Arriving in St. Moritz feels like stepping into a postcard. The Swiss Alps rise behind a resort town known for winter sport and luxury stays. Many visitors arrive by train—on the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express. Seat reservations are required for both panoramic services.
As the train climbs toward the Engadin, travelers are treated to a visual feast of lakes, villages, and wide mountain valleys. The anticipation builds as you near St. Moritz, with its iconic lake and the mountains framing the horizon.
Key takeaways
- St. Moritz pairs dramatic Alpine scenery with a polished, luxury feel.
- Two days is enough for lakefront time, one big mountain excursion, and a standout meal.
- Winter is for skiing and ice; summer is for hiking, biking, and lake time.
- Wellness options range from hotel spas to gentle recovery in nature.
- Plan transport and lift times early, especially in peak season.
Day 1: Exploring the town and surroundings
Spend your first day wandering St. Moritz’s streets, where traditional chalet style mixes with Belle Époque touches and modern design. A stroll along the lakefront promenade offers sweeping views of Lake St. Moritz—sailboats in summer, and (when conditions allow) a winter stage for ice sports and seasonal events.
As you explore, you’ll find boutiques offering everything from high-end fashion to artisanal crafts. Many shops also highlight Swiss-made goods and regional specialties.
A visit to the Segantini Museum is a must for art lovers. Dedicated to Giovanni Segantini, it offers insight into the painter’s life and his connection to the Engadin region. The hilltop setting also gives you a beautiful view.
Day 1: Outdoor activities in St. Moritz
Now it’s time to get outside. In winter, skiing takes center stage, and the Corviglia–Piz Nair area is the classic local choice with slopes for many skill levels. Snowboarders and freestyle skiers will also find parks and freeride options depending on conditions.
In summer, St. Moritz becomes a playground for hikers and mountain bikers. Trails range from easy lakeside walks to tougher routes with wide views across the Upper Engadin. Piz Nair is a popular goal and a high lookout, reached by lifts or on foot in summer.
Day 2: Mountain adventures
Use day two for bigger views. Diavolezza is a strong pick for glacier scenery. A gondola ride lifts you into a high-Alpine world with views of Piz Bernina, Piz Palü, and major glaciers. From the top, you can join guided glacier experiences (seasonal) or take marked trails to viewpoints.
For a different angle, tandem paragliding is available in the Engadin year-round. Launch areas vary by operator and conditions, but flights often start from mountains such as Corviglia or Muottas Muragl. If flying isn’t your thing, a sunset or sunrise ride to Muottas Muragl is a memorable alternative for big views over the Engadin’s lake district.
Day 2: Relaxation and wellness
After time in the mountains, slow down. St. Moritz has several hotel spas offering massages, saunas, and pool time. The Kulm Hotel’s spa is a well-known option for classic treatments and recovery-focused amenities.
If you prefer something simpler, choose gentle movement: a lakeside stroll, an easy hike, or a yoga class offered by many hotels (seasonal). Note that the public pool and spa OVAVERVA has been closed for refurbishment and is scheduled to reopen in May 2026—check the latest status if this is part of your plan.
Day 2: Culinary delights in St. Moritz
St. Moritz has an impressive range of dining options, from polished hotel restaurants to cosy spots serving Swiss comfort food.
For a special night out, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is known for restaurants such as Le Restaurant and La Coupole – Matsuhisa (Japanese-Peruvian fusion). For a chalet-style atmosphere, Chesa Veglia is a long-running favorite for Alpine classics like fondue and raclette.
For authentic Swiss comfort food, fondue or raclette in a cosy chalet setting is the kind of meal that makes winter evenings feel even warmer.
Shopping and cultural experiences in St. Moritz
Beyond the scenery and food, St. Moritz offers galleries and cultural stops that showcase local artists and regional craft. Shopping extends beyond luxury labels to include Swiss-made goods, small-batch foods, and keepsakes that reflect local traditions.
Departure from St. Moritz
As your time in St. Moritz comes to an end, there’s a bittersweet feeling as you prepare to leave. Whether you retrace your route through the Alps or take a new line, the mix of mountain air, lake views, and small indulgences tends to linger long after you go.
FAQs
What are the must-see attractions in St. Moritz for a 2-day itinerary?
Popular picks include Lake St. Moritz, a viewpoint like Muottas Muragl, a mountain ride to Corviglia/Piz Nair, and museums such as the Segantini Museum or the Engadiner Museum.
What outdoor activities can be enjoyed in St. Moritz?
In winter: skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and winter walks. In summer: hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the lakes.
What are some recommended dining options in St. Moritz?
For a splurge, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel has several well-known restaurants. For cosy classics, places like Chesa Veglia and Dal Mulin are often mentioned for Alpine and Italian-leaning comfort food.
What is the best way to get around St. Moritz?
St. Moritz is walkable, and local buses connect the station with St. Moritz Dorf and St. Moritz Bad. For day trips, regional trains and buses make it easy to explore the Engadin.
What are some recommended accommodations in St. Moritz?
For classic luxury, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is an iconic choice in town. For a modern design option connected to the Corvatsch cable car, Nira Alpina in nearby Silvaplana is a popular base.
