St. Moritz, Switzerland Travel Guide

St. Moritz in Switzerland: A Luxurious Alpine Retreat Offering World-Class Winter Sports, Stunning Summer Scenery, and Rich Cultural Experiences.

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz is a paradise for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. Known for its luxurious appeal, St. Moritz has been a winter wonderland for the elite since the 19th century. The town's pristine natural beauty is matched only by its world-class amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe. In winter, St. Moritz transforms into a snowy playground, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding slopes in the world. The town is also famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, adding to its allure as a premier winter sports destination. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy ice skating, tobogganing, and even horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered landscapes. During the summer months, St. Moritz is equally enchanting. The area boasts beautiful hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys. Mountain biking, windsurfing, and sailing are just a few of the activities that attract outdoor enthusiasts. The Engadin Valley, where St. Moritz is located, offers stunning panoramic views that are perfect for photography and nature walks. St. Moritz is also a cultural hub. The town is home to art galleries, museums, and annual events like the St. Moritz Art Masters, attracting art lovers and collectors. Gourmet dining is another highlight, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants offering exquisite Swiss and international cuisine. The town's high-end boutiques and luxury shops make it a haven for shoppers looking for unique and exclusive items.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak winter and summer seasons.
Try the local dish 'Engadine Nusstorte,' a delicious nut cake that is a speciality of the region.
Take the Glacier Express train for a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps to or from St. Moritz.
Visit the Segantini Museum to appreciate the works of the famous painter Giovanni Segantini.
Pack layered clothing as the weather can change quickly, even during summer.
Explore the nearby villages like Sils and Pontresina for a more authentic Swiss experience.
If you enjoy luxury, don't miss the chance to stay in one of St. Moritz's historic grand hotels.

Explore St. Moritz: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in St. Moritz

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Acquafraggia Waterfalls

Explore the Acquafraggia Waterfalls in Piuro, a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by lush landscapes and majestic mountains.

4.7

Ponte tibetano PONTE NEL CIELO

Experience the breathtaking Ponte nel Cielo, a stunning Tibetan bridge offering panoramic views and thrilling hikes in the heart of the Italian Alps.

4.6

Bormio Terme Spa

Experience the ultimate relaxation at Bormio Terme Spa, where natural thermal baths meet luxurious wellness treatments in the heart of the Italian Alps.

4.3

Val di Mello

Discover the enchanting Val di Mello, a nature preserve in Sondrio, Italy, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.

4.8

Best landmarks in St. Moritz

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Badrutt's Palace Hotel St. Moritz

Discover the epitome of luxury at Badrutt's Palace Hotel, an iconic destination in St. Moritz offering exquisite amenities and breathtaking Alpine views.

4.7

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz

Discover the unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, a haven for travelers seeking elegance and adventure in the Swiss Alps.

4.7

Hotel Reine Victoria

Experience luxury and comfort at Hotel Reine Victoria, your perfect alpine retreat in the heart of St. Moritz, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

4.3

St. Moritz Tourist Information Dorf

Explore St. Moritz: Your Gateway to Alpine Adventures and Luxurious Relaxation.

4.3

Best restaurants in St. Moritz

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Hauser Hotel St. Moritz

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Hauser Hotel St. Moritz, featuring delectable chocolates, cozy dining, and charming souvenirs amidst stunning Alpine views.

4.5

Pier 34

Discover culinary excellence at Pier 34 in St. Moritz - where Swiss tradition meets Italian flair amidst breathtaking alpine views.

4.2

Badrutt's Palace Hotel St. Moritz

Experience unparalleled luxury at Badrutt's Palace Hotel in St. Moritz - where elegance meets breathtaking alpine beauty.

4.7

La Stalla Restaurant Pizzeria

Experience authentic Swiss-Italian cuisine at La Stalla Restaurant Pizzeria in stunning St. Moritz.

4.1

Best bars in St. Moritz

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Pier 34

Discover the culinary charm of Pier 34 in St. Moritz, where Swiss and Italian flavors meet stunning alpine views.

4.2

Bobby's Pub

Discover Bobby's Pub, a vibrant pub in St. Moritz, offering delightful drinks, hearty food, and an inviting atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

4.1

Banfi's

Experience the finest local and international cuisine at Banfi's, a must-visit restaurant in St. Moritz offering exquisite flavors in a cozy setting.

4.8

Pavarotti & Friends

Indulge in the finest Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Pavarotti & Friends in St. Moritz, where elegance meets exceptional flavor.

4.7

Best nightclubs in St. Moritz

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Bobby's Pub

Discover Bobby's Pub, the lively gathering spot in St. Moritz, where locals and tourists unite over great drinks and warm atmosphere.

4.1

Stübli St. Moritz

Experience the warm ambiance and delightful drinks at Stübli St. Moritz, your cozy alpine retreat in the heart of Switzerland.

4.4

Dracula's Ghost Riders Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Dracula's Ghost Riders Club in St. Moritz, where music, culture, and unforgettable experiences collide.

4.3

Roo Bar St. Moritz

Discover Roo Bar St. Moritz, a chic bar offering exquisite drinks and stunning alpine views in the heart of Switzerland's premier resort town.

4.3

Best shops in St. Moritz

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LOUIS VUITTON St. Moritz

Discover luxury shopping at LOUIS VUITTON St. Moritz, offering exquisite leather goods and fashion accessories in an iconic alpine setting.

4.4

Hermes

Discover the elegance of Hermès in St. Moritz, where luxury meets alpine charm in a stunning clothing shop.

4.5

Gucci - St. Moritz

Discover unparalleled luxury at Gucci - St. Moritz, where fashion meets the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps.

4.6

BOGNER Sankt Moritz

Explore BOGNER Sankt Moritz for luxurious alpine fashion, offering stylish ski gear and elegant apparel in the heart of Switzerland's premier resort.

4.6

Explore St. Moritz on the Map

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

St. Moritz Essentials

St. Moritz is located in the Engadin valley in Switzerland. The nearest international airports are Zurich Airport (approximately 3 hours by train) and Milan Malpensa Airport (around 3.5 hours by car). From Zurich, you can take a direct train to St. Moritz, which offers a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from major Swiss cities. Private transfers and shuttle services are also available.
St. Moritz is well-connected by an efficient public transport system, including buses and trains. The local bus network is extensive and covers most areas within the town and neighboring villages. The Engadin Bus service operates regular routes, and the Rhaetian Railway connects St. Moritz with other towns in the region. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.
The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in St. Moritz. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the town. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where card payments may not be accepted, such as at local markets or smaller establishments.
St. Moritz is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, it is always prudent to take standard precautions. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas and during peak tourist seasons. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious when using ATMs. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in St. Moritz, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. St. Moritz has a well-equipped police station and medical facilities, including clinics and a hospital. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress warmly and in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. High-quality outdoor clothing is recommended. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While there are no strict religious dress codes, modesty is appreciated in religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and be punctual, as Swiss transport runs on time. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello in Swiss German). A firm handshake is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as fondue and raclette. Don't rush your meals, as dining is a leisurely activity in Switzerland.
To experience St. Moritz like a local, visit the local markets and shops for unique Swiss products and souvenirs. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their town. Don't miss out on the regional activities like skiing, hiking, and the famous Cresta Run. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Bernina Express, a scenic train route offering breathtaking views of the Alps.

When is the best time to visit St. Moritz?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for St. Moritz

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 St. Moritz. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüezi
  [groo-ay-tsee]
- GoodbyeAdieu
  [ah-dyoo]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bih-tuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und du?
  [goot oond doo]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-uh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh merkh-tuh dee shpy-suh-kahr-tuh zay-en, bih-tuh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-uh kine flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [ikh merkh-tuh buz-ah-len, bih-tuh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-fuh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [gay-en zee vehg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsay]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee iyn-en ahrts]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-buh meekh fer-eert]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krahngk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkh-tuh kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-uh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel koss-tet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den prees zeng-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpeht ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (10)
  [halb (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [ges-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [eyns]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
- 3Drei
  [dray]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Fünf
  [foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [zeks]
- 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [ahkt]
- 9Neun
  [noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [ker-nen zee meer tsay-gen (owf dehr kahr-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nehk-stuh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [ey-nuh fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh ....)]

History of St. Moritz

St. Moritz, nestled in the Engadin valley, was first inhabited by the Celts who recognized the area's natural beauty and resources. Evidence of early settlements dates back to the Bronze Age, indicating the long-standing allure of this alpine region.
In the 15th century, the healing properties of the iron-rich springs at St. Moritz were discovered. These waters attracted visitors seeking health benefits, establishing St. Moritz as a spa destination. The first recorded mention of these springs dates back to 1466.
The late 19th century marked the birth of winter tourism in St. Moritz. In 1864, hotelier Johannes Badrutt made a bet with his summer guests that they would enjoy winter in St. Moritz just as much. His gamble paid off, and the guests returned, sparking a winter tourism boom that transformed the town into a renowned winter sports destination.
St. Moritz hosted the Winter Olympic Games twice, first in 1928 and again in 1948. These events significantly boosted the town's international profile, showcasing its world-class facilities and breathtaking alpine scenery. The 1928 Winter Olympics were particularly notable for being the first held in a non-mountainous region.
Throughout the 20th century, St. Moritz evolved into a luxurious resort town, attracting celebrities, royals, and wealthy tourists. The construction of high-end hotels, gourmet restaurants, and exclusive shops solidified its reputation as a playground for the elite.
St. Moritz is not only about sports and luxury but also culture. The town hosts various cultural events, such as the annual Festival da Jazz and the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival, which draw artists and connoisseurs from around the globe. These events highlight the town's vibrant cultural scene and commitment to the arts.

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