Things To Do
in Davos
Davos is a high-altitude Alpine resort in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, renowned for its expansive ski areas and Nordic ambiance. Nestled among snow-capped peaks, it hosts a sophisticated blend of outdoor adventure, wellness, and culture. The town has a long association with international conferences and winter sports, attracting visitors year-round.
With pristine trails, modern lifts, and a well-connected transport network, Davos offers a seamless alpine escape for all seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Davos and check into your cozy hotel in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Take a moment to acclimatize to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café. Explore the charming town and its quaint shops, soaking in the stunning alpine scenery.
Visit the Kirchner Museum, which showcases the works of the early 20th-century painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. Stroll through the picturesque streets, stopping for lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant to savor local specialties. Afterwards, take a scenic walk along the Davos lake, experiencing the tranquility of the landscape.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a mountain lodge, where you can taste fondue or raclette while surrounded by breathtaking views. After your meal, take a stroll under the stars to appreciate the serene atmosphere. Wind down with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on your first day in Davos.
Set out early for a guided hiking tour through the beautiful trails that surround Davos. The fresh morning air invigorates the senses as you traverse lush landscapes and marvel at the alpine flora and fauna. Pause for snacks while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint before continuing your hike. Discover hidden waterfalls and alpine meadows while connecting with fellow hikers. As you make your way back to town, stop at a small hut for a refreshing drink.
Return to your hotel to relax and freshen up after an exhilarating day in nature. Savor a hearty dinner at a restaurant that features local cuisine and perhaps some live music. Conclude the evening with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Davos, enjoying the lively energy of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🥂Three-course dinner for two | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Weekly groceries for two | $100-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Alpine scenery and clean air
- Well-developed lifts and infrastructure for year-round sports
- Efficient public transport and safe, clean environment
- High-quality dining and cultural experiences
- High costs compared with many destinations
- Altitude can affect some visitors
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can disrupt outdoor plans in shoulder seasons
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Davos
Visit one of these nice places.
Long lake views with reflections of surrounding peaks and soft morning light.
Contemporary architecture and interior spaces provide striking lines and framing opportunities.
Terraced paths with alpine flora and panoramic views over the town.
High-altitude viewpoints offering sweeping valley panoramas and dramatic skies.
Food in Davos
Davos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Melted cheese served over potatoes, onions, and cornichons; a quintessential alpine dish often found in traditional Swiss restaurants.
Must-Try!
A pot of melted cheese served with bread for dipping; iconic winter fare frequently offered in mountain venues and inns.
Hearty barley soup with vegetables and sometimes smoked meat—excellent for warming up after a day on the slopes.
Chard-wrapped dumplings stuffed with meat and herbs, a Graubünden specialty you can find in regional eateries.
A rich Alpine walnut tart, a classic dessert found in many local bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly Saturday market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and local snacks.
Seasonal stalls near base stations with hot cocoa, crepes, sausages, and savory treats for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous with time; punctuality is valued in both social and professional settings.
A friendly 'Grüezi' or 'Grüezi mitenand' is appreciated when meeting people.
Respect residential quiet hours and the relaxed resort atmosphere; keep noise to a minimum in late evenings.
Tipping is discretionary and modest; avoid discussing tips publicly and follow local cues.
Safety
Tipping in Davos
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is customary but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in smaller venues; contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear days and long daylight hours make hiking, lake activities, and panoramic lifts very enjoyable. Pack layers for cooler evenings and sudden weather changes.
Snow-sure conditions with excellent skiing and snow sports. Dress in layers, stay hydrated, and be mindful of avalanche advisories in higher elevations.
Milder days with blooming alpine flora; some high trails may still be snowbound early in the season.
Crisp air and autumn colors; fewer crowds and peaceful hiking opportunities, with variable weather.
Davos at Night
Hiking in Davos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ascent from the Gotschnapark area with views over Davos and the valley.
Popular trails between Davos Platz and Klosters offering a blend of valley and mountain scenery.
Gentle hike through alpine flora with seasonal blooms and stunning vistas.
High-altitude routes with glacier views (seasonal access).
Airports
How to reach Davos by plane.
Major international hub; about 2-3 hours by train from Zurich to Davos with scenic routes.
Smaller regional airport serving charter and seasonal flights; transfer by train/bus to Davos.
Alternative Alpine gateway; longer transfer but reachable by rail or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local Swiss families and long-term residents working in hospitality and services.
A large influx of workers during winter and summer peak seasons.
A cosmopolitan mix due to conferences and world-class sports tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive runs on Parsenn and Jakobshorn with modern lifts and reliable snow conditions.
Well-groomed tracks around the valley for tranquil, scenic workouts.
Seasonal routes through forests and open terrain for quiet exploration.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Davos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Swiss restaurants offer vegetarian options such as vegetable plates, Rösti, salads, and risottos; ask for meat-free versions or regional vegetable dishes if needed.