
Chur–Arosa Line (Arosabahn)
A scenic railway journey through the Swiss Alps, famed for its viaducts, valleys, and charming alpine villages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lush green landscapes

Chur–Arosa Line (Arosabahn)
Best Time
Lush green landscapes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic railway journey through the Swiss Alps, famed for its viaducts, valleys, and charming alpine villages.
"The views are absolutely spectacular, especially from the right side of the train!"

Right-side seats are best! 💺
Sit on the right side when heading to Arosa for the most stunning valley and viaduct views.
Open-top carriages in summer ☀️
Experience unparalleled views and fresh mountain air in the open-top carriages during warmer months.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Langwieser Viaduct
Between Langwies and St. Peter-Pagig
An iconic engineering marvel offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape.

Panoramic Views
Entire route
Experience dramatic valleys, lush forests, charming villages, and snow-capped peaks from the comfort of the train.

Arosa Village
Terminus
A charming alpine resort town perfect for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, easily accessible from the train station.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Right-side seats are best! 💺
Sit on the right side when heading to Arosa for the most stunning valley and viaduct views.
Open-top carriages in summer ☀️
Experience unparalleled views and fresh mountain air in the open-top carriages during warmer months.
Book tickets ahead 🎟️
Popular route, especially in winter. Booking in advance ensures a seat and avoids long queues.
Hourly departures ⏰
Trains run regularly, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Check the schedule for specific times.
Ski day trips from Zürich with public transport tips
Tips
from all over the internet
Right-side seats are best! 💺
Sit on the right side when heading to Arosa for the most stunning valley and viaduct views.
Open-top carriages in summer ☀️
Experience unparalleled views and fresh mountain air in the open-top carriages during warmer months.
Book tickets ahead 🎟️
Popular route, especially in winter. Booking in advance ensures a seat and avoids long queues.
Hourly departures ⏰
Trains run regularly, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Check the schedule for specific times.
Connect to ski lifts ⛷️
The Arosa station is conveniently located near the Weisshorn cable car for easy access to ski slopes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the breathtaking scenery and engineering marvels of the Chur-Arosa Line, especially the iconic Langwieser Viaduct. The convenience of reaching Arosa and the option of open-top carriages in summer are highly praised. However, many visitors note that the trains can become extremely overcrowded, impacting the comfort of the journey.
"A wonderful place to visit"
Aruna Vig
"The terminus of the Chur-Arosa line, this small station provides easy access for skiers to the Weisshorn cable car via a footbridge that crosses the railway line. In summer, open-topped carriages offer panoramic views. Departures take place every hour."
Gilles Oster
"A small, well-organized train station located very close to the mountain railways. There's a connection to Chur every hour. In summer, there are also trains to Arosa with open panoramic carriages."
Thomas Mueller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chur-Arosa Line starts in Chur, Switzerland. You can easily reach Chur by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich or Geneva. The Arosabahn station is conveniently located within Chur's main train station, making transfers seamless.
Yes, there are several parking garages available near the Chur train station. However, it's often more convenient and eco-friendly to arrive by public transport if you're already in Switzerland.
Absolutely! Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station) has frequent direct train connections to Chur. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The most scenic and recommended way to travel to Arosa is by taking the Chur-Arosa Line itself. It's an integral part of the experience.
Generally, standard luggage is permitted. For larger items or skis, it's advisable to check with the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) for specific policies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on your origin and destination, and whether you have any rail passes. A standard round-trip ticket from Chur to Arosa is generally considered fair. Booking online in advance can sometimes offer better rates.
You can purchase tickets at the Chur train station ticket counter, through the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) website, or via their mobile app. It's recommended to buy in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Yes, various Swiss Travel Passes, Half Fare Cards, and regional passes often provide discounts or free travel on the Arosabahn. Check the RhB website for current offers and eligibility.
The Chur-Arosa Line operates year-round with frequent departures, typically hourly. It's best to check the official Rhaetian Railway (RhB) timetable for the most up-to-date operating hours for your specific travel date.
While not always mandatory, seat reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak winter ski season and summer holidays, to guarantee a spot and avoid overcrowding.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most spectacular views are found on the right side of the train when traveling from Chur to Arosa. Key highlights include the Langwieser Viaduct and the dramatic Plessur Alps.
Yes, in the summer months, the Chur-Arosa Line often operates with open-top panoramic carriages, offering an incredibly immersive experience of the alpine scenery.
Arosa is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, with access to extensive slopes. In summer, it's a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and those seeking relaxation by Lake Obersee.
The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) generally strives for accessibility. Modern trains are usually equipped with ramps and designated spaces. It's advisable to contact RhB in advance to confirm specific accessibility features for your journey.
The scenic train journey from Chur to Arosa takes approximately one hour. It's a leisurely ride designed to let you soak in the stunning mountain landscapes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Langwieser Viaduct is a must-photograph spot. Other great locations include viewpoints overlooking the valleys and charming alpine villages. Consider stopping at various stations for different perspectives.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for dramatic landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but the open-top carriages in summer provide unique angles.
Absolutely! The panoramic windows and open-top carriages (in summer) are perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos of the scenery. Be mindful of other passengers and use a steady hand.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and viaducts. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the mountains. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Trainspotters might catch glimpses of freight trains, particularly near Chur. The Ge 4/4 II locomotives are sometimes seen on these services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Aim for weekday travel if possible to avoid the biggest crowds, as some reviews mention the trains can get quite packed, especially during peak ski season. Ensure you have a seat reservation if traveling during busy periods to guarantee space for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Pro Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a telephoto lens to zoom in on distant mountain details. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll be taking a lot of photos! If you're interested in trains themselves, keep an eye out for different locomotive models, which are often shared by enthusiasts online.
⛷️ Skiers & Snowboarders
Advice: Pack your ski gear efficiently. Many travelers opt for ski bags that can be stowed overhead or in designated areas. Check the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) website for any specific guidelines on transporting winter sports equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Langwieser Viaduct
Constructed from reinforced concrete, the viaduct stretches for over 284 meters and reaches a height of 62 meters. Its construction was a significant undertaking, requiring innovative techniques for its time. Today, it stands not only as a crucial piece of infrastructure for the Arosabahn but also as a symbol of the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty while embracing modern development. The views from the train as it crosses this magnificent structure are truly unforgettable.
Seasonal Splendor: Summer vs. Winter
Conversely, winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland. The line becomes a gateway to Arosa's renowned ski resorts, with snow-capped peaks and a fairytale ambiance. The views are equally stunning, albeit in a different palette of whites and blues. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or simply wish to admire the majestic alpine scenery, the Arosabahn delivers a memorable journey year-round.
The Arosabahn Experience: Beyond the Scenery
For those interested in the operational side, spotting different types of locomotives and carriages, like the Allegra ABe 8/12 or older models, can add an extra layer of enjoyment. Train enthusiasts often share their sightings and experiences online, highlighting the diverse rolling stock that operates on this picturesque route.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit