MileHacker Logo
Chur Travel Resources

Chur Travel Resources

Chur Switzerland Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Useful Apps for the Destination

  • SBB Mobile App:

    For all public transport schedules, tickets, and real-time information across Switzerland. It is highly useful.

  • MeteoSwiss:

    The official Swiss weather app, important for planning mountain activities due to rapidly changing conditions.

  • Google Maps/Apple Maps:

    For navigation and exploring downtown streets and hiking trails.

  • Google Translate/DeepL:

    For language translation, especially useful for understanding German signs or conversations.

  • Revolut/Wise:

    For managing multi-currency travel money; they often give favorable exchange rates.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Switzerland Tourism:

    Myswitzerland.com - The official the country's tourism board board, with full information on travel throughout Switzerland.

  • Chur Tourism:

    Chur.graubuenden.ch - The official city tourism website, with specific details for Chur, including events and local attractions.

  • Graubünden Tourism:

    Graubuenden.ch - The official canton tourism board, covering the wider region of Graubünden.

  • Swiss Federal Railways (SBB):

    Sbb.ch - For all train and public transport information, including timetables and ticket purchasing.

  • Rhaetian Railway (RhB):

    Rhb.ch - For specific train lines in Graubünden, including details on scenic routes like the Bernina Express.

Social Media and Digital Content

Social Media Accounts

Follow @MySwitzerland (official Switzerland Tourism), @Graubuenden (official Graubünden Tourism), @ChurTourismus (official Chur Tourism), @RailService (SBB's official account for updates).

@MySwitzerland

Podcasts & Digital Content

Search for podcasts on "Switzerland travel" or "Swiss Alps" on major podcast platforms. These bring stories and practical tips.

Online Exploration

Look into travel blogs and YouTube channels specializing within Switzerland for visual inspiration and insights.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

  • Rick Steves Switzerland (focused on cultural immersion and efficiency).
  • Insight Guides Switzerland (for detailed cultural background and beautiful photography).
  • Kümmerly+Frey maps: Excellent hiking and road maps for Switzerland.
  • Chur city map: Obtainable for free at the Chur Tourism office upon arrival.

Books about the Destination

  • History: "History of Switzerland" by Edgar Bonjour for a grasp.
  • Culture: "Culture Shock! Switzerland" for a look into Swiss customs and etiquette.
  • Fiction: "Heidi" by Johanna Spyri (a quintessential set in the region, with a charming backdrop).
  • Local Publications: "Südostschweiz" (in German) for current events, free city magazines for local events.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries about the Swiss Alps, the Rhaetian Railway (Bernina Express), or Swiss culture.
  • Watch films set in Switzerland to get a feel for the natural views and atmosphere.
  • Explore travel documentaries featuring hiking trails or alpine sports.
  • Observe cultural niceties through cinematic portrayals.

Music & Art

  • Listen to traditional Swiss folk music.
  • Explore Swiss artists like Alberto Giacometti, whose works are featured in the Bündner Kunstmuseum.
  • Discover contemporary Swiss music artists.
  • Visit local galleries or public art spaces.

Online Communities & Language

  • Engage with online travel forums for Switzerland, like TripAdvisor forums or Reddit's r/Switzerland.
  • Use language learning apps like Babbel or Duolingo for simple German phrases.
  • Explore YouTube channels for Swiss German phrases to enhance get the local dialect.
  • Connect with other travelers who have visited Chur.

Emergency & Medical Information

Essential Safety Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • 144: Ambulance
  • 117: Police
  • 118: Fire
  • 1414: Rega (Swiss Air-Rescue) - for mountain emergencies
  • 112: Europe's Emergency Line (across Europe)

Hospital & Clinic Locations

  • Kantonsspital Graubünden: Loëstrasse 170, 7000 Chur (main hospital).
  • Local doctors ("Hausarzt") and pharmacies ("Apotheke") are also available for non-emergency medical needs.
  • For minor ailments, pharmacies can give advice and over-the-counter remedies.
  • Clinic services for critical care without full emergency room visit.

Embassy & Lost Documents

  • Locate your country''s diplomatic mission in Switzerland (most are in Bern or Zurich).
  • Keep their contact details handy for emergencies, like a lost passport.
  • Report lost or stolen passports or IDs immediately to the local police (dial 117).
  • Obtain a police report; contact your country's embassy for emergency travel documents.

Health & Safety

Staying Healthy

  • Tap water in The land of the alps is safe to drink.
  • Use sunscreen and wear sunglasses, especially at high altitudes.
  • Consider insect repellent for outdoor things to do during warmer months.

Mountain Safety

  • Monitor official weather advisories using the MeteoSwiss app.
  • Follow instructions from local authorities, including police and mountain rescue services.
  • If in a high hill area, confirm with your accommodation or the local tourist office for specific hazard warnings, like avalanche risk or trail closures.

Travel Insurance & Documents

Insurance Checklist

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Check coverage for medical emergencies, cancelled trips, and lost luggage.
  • Keep a copy of your insurance policy details readily available.

Important Documents

  • Ensure your passport has VALID for at least six months beyond your return date.
  • Bring a duplicate of your passport, visa (if applicable), and travel tickets.
  • Have contact details for your embassy or consulate on hand.

Local Medical Access

Pharmacies Apotheke

  1. Readily available in Chur and other towns.
  2. Dispense over-the-counter medications and often medicine with a prescription.
  3. Some have limited hours for Sundays and public holidays; check in advance.
  4. They can offer basic health advice for minor ailments.
  5. Look for the verdant cross sign for pharmacies.

Doctors & Clinics

  1. For non-emergencies, local doctors ("Hausarzt") are available.
  2. Your hotel or the tourist office can help locate a doctor.
  3. Some clinics offer walk-in appointments for urgent but not life-threatening conditions.
  4. Keep your insurance details ready for any medical visit.
  5. For serious conditions, visit Kantonsspital Graubünden.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Weather Monitoring

Monitor official weather advisories using the MeteoSwiss app, especially when planning mountain activities.

Authority Guidance

Follow instructions from local authorities, including police and mountain rescue services, for your safety.

Mountain Area Checks

If in a mountain area, check with your accommodation or local tourist office for specific hazard warnings, like avalanche risk or trail closures.

Critical Safety Notes

Always have emergency numbers handy and understand how to interact with your embassy.

← Previous
Chur Travel Hacks
← Back to Chur
Next →
Chur Travel Checklist

Next Up: Chur Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Chur Travel Checklist