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Getting Around St Moritz

Getting Around St Moritz

Graubunden Switzerland Travel Guide

Public Transportation

St. Moritz has a well-developed public transportation system. Car ownership is unnecessary for most people visiting. It is a wonderful way to explore the region, often with beautiful scenery.

St. Moritz, typical for a high-alpine resort of its size, does not have underground metro or tram systems. Public transport is predominantly above ground, allowing for consistent views.

Transit Systems

  • Buses: The Engadin Bus network is the main area public transit system. Frequent service throughout town and to all major villages in the Engadin valley (Pontresina, Celerina, Silvaplana, Sils).
  • Trains: The Rhätische Bahn (RhB) complements the bus network. Connects St. Moritz with nearby villages (Celerina, Samedan, Pontresina). Runs panoramic Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
  • Accessibility: Switzerland provides good accessibility. Modern buses typically low-floor/ramps. Swiss trains have wheelchair spaces, many stations with ramps/lifts.
  • Route Maps & Hubs: St. Moritz Bad Post (bus station) and St. Moritz train station are main hubs. Clear route find maps at stops, stations, tourist info.

Ticketing & Fares

One-way tickets from bus taxi drivers or station machines. Fares based on zones. Other regional passes are available.

Hours & Frequency

Public getting around like public transport like buses and trains operate frequently, early morning (about 6 AM) until late evening (around midnight).

Engadin St. Moritz Pass

Many hotels (3-star+, 2+ nights) offer complimentary pass for free local public transport and most mountain railways/cable cars during summer/autumn.

Swiss Travel Pass

Coverage
  • Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland.
  • Discounts on numerous mountain railways.
  • Entry without a fee to numerous museums.
Value
  • A good investment for extensive travel beyond St. Moritz.
  • Compare with "Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass.
  • Verify which pass provides the best bang for your buck for your itinerary.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

SBB Mobile App

Utilize for real-time schedules and connections.

Inclusive Pass

If offered, use it extensively for broad region access.

Mountain Lift Times

Verify operating times for cable cars and funiculars.

Evening Planning

Plan your return journey for evenings, especially for last connections.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Public transport is extensive; taxis offer convenience for direct routes or outside public transport hours.

Taxi Details

  • Licensed Taxi Identification: Taxis in St. Moritz are typically clearly marked.
  • Hailing Procedures: Find them at designated taxi stands (train station, major hotels) or call a local company. Hailing on the street is possible.
  • Typical Fares: Expensive. A short ride within town costs CHF 20-40. Metered fares based on distance and time.
  • Payment Methods: Cash (Swiss Francs) or major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Confirm options before starting.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber has limited or no presence in St. Moritz. Don't count on ride-sharing apps for transport within St. Moritz.
  • Safety Considerations: Taxis in St. Moritz are generally safe and regulated. Licensed taxis adhere to strict standards.
  • Always verify the taxi has a visible meter and that it is activated at the start of your journey.
  • Local taxi services are the main option for on-demand private car transport.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: 21+ (25+ for certain classes). Valid driver's license. International Driving Permit (IDP) if national license not in Swiss/English. Credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: Major international rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) at Zurich Airport and Chur. No direct St. Moritz offices typically.
  • Considerations: Parking in St. Moritz limited and expensive. Not always the most economical option.
  • Road Conditions: Generally excellent, but it's possible to be narrow and winding in the mountains.
  • Cold-weather Driving: Winter tires (Nov-Apr). Snow chains may be required on some mountain passes.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Speed limits strictly enforced (50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h outside, 120 kilometers per hour motorways). Seatbelts mandatory.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Zones

St. Moritz Dorf features pedestrianized zones, especially around Via Serlas and main commercial areas.

Lake St. Moritz Path

A paved path encircles the lake (approx. 4 km), offering easy, flat, and picturesque strolls.

Bicycle Rentals

Widely available from sports shops in St. Moritz and surrounding villages (mountain bikes, road bikes, e-bikes).

Specialized Transportation

St. Moritz is characterized by unique mountain transport systems that are attractions in themselves.

Mountain Lifts

  • Corviglia Funicular & Cable Car: Connects St. Moritz Dorf directly to Chantarella, Corviglia, and Piz Nair.
  • Muottas Muragl Funicular: Near Pontresina. Famous for panoramic viewpoint and restaurant.
  • Diavolezza Cable Car: Near Pontresina. Access to glacier skiing and stunning views of the Bernina Massif.
  • Piz Nair Cable Car: Highest accessible point in St. Moritz ski area, offering a 360-degree panorama.

Other Local Transport

  • Tour Buses: Day tour coaches from bigger Swiss cities sometimes include St. Moritz.
  • Boat Hire: Small electric boat hire available on Lake St. Moritz during summer.
  • Accessibility Services: Modern public transport and some cable cars are designed to be accessible.
  • It is useful to check specific attraction websites for detailed accessibility information.

Cycling Safety & Areas

Safety

Helmets for people on bikes. Be aware of traffic on roads. Show courtesy to hikers on shared trails.

Observe signs indicating private property or restricted access.

No-Go Areas

During winter operating hours, it's not safe to walk or cycle on active ski pistes unless designated as marked winter walking paths.

Stay clear of any marked construction or maintenance areas.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Engadin valley offers a well-developed network of mountain bike trails and designated cycling paths.

Street biking is also popular on challenging high mountain roads.

Walking Tour Options

Self-Guided Tours
  • St. Moritz Tourist Information office provides maps for walks in town.
  • These maps highlight points of interest and historical context.
  • The entire Engadin valley has an extensive network of designated walking and hiking trails.
Guided Tours
  • Guided walking tours can be booked through the tourist office or private guides.
  • These offer insights into the town'the history and culture of the place.
  • Culinary walks emphasizing local specialties are available.

Crime & Safety Concerns

  • Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates on the planet. St. Moritz is exceptionally safe.
  • Petty Theft: While uncommon in St. Moritz, pickpocketing can occur anywhere. Keep valuables secure.
  • Violent Crime: This is rare.
  • Neighborhoods: No specific neighborhoods in St. Moritz are known for higher crime rates. All these areas are typically safe.
  • Thunderstorms (Summer): Mountain thunderstorms develop quickly. Take shelter immediately.
  • Healthcare System: Excellent and efficient. Spital Oberengadin in Samedan serves the region.
  • Drinking Water Safety: Tap water throughout Switzerland is safe to liquid refreshment and of excellent quality.
  • Food Hygiene: Very a high bar. Food is prepared and served safely.

Local Travel Tip

The SBB Mobile app is crucial for real-time public transport schedules and connections across Switzerland.

When in St. Moritz, confirm if your hotel offers the complimentary "Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass. This pass streamlines movement within the area.

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