Magic of the Chur Christmas Market 2026

To plan your trip, review Rhätische Bahn (RhB).

For the most up-to-date details, check Stadt Chur before you go.

Food is a major part of the holiday experience in Chur. You must try the traditional barley soup to stay warm. Roasted chestnuts provide a sweet and smoky snack while you shop. Many stalls offer unique gifts that you cannot find elsewhere.

For more details, check out the Chur Christmas market 2026 guide for your visit. The atmosphere is cozy with thousands of twinkling fairy lights. It is the perfect place to meet friends for a drink. The scent of cinnamon and pine fills the cold mountain air.

The market is open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Entry to the market area is free for all visitors. You can find the main stalls at Alexanderplatz and Postplatz. These locations are very easy to reach from the train station.

Many people visit the Chur Tourismus office for local maps. You can find beautiful Swiss watches and wooden toys for sale. Be sure to bring cash as some small stalls do not take cards. Most vendors speak English and are very helpful to tourists.

New Year's Eve Celebrations in the Old Town

Celebrating New Year's Eve in Chur 2026 is a memorable experience. The city center becomes a hub of music and joy. Locals gather in the squares to count down the final seconds. It is a time for celebration and looking forward to the future.

Many restaurants offer special multi-course gala dinners for the evening. You should book your table several weeks in advance to secure a spot. Prices for these dinners often range from 100 to 200 Swiss Francs. These meals usually feature local Graubünden specialties and fine wines.

After dinner, the party continues in the local bars and clubs. You can find live DJs playing everything from pop to traditional music. The Arcas square often hosts public gatherings with a great atmosphere. Make sure to dress warmly for the outdoor celebrations.

Public transport runs late on New Year's Eve in Chur. You can take the night bus to reach nearby villages safely. Taxis are also available but they are quite expensive at night. Expect to pay around 30 CHF for a short city ride.

The fireworks display is a highlight for many people in the city. You can watch the sky light up from the historic city walls. It is a peaceful way to start the new year with family. Many people share a glass of champagne at midnight.

The Vibrant Chur Carnival Fasnacht 2026

The Chur Carnival Fasnacht 2026 dates are essential for your calendar. This event usually takes place in February before the start of Lent. It is a loud and colorful celebration of local culture. You will see people wearing incredible masks and costumes.

Guggenmusik bands are the heart of the carnival celebrations. These brass bands play popular songs with a loud, rhythmic twist. They perform on stages and march through the narrow city streets. The music is infectious and makes everyone want to dance.

The main parade is the biggest highlight for many visitors. Dozens of groups create elaborate floats to show off to the crowds. You can buy a carnival badge to support the local organizers. It is a fantastic way to experience authentic Swiss folklore.

The carnival atmosphere is very welcoming to tourists from abroad. You do not need to speak German to enjoy the fun. Just wear a colorful hat or a simple mask. This helps you blend in with the local celebrating crowds.

Be sure to try the special carnival pastries called Fasnachtsküchli. These thin, crispy treats are dusted with powdered sugar. You can find them at every bakery during the festival. They are delicious and give you energy for the parade.

Winter Food Festivals and Culinary Highlights

Food lovers will enjoy the various winter food festivals in Chur this year. These events celebrate the rich flavors of the alpine region. You can taste everything from aged cheeses to dried meats. Many local producers share their stories and traditional recipes.

Cheese fondue is a must-eat dish during the cold winter months. Many restaurants set up special outdoor fondue chalets for guests. You can dip crusty bread into melted cheese while wrapped in blankets. It is a cozy way to spend a winter evening.

Try the local Capuns, which are chard leaves stuffed with dough. This dish is a true specialty of the Graubünden canton. You will find it on many menus throughout the winter season. It is hearty, warm, and perfect after a day of exploring.

Most winter food events take place in the Old Town. You can walk between different tasting stations easily. A food tour ticket usually costs about 80 Swiss Francs. This includes several small dishes and local drinks.

Don't forget to sample the local wine known as Blauburgunder. This red wine is produced in the nearby vineyards. It pairs perfectly with the heavy alpine dishes served in winter. Many restaurants offer wine tasting flights for curious guests.

Active Winter Sports and Mountain Events

Many winter sports events near Chur attract athletes and fans. The Brambrüesch mountain is accessible directly from the city center. You can take a cable car to the top in minutes. The views of the Rhine Valley are absolutely breathtaking.

Sledding is a popular activity for people of all ages. The run from Brambrüesch down to the middle station is fun. It is about five kilometers long and very well-maintained. You can rent sleds at the mountain station for a fee.

The Rhätische Bahn offers scenic winter journeys from Chur. You can take the train to nearby ski resorts like Arosa. The ride takes less than an hour through snowy mountains. It is one of the most beautiful train trips.

Winter hiking is a great way to see the landscape slowly. There are many marked trails that stay open all winter. You can walk through quiet forests and snowy alpine meadows. Always check the local weather forecast before you head out.

Equipment rental for skiing usually costs about 50 CHF per day. You can find several sports shops in the city center. They offer high-quality gear for beginners and experts alike. Booking your equipment in advance can save you time.

Family Activities and Winter Photography Tips

Families will find many family winter events in Chur to enjoy. The Quader ice rink is a favorite spot for children. It is located right in the middle of the city center. You can rent skates and spend an afternoon on the ice.

The indoor winter activities in Chur provide plenty of entertainment options. You can visit the local cinema or the climbing gym. There are also several libraries with cozy reading corners. These spots are perfect for relaxing after a busy morning.

Photography enthusiasts should follow a Chur winter photography spot guide for the best views. The snow-covered rooftops of the Old Town look stunning. Head to the Haldenhüttli viewpoint for a panoramic city shot. The blue hour offers the best lighting for photos.

The Chur winter nightlife and bars offer a warm escape. You can find everything from cozy pubs to modern lounges. Many bars feature live music during the weekend evenings. It is a great way to meet other travelers.

Many events offer discounts for visitors with a guest card. Ask your hotel for a Chur guest card upon arrival. This card provides free use of local city buses. It also gives you lower prices for the cable car.