Local Transportation: St Moritz

Public Transportation

St. Moritz has a well-developed public transportation system. Car ownership is unnecessary for most visitors. It is an excellent way to explore the region, often with scenic views.

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 local public transport 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 maps at stops, stations, tourist info.

Ticketing & Fares

Single tickets from bus drivers or station machines. Fares based on zones. Other regional passes are available.

Hours & Frequency

Buses and trains operate frequently, early morning (around 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 many mountain railways.
Free entry 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 value 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. Do not rely 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 can be narrow and winding in mountainous areas.
Winter 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 urban, 80 km/h outside, 120 km/h motorways). Seatbelts mandatory.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Zones

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

Lake St. Moritz Path

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

Bicycle Rentals

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

Specialized Transportation

St. Moritz features 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 buses from larger Swiss cities sometimes include St. Moritz.
Boat Rentals: Small electric boat rentals 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 cyclists. 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, avoid walking or cycling 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.

Road cycling is also popular on challenging mountain passes.

Walking Tour Options

Self-Guided Tours

St. Moritz Tourist Information office provides maps for walks around 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's history and culture.
Culinary walks focusing on local specialties are available.

Crime & Safety Concerns

Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. 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 areas are generally safe.

Thunderstorms (Summer): Mountain thunderstorms develop quickly. Seek shelter immediately.
Healthcare System: Excellent and efficient. Spital Oberengadin in Samedan serves the region.
Drinking Water Safety: Tap water throughout Switzerland is safe to drink and of excellent quality.
Food Hygiene: Very high standards. 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 region.

Local Transportation