Graubünden Contested as Switzerland's Most Welcoming Destination for Travelers
Kicking it Old School with Graubünden
Booking.com's 'Traveller Review Awards 2025' ranked Graubünden a whopper fifth in hospitality and friendliness, based on 240 million user reviews from 220 countries. The accolade goes to this Swiss mountainous wonderland, nestled in its eastern region, where locals Extend a hearty 'Allegra' - 'Welcome' in the local lingo - to visitors.
Before diving into the hospitability aspect, let's brush up on this fascinating region. Graubünden is big on diversity, boasting Switzerland's only canton with its own language, Romansh. This linguistic diamond in the rough encompasses five written regional variants: Sursilvan, Sutsilvan, Surmiran, Puter, and Vallader. More than half the population, about 60,000 folks, still speak Romansh - mind-blowing, huh? German and Italian are also prevalent here, making Graubünden a true multicultural melting pot.
If you're a ski enthusiast, Graubünden's claim to fame would likely blow your mind. It's where the renowned ski resorts Davos and St. Moritz reside. And for you literary buffs, Graubünden is the picturesque backdrop of the beloved Swiss girl Heidi, who spent her days among her sweet Peter, grandfather, and adorable goats in Maienfeld.
Is Graubünden Switzerland's friendliest haven as the survey suggests? Well, there's no concrete scientific proof to back that claim, but anecdotal evidence paints a warm and welcoming picture. Other studies support the idea that Graubünden's denizens are indeed a hospitable bunch, though it's debatable whether they trump other cantons in friendliness.
In a survey conducted by the Moneyland consumer platform, Graubünden ranked second in overall friendliness, just behind Ticino. The neighboring cantons of Zug, St. Gallen, Thurgau, and Zurich showered Graubünden with high friendliness ratings, too. Interestingly, the youngest group, aged 18-25, gave Graubünden the top spot for hospitality.
As for the exceptional hospitality and services travellers experience, Graubünden boasts breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and countless opportunities for outdoor activities. So whether you're an adventurer, skier, or simply seeking a cozy retreat, Graubünden has got you covered. Cheers to your next adventure, friend!
- The charming canton of Graubünden, renowned for its warmth and hospitality, is nestled in the eastern region of Switzerland and is the only canton with its unique language, Romansh.
- If you're planning a trip to Graubünden, be prepared to practice your Sursilvan, Surmiran, Sutsilvan, Puter, or Vallader - these are the five regional variants of Romansh commonly spoken by approximately 60,000 locals.
- With its welcoming environment, Graubünden ranks second in overall friendliness in a survey by the Moneyland consumer platform, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a friendly, old-school Swiss lifestyle. Whether you wish to hit the slopes in Davos or St. Moritz, or explore picturesque villages like Maienfeld, the friendly locals of Graubünden are ready to extend a hearty 'Allegra' - 'Welcome' in Romansh.
