Discover St. Moritz | A Visitor's Introduction to St. Moritz

Why is St. Moritz Worth a Visit?

St. Moritz is worth visiting for its unique combination of luxury, alpine adventure, and cultural depth. It's a destination where sparkling lakes meet snow-capped peaks, designer boutiques share the street with historic hotels, and horse-drawn sleighs glide past contemporary art galleries. Few places blend outdoor activities with elegance so effortlessly. Whether you're hitting the slopes, enjoying a spa day, or simply sipping coffee with a mountain view, there's a timeless sense of style and serenity here that’s hard to match.

This iconic resort pioneered winter tourism back in 1864 and continues to set the standard for alpine getaways. But there’s more to it than skiing – think summer hiking and mountain biking, gourmet dining, prestigious events like the Snow Polo World Cup, and the sheer drama of the Engadin landscape. The high valley’s light is famously crisp, the air is pure, and the scenery – from frozen lakes to glacial valleys – is unforgettable. It’s an all-season destination that caters to lovers of sport, nature, art, and indulgence alike.

St. Moritz Highlights: Things to See and Do in St. Moritz

Corviglia Ski Area

St. Moritz is one of Switzerland’s premier ski resorts, and the Corviglia area is its heart. Offering over 150 km of pristine pistes, state-of-the-art lifts, and sun-drenched slopes, Corviglia is perfect for both beginners and expert skiers. The views across the Upper Engadin valley are breathtaking, and several panoramic mountain restaurants – like Piz Nair or El Paradiso – make it just as rewarding for non-skiers. In summer, these slopes turn into a network of hiking and mountain biking trails.

Lake St. Moritz

This shimmering lake sits right beside the town and offers different experiences depending on the season. In summer, it’s a peaceful spot for walking, sailing, paddleboarding or simply relaxing. Come winter, it freezes over and becomes the venue for spectacular events like the White Turf horse races and snow polo matches – both played directly on the frozen lake. It’s an atmospheric spot at any time of year and perfectly captures the fusion of nature and glamour that defines St. Moritz.

Muottas Muragl

For one of the best panoramic views in the region, take the funicular from Punt Muragl up to Muottas Muragl. From the top, you’ll get a sweeping vista of the Engadin Valley and surrounding peaks – especially magical at sunset. There are a number of scenic trails here, including winter snowshoe routes and summer hiking paths. The mountaintop Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl is also a popular dining spot with a terrace that's hard to beat.

Segantini Museum

This small but striking museum is dedicated to Giovanni Segantini, a 19th-century Italian painter who was deeply inspired by the Alpine landscape. The museum houses some of his most famous Symbolist works, including the monumental Alpine triptych Life – Nature – Death. Even if you're not a major art lover, the dramatic paintings and mountain setting make this a powerful cultural stop.

White Turf St. Moritz

Held annually in February, White Turf is one of the world’s most unique sporting events. Thoroughbred horses race across the frozen lake – sometimes pulling skiers in the high-speed sport of skijöring. It’s a glamorous affair attended by fur-clad spectators sipping champagne, but it’s also thrilling and unlike anything else you’ll see in the Alps. If you’re in town during the event, it’s a must.

St. Moritz Dorf

The town centre, or "Dorf", is compact but chic, home to luxury boutiques (think Gucci, Bvlgari, and Moncler), gourmet restaurants, and historic hotels like the Badrutt’s Palace and Kulm Hotel. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially along Via Serlas – Switzerland’s highest shopping street. You’ll also find lovely cafés and traditional Engadin architecture, complete with decorated facades and sun-trap balconies.

Leaning Tower of St. Moritz

Yes, St. Moritz has its own leaning tower. Dating back to the 12th century, this ancient belltower is a remnant of the original St. Mauritius Church, which was demolished in the 19th century. It now stands at a visible slant and offers a quirky historical touch in the middle of a very modern town.

Piz Nair

Take the cable car up to Piz Nair (3,057 m) for stunning alpine views and an up-close look at the region’s glaciated peaks. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Bernina Massif. There’s a restaurant at the summit and various trails leading down the mountain, as well as ski runs for confident skiers in winter.

Olympic Bob Run

For adrenaline seekers, St. Moritz offers one of the world’s few natural ice bob runs – and the oldest in existence. At the Olympic Bob Run, you can actually ride as a passenger in a real bob-sled driven by professionals. Speeds reach up to 130 km/h and the G-forces are very real. It’s a thrilling and totally unique winter experience.

Engadin Bad Scuol and Ovaverva Spa

If you’re after relaxation, the Ovaverva wellness centre in St. Moritz Bad offers thermal baths, saunas, and massage treatments with views of the mountains. For a more traditional spa experience, take a short trip to Scuol, where the Engadin Bad Scuol taps into local mineral springs in a serene, modern setting. Both are perfect for a day off the slopes or a rainy afternoon.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The easiest way to reach St. Moritz is by train – and it’s also one of the most scenic journeys in Europe. From Zurich, take a train to Chur or Landquart, then switch to the Rhaetian Railway for a breathtaking ride through the mountains, including loops, tunnels, and viaducts. The whole trip takes around 3.5 hours. Driving is also an option, but mountain roads can be challenging in winter. If flying, Zurich Airport is the closest major hub, though private jets can land at nearby Samedan Airport.

Parking

If you're driving, St. Moritz has several large public car parks in both the Dorf and Bad areas. Hotels often provide parking, though charges may apply. During peak ski season, parking can be limited, so it’s a good idea to book in advance or use hotel shuttles and public transport to get around.

Dining

St. Moritz offers everything from high-end gourmet to traditional alpine fare. For fine dining, head to Da Vittorio at the Carlton Hotel or IGNIV by Andreas Caminada. More casual but no less delicious options include Chesa Veglia for Swiss specialities in a historic setting, and Pizzeria Heuboden for rustic mountain vibes. Don’t leave without trying Engadin nut tart (Nusstorte), a rich caramelised walnut dessert that's a local favourite.

Shopping

Via Serlas is the place for luxury shopping – you’ll find everything from Louis Vuitton to Cartier. But there are also boutiques selling Swiss watches, fine chocolates, and alpine fashion. Look out for local products like sgraffito-decorated ceramics, traditional woollen textiles, and regional food items. On quieter days, browsing the shops is part of the St. Moritz experience.

When to Visit

Winter is the star season in St. Moritz, running from late November to April. This is when the town truly comes alive with skiing, snow polo, and all the glamour of the alpine social season. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, summer (June to September) is also wonderful, with lush meadows, clear lakes, and endless trails. Autumn brings golden larches and quiet beauty, while spring is off-season and less ideal for visits.

Local Events

The calendar in St. Moritz is packed with world-class events. In winter, don’t miss:

• White Turf (February): Horse racing on the frozen lake

• Snow Polo World Cup (January): A unique and exclusive event

• Cricket on Ice (February): Quirky and utterly St. Moritz

In summer, there are art fairs, yachting regattas on Lake St. Moritz, and the Festival da Jazz – a boutique jazz festival held in intimate venues like Dracula Club.

Exploring Beyond St. Moritz

St. Moritz makes a great base for exploring the wider Engadin Valley. Don’t miss:

• Sils Maria: A serene village once favoured by Nietzsche and a great spot for walking or lake boating

• Pontresina: A charming resort village known for its glacial hikes and Belle Époque hotels

• Val Fex: A peaceful, car-free valley ideal for sleigh rides or tranquil hikes

• Bernina Pass and Diavolezza Glacier: Dramatic alpine scenery and the gateway to the Bernina Express

Whether you're skiing down perfect pistes, sipping champagne at a lakefront event, or hiking through quiet mountain valleys, St. Moritz offers a unique blend of action and elegance. It's not just about who you might see there – it’s about how the place makes you feel: elevated, energised, and just a little bit enchanted.