Davos, Switzerland Travel Guide

Discover Davos: A picturesque Swiss town offering year-round outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, and world-class relaxation in the heart of the Alps.

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Davos is a charming town that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern sophistication. Known for its pristine mountain landscapes, Davos is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s skiing down the powdery slopes in winter or hiking through lush meadows in summer, there's an adventure waiting for everyone. Davos is not just about outdoor activities; it’s also a hub of culture and history. The town hosts the famous World Economic Forum every year, attracting global leaders and thinkers. Visitors can explore the numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. For those seeking relaxation, Davos offers world-class spas and wellness centers, where you can unwind and rejuvenate. The local cuisine, featuring traditional Swiss dishes, is a treat for the taste buds. With a variety of restaurants and cafes, you’ll find plenty of dining options to suit your palate. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the quaint boutiques and shops selling unique Swiss souvenirs and high-quality goods. The friendly locals and the town’s welcoming atmosphere make Davos a delightful destination for tourists looking to experience the best of Switzerland.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Davos.

Visit during the World Economic Forum for a unique experience, but book accommodations well in advance as the town gets busy.
Take advantage of the Davos Klosters Card, offering free or discounted access to various local attractions and public transportation.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Explore nearby Klosters, another charming village just a short train ride away.
Sample local specialties like fondue and raclette at traditional Swiss restaurants.

Explore Davos: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Davos

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Swiss National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Swiss National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

4.8

Caumasee

Experience the serene beauty of Caumasee Lake in Flims, Switzerland—a stunning alpine retreat with turquoise waters and breathtaking landscapes.

4.4

Eichhörnliweg Arosa

Eichhörnliweg Arosa: A family-friendly hiking trail in the Swiss Alps, combining nature, adventure, and unforgettable moments.

4.7

Hotel Schatzalp - Davos

Discover the enchanting Hotel Schatzalp in Davos, where breathtaking alpine views, rich history, and luxurious amenities blend seamlessly for an unforgettable getaway.

4.4

Best landmarks in Davos

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Hard Rock Hotel Davos

Discover luxury and vibrant entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel Davos, your ultimate alpine escape in the Swiss Alps.

4.4

Parsenn

Discover the ultimate winter wonderland at Parsenn, a premier ski resort in Davos, where breathtaking views and thrilling slopes await every adventurer.

4.6

Hotel Schatzalp - Davos

Discover Hotel Schatzalp in Davos, Switzerland - a perfect blend of history, nature, and luxury in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

4.4

AlpenGold Hotel

Experience unparalleled luxury and stunning mountain views at the five-star AlpenGold Hotel in Davos, Switzerland, your perfect alpine retreat.

4.4

Best restaurants in Davos

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Schneider's Restaurant

Experience authentic Swiss flavors and delightful bakery treats at Schneider's Restaurant in Davos - a must-visit for every traveler.

4.2

Da Elio, Restaurant und Pizzeria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Da Elio in Davos – where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like home.

4.3

Kessler's Kulm Hotel / Restaurant

Experience luxury and nature at Kessler's Kulm Hotel & Restaurant—your gateway to Swiss cuisine and outdoor adventures in beautiful Davos.

4.5

Grischa – DAS Hotel Davos

Experience exquisite dining at Grischa – DAS Hotel Davos with diverse cuisines from Chinese to European in an elegant alpine setting.

4.6

Best bars in Davos

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EX Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere and delightful drinks at EX Bar in Davos, a perfect retreat for tourists seeking relaxation and fun.

4.2

Lokal

Experience the authentic taste of Switzerland at Lokal, a charming restaurant in Davos, where quality meets alpine hospitality.

4.5

Mountain's Akt Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mountain's Akt Bar in Davos, where delicious drinks meet stunning alpine views for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

JODY'S Restaurant & Bar

Experience the fusion of local flavor and modern dining at JODY'S Restaurant & Bar in Davos, Switzerland.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Davos

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EX Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Davos at EX Bar, where exceptional drinks and lively ambiance create unforgettable memories.

4.2

Mountain's Akt Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere and delightful offerings at Mountain's Akt Bar in Davos, your go-to spot for relaxation and fun in the Swiss Alps.

4.4

Tijuana Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tijuana Bar in Davos, where great drinks meet an unforgettable atmosphere for a perfect evening out.

4.3

Caprizzi Sportsbar

Experience the thrill of live sports at Caprizzi Sportsbar in Davos, where great food and drinks meet an electrifying atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Davos

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Coop Supermarket Chur Quader

Experience the vibrant flavors of Switzerland at Coop Supermarket Chur Quader, your gateway to local delicacies and fresh produce.

4.4

Fullmoons Bergsport

Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear and expert guidance at Fullmoons Bergsport in Davos, Switzerland, your adventure begins here.

4.9

Schuler Books Ltd.

Discover a literary oasis at Schuler Books Ltd. in Davos Platz, where every title tells a story and every visit is a new adventure.

4.7

H&M

Explore H&M in Davos for trendy, affordable clothing for the entire family, perfect for your alpine adventure.

4.2

Explore Davos on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Davos, mapped for you.

Davos Essentials

Davos is accessible via several modes of transportation. The closest major international airport is Zurich Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a direct train to Davos, which typically takes around 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Davos, which takes roughly 2 hours on well-maintained roads. Buses also operate between major Swiss cities and Davos, offering another viable option for travelers.
Davos has an efficient public transportation system including buses and trains, which makes it easy to get around. The Davos Platz and Davos Dorf train stations connect the town to other parts of Switzerland. Local buses run frequently and cover most areas within Davos. Taxis are available but can be quite expensive. For a more eco-friendly and scenic option, consider renting a bicycle during the warmer months.
The official currency in Davos, as in the rest of Switzerland, is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are plentiful, and currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.
Davos is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any travel destination, it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number will connect you to police, medical, and fire services. Davos has a well-equipped hospital and several medical clinics for non-emergency health issues. Pharmacies are also available for minor health concerns. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress warmly and in layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, although Davos is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like fondue and raclette. Don't forget to say 'thank you' when served.
To experience Davos like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about the town. Don't miss the opportunity to take a hike or bike ride on the numerous trails that offer stunning views of the Alps. For a unique experience, attend one of the many events hosted in Davos, such as the World Economic Forum or the annual Spengler Cup ice hockey tournament.

When is the best time to visit Davos?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Davos

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Davos. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGuten Tag
  [Gooten Tahg]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [Owf Vee-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bee-teh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [Vee geht es Ee-nen?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [Goot. Oond Ee-nen?]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [Spre-khen Zee Eng-leesh?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Eekh fer-shtay-eh neekt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [Eekh merkh-teh bee-teh dee Shpy-ze-kar-teh zeh-en]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Eekh ess-eh kine Fly-sh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte bezahlen
  [Eekh merkh-teh bee-teh beh-tzah-len]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-feh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [Gay-en Zee vehg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roo-fen Zee dee Poh-lee-tsy]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roo-fen Zee Ee-nen Arts]
- I'm lostIch bin verloren
  [Eekh been fer-loh-ren]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Eekh been krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte...kaufen
  [Eekh merkh-teh...kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [Eekh shou-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [Vee feel koh-stet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Dahs ist tso toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Könnten Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kern-ten Zee den Preis zehn-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpayt ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist ine oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (zehn)
  [Halb (tsane)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nahkh-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Gehs-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [Ine-z]
- 2Zwei
  [Tzvey]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Feer]
- 5Fünf
  [Foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [Zex]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Akh-t]
- 9Neun
  [Noy-n]
- 10Zehn
  [Tzane]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [Vo ist ine/dehr]
- What's the address?Wie lautet die Adresse?
  [Vee lowt-et dee Ah-dre-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir das zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [Kern-en Zee meer dahs tsey-gen (owf dehr Kar-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vahn kohmt dehr nerkh-steh (Boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ...)
  [Ine-eh Fahr-kar-teh (nahkh)]

History of Davos

Davos, located in the Swiss Alps, has a history that stretches back to the early Middle Ages. The first documented mention of the area dates back to 1213, when the Walser settlers, originally from the Valais region, migrated to the high valley. These early settlers were drawn to the region's fertile land and alpine pastures, laying the foundation for the vibrant community that would flourish in the centuries to come.
Davos' reputation as a health resort began in the mid-19th century. German physician Alexander Spengler recognized the therapeutic benefits of the region's high altitude and clean air for treating tuberculosis. By the 1860s, Davos became a popular destination for patients seeking cures for respiratory ailments. This led to the construction of sanatoriums and medical facilities, attracting visitors from across Europe and significantly boosting the local economy.
Davos' allure extended beyond its health benefits to the realm of literature. The German novelist Thomas Mann drew inspiration from his wife's stay at a Davos sanatorium for his acclaimed novel, 'The Magic Mountain,' published in 1924. The book, set in a fictional sanatorium in the Swiss Alps, captures the essence of Davos' atmosphere and the experiences of those who sought healing in its serene environment. Mann's work further cemented Davos' place in cultural history.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Davos transform into a premier winter sports destination. The introduction of the first bobsleigh run in 1882 and the establishment of the Davos Hockey Club in 1921 marked the beginning of the town's association with winter sports. The annual Spengler Cup, first held in 1923, is one of the oldest international ice hockey tournaments in the world. These developments attracted tourists and sports enthusiasts, contributing to Davos' growing fame as a winter paradise.
Since 1971, Davos has been synonymous with the World Economic Forum (WEF), an annual meeting that brings together global leaders from politics, business, and academia. Founded by Professor Klaus Schwab, the WEF has transformed Davos into a hub for discussing global economic issues and shaping international policies. Each January, the town hosts influential figures who engage in high-level discussions, making Davos a focal point for global decision-making.
Today, Davos seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern innovation. The town remains a sought-after destination for health tourism, winter sports, and international conferences. Its diverse cultural offerings, including museums, galleries, and music festivals, reflect a vibrant community that honors its past while embracing the future. Davos continues to captivate visitors with its unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and contemporary relevance.

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