktails meet breathtaking alpine views in a stylish setting.

4.2

Bar Cetto

Experience the cozy charm of Bar Cetto in Sils im Engadin, where local flavors and a warm atmosphere await every traveler.

4.5

Best shops in Engadin

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Coop Supermarkt Zernez

Experience the convenience and local charm at Coop Supermarkt Zernez, your go-to spot for Swiss groceries and essentials in the stunning Zernez area.

4.2

Willy Sport

Explore Zuoz with Willy Sport: Your premier destination for bicycle rentals, ski gear, and expert outdoor advice in the Swiss Alps.

4.7

Engadin Bikes

Discover the beauty of the Engadin Valley by bike at Engadin Bikes in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Perfect for all cycling enthusiasts.

4.8

Willy Sport/ Golf Shop

Discover Willy Sport in Zuoz for all your skiing and outdoor adventure needs, featuring expert advice, ski repairs, and equipment rentals in a stunning alpine setting.

4.8

Explore Engadin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Engadin, mapped for you.

Engadin Essentials

Engadin is located in the canton of Graubünden in southeastern Switzerland. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a train to Chur and then transfer to the scenic Rhaetian Railway, which will take you through the stunning landscapes to St. Moritz, the main town in Engadin. Alternatively, you can drive from Zurich to Engadin, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Public transportation in Engadin is well-developed and reliable. The Rhaetian Railway connects major towns and scenic spots, making it easy to explore the region by train. Buses are also available for local travel within towns and to nearby villages. For more flexibility, consider renting a car; however, be prepared for mountain driving conditions. Biking is another popular option during warmer months, with numerous bike paths and rental services available.
The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in all major towns and tourist areas in Engadin. Currency exchange services can be found at airports, banks, and some hotels.
Engadin is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Engadin, but it is always advisable to stay vigilant, especially in busy tourist spots.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in St. Moritz and other major towns in Engadin. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Always keep emergency contact numbers and your insurance details handy.
Fashion: Do dress warmly in layers, especially during the winter months. Avoid wearing overly casual clothing in upscale establishments. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful to other passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüezi' in Swiss German. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Swiss fondue and Engadine nut tart. Don’t forget to tip, as it is customary.
To experience Engadin like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share tips about hidden gems in the area. Don’t miss out on the local spa culture—try the mineral baths in Scuol or the thermal baths in St. Moritz. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Bernina Express, which offers one of the most scenic train routes in the world.

When is the best time to visit Engadin?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Engadin

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Engadin. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAllegra
  [ah-LEH-grah]
- GoodbyeSali
  [SAH-lee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNa
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePer plaschair
  [per PLAH-schair]
- Thank youGrazia fitg
  [GRAH-tsee-ah feetg]
- Excuse me/SorryScusaziun
  [skoo-ZAHT-zee-oon]
- How are you?Tge chaschel?
  [tgeh KHAH-shel]
- Fine. And you?Bun. Ed tù?
  [boon. ed too]
- Do you speak English?Tia parlas englais?
  [tee-ah PAR-lahs ahn-GLAIS]
- I don't understandEn na chapesch
  [ehn nah kha-PEHSH]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseDesideria vegnir a vesair il menu, per plaschair
  [deh-zee-deh-ree-ah veh-nyeer ah veh-SAI-eer eel MEH-noo, per PLAH-schair]
- I don't eat meatEn mangi nagina carn
  [ehn MAHN-jee nah-GEE-nah karn]
- Cheers!Salut!
  [sah-LOOT]
- I would like to pay, pleaseDesideria pagar, per plaschair
  [deh-zee-deh-ree-ah pah-GAHR, per PLAH-schair]
- Help!Agiu!
  [AH-joo]
- Go away!Vat enavos!
  [vaht eh-NAH-vohs]
- Call the Police!Telefonai la polizia!
  [teh-leh-foh-NAI lah poh-LEE-tsyah]
- Call a doctor!Telefonai in medich
  [teh-leh-foh-NAI een MEH-deekh]
- I'm lostEn m'hai pers
  [ehn mye pehrs]
- I'm illEn sun mals
  [ehn soon mahls]
- I'd like to buy...Desideria cumprar...
  [deh-zee-deh-ree-ah koom-PRAR]
- I'm just lookingEn sun betg a tschertgar
  [ehn soon betg ah chayrt-GAHR]
- How much is it?Quanta costa?
  [KWAHN-tah KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveQuai è massa car
  [kwai eh MAH-sah kahr]
- Can you lower the price?Tias pudais far il preis pli bass
  [tee-ahs poo-DAIS fahr eel price plee bahs]
- What time is it?Tgi'ura è?
  [tjee-OOR-ah eh]
- It's one o'clockEra las ina
  [EH-rah lahs EE-nah]
- Half past (10)Miezdi
  [MYEHTS-dee]
- MorningDamaun
  [DAH-mown]
- AfternoonSera
  [SAY-rah]
- EveningSera
  [SAY-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayUss
  [oos]
- TomorrowDamaun
  [DAH-mown]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Ura è in...
  [oo-rah eh een]
- What's the address?Qual è l'adressa?
  [kwahl eh luh-DREHS-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pudais ti m'inditgar (sin la carta)?
  [poo-DAYS tee meen-deets-GAHR (seen lah KAHR-tah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Tge datti la proxima (bus)?
  [tgeh DAH-tee lah prohk-SEE-mah (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)In bilet (a ....)
  [een bee-LET (ah)]

History of Engadin

Engadin, a long high Alpine valley located in the eastern Swiss Alps, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The name 'Engadin' is derived from the Romansh 'Engiadina', meaning 'Garden of the Inn', referring to the River Inn that flows through the valley. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was settled as early as the Bronze Age, and the valley has been a key corridor for trade and travel for centuries.
During the Roman era, Engadin was part of the province of Raetia. The Romans constructed roads and fortifications to secure their empire's borders and facilitate the movement of troops and goods through the Alps. Remnants of Roman roads and milestones can still be found in the region. Roman culture and language influenced the local population, contributing to the development of the Romansh language.
In the Middle Ages, Engadin was under the control of the Bishopric of Chur. The bishops wielded significant power, both spiritually and politically, over the valley and its inhabitants. Numerous churches and monasteries were established, many of which still stand today, such as the iconic Church of San Gian in Celerina. The medieval period also saw the rise of local noble families who controlled various parts of the valley.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, Engadin became part of the Free State of the Three Leagues, a confederation of three local leagues formed to counter the influence of the Habsburgs and other external powers. This political entity provided a measure of autonomy and promoted cooperation among the various communities in the valley. The Three Leagues later played a crucial role in the formation of the Swiss Confederation.
The Protestant Reformation had a profound impact on Engadin, leading to religious and social changes. The Reformation was embraced by many in the valley, and Engadin became a stronghold of Protestantism. This period saw the construction of new churches and the spread of Reformed ideas. The division between Catholic and Protestant communities also shaped local politics and culture for centuries.
The 19th century marked the beginning of Engadin's transformation into a renowned tourist destination. The discovery of mineral springs in St. Moritz in the 1830s attracted visitors seeking health treatments, leading to the establishment of the first hotels. The completion of the Albula Railway in 1904 further facilitated access to the valley, making it a popular destination for the European elite and adventurers attracted by its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Engadin, particularly St. Moritz, played a pivotal role in the development of winter sports. The first winter sports resort was established in St. Moritz in the late 19th century, and the area hosted the first European Ice Skating Championships in 1882. St. Moritz also hosted the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948. The development of skiing, bobsleigh, and other winter sports cemented Engadin's reputation as a premier winter sports destination.
The preservation of Romansh culture and language is a vital aspect of Engadin's identity. Romansh is one of Switzerland's four national languages, and it has deep roots in the valley. Efforts to preserve and promote Romansh include education programs, cultural festivals, and media in the Romansh language. Traditional customs, music, and festivals, such as the Chalandamarz spring festival, continue to be celebrated, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Engadin.