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Home - Travel Destinations - St Moritz in Switzerland – Luxury and Beauty Combined
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you.
St. Moritz is a resort town in the Engadin Valley, in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland.
It sits high in the Alps at 1,856 metres above sea level, which explains its clear mountain air, long winters, and reliable snow.
The town is best known for winter sports, luxury hotels, and elegant shopping streets, but the setting is what really stays with you. Snow-covered peaks rise in every direction, and Lake St. Moritz lies right at the edge of town, reflecting the mountains in every season.
Even outside winter, St. Moritz feels polished and relaxed. Walking along the lake or through the compact town centre gives you constant views of the Alps, with cafés, hotels, and boutiques never far away.
It’s a place where the scenery does much of the talking, and you’re encouraged to slow down and enjoy it.
St. Moritz has a long-standing reputation as a luxury resort, and it shows the moment you arrive. Well-kept streets, elegant hotels, and polished shop windows set the tone, especially around the lake and town centre.
The town is surrounded by high Alpine scenery. Mountains rise sharply above the streets, forests frame the edges of town, and Lake St. Moritz sits right alongside the main walking areas. Views are constant and easy to enjoy without planning long excursions.
You may notice a well-dressed crowd and the occasional high-profile visitor, but St. Moritz never feels closed-off. English is widely spoken, public transport is efficient, and the town is easy to explore on foot, making it comfortable even for first-time visitors.
Shopping is concentrated around the town centre and along Via Serlas, one of Switzerland’s most well-known shopping streets.
Dining in St. Moritz ranges from elegant hotel restaurants to relaxed spots serving regional dishes.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: One of the most beautiful places you can stay, is at the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski. A 5-star luxury hotel with a rich tradition, located in Sankt Moritz in the scenic Engadine countryside. It offers a large, Alpine-style spa, a 24-hour fitness center, and 2 award-winning restaurants.
More on accommodation later…
There are several local farms in the area that offer tours and workshops. You can try your hand at traditional farming practices, meet the animals, and even help with the chores.
You can also visit the Alpine Cheese Dairy is a small family-owned business located in the nearby village of Morteratsch. Take a tour of the dairy and see how traditional Swiss cheese is made. You can also sample the cheese and other local products.
Take the Glacier Express to Zurich. After all, it is one of the most beautiful train trips in the world.
St. Moritz offers simple pleasures alongside its luxury. Local specialties are easy to find, and sampling them gives a taste of the Engadin region.
A classic choice is Engadiner Nusstorte, a rich nut cake made with caramelized sugar and walnuts, perfect for sharing over coffee. Traditional Swiss chocolate and cheese fondue are also widely available, with many cafés and restaurants serving them year-round. For something hearty, try Bündner Gerstensuppe, a barley soup made with vegetables, bacon, and herbs—a staple of Graubünden cuisine.
For a more relaxed experience, summer is ideal for a picnic by Lake St. Moritz. Local food shops and bakeries offer cheeses, pastries, and fresh bread that can be packed for a calm afternoon by the water. Several bakeries in town also make stopping for a coffee and a sweet treat a daily ritual.
Cooking classes are another option if you want to go beyond tasting. You can learn how to prepare traditional Swiss dishes using local ingredients, a hands-on way to connect with the area’s culinary traditions.
Although St Moritz are known to be a winter sport destination, there are still plenty to do in summer. Here are ten things you can do in St. Moritz during the summer:
Hiking: St. Moritz offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. You can explore the beautiful Swiss Alps and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mountain Biking: You can rent a mountain bike and explore the trails in the area. There are plenty of options for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: Lake St. Moritz offers ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. You can take lessons or rent equipment and enjoy the lake’s clear waters and stunning scenery.
Golf: St. Moritz is home to several golf courses, including the Kulm Golf St. Moritz and Samedan Golf Club. These courses offer a challenging game amidst beautiful alpine scenery.
Horseback Riding: You can take a horseback riding tour and explore the scenic trails around St. Moritz. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the area while enjoying a leisurely ride.
Paragliding: You can go on a tandem paragliding flight and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding: You can rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Lake St. Moritz at your own pace.
Spa and Wellness: St. Moritz has several spa and wellness centers, including the famous mineral baths at the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains. You can relax and rejuvenate after a day of outdoor activities.
Fishing: You can go fishing in the area’s many lakes and rivers. There are plenty of opportunities to catch trout, grayling, and other fish species.
Cultural and Historical Tours: You can explore St. Moritz’s history and culture by visiting its museums and galleries, such as the Segantini Museum or the St. Moritz Design Gallery. You can also take a guided tour of the town and learn about its architecture and heritage. The Segantini museum features the works of the famous Italian painter Giovanni Segantini, who lived and worked in the area.
Pack for the climate: St. Moritz is a mountain town with a cool, alpine climate. Even in the summer, temperatures can be cool, so be sure to pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket.
Plan ahead: St. Moritz is a popular destination year-round, so it’s important to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Consider visiting in the shoulder season: If you’re looking to avoid crowds and score better deals on accommodations, consider visiting St. Moritz in the spring or fall, when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer visitors.
Take advantage of public transportation: St. Moritz has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains, that can help you get around the town and surrounding area.
Buy a travel pass: Consider purchasing a travel pass that includes unlimited use of public transportation and discounts on activities and attractions.
Bring comfortable shoes: St. Moritz is a pedestrian-friendly town, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: At high altitudes, the sun’s rays can be stronger than at sea level, so be sure to pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
Learn some basic German: While English is widely spoken in St. Moritz, learning some basic German phrases can help you navigate the town and communicate with locals.
Bring cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in St. Moritz, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash for small purchases and tips.
Respect local customs: St. Moritz is a traditional town with its own customs and traditions, so be sure to respect local culture and norms, such as dressing appropriately in churches and being mindful of noise levels.
St. Moritz is known for its luxury hotels and resorts, many of which offer world-class amenities such as spas, restaurants, and fitness centers.
TRAVEL TIP: Don’t plan an itinerary that leaves no space for some downtime. Incorporate some “me-time” to enjoy the place where you’re staying. Spend an afternoon just sitting on the patio or walking along the lake or in nature. These places are spectacular and should be enjoyed.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: The Kulm Hotel St Moritz is a luxurious hotel where every room faces the impressive mountains, the south-facing ones the Lake St. Moritz and those facing north, the spectacular south flanks of Piz Nair and other enticing parts of the Corviglia region.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: This beautiful hotel offers panoramic views over the Engadine Alps and Lake Sankt Moritz. It features 6 restaurants, an indoor pool, and a free shuttle service to the Corvatsch Cable Car, 500 m away.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: Hotel Waldhaus am See lies on the shores of the St. Moritz Lake and offers a breath-taking view of the surrounding mountains of the Engadin Valley.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: Only 2 km from St Moritz you’ll find the Suvretta – set in a natural park, surrounded by the Suvretta-Corviglia winter sport and hiking region.
With its Alpine views, elegant hotels, refined restaurants, and boutique shopping, St. Moritz offers a complete mountain escape. From skiing and winter sports to quiet lakeside walks and summer hiking, the town has something for every pace of travel. Take the time to explore, relax, and enjoy the surroundings—St. Moritz leaves a lasting impression.
