St. Moritz Dorf
St. Moritz Dorf: Switzerland's glamorous alpine resort, famed for luxury, winter sports, and breathtaking Engadin valley views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime ski season & glamorous events
St. Moritz Dorf
Best Time
Prime ski season & glamorous events

Highlights
Must-see attractions
St. Moritz Dorf: Switzerland's glamorous alpine resort, famed for luxury, winter sports, and breathtaking Engadin valley views.
"A legendary destination where elegance meets the majesty of the Swiss Alps."
🚡 Ride the Funicular
Take the Chantarella funicular for stunning views and easy access to the mountains.
💰 Budget Wisely
St. Moritz is expensive. Look for package deals or consider visiting off-season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Via Serlas Shopping
St. Moritz Dorf
Indulge in world-class shopping along this elegant street, lined with designer boutiques and luxury brands.

Corviglia Mountain Views
Accessible via funicular from St. Moritz Dorf
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of the Engadin valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Lake St. Moritz
St. Moritz Bad (adjacent to Dorf)
Enjoy serene lakeside strolls or water activities, with the charming village as a backdrop.

Historic Charm of St. Moritz Dorf
St. Moritz Dorf
Wander through the charming old village, soaking in its rich history and alpine architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elegance (and the Price Tag)
Winter Wonderland or Summer Serenity?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚡 Ride the Funicular
Take the Chantarella funicular for stunning views and easy access to the mountains.
💰 Budget Wisely
St. Moritz is expensive. Look for package deals or consider visiting off-season.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Dorf & Bad
Dorf is the upscale center, while Bad offers thermal spas and is closer to the lake.
☀️ Enjoy the Sunshine
St. Moritz boasts over 322 sunny days a year – make the most of it!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚡 Ride the Funicular
Take the Chantarella funicular for stunning views and easy access to the mountains.
💰 Budget Wisely
St. Moritz is expensive. Look for package deals or consider visiting off-season.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Dorf & Bad
Dorf is the upscale center, while Bad offers thermal spas and is closer to the lake.
☀️ Enjoy the Sunshine
St. Moritz boasts over 322 sunny days a year – make the most of it!
🚗 Consider Public Transport
The Bernina Express offers scenic routes, and local transport is efficient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about St. Moritz Dorf's unparalleled elegance, stunning alpine scenery, and world-class luxury. The combination of high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and access to winter sports makes it a dream destination for many. However, the significant cost is a recurring theme, with some finding it prohibitively expensive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Moritz Dorf is accessible by train, with the scenic Bernina Express being a popular option.
The nearest major airports are Zurich (ZRH) and Milan (MXP), from where you can take a train. Driving is also possible, but parking can be limited and expensive in peak season.Yes, St. Moritz Dorf is quite walkable, especially the main shopping streets. For reaching higher elevations or exploring nearby areas, the local bus network and mountain railways like the Chantarella funicular are very efficient.
St. Moritz Dorf is the historic and upscale heart of the resort, known for luxury shopping and hotels, situated higher up. St. Moritz Bad is located closer to the lake and is more focused on thermal spas and wellness.
While possible, St. Moritz is best enjoyed with at least an overnight stay to truly experience its charm and activities. A day trip might feel rushed, especially if traveling from further afield.
The Bernina Express is world-renowned for its spectacular journey through the Alps, connecting Tirano in Italy to St. Moritz.
The Glacier Express also offers a stunning route to St. Moritz.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village itself is free. However, tickets are required for mountain railways (like the funicular to Corviglia
), ski lifts, museums, and specific events. It's advisable to check the official St. Moritz tourism website for current pricing and booking information.Shops in St. Moritz Dorf typically open around 9 or 10 AM and close between 6 and 7 PM. Some may have extended hours during peak season or special events. Mountain railways operate on schedules that vary by season.
Yes, the Engadin Card or regional passes can offer discounts or free access to public transport and some mountain railways, especially during the summer months. For skiers, a ski pass is essential.
The Lake St. Moritz itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. Activities on the lake, such as boat rentals or specific events, may incur charges.
The cost for the Chantarella funicular can vary depending on the season and if you have a ski pass or regional card. A return trip from St. Moritz Dorf to Corviglia was approximately 50.4 CHF during winter without a pass.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Must-dos include exploring the luxury boutiques on Via Serlas,
taking the funicular up to Corviglia for panoramic views, enjoying a stroll around Lake St. Moritz, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this historic resort.While known for luxury, St. Moritz offers family-friendly activities like easy hiking trails, playgrounds, and the Muottas Muragl viewpoint which is accessible by funicular. The lake also provides opportunities for gentle recreation.
St. Moritz is famous for its winter events like the White Turf horse races on the frozen lake
and the St. Moritz Polo Championship. Throughout the year, there are also cultural events, concerts, and fashion shows.St. Moritz enjoys a unique microclimate with over 322 sunny days a year.
Winters are cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports, while summers are pleasant and mild, perfect for outdoor activities.Absolutely! The Engadin valley surrounding St. Moritz offers a vast network of hiking trails for all levels, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging mountain treks. Many are accessible via the local mountain transport.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
St. Moritz Dorf boasts a sophisticated dining scene, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy traditional Swiss eateries. Expect high-quality cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients and international flavors.
While St. Moritz is known for its luxury, you can find more moderately priced options, especially in cafes or smaller bistros away from the main luxury hotels. Picnicking with supplies from a local market is also a great budget-friendly option.
Don't miss trying traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette. Engadin specialties include 'Pizokel' (buckwheat pasta) and various game dishes. Local pastries and chocolates are also a must-try.
Most restaurants in St. Moritz are accustomed to dietary requests and can offer vegetarian or vegan options. It's always a good idea to inform your server about your dietary needs.
During ski season, many hotels and bars in St. Moritz Dorf offer lively après-ski scenes. Look for popular spots near the ski slopes or in the village center for drinks and socializing after a day on the mountain.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo spots include the panoramic views from Corviglia,
the elegant architecture along Via Serlas, the serene Lake St. Moritz, and the charming streets of the Dorf itself. The Bernina Express route also offers incredible photographic opportunities.Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape and village photography. Midday can be harsh, but is great for capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the shopping streets. Winter offers unique snowy vistas.
Drone usage is often restricted in populated areas and national parks. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in St. Moritz or the surrounding Engadin region.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing expansive mountain vistas. If visiting in winter, consider weather-sealed gear.
Absolutely! Winter in St. Moritz offers stunning snowy landscapes, charming village scenes, and the unique spectacle of events like the White Turf. Just be prepared for cold temperatures and potential snow on your equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for hotels that offer family packages or amenities. While St. Moritz can be pricey, focusing on outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the village, and enjoying the fresh mountain air can make for a memorable family trip without breaking the bank entirely. Packing snacks and utilizing local transport can also help manage costs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, opt for picnics with supplies from local grocery stores or seek out more casual cafes and bakeries. Utilize public transport efficiently, perhaps investing in a regional pass if you plan on using mountain railways frequently. While luxury hotels are abundant, look for guesthouses or apartments slightly outside the absolute prime locations for more affordable stays.
🥂 Couples Seeking Romance
Consider a scenic ride on the Bernina Express for a memorable shared experience, or enjoy a leisurely walk around the serene Lake St. Moritz. For a truly special evening, book a table at one of the resort's fine dining restaurants, many of which offer intimate settings and exquisite cuisine. The crisp mountain air and the promise of adventure make St. Moritz an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dual Nature: St. Moritz Dorf vs. St. Moritz Bad
In contrast, St. Moritz Bad, situated at 1,774 meters closer to the lake, is primarily known for its thermal springs and wellness facilities. While it also offers hotels and amenities, it has a more relaxed and health-focused atmosphere. The two areas are connected by local transport and are easily explorable, offering visitors the best of both worlds – the glitz of Dorf and the tranquility of Bad.
Many visitors choose to stay in Dorf for its central location and upscale offerings, but a visit to Bad for its spa treatments or a lakeside walk is highly recommended. The choice often depends on whether you prioritize the vibrant luxury scene or a more serene, wellness-oriented experience.
Winter Sports and Glamorous Events
One of the most iconic events is the White Turf, a spectacular series of horse races held on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. This event attracts an international crowd and showcases thrilling equestrian action against a stunning snowy landscape. Another highlight is the St. Moritz Polo Championship, which transforms the frozen lake into a unique polo arena, drawing celebrities and polo aficionados from around the globe.
These events, combined with the exceptional skiing conditions and the resort's inherent luxury, solidify St. Moritz's status as a premier winter destination. Even if you're not participating, witnessing these events is an unforgettable experience that captures the unique spirit of St. Moritz.
The Scenic Journey: Bernina Express
The Bernina Express connects Tirano in Italy to St. Moritz, making it a convenient and breathtaking way to arrive or depart from the resort. Along the way, you'll witness diverse landscapes, from palm trees in Tirano to the snow-covered peaks surrounding St. Moritz. The train is designed with large panoramic windows, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the stunning vistas.
Many travelers consider the Bernina Express journey a highlight of their Swiss trip, often incorporating it as part of their itinerary to St. Moritz. It's a testament to the beauty of the region and a perfect introduction to the grandeur of the Engadin valley.
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