Exploring Chur’s Old Town: A Guided Tour in German
If you’re visiting Switzerland’s oldest city, a guided tour through Chur’s charming old town is an excellent way to learn about its centuries of stories and architecture. For around $24.90 per person, this two-hour walk takes you through narrow winding streets, past centuries-old buildings, and up to the impressive 800-year-old cathedral. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the city’s past, its key sights, and even some amusing anecdotes.
What makes this tour stand out are two things: first, the rich mix of historical architecture and local stories, which helps bring the city’s history to life; and second, the stunning mountain views that frame the old town, giving you a real sense of Chur’s unique setting. The tour is well-paced, with short stops that keep things lively and engaging.
A possible consideration is that it’s conducted entirely in German, which could be a barrier if you’re not comfortable with the language. However, the company’s reviews suggest the guides are engaging, and visual interest and storytelling often transcend language barriers.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, local experiences and enjoy strolling through historic streets while soaking up the atmosphere of Switzerland’s oldest city. It’s especially good for those new to Chur or anyone wanting a solid overview before exploring on their own.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Guided walk in the heart of Chur’s old town, filled with local stories and history.
- Historic Sights: Highlights include the cathedral, town hall, and medieval towers.
- Stunning Scenery: Beautiful mountain views framing the old town, perfect for photos.
- Compact & Engaging: About 2 hours, with plenty of interesting stops and stories.
- Affordable: Excellent value for the price, with many highlights included.
- Language: Guided in German, suitable for German speakers or those comfortable with the language.
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A Detailed Look at the Tour
Starting Point: Bahnhofstrasse 32
We begin right in front of the Tourist Information Office on Bahnhofstrasse, a perfect spot to orient yourself. Surrounded by towering mountains, this initial view already hints at the scenic beauty that surrounds Chur. The lively street buzzes with local life, giving a first taste of the city’s friendly atmosphere. The guide, perhaps a local who speaks engagingly, sets the tone for the walk ahead.
Rhaetian Railway Administration Building
Next, we stop outside the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) Administration Building. The building is a fine example of the Bündner Heimatstil, a regional architectural style that emphasizes local traditions. While we only see it from outside, it’s a meaningful glimpse into Chur’s architectural identity. The building’s prominent, appealing design hints at the city’s importance as a transportation hub.
Bündner Kunstmuseum
We then stroll into the area around the Bündner Kunstmuseum, which is housed in two distinctive buildings: the neoclassical Villa Planta and a modern extension designed by Barozzi & Veiga. Here, we briefly pause in the garden to admire H.R. Inspire Giger’s “Torso with a long skull shape”—a cool intersection of local art and international fame. The museum’s presence hints at Chur’s cultural depth, making a quick stop here more than just a photo opportunity.
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Postplatz and Graubündner Kantonalbank
Moving to Postplatz, we observe the bustling heart of Chur’s traffic and social life. The architecture of the Kantonalbank headquarters stands out, and the guide shares stories about the square’s role as a crossroads. Here, you get a sense of how the city connects its historical core with modern life. The square is lively, and the explanations add context to the everyday scenes.
Fontanapark
The tour takes us into Fontanapark, a colorful oasis that showcases a Baroque garden layout from before 1860. It’s a lively spot, perfect for absorbing the city’s relaxed vibe. Our guide shares stories, making the space feel like a community hub, not just a park.
Kornplatz
Next, we visit Kornplatz, which has roots going back to the 13th century when it was known as Klosterplatz. Once the site of a monastery, it later housed a granary. The mix of historical layers makes it a fascinating stop, and the guide explains the significance of the area’s changing role over centuries.
Town Hall and Reichsgasse
The Town Hall is quirky—its irregular shape and sloping roof tell a story of its past. Inside, the architecture reveals more about Chur’s civic history. Nearby, Reichsgasse was once Chur’s main street, and the guide shares amusing anecdotes about the old traffic rules, like the now-legendary car ban in Graubünden.
St. Martinsplatz and St. Maria Himmelfahrt Cathedral
In the oldest part of the city, Martinsplatz is centered around St. Martin’s Church. If open, stepping inside offers a chance to see medieval architecture firsthand. Then, we ascend to the cathedral, a commanding structure over 800 years old. The late Gothic high altar gleams in gold, and the interior walk allows us to appreciate the craftsmanship and spiritual history embedded in the building.
Bärenloch and Arcas
The Bärenloch is one of Chur’s best-preserved medieval neighborhoods—an enchanting, almost storybook corner of the city. Nearby, Arcas presents a picturesque square that has undergone significant changes since 1971, when old magazine structures were removed to reveal its medieval charm. The guide helps us appreciate how the city balances historical preservation with modern living.
Obertor and Final Stop
The tour concludes outside the Obertor, one of the city’s remaining medieval towers. It’s a fitting end, as the Obertor symbolizes the city’s historic defenses. The tour wraps up here, giving us a panoramic sense of Chur’s past and present.
What Travelers Love About This Tour
Many reviewers, like the one who called it a “great experience,” praise the friendly guides who tailor the stories to the group’s interests while showing off the city’s highlights. The mention of entertaining storytelling for teenagers suggests this tour is engaging for all ages, especially if you prefer stories over dry facts.
The stunning mountain vistas and authentic historic architecture are standout features, making this walk not just educational but visually rewarding. The tour’s pacing is well-behaved, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Value for Money
At $24.90, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the number of stops and the depth of stories shared. Since museum visits are not included, you might want to budget separately if you plan to go inside some of the sites, like the cathedral or the Kunstmuseum.
Practical Tips
- The tour is conducted in German, so a basic understanding of the language will enhance your experience.
- The meeting point at Bahnhofstrasse is central and easy to find, close to public transportation.
- The tour can accommodate up to 20 travelers, making it intimate enough for questions and interaction.
- Booking at least a week in advance is recommended, as the tour tends to fill up early.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This guided walk is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting an authentic glimpse of Chur’s past and present. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate stunning scenery combined with storytelling, as many stops have beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Travelers who prefer a compact, well-paced experience will find this tour hits the right balance of depth and leisure.
Final Thoughts
A guided tour of Chur’s old town offers a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and local stories, all set against a backdrop of spectacular mountain scenery. It’s a clear choice for visitors who want to maximize their time in the city without missing its most important sights and stories.
While the German language might be a barrier for some, the engaging guides and visual richness of the city can make this an enriching experience for most travelers. The tour’s affordability and the quality of sights make it an excellent value, especially if you’re eager to understand the city beyond its surface.
Whether you’re a history lover, a lover of scenic views, or simply someone curious about Switzerland’s oldest city, this walk will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Chur’s charm and resilience.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes. One reviewer mentioned that guides are good at engaging younger travelers, making it a fun experience for teens.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, allowing enough time to explore many sights without feeling rushed.
What is included in the tour?
A knowledgeable city guide conducts the walk, sharing stories and insights about Chur’s sights.
Are museums included in the tour?
No, museums are not part of the tour fee, so you might want to plan for separate visits if interested.
Is this tour conducted in English?
No, it’s guided in German. Basic understanding of the language will help, though storytelling often transcends language barriers.
What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Bahnhofstrasse 32, near the Tourist Information office.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most of the stops are walking and on even surfaces, but some narrow streets might pose challenges.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket if needed, and perhaps a camera for the scenic views.
Is there a group size limit?
Yes, a maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personal experience.
This guided walk through Chur’s old town offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty that will appeal to curious travelers eager to explore Switzerland’s oldest city in a relaxed, engaging way.