Landquart

Landquart is a welcoming town and a major transport hub located in the picturesque canton of Graubünden. Often referred to as the "gateway to Prättigau," this settlement serves as an ideal starting point for journeys to the famous ski resorts of Davos and Klosters, combining Alpine charm with modern infrastructure.

Geographically, the town is situated in the Rhine Valley, where the Landquart River flows into the Alpine Rhine, creating a unique landscape. The climate here is temperate with mountain influences, making walks pleasant at any time of year. Although the town's population is only about 8,800 people, it is buzzing with life thanks to the flow of travelers eager to see what Switzerland has to offer.

Despite its modern appearance, the history of Landquart preserves the memory of important regional events, as these lands were settled many centuries ago. Today, the town is known primarily as a major railway center: it is here that tourists transfer from federal railway trains to the narrow-gauge trains of the Rhaetian Railway, heading deep into the majestic Alps.

One of the main attractions drawing thousands of visitors is the Landquart Fashion Outlet. This is not just a shopping center, but a real open-air village, whose architecture is styled after traditional Swiss chalets. Beyond shopping, the town's surroundings offer magnificent opportunities for hiking and cycling among the vineyards and castles of the Rhine Valley.

Landquart definitely deserves a stop. The cozy atmosphere, the possibility of bargain shopping, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks will make your visit a memorable start to a great Alpine adventure.

The climate in Landquart is determined by its location in an Alpine valley, which ensures fresh air year-round. There is no exhausting heat here, so summer is comfortable for active tourism, although it is characterized by high humidity. In the warmest months, July and August, the average temperature is about 14°C, and daytime maximums rarely exceed 19°C. Travelers should be prepared for frequent precipitation: more than 20 rainy days per month are recorded during this period.

The winter season brings frosty weather and stable negative temperatures. The coldest month is traditionally January, with an average indicator of -4.8°C and nighttime cooling down to -9°C. Spring arrives gradually: in March, the thermometer still stays around zero, and perceptible warmth comes only by May.

In general, expect a cool summer with occasional rain and cold, dry in terms of precipitation volume, but cloudy winters. To plan your wardrobe for the trip and choose good dates, we recommend checking what the current weather in Landquart is predicted for the near future.

• The secret of the Swiss franc. It is here in Landquart that the paper and a special protective substrate for Swiss banknotes and passports are produced. The local factory Landqart AG is a world-renowned enterprise that ensures the security of the currency of one of the richest countries in the world.

• Cradle of the Rhaetian Railway. Landquart was the starting point for Graubünden's legendary narrow-gauge network. In 1889, the first train to Klosters was launched from here, marking the beginning of the railway routes that are now included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

• Open-air shopping. The popular Landquart Fashion Outlet is designed not as a typical shopping center, but as a real Alpine village. Strolling between shops, visitors are in the fresh air surrounded by chalet-style architecture while enjoying mountain views.

• The water castle. Located in the immediate vicinity of the town is Marschlins Castle, which is often called a "water castle" because of the moat surrounding it. This is a rare example of such a defensive structure for the mountain regions of Switzerland, recalling the feudal past of the region.

Landquart, being an important transport hub in the canton of Graubünden, boasts excellent accessibility, even though the town does not have its own airport. Travelers must choose one of the nearest international air hubs and then continue their journey by land. You can find out more about how to get to Landquart by considering all available routes and modes of transport.

The most convenient and popular option for tourists is Zurich Airport (IATA: ZRH), located in the city of Zurich. This is the country's largest international airport, receiving flights from all over the world. It is located approximately 93 km from Landquart. A journey by taxi or transfer will take roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes; however, thanks to Switzerland's well-developed railway network, many prefer the train.

One can also consider arriving via neighboring Germany. The closest by distance is Friedrichshafen Airport (IATA: FDH), located in the city of Friedrichshafen, just 78 km from the destination. This is a small regional airport from which the journey by car will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes. An alternative is Memmingen Allgäu Airport (IATA: FMM) in Memmingen (about 125 km away), often used by low-cost airlines. Travel time by road will be approximately 3.5 hours.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airports:

The railway is perhaps the most scenic way to reach the region. In the town of Landquart itself, there is no main station of national scale, but it serves as a key transfer point. The main flow of tourists arrives via Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Main Station), located in the city of Zurich, about 90 km from Landquart. This is one of the busiest railway hubs in the world, with regular direct trains departing toward Chur and stopping in Landquart.

If you are coming from the south, an important hub is the Lugano Railway Station in the city of Lugano (about 116 km away). From there, you can reach Landquart by train or car, enjoying the views of the Alpine passes. Travel time by taxi from Lugano will be more than 3 hours due to the mountainous terrain.

Below is information on the major railway hubs through which it is convenient to plan your route:

Despite its modest size, Landquart offers guests several interesting locations that help diversify a journey through the canton of Graubünden. The town harmoniously combines opportunities for quality shopping, historical walks, and cozy spots for evening relaxation.

The absolute center of attraction for tourists is the Landquart Fashion Outlet. This place is fundamentally different from the usual indoor shopping malls. The complex is designed as a traditional Swiss village with chalets located in the open air against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Here you can find more than 160 premium brands, and a walk through its streets provides aesthetic pleasure even to those who do not plan on making large-scale purchases.

History and architecture enthusiasts should pay attention to Marschlins Castle (Schloss Marschlins), located in the town's vicinity. This magnificent "water castle," surrounded by a moat, dates back to the 13th century and is a rare example of such fortifications in the Alps. Although the castle is privately owned and closed to interior tours, its outward appearance and the surrounding landscapes make it an excellent destination for a walk or bike ride.

After a busy day spent in the mountains or shops, you can drop by Holländer Landquart. This is a popular bar famous for its relaxed atmosphere and hospitality. Locals and tourists alike love to gather here to discuss their impressions over a drink. The establishment perfectly captures the spirit of modern Landquart — a place where the paths of travelers from all over the world intersect.

If you are looking for a quick and hearty snack, locals often recommend Chef's Kebab. While this establishment is not a historical monument, it has become a kind of gastronomic point on the town map, offering tasty food for those who value time and simplicity while traveling.

Landquart's cuisine is inextricably linked to the rich culinary traditions of the canton of Graubünden. It is hearty, truly "Alpine" food designed to warm you up and provide energy for long mountain walks. Local chefs rely on high-quality farm products: fresh milk, aromatic cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables.

The main gastronomic symbol of the region that is definitely worth trying is capuns. These are a kind of roll made from chard leaves, filled with dough containing pieces of dried meat (Salsiz), and simmered in a creamy sauce with cheese. Another iconic dish is maluns, prepared from grated potatoes fried in butter until golden crumbs; it is traditionally served with Alpine cheese and applesauce. Those with a sweet tooth shouldn't leave without a piece of the famous Bündner Nusstorte (Grisons nut cake) with its thick caramel and nut filling.

As for drinks, Landquart is located at the gateway to the Bündner Herrschaft wine region, which is often called the Burgundy of Switzerland. The local pride is Pinot Noir red wine (known here as Blauburgunder). Among traditional digestifs, Röteli — a sweet cherry liqueur with spices — is popular. Among non-alcoholic drinks, the Swiss classic Rivella, a soda based on milk whey, is found everywhere.

The dining culture in the town is diverse: from elegant hotel restaurants to cozy traditional taverns (Gasthaus) where you can feel a home-like atmosphere. Many tourists prefer to have lunch within the fashionable outlet, where many cafes are concentrated. If you are looking for a quick and inexpensive snack in the center, locals often choose Chef's Kebab. This establishment is great for fueling up with simple and filling food between excursions or shopping.

Landquart is a compact and cozy town that often becomes the first point of introduction for tourists to the canton of Graubünden. To make your stay here as comfortable as possible, whether it's a short stop for shopping or the start of a large journey into the Alps, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and weather. The weather in the Rhine Valley is changeable, so the best choice is the layering principle. Even in summer, evenings can be cool due to the proximity of the mountains. Be sure to bring comfortable flat-soled shoes: they will come in handy for both long walks around the outlet and for hiking on nearby trails. An umbrella or a light raincoat will not be superfluous in any season.
2. Transport. Landquart is very compact, and it is most convenient to move around the town itself on foot. For trips around the region, railway transport is ideal: SBB and Rhaetian Railway (RhB) trains run like clockwork. We recommend downloading the SBB Mobile app — it is indispensable for buying tickets and tracking schedules in real-time. Taxis are expensive here, and renting a car only makes sense if you plan to visit remote villages.
3. Finance. The official currency is the Swiss franc (CHF). Although euros may be accepted in large stores (change will be given in francs at an unfavorable rate), it is better to pay by card or withdraw local money from an ATM. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, including ticket machines. Tips in Switzerland are usually already included in the bill, but rounding up the amount is considered a sign of good manners.
4. Health and safety. Landquart is a very safe place where you can safely walk even after dark. The tap water here is of excellent quality — you can and should drink it, saving on the purchase of bottled water. Pharmacies (Apotheke) operate according to standard shop hours and are usually closed on Sundays, so it's better to have a minimal set of medicines with you.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is German (Swiss dialect). However, due to its tourist nature and the outlet, the staff in shops and at ticket counters speak excellent English. Learn a few words to please the locals: the universal greeting here is "Grüezi". Free Wi-Fi is available at the station (SBB-FREE) and in the shopping complex.
6. Local etiquette. the Swiss value personal space and quiet. It is not common to talk loudly in public transport and restaurants, including on the phone. When entering small shops or an elevator, it is customary to greet those present. Punctuality here is not just politeness, but a norm of life, so do not be late for scheduled meetings or excursions.
7. What to avoid. Do not walk on bicycle paths — this can cause dissatisfaction among cyclists and create an emergency situation. Also, avoid making noise on Sunday: this is a day of silence and rest, and loud sounds may be perceived as disrespect to the residents.
8. Useful life hack. If you have come to Landquart in transit for shopping at the Fashion Outlet, use the luggage lockers at the railway station. They are automatic, reliable, and allow you to free your hands from luggage to enjoy your walk unencumbered before transferring to the train to the mountains.

Landquart is distinguished by a calm pace of life and Swiss organization. By following these simple tips, you can easily blend into the local atmosphere and have an exclusively pleasant experience from visiting this picturesque corner of Graubünden.

The nightlife in Landquart fully matches its character — it is a quiet, cozy, and safe town where evening entertainment is oriented more toward relaxed rest after an active day rather than noisy parties until morning. Here you won't find huge night clubs with world-famous DJs, but you can enjoy the warm atmosphere of local bars where it's common to have leisurely conversations over a glass of beer or wine.

The epicenter of evening activity is the railway station area and its adjacent streets. This is where the routes of tourists returning from ski resorts and local residents cross. One of the most popular places for evening leisure is Holländer Landquart. This venue combines the features of a classic bar and a cozy pub. People come here for the excellent selection of drinks, music, and friendly crowd. It gets quite lively here on weekends, and it is perhaps the main point of attraction for those who want to socialize and feel the rhythm of the town.

If your evening involves not just drinks but also gastronomic pleasures, it's worth paying attention to the territory of the Landquart Fashion Outlet. Although the shops close in the evening (usually at 19:00 or 21:00 depending on the day of the week), the restaurants within the complex often stay open longer, offering dinner in the beautiful scenery of an Alpine village. For those who get hungry late at night or are looking for a quick and filling bite after visiting a bar, Chef's Kebab is an excellent option. This simple but beloved spot helps tourists out when most of the town's kitchens are already closed.

The atmosphere in Landquart's establishments is very democratic. There is practically no dress code: it is perfectly normal to show up at a bar in jeans, a sweater, or even hiking gear. The crowd is diverse — from local youth to international tourists with backpacks. Prices correspond to Swiss levels: a cocktail or a glass of wine will cost 8–15 francs, so it's better to plan your budget in advance.

In terms of safety, Landquart is impeccable. You can safely walk the streets at any time of day; the town is well-lit and patrolled. If you stay out late, you can get to your hotel on foot (the town is very compact) or by taxi, which is best ordered by phone or through an app, as "hailing" a car on the street is not common here. Night buses run rarely, so check the schedule on the SBB website in advance.

Daytime entertainment in the town is more varied and often connected with nature and culture. In addition to shopping, tourists go on bike rides along the Rhine or visit vineyards in the surrounding area. Culture lovers can take a trip to the neighboring city of Chur, where theaters and large museums are located, as the selection of cultural institutions in Landquart itself is limited.

The cultural and natural landscape of Landquart is defined by its unique location at the foot of the Alps and the region's rich history. Although the town is often perceived as a transport hub, there are picturesque green areas and curious cultural sites here and in the immediate vicinity that allow travelers to escape the hustle and bustle and touch the heritage of the canton of Graubünden.

The main natural artery and place for walks are the banks of the Rhine River (Alpenrhein). It is here, at the confluence with the Landquart River, that picturesque hiking and cycling routes are laid out. These green zones are perfect for morning jogs or a leisurely stroll with a view of the mountain peaks. Forested areas and floodplain meadows stretch along the river, where you can have a picnic while enjoying the fresh air and the sound of the water.

In the town itself, the role of the main walking area with elements of modern architecture is played by the Landquart Fashion Outlet. Although it is a commercial site, it is designed as a stylized village. Strolling along its cobbled streets past chalet-style houses decorated with flowers and traditional decor, tourists feel as if they have entered an open-air museum of Alpine architecture, where tradition and modernity harmoniously combine.

As for museums, true treasures are hidden just a few minutes' drive from the center. Of particular note is the Greisinger Museum, located in the neighboring village of Jenins. This place is iconic for fantasy fans: it houses the world's largest private collection dedicated to the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and Middle-earth. Visitors can see rare editions of books, paintings, movie props, and sculptures, immersing themselves in the magical atmosphere of hobbits and elves.

From a historical perspective, a key object in the surroundings is Marschlins Castle (Schloss Marschlins). This majestic 13th-century castle, surrounded by a water-filled moat, is a magnificent example of medieval fortification. Although it's impossible to go inside as it is private property, a walk around the castle allows you to appreciate the power of the ancient walls and take atmospheric photos against the backdrop of the mountain landscape and vineyards.

For those who want to see the real Switzerland in all its glory, we suggest taking a walk along the Wine Trail, which begins near the town. The route passes through the well-kept vineyards of the Bündner Herrschaft region. This is not just a walk in nature, but an immersion into the culture of winemaking: along the way, you can encounter ancient wine presses and enjoy panoramic views of the Rhine Valley.

The public transport system in Landquart is characterized by Swiss precision and integration, even though the town itself is quite compact and has no metro, trams, or trolleybuses. Landquart is primarily a crucial railway hub where federal and regional networks converge, so it is the trains that play the main role here.

The main mode of transport is the railway. At the Landquart station, a transfer takes place from the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) trains arriving from major centers to the famous red trains of the Rhaetian Railway (RhB). This narrow-gauge network serves the entire canton of Graubünden, taking tourists to Davos, Klosters, and St. Moritz. Trains run with enviable regularity, often at 30–60 minute intervals, making them an ideal means of travel even for short trips between neighboring settlements.

For trips to places where the rails do not reach, an extensive network of Postal Buses (PostAuto) is used. These recognizable yellow buses depart from the station square and connect the town with surrounding villages and valleys. They are synchronized with the train schedule: as a rule, the bus waits for the arrival of the train so that passengers can transfer comfortably.

The fare payment system is unified. Tickets are valid for all types of transport (train and bus) within the chosen route or zones. The most convenient way to pay is through the SBB Mobile app. It allows you to plan a route, find out the price, and buy a ticket in a couple of clicks. Tickets can also be purchased at red and silver machines at the station (they accept cards and cash) or at ticket offices.

For tourists, there are advantageous travel passes. If you plan to travel a lot around the region, look into the Graubünden Pass, which gives unlimited access to transport in the canton for a certain number of days. For travel throughout the country, the Swiss Travel Pass is suitable. Important to remember: tickets purchased from a machine without a specific time indicated often need to be validated (stamped) in the orange boxes on the platform before boarding. Electronic tickets in the app do not require validation.

As an alternative to public transport, bicycles are popular in Landquart. There is a rental point at the railway station where you can rent a regular or electric bike for rides along the Rhine Valley. Taxis are available at the stand by the station, but they are quite expensive, so for short trips around the town itself (for example, from the station to the outlet), tourists prefer to walk — the distances here are minimal.

Landquart, being a compact town and transport hub, offers tourists a limited but functional choice of accommodation. Here you won't find the massive resort complexes or five-star palaces typical of neighboring fashionable resorts. The hotel stock primarily consists of cozy middle-class hotels (3–4 stars), family guest houses (Gasthaus), and small apartments. This place is ideal for those who value practicality and plan active trips around the region or targeted shopping.

The most strategically advantageous area to stay is the town center around the railway station. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the main attraction — the Landquart Fashion Outlet. This is especially convenient for travelers with luggage: you can easily walk from the train to the hotel and, in the morning, head into the mountains on the red trains or toward Zurich without unnecessary transfers.

The price range for accommodation here can be described as "average Swiss." Although the cost of stay is often lower than in Davos or Klosters themselves, budget travelers should be prepared for the country's standard rates. The best deals are usually found in small private bed and breakfasts (B&B).

Booking tip: Since the number of hotels in Landquart itself is small and the transit flow of tourists is significant, rooms sell out quite quickly. If you plan to travel during peak dates (Christmas holidays, ski season, or summer months), it is strongly recommended to book accommodation at least 2–3 months in advance. To find and reserve a room, it is most convenient to use major international online platforms that allow you to compare prices and read reviews from other travelers.

Just a few minutes' train ride away is Chur — the capital of the canton of Graubünden and the oldest city in Switzerland. It is an ideal place for history buffs: here you can wander through the beautifully preserved Old Town, visit the Bishop's Palace and numerous museums. Chur is also famous for its restaurants and lively atmosphere.

If you are ready to travel a bit further, head to St. Gallen. This city is world-famous for its Abbey complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The famous Abbey Library with its Rococo interiors and ancient manuscripts leaves an indelible impression. Additionally, St. Gallen is interesting for its textile museum and the picturesque oriel windows on the facades of houses in the center.

It is also worth noting Buchs, located on the border with Liechtenstein. This is a great opportunity to see not only a Swiss border town with its Werdenberg Castle but also to peek into the neighboring principality in a single trip.

Shopping in Landquart has one striking feature that sets this small town apart on the map of the country. Unlike many other Alpine towns where people go exclusively for nature, Landquart attracts lovers of fashion and quality purchases. All commercial life here is centered around a large outlet center, for which tourists specifically make a stop on their way to the mountains, turning the town into an important destination for shopping tourism in Switzerland.

Speaking of street trade, there are no classic shopping quarters with boutiques in the usual sense here. Everyday activity is concentrated in the area of the railway station and on Bahnhofstrasse. This is where supermarkets of large national chains (such as Coop and Migros), pharmacies, bakeries, and small shops with essential goods are located. This is a convenient zone to buy groceries for the journey or necessary trifles before a trip to the mountains.

The absolute dominant and main shopping attraction is the Landquart Fashion Outlet. This is not just a shopping center, but a real open-air town, whose architecture is styled after a traditional Swiss village with chalets. More than 160 international and local brands are represented here — from sportswear to luxury clothing and accessory brands. The complex is within walking distance of the station (only 2 minutes on foot), making it incredibly convenient to visit.

While large markets are not a characteristic feature of Landquart, gastronomic shopping here can be quite exciting. In local specialized shops, you should look for farm products from the Graubünden region. Pay special attention to meat delicacies and Alpine cheeses. During the pre-Christmas period, the atmosphere changes: festive fairs open on the outlet territory and in the town, where you can buy handmade products and try local treats.

As souvenirs from Landquart, people bring not only branded clothing at favorable prices. The town is the gateway to the "Bündner Herrschaft" wine region, so a bottle of local wine, especially the Pinot Noir (Blauburgunder) variety, makes an excellent gift. Traditional Swiss souvenirs are also popular: high-quality chocolate, reliable pocket knives, and watches, which can be found both in the outlet stores and in the town's shops.

Ordinary shops in the town operate from Monday to Saturday, generally from 08:00–09:00 to 18:30, with a possible lunch break, and are closed on Sundays. However, the Landquart Fashion Outlet operates on a unique schedule: it is open 7 days a week, including Sundays and most public holidays, usually from 10:00 to 19:00. Bank cards (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro) and cash Swiss francs (CHF) are widely accepted for payment. Euros may be accepted, but change is almost always given in the local currency.

Tourists residing permanently outside of Switzerland can take advantage of the Tax Free system. If the purchase amount in one store exceeds 300 Swiss francs (including VAT), you are entitled to a tax refund. To do this, you must request a Tax Free form at the checkout and present your foreign passport. You can process the refund when leaving the country — at the airport or at major border points.