Merchants with their heavily-laden pack horses passed Erstfeld as early as the 13th century: however at this time, it was never regarded as a major stage stop, a situation which first changed in 1882 with the opening of the Gotthard Railway. The insignificant farming village in Canton Uri became an important railway depot because it was where the railway section began. Large depot and track facilities were built to allow extra locomotives to be coupled to the heavy Gotthard trains. A historic Gotthard locomotive Type Ce 6/8 (crocodile) is now on show at the depot site. Other historic traction vehicles are also stored in the depot.

Erstfeld is again the centre of interest for railway builders and enthusiasts: The Gotthard basis tunnel, at 57 km the world’s longest tunnel, has its north portal here.

A vantage tower at the station opens up views over Erstfeld’s wide track system. However, the highlight for railway fans is the Gottardo Railway Trail from Erstfeld to Göschenen and on the south side of the Alps from Airolo to Biasca. With over 70 information panels and good vantage points, the trail gives fascinating facts on undoubtedly Europe’s most important railway.

Other Erstfeld attractions are the Scheidnössli geological rock outcrop, Jagdmatt Chapel, Brunnenweg (fountain path) and a historical village tour. The rugged, romantic Erstfeldertal valley, offering a host of hikes and mountain tours, opens up west of the village and ends at the Schlossberggletscher (glacier). Three small aerial cableways are an easy way to reach the sunny terraces high above Reusstal.