Chur is a fantastic place for exploring on foot, especially if you enjoy stories, art, and local culture. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate, and the city’s layers of history are layered into every alley and building. We love the Chur: Altstadtführung tour for its lively storytelling and chance to see the city’s medieval roots firsthand. The guide’s enthusiasm makes wandering through cobbled streets feel like stepping back in time. Plus, if you’re curious about the darker side of Chur, the Crimes city tour offers a fascinating look at the city’s criminal past—from medieval misdeeds to modern mysteries. Both tours give a different flavor of Chur’s character and are excellent options for getting under the surface of this Swiss town. For a personalized experience, the Private Tour of Chur in 90 minutes with a local offers deep insights into the city’s landmarks and insider tips on where to eat and drink. You can find more details about this here.
Chur’s diverse tour options cover history, art, culture, and even Instagram-worthy spots. Whether you’re interested in walking through ancient streets, uncovering the city’s secrets, or capturing perfect photos, there’s something here for every traveler. Let’s explore the top 10 tours, so you can choose the one that fits your style and interests.
1. Chur: Altstadtführung
At number 1, the Chur: Altstadtführung is an excellent way to start your visit. For only $37 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours discovering the highlights of Chur’s medieval old town. This tour showcases the city’s foundation, including its charming alleys, the Bear Hole legend, and the baroque castle that sits proudly above the city. The guide, Silvia Crosina, brings the history to life with wit and enthusiasm, making the tour both entertaining and informative. Reviewers mention her spontaneity and storytelling ability, turning a simple city walk into an unforgettable experience.
What makes this tour special is its focus on the city’s layered past—walking through streets that date back to the Middle Ages, and learning about local legends. It’s perfect for history lovers or anyone wanting a relaxed, friendly introduction to Chur. The 1.5-hour format is good for travelers on a tight schedule but still eager to see the essentials of the old town.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value for a lively, engaging overview of Chur’s history and sights, ideal for first-timers wanting a personal touch.
2. Chur: Crimes city tour
At number 2, the Chur: Crimes city tour takes a different approach—focusing on the city’s dark side. For $37 per person and about 1.5 hours, this tour reveals stories of crime from the Middle Ages to today. It’s the only crime-themed tour in Chur, making it a unique way to learn about the city’s less-glamorous history.
Led by guides who weave anecdotes into historical context, you’ll visit sites connected to notable crimes and uncover the city’s gossip and mysteries. Reviewers praise its originality and personal stories, making it a lively, engaging experience. If you’re interested in stories of misdeeds, justice, and the shadows behind the city’s charming facade, this is a perfect choice.
Bottom line: For a different perspective on Chur, the Crime Tour offers a memorable, storytelling-driven experience that’s perfect for history buffs or those with a curiosity for the city’s secret tales.
3. Private Tour of Chur in 90 minutes with a Local
Number 3 is the Private Tour of Chur in 90 minutes with a Local, priced at $136.11 per person. This tailored experience offers a personal, intimate look at the city’s key landmarks. In just an hour and a half, your local guide will take you through highlights like the St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral and the Bishop’s Castle, providing insights into the city’s culture and lifestyle.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and depth. The guide shares insider tips on cafes, restaurants, and bars, helping you get the most out of your visit. Reviewers love the guide, especially mentioning Barbara’s enthusiasm and knowledge. It’s an excellent option for travelers who prefer a personalized experience and want to explore at their own pace.
The tour also includes interesting stops like the Orbiter Sculpture and Fontanapark, blending art, history, and local life. Given its private setup, it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic, customized experience.
Bottom line: This private tour offers a rich, personal introduction to Chur’s most important sights and secrets, ideal for those who value customization and local insights.
4. Explore Chur’s Art and Culture with a Local
Number 4 spotlights Chur’s art and culture with a small-group experience for $136.11 per person. Led by a local, this tour explores Chur’s modern art scene, historic landmarks, and vibrant public spaces in about 1.5 hours. You’ll see the Bindner Kunstmuseum, home to both contemporary and classic art, and enjoy the urban masterpiece “Der Pressurizer” by BENE, inspired by the nearby river.
What makes this tour special is its focus on contemporary urban art alongside traditional sights like Arcas Square and sculptures. Visitors appreciate the blend of old and new, plus the chance to see graffiti spots legally allowed in Chur, giving insight into the city’s modern artistic expression.
It’s perfect for art lovers or travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Chur’s creative side. Reviewers praise the guide Monica for her humor and knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.
Bottom line: For those interested in art and urban culture, this tour combines history with modern artistic expressions, offering a well-rounded cultural snapshot.
5. Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Chur with a Local
Ranked number 5, this Instagram-focused tour costs around $135.71 and lasts about 1.5 hours. Led by a local, you’ll visit the most photogenic locations, from the Bernina Express train to the historic Altstadt. Perfect for social media lovers, this tour offers plenty of tips for snapping great pictures of Chur’s lively neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints.
Highlights include capturing the Bernina Express crossing and panoramic views from Haldenhüttli. The guide shares insight into Chur’s local culture while helping you find the best angles for your photos. Reviewers enjoy the mix of scenic spots and lively streets, making it ideal for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with photography.
This tour suits travelers who want a fun, visually rich experience and aren’t shy about taking lots of pictures. It’s a fantastic way to see Chur through a camera lens with some insider tips.
Bottom line: If Instagram-worthy photos and a lively, scenic route appeal to you, this tour offers a fun, social way to explore Chur’s most photogenic spots.
6. Chur: Private Express Walk with a Local in 90 minutes
Number 6 offers a tailored private walk, lasting 1 to 2 hours, at approximately $136. This experience emphasizes local insights and covers key landmarks like St. Martinsplatz and St. Martin’s Church. It’s a condensed but comprehensive way to understand Chur’s architecture and history in a short time.
Guide Jasmine receives praise for her friendly manner and ability to answer questions clearly. The private format allows you to customize the experience based on your interests, whether that’s focusing on religious sites, city views, or local stories. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and get a personalized introduction.
It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a desire to see the core of Chur’s old town. The flexible start times make it easy to fit into your schedule.
Bottom line: This private, efficient tour is perfect if you want a quick yet thorough introduction to Chur with a personal touch.
7. Chur old town tour: discover 11,000 years of history
Coming in at number 7, this 2-hour walking tour costs only $24. It offers a deep dive into Chur’s ancient roots, highlighting sites like the Church of St. Martin, Cathedral of St. Mary’s Assumption, and the Upper Gate. It’s a good choice for history enthusiasts eager for a longer, more detailed exploration.
Guests describe the guide as smart, funny, and very pleasant, and appreciate the chance to learn about over 11,000 years of history. While some mention the explanations could be more coordinated, the overall experience is highly positive. It’s suitable for travelers who like a deeper historical context, and it’s a budget-friendly option.
Bottom line: A longer, more detailed tour that reveals Chur’s ancient past — perfect for history buffs willing to spend two hours soaking up stories and sights.
8. Chur: Capture the most Photogenic Spots with a Local
Ranked number 8, this 1.5-hour tour at approximately $133 focuses on photography and local culture. Led by a local, you’ll explore Chur’s most Instagram-worthy locations, including scenic viewpoints and landmarks like the Arcas Square and modern art sculptures.
Participants love the combination of capturing beautiful images and hearing stories behind each spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want to improve their photography skills while also experiencing the city’s lively atmosphere. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention.
Reviewers specifically mention the guide’s insight into local photo spots and the chance to see the city from a different angle. The tour is well suited for social media enthusiasts or anyone wanting a stylish keepsake of their trip.
Bottom line: Combining photography with local storytelling, this tour is perfect for capturing the best of Chur while learning about its culture.
9. Chur’s Art and Culture revealed by a Local
Number 9 offers a 1.5-hour exploration for $133 per person. Led by a local, it covers Chur’s art scene, including the largest graffiti in town and the Sculpture Park at Forum Würth. The guide’s engaging and humorous style makes it a lively way to see how the city blends traditional elegance with modern urban art.
Highlights include visiting the Bündner Kunstmuseum and seeing “Der Pressurizer,” a striking urban art piece. Reviewers praise Monica Andreoli’s knowledge and humor, even if the starting point was initially confusing. This tour suits art lovers interested in contemporary expression alongside historic sites.
Bottom line: For a dynamic mix of street art, sculpture, and museum visits, this tour offers an artistic perspective you won’t find elsewhere.
10. Chur – Old Town Private Walking Tour
Completing the list, the Chur – Old Town Private Walking Tour provides an intimate look at over 5,000 years of history. At about 1.5 hours, it’s an ideal private option for those who want to explore at their own pace. The tour includes visits to St. Martin’s square, Corn square, and Arcas square.
Reviewers highlight the friendly manner of the guide and the detailed explanations. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience with flexible timing. This tour’s focus on famous buildings and historical sites makes it especially valuable for history and architecture buffs.
Bottom line: A friendly, flexible private tour that covers the essential sights of Chur’s historic core, ideal for those wanting a tailored experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Chur
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, timeframe, and travel style. If you’re short on time but want a lively overview, the Private Tour in 90 minutes offers a personalized touch. For those fascinated by history and legends, the Old Town Discover Tour provides depth, while art lovers should consider the Art and Culture or Photogenic Spots tours.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the longer old town exploration at just $24, while photo enthusiasts will enjoy the visual storytelling of the Instagram tour. For a taste of Chur’s darker stories, the Crimes Tour stands out.
Keep practicalities in mind: tours priced around $37 are great for quick introductions, while private experiences at $136 or more suit travelers wanting tailored insights. Always check availability and book early, especially in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Chur’s range of tours makes it easy to find something that fits your curiosity and schedule. Whether you prefer a fun, storytelling walk, a private deep dive, or a photo-focused adventure, the city delivers. For first-time visitors, the Altstadtführung is a classic choice, but if you’re intrigued by urban art or crime stories, the options are equally compelling.
If you’re after a comprehensive experience that combines history, art, and local insights, consider booking a couple of tours to get a well-rounded view of this charming Swiss city. Remember to reserve your spot early—Chur’s tours tend to fill up, especially in the busy seasons.
Enjoy wandering through Chur’s streets, uncovering its stories, and capturing its beautiful corners. This city’s blend of old and new will surely keep you captivated.
