Engadin Airport is unlike most airports covered in transfer guides. It is a small general aviation facility where almost every arrival is a private flight. The transport decision here is less about saving money and more about what level of service matches your trip.
Standard taxi
A local taxi to St. Moritz costs 30 to 50 CHF and takes about 10 minutes. The vehicles are clean and well-maintained — this is Switzerland. The ride is straightforward along the valley road. The main limitation is availability: taxis do not permanently wait at the airport. You need to book one in advance or ask airport staff to call one when you land. Wait times are usually short (5 to 15 minutes) but not instant.
A taxi makes sense if you are traveling alone or as a couple with manageable luggage, and you prefer a no-frills arrival.
Private luxury transfer
This is the default for most SMV arrivals. A chauffeured sedan or SUV meets you at the aircraft or terminal exit. The driver handles your luggage, the vehicle is high-end, and the experience is seamless. Costs range from 80 to 200 CHF depending on the vehicle.
Luxury transfers are typically arranged through your charter operator, hotel concierge, or a specialized local service. The major St. Moritz hotels have their own vehicles and drivers. If you are staying at a five-star property, ask the concierge — it may already be included or available at a preferential rate.
Hotel pickup
Several top hotels in St. Moritz offer complimentary or paid airport pickup. Badrutt's Palace, for instance, is known for meeting guests at the aircraft. This is the most effortless option — you do not arrange anything separately. Simply confirm with your hotel when booking your stay.
Train (Rhaetian Railway)
The Samedan train station is about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the airport. The Rhaetian Railway to St. Moritz takes 10 minutes and costs about 5 CHF. The trains are clean, punctual, and the valley scenery is beautiful. This option is practical if you travel light and enjoy the experience of Swiss rail. It is not realistic with heavy ski bags or several pieces of luggage.
The honest assessment
At Engadin Airport, the question is not really taxi versus transfer — it is whether you arrange a luxury pickup or use a simpler option. If your trip to St. Moritz is built around the high-end experience, a chauffeured transfer or hotel pickup is the natural extension. If you are more independent-minded, a pre-booked taxi or the train will get you there just as quickly for less money. The distance is so short that the transport choice is more about preference than practicality.