Sights and activities in Altdorf URI

The best sights and activities in Altdorf Canton Uri

Altdorf, the capital of the canton of Uri, is picturesquely nestled in the Swiss Alps and is known for its rich history and cultural treasures. This charming town offers a unique blend of historical sights, modern museums and diverse outdoor activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the legends of William Tell, go on breathtaking hikes and bike tours or enjoy the regional art and cuisine. Altdorf is an ideal destination for history buffs, art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

 

Historical sights

Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse in Altdorf is a stroke of urban planning luck and central to the urban development of the town. It is home to striking buildings such as the Villa Dätwyler (Uri's "House of Music"), the reformed church, the boys' school, the state archives, the cantonal library and the imposing post office building.

Eggberge

The Eggberge, at around 1500 meters above sea level, offer a magnificent view of the Uri mountains and Lake Uri. This sunny terrace in Altdorf has a well-marked network of hiking and walking trails. In winter, a ski lift provides winter sports fun. The Eggberge can be easily reached with the Flüelen-Eggberge cable car.

Convent of St. Charles

The convent of St. Charles was built onto the existing chapel of the Upper Holy Cross in 1677. It served as a girls' school from the end of the 17th century, but had to be closed in 1990 due to a lack of new recruits. Today, an internationally active company occupies the building.

Foreign hospital

The hospital for foreigners at the northern entrance to the village has been providing food and shelter for travelers and the needy since 1437. Today, part of Altdorf's municipal administration is housed in this impressive building.

House of Art Uri

The Haus für Kunst Uri, which is located next to the Josefsbrunnen on the Gemeindehausplatz, used to be a print shop and was opened as an art gallery in 2004 following renovation work. Exhibitions by regional and international artists are held here regularly.

Herrengasse

Herrengasse is home to magnificent Altdorf manor houses, built by wealthy magistrate families in the 17th century. These houses bear witness to the town's rich history and wealth through military service in foreign armies.

Historical Museum Uri

The Uri Historical Museum, built in 1906 according to plans by Wilhelm Hanauer, houses a rich collection of art and cultural objects, including the Alemannic tomb from Altdorf and the Lenten cloth from 1421. It is intended to counteract the sale of art and cultural objects from Uri to private individuals.

Cultural monastery (All Saints' Monastery)

The Capuchin monastery of All Saints, the oldest Capuchin monastery on the northern side of the Alps, offers a magnificent view over the entire valley basin as far as Lake Uri. Today it is a cultural monastery offering various artistic and therapeutic activities.

Fiefdom

Lehnplatz is an important meeting place in Altdorf, dominated by the Zeughaus, built in 1806. Next to the arsenal is the stone sculpture by Ulrich Rückriem, the Uraniabrunnen fountain and the Suworowhaus.

Learning path schutz.wald.mensch

The 8 km long educational trail leads through the Altdorf Bannwald forest and provides knowledge about the protective function of the forest. It offers four experience and adventure sites that can be visited and tried out.

Nut tree

The Nussbäumli in the Bannwald forest high above Altdorf is a popular excursion destination. It offers a wonderful view over Altdorf and the Reuss plain, a children's playground and excellent barbecue specialties.

St. Martin's parish church

The parish church of St. Martin is considered the most beautiful neoclassical church building in Uri. It was built after the village fire of 1799 on foundations that are over 1200 years old.

Town hall square with tower

The town hall square is the heart of Altdorf and the seat of the government and parliament. The classicist town hall was rebuilt after the village fire of 1799. The Türmli, built in 1250, and the Besslerbrunnen fountain from 1568 can also be found on the square.

Suvorov House

The Suworowhaus is the oldest and most artistically and culturally valuable town house in the canton of Uri. It was restored in 2005 with minimal intervention in the historic building fabric.

Tell monument

The Tell monument, created by the Solothurn sculptor Richard Kissling, was inaugurated in 1895 and honors the Swiss national hero William Tell. It is a landmark of Altdorf and met with great national interest when it was inaugurated.

Tellsgasse and Schmiedgasse

This is where the Altdorf town hall is located, which was built in 1811 as the second schoolhouse. Nearby is the Winterberg house, today the seat of the cantonal tax administration, as well as one of Altdorf's five village fountains.

Tell playhouse

The Tell Playhouse, which dates back to 1925, is the venue for the regular Tell plays. It has been owned by the municipality of Altdorf since 1999 and is run by the forum theater(uri) Tellspielhaus Altdorf.

Vogelsang

The Vogelsang quarter is one of the most beautiful districts in Altdorf with magnificent old houses and picturesque alleyways. It is home to the "Kellertheater im Vogelsang", which presents high-quality cabaret.

Outdoor activities in Altdorf UR

Hiking trails

The area around Altdorf is a paradise for hikers. There are numerous well-marked hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Lucerne. The hiking trails vary in difficulty so that both beginners and experienced hikers get their money's worth. Particularly popular routes are the path to the Surenen Pass, which offers spectacular panoramic views, and the Wild Hay Trail, which leads through historic hay meadows and provides insights into traditional farming methods.

Bike tours

Cyclists will find many varied routes in and around Altdorf. Whether leisurely tours along the banks of the Reuss or challenging mountain routes - there is something for every fitness level. The flat routes along the river are ideal for families and leisure cyclists, while the more demanding mountain routes, such as the route to the Klausen Pass, challenge experienced cyclists. For mountain bikers, there are special trails with exciting descents and technical passages.

Cable cars and mountain railroads

Use the local cable cars to reach the higher elevations of the Alps in comfort. Popular destinations include the Eggberge area and the Klausen Pass. The Eggberge cable car takes visitors to a hiking and skiing area with magnificent views and a wide range of leisure activities. The Klausen Pass, which can be reached by car or bike, offers access to high alpine hikes and climbing tours. Both destinations are ideal for exploring the impressive mountain world around Altdorf and offer a variety of activities for nature and adventure lovers.

Further activities

In addition to the outdoor activities mentioned above, visitors to Altdorf can also enjoy water sports on nearby Lake Lucerne, including sailing, windsurfing and stand-up paddling. In winter, the region transforms into a winter sports paradise with skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Altdorf UR therefore offers a wide range of outdoor activities that provide variety and unforgettable nature experiences. Whether you are looking for the tranquillity of nature or love the thrill of outdoor adventures - you will find what you are looking for in Altdorf.

 

Winter activities in Altdorf UR

Skiing and snowboarding

In the winter months, the surrounding mountains of Altdorf are transformed into a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Several ski areas are easily accessible and offer excellent slopes for all levels of ability. The Eggbergen ski area is particularly popular for its well-groomed slopes and breathtaking panoramic views. Other nearby ski areas, such as the Skiarena Andermatt-Sedrun, offer varied slopes, modern lifts and cozy mountain huts that invite you to linger.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

For those who want to take it a little easier, the region around Altdorf offers well-groomed cross-country ski trails and snowshoe hiking trails. The trails lead through picturesque winter landscapes and offer both classic and skating routes. We particularly recommend the cross-country ski trail in the Schächental valley, which offers a delightful combination of flat sections and gentle climbs.

Snowshoe hikes

The snowshoe hiking trails in the area allow you to explore the winter wonderland away from the slopes. Marked routes lead through snow-covered forests and across snow-covered mountain pastures, allowing you to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the untouched landscape. Guided tours also offer the opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region and safely reach the best vantage points.

Other winter activities

In addition to classic winter sports, Altdorf also offers activities such as ice skating and tobogganing. The ice skating rink in the heart of Altdorf is a popular meeting place for families and offers fun for young and old. For tobogganing fans, there are several toboggan runs that lead rapidly down into the valley and provide an unforgettable winter experience.

Altdorf UR therefore offers a wide range of winter activities that provide variety and fun in the cold season. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover - everyone gets their money's worth in Altdorf.

 

Culinary experience in Altdorf UR

Local restaurants and cafés

Altdorf offers a variety of gastronomic establishments serving a wide range of local specialties and international dishes. The culinary scene in Altdorf is characterized by traditional Uri recipes prepared with fresh, regional ingredients.

Traditional Uri dishes

Älplermagronen: This hearty dish consists of pasta, potatoes, cream, cheese and onions and is often served with apple sauce. Älplermagronen are a classic dish that reflects the mountain farming cuisine of the region.

Uri pâté: This specialty is a puff pastry filled with a mixture of meat, rice and spices. Uri pâté is a traditional festive dish and is often served on special occasions.

Rösti: Another Swiss delicacy consisting of grated and fried potatoes. In Altdorf, Rösti is often refined with bacon, onions and cheese.

Popular restaurants

• Restaurant Schützenmatt: Known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent regional dishes. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as Älplermagronen and Urner Pastete.
• Gasthaus zum Sternen: This historic inn offers a selection of traditional Swiss dishes as well as seasonal specialties. The rustic furnishings and friendly service make it a popular meeting place.
• Café Baumgarten: A charming café offering a variety of coffee specialties and homemade cakes. Ideal for a break after a stroll through the city.

International cuisine

In addition to traditional restaurants, Altdorf also offers a selection of international cuisines. From Italian pizzerias to Asian restaurants, the town offers something for every taste.

Pizzeria da Giorgio: This pizzeria is known for its authentic Italian pizzas and pasta dishes, which are baked in a wood-fired oven.

Asia Garden: A restaurant serving a wide range of Asian dishes, including sushi, Thai curries and Chinese specialties.

Weekly markets and local products

Another highlight of the culinary scene in Altdorf are the weekly markets, where local farmers offer their fresh produce. Here, visitors can find fresh fruit and vegetables, handmade cheese, meat products and other regional delicacies. A visit to one of these markets is an excellent opportunity to sample the local produce and take a piece of Uri's culinary delights home with you.

Altdorf UR thus offers a rich culinary landscape that combines traditional and international flavors. Whether you are a fan of hearty Swiss dishes or exotic cuisine, you are guaranteed to find the right culinary experience in Altdorf.