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St Moritz Travel Tips

St Moritz Travel Tips

St Moritz Graubunden, Switzerland Travel Guide

Communication

Staying connected in St. Moritz is straightforward. Several options exist for mobile service and internet access.

Mobile & Internet

  • Local SIM cards: Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt at post offices, supermarkets.
  • eSIM options: For immediate connectivity, consider providers like Airalo.
  • Wi-Fi: Widely available and often free in hotels, restaurants, and public areas.
  • Mobile Data: Reliable 4G/5G coverage throughout the region.
  • Portable Wi-Fi: Consider a device from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent personal internet.

Language & Translation

St. Moritz is in the trilingual canton of Graubünden (German, Romansh, Italian). English is widely spoken in tourist settings.

Phrases & Tools

  • Google Translate app is very good for offline use.
  • Learn a few basic phrases; Rosetta Stone a language learning tool.
  • Hello: Grüezi (Swiss German), Salü (informal), Ciao (Italian), Allegra (Romansh).
  • Thank you: Merci (common), Grazie (Italian), Grazcha (Romansh).
  • Please: Bitte (German), Per favore (Italian), Per plascher (Romansh).

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical operating hours for various businesses, banking, and public holidays.

Operating Times

  • Shops: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM, Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Closed Sundays.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 6:00 PM - 9:30/10:00 PM.
  • Banks: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. ATMs are 24/7.

Public Holidays & Seasons

Public holidays bring closures. Seasonal changes also affect operations.

Holidays & Closures

  • Public Holidays: January 1, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, August 1, December 25-26.
  • Impact: Many businesses closed or reduced hours. Plan grocery shopping ahead.
  • Seasonal Closures: Late April to early June, late October to mid-December. Check ahead for specific attractions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social Customs

  • Greeting: Handshake common. Use formal "Sie" (German) or "Lei" (Italian).
  • Attire: Smart casual to formal for evenings, practical for day. Neat and presentable.
  • Tipping: Service charges included. Round up or add 5-10% for exceptional service.
  • Photography: Generally fine in public spaces. Avoid close-ups of individuals without permission.

Important Conduct

  • Taboos: Avoid discussing private finances or politics unless initiated.
  • Punctuality: Highly valued. Being late for appointments is impolite.
  • Littering: Strongly discouraged. Dispose of waste properly.
  • LGBTQ+ Info: Switzerland is progressive and tolerant. St. Moritz is welcoming.

Airport Services:

For lounge access, consider a Priority Pass membership. If you experience flight delays or cancellations, Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Accessibility Information

Switzerland has improved accessibility, but St. Moritz's mountainous terrain creates some challenges. Plan ahead to ensure your journey meets your specific needs.

Mobility Infrastructure

Newer public buildings, train stations, and many hotels have ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) helps travelers with reduced mobility if booked in advance. Terrain in St. Moritz Dorf can be difficult.

Accessible Transport

Many main attractions (Engadiner Museum, Segantini Museum) are accessible. Some mountain lifts (cable cars, funiculars) accommodate wheelchairs. Modern Engadin buses often have low floors or ramps. Newer trains feature wheelchair spaces.

Sensory Accessibility

Information in Braille or audio formats at some larger museums. Sign language interpretation not routine but arrangements for specific services or tours can happen if requested ahead of time.

Accessibility Resources

Several organizations provide information on accessible travel in Switzerland.

Organizations

  • Procap Reisen: A Swiss organization promoting accessible travel.
  • MySwitzerland.com/accessibility: Official Swiss tourism site with accessibility details.
  • Direct Contact: Always contact attractions, hotels, or transport providers directly ahead of time.

Planning for Mobility

For mobility concerns, choose your accommodation wisely. St. Moritz Bad can be a better choice due to its terrain.

Accommodation Choice

  • Consider St. Moritz Bad rather than Dorf for flatter terrain.
  • Easier access to the lake and Ovaverva Spa in St. Moritz Bad.
  • Check specific hotel accessibility features directly.

Public Transport Assistance

SBB Assistance

  • Assistance for travelers with reduced mobility.
  • Book assistance in advance.
  • Covers travel on Swiss Federal Railways (SBB).

Engadin Bus & Mountain Lifts

  • Modern Engadin buses often low-floor or with ramps.
  • Larger funiculars and cable cars accommodate wheelchairs.
  • Verify specific lift accessibility beforehand.

Planning Note:

It is always advisable to contact specific attractions, hotels, or transport providers directly ahead of time to confirm their current accessibility features and verify they meet your needs.

Medical & Safety

This section covers medical services, local laws, and general safety for your trip to St. Moritz.

Healthcare Services

Switzerland boasts high-quality healthcare. St. Moritz has good access to medical services.

Accessing Care

  • Hospital Engadin in Samedan (nearby) for emergencies and general care.
  • Doctors' offices and pharmacies available in St. Moritz Dorf.
  • Pharmacies sell over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Emergency Numbers

Know these numbers for urgent situations. These are standard across Switzerland.

Direct Contact

  • Ambulance: 144
  • Fire Department: 118
  • Police: 117

Local Laws & Regulations

Switzerland has clear laws and regulations. Familiarize yourself with them to have a smooth trip.

Legal Aspects

  • Smoking is restricted in public indoor spaces and on public transport.
  • Driving: Right-hand side, strict speed limits, daytime running lights needed.
  • Alcohol: Legal drinking age 16 for beer/wine, 18 for spirits.

General Safety

St. Moritz and Switzerland are generally very safe. Common-sense precautions are always useful.

Personal Security

  • Petty crime very low; still safeguard valuables.
  • Mountain safety: Adhere to marked trails, check weather.
  • Hiking: Wear proper footwear, carry water and navigation tools.

Altitude Sickness Advisory

Symptoms & Prevention

  • St. Moritz is at 1,856m (6,089ft). High altitude can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Limit strenuous activity on arrival day.

Response & Hydration

  • If symptoms persist, descend to a lower altitude.
  • Consult a doctor if symptoms are severe.
  • Carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling from local taps is recommended.

Insurance & Preparation

Travel Insurance

  • Comprehensive travel insurance is very good.
  • Covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage.
  • Especially for skiing or other adventure sports.

Before You Go

  • Check passport validity and visa requirements.
  • Have copies of important documents (passport, insurance).
  • Pack any necessary personal medications with prescriptions.

Safety Advisory:

Always inform someone of your hiking plans, especially if venturing into more remote areas. Dress in layers and check weather forecasts daily before any outdoor activity.

Money & Banking

This section covers currency, payment methods, banking services, and tipping practices to handle your finances effectively in St. Moritz.

Currency & Exchange

The local currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). While some places may accept Euros, it is generally at an unfavorable exchange rate.

Currency & Exchange Tips

  • Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency.
  • Exchange bureaus at Zurich Airport, larger train stations.
  • Avoid exchanging money at hotels for better rates.

Payment Methods

Cash is always accepted, but card payments are very widespread and convenient. Contactless payment is common.

Card & Cash

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro) widely accepted.
  • Contactless payments common (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
  • Carry some small denominations for smaller purchases.

ATMs & Banking Services

ATMs are readily available throughout St. Moritz for cash withdrawals. Banks offer full services during business hours.

Cash Access

  • ATMs (Bancomat) are plentiful at banks, train stations, shopping areas.
  • Bank hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (typical).
  • Inform your bank of international travel to avoid card blocks.

Tipping & Service

Service charges are included in prices by law. Tipping is not obligatory, but a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated.

Service Gratuity

  • Rounding up the bill is common.
  • 5-10% for exceptional service.
  • Taxi drivers: Round up to the nearest franc.

VAT & Tax-Free Shopping

Switzerland's Value Added Tax (VAT) is 8.1%. Tourists can claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount, usually CHF 300.

Tax Refund Process

  • Ask for a Global Blue or Planet Tax Free form at checkout.
  • Present forms, passport, and purchases at customs upon departure for a stamp.
  • Claim your refund at a refund office or by mail.

Eligibility

  • Must be a non-resident of Switzerland.
  • Minimum purchase amount typically applies.
  • Goods must be exported from Switzerland within 30 days.

Cost of Living Insights

St. Moritz is known for its high prices. Plan your budget carefully.

Expenses

  • Accommodation and dining can be expensive.
  • Grocery shopping at Coop or Migros can reduce food costs.
  • Public transport with a pass can save money.
  • Look for 'Tagesteller' (daily specials) for more affordable lunches.

Budgeting Tips

Smart planning helps manage costs in this luxury destination.

Cost Savings

  • Stay in St. Moritz Bad or nearby villages for cheaper accommodation.
  • Utilize the "Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass.
  • Take advantage of free activities like hiking and lake walks.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up from free public fountains.

Currency Exchange Warning

Unfavorable Rates

Exchanging currency at hotels or small shops often results in poor exchange rates. It's best to use ATMs for withdrawals or exchange at banks.

Dynamic Currency Conversion

When paying by card, always choose to be charged in Swiss Francs (CHF) to avoid dynamic currency conversion, which usually has a higher markup.

Financial Note:

Always carry a small amount of cash for minor purchases, though card payments are widely accepted.