About
Chur is a city in eastern Switzerland, and it is often described as the oldest city in the country. It serves as the gateway to the Alps of Graubünden, the canton that stretches across the mountains of the Swiss southeast. Visitors who arrive here usually do so with the mountains already in view, which makes the city a natural starting point for an alpine trip.
What a visit offers
Chur suits a relaxed visit rather than a packed sightseeing list. Its old town invites slow walking, with narrow streets and a compact centre that can be explored on foot. Because the city sits at the foot of the mountains, it works well as a base or a stopover for those planning to explore the surrounding Alps.
Practical notes
- Also known as: Coire, the name you may see on some maps and signs.
- Location: Switzerland, in the canton of Graubünden.
- Best for: travellers who want an old Swiss city combined with easy access to mountain scenery.
If you are deciding whether to go, Chur offers a calm introduction to eastern Switzerland. It is a place to combine with the wider alpine landscape around it, and its position at the edge of the high country is what gives it its character.