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Overview
Davos Klosters is a twin alpine resort destination in the canton of Graubünden, eastern Switzerland. Davos, at roughly 1,560 metres above sea level, holds the distinction of being the highest town in Europe and is split into two main areas: Davos Platz (the commercial and transport hub) and Davos Dorf (quieter, closer to the Parsenn ski area). Klosters, a few kilometres down the valley, is a smaller, more village-like community with its own character and access to the same ski network.
The two resorts are connected by rail and share the Davos Klosters ski area, one of the largest in Switzerland, with more than 300 kilometres of marked runs across several mountains including Parsenn, Jakobshorn, Madrisa, Pischa, and Rinerhorn. Beyond skiing, the region draws hikers, mountain bikers, and those seeking the clarity and cool air of high-altitude summer landscapes.
Davos has an unusual dual identity: it is both an internationally recognised winter sports destination and the annual host of the World Economic Forum (WEF), held each January. Visitors arriving in late January should be aware that the WEF significantly affects hotel availability, pricing, and road access throughout the valley. Outside that window, the town functions as a well-organised, year-round mountain resort catering to a broad range of budgets and interests.
Before You Go
Visas
Switzerland is not an EU member but is part of the Schengen Area. Entry requirements vary by nationality. For accurate, up-to-date visa information, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) website before you travel.
When to Go
- December–March: The primary ski season. Snowfall is generally reliable at higher elevations, though lower slopes can be variable early and late in the season. February school holidays across Europe bring peak crowds.
- July–August: The busiest summer months, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and lake swimming in the Davosersee. Trails are well-marked and mountain transport often runs in summer as well.
- April–June / September–November: Shoulder seasons. Many hotels and mountain lifts operate on reduced schedules or close entirely. Verify operating status before booking.
What to Pack
Weather in the Alps changes rapidly year-round. Bring layered clothing, sun protection (UV intensity is high at altitude), and waterproof outer layers regardless of season. In winter, quality gloves, thermal underlayers, and a helmet for skiing or boarding are essential. In summer, sturdy hiking footwear is strongly advised if you plan to go above the treeline.
Getting There
By Rail
The most practical and scenic way to reach Davos Klosters from major Swiss cities is by train. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) network connects Zurich to Davos Platz and Davos Dorf via Landquart, where you transfer to the Rhaetian Railway (RhB). Journey time from Zurich is roughly two hours. Klosters is served by the same RhB line between Landquart and Davos. Timetables and tickets are available via the SBB website (sbb.ch) or the SBB mobile app.
By Road
Davos is accessible by car from Zurich via the A3/A13 motorways to Landquart, then cantonal roads through the Prättigau valley. A Swiss motorway vignette is required for travel on national highways. Road conditions in winter require caution; snow chains may be needed on certain passes. Note that the Flüela Pass connecting Davos to the Engadine is seasonal and may be closed in winter.
By Air
The nearest major international airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), approximately 150 kilometres from Davos. Transfer by train is straightforward via the SBB–RhB connection. Car rental is available at the airport for those preferring to drive. Innsbruck Airport (Austria) and Friedrichshafen Airport (Germany) are smaller alternatives, but Zurich remains the most convenient hub.
Getting Around
Within Davos, the local PostBus network and a town bus service connect Davos Platz, Davos Dorf, and several outlying areas. Guests staying at registered accommodation in the region typically receive a Davos Klosters Guest Card, which provides free or discounted access to local public transport during their stay — confirm this with your accommodation at booking.
The Rhaetian Railway runs frequent services between Klosters and Davos, making it easy to travel between the two communities without a car. In ski season, mountain transport infrastructure (gondolas, cable cars, T-bars, and chairlifts) connects most parts of the ski area. Walking between Davos Platz and Davos Dorf along the Promenade takes roughly 30–40 minutes and is a pleasant route in both summer and winter.
Car ownership is not necessary for most visitors. Parking in central Davos during peak season can be limited and is subject to local charges; verify current rates on arrival or through your accommodation.
Where to Stay
Davos Klosters offers accommodation ranging from large international-brand hotels and historic grand hotels to smaller family-run guesthouses, apartment rentals, and budget hostels. Klosters tends toward smaller, quieter properties, while Davos has the full spectrum.
Location matters: staying in Davos Dorf puts you closer to the Parsenn cable car, while Davos Platz is better for restaurants, transport, and non-ski amenities. In Klosters, proximity to the Gotschna cable car is a practical consideration for skiers. Some properties are ski-in/ski-out or a short walk to lifts; verify this directly with accommodation before booking.
Prices vary significantly by season and event calendar. The WEF period in late January sees dramatically elevated rates and very low availability — book months in advance if you plan to visit then. February half-term weeks are also high demand. For summer visitors, prices are generally lower than peak ski season, and availability is better. Always check the specific cancellation and deposit terms, as alpine resort properties often have stricter policies than city hotels.
Things to See & Do
Skiing and Snowboarding
The Davos Klosters ski area is one of Switzerland's largest, spanning five mountain sectors and catering to all ability levels. The Parsenn sector above Davos Dorf and Klosters is especially noted for its long, wide cruising runs, including the famous Weissfluhjoch to Küblis run, which descends roughly 12 kilometres. Jakobshorn has a younger, freestyle-oriented atmosphere with terrain parks. Pischa and Rinerhorn offer quieter skiing, often favoured by families.
Hiking and Mountain Biking
In summer, over 700 kilometres of marked hiking trails fan out across the surrounding peaks and valleys. Routes range from gentle valley-floor walks to demanding high-alpine traverses requiring appropriate fitness and equipment. The Davosersee (Lake Davos) has a marked waterside path suitable for all ages. Mountain biking trails, including purpose-built singletracks, are accessible via the lifts that operate in summer.
Cultural and Year-Round Attractions
- Kirchner Museum Davos: Dedicated to the work of German Expressionist painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, who lived in Davos from 1917 until his death in 1938. Verify current opening hours and admission fees on the museum's official website.
- Davosersee: The lake at the edge of town is used for swimming in summer and natural ice skating in winter when conditions permit.
- Schatzalp Botanical Alpine Garden: A high-altitude botanical garden near the historic Schatzalp hotel, accessible by funicular. Check seasonal opening times locally.
- Cross-country skiing and winter trails: The valley floor supports an extensive network of groomed Nordic ski tracks and prepared winter walking paths.
Food & Drink
The dining scene in Davos Klosters covers a wide range, from traditional Swiss alpine cuisine to international restaurants. Graubünden culinary staples worth seeking out include Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef), Maluns (a regional potato dish), Capuns (chard-wrapped pasta rolls in a cream sauce), and Bündner Nusstorte (walnut tart). These appear on many local menus and are genuine regional specialities rather than tourist inventions.
Klosters, being smaller, has a more concentrated village dining scene with a number of well-regarded local restaurants. Davos Platz has the widest variety, including pizzerias, Asian restaurants, and Swiss-style brasseries. Many mountain huts (Bergrestaurants) operate on the ski slopes and hiking trails, offering hot meals and drinks at altitude — a standard part of the alpine experience, though prices at mountain venues are typically higher than valley restaurants.
Alcohol is widely available, and local wines from the Graubünden region (particularly those from the Bündner Herrschaft area) are worth trying if you have an interest in Swiss wine. Non-alcoholic options including Rivella and locally produced mineral waters are standard across the region. Tap water throughout Switzerland is safe to drink.
Practical Information
Money
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Carry some cash for smaller mountain huts, markets, and local transport situations where cards may not be accepted. ATMs are available in Davos Platz and Klosters village.
Health and Altitude
At 1,560 metres, Davos is high enough that some visitors — particularly those arriving from sea level — may notice mild effects such as initial breathlessness or disrupted sleep. These typically resolve within a day or two. Ski and board injuries are an inherent risk; travel insurance that includes mountain rescue and medical repatriation is strongly recommended for any winter sports trip. The Davos hospital (Spital Davos) provides emergency and general medical care.
Emergency Numbers
- General emergency (ambulance, fire, police): 112 (EU standard, works throughout Schengen countries)
- Swiss police: 117
- Swiss ambulance: 144
- Swiss Air Rescue (Rega): 1414
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is generally good in the town areas and on major ski runs, though signal can be patchy in remote valleys and on higher terrain. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and available in many cafés.
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass covers unlimited travel on SBB and many regional rail services including parts of the Rhaetian Railway, and may offer discounts on some mountain transport. Verify current coverage and pricing via the official Swiss Travel Guide or SBB website before purchase.
Safety
Davos Klosters is a safe destination by most international standards. Petty crime is low, and the resort infrastructure is well-maintained with professional ski patrol, marked piste boundaries, and regular avalanche management on the ski area.
Avalanche risk is a genuine concern in the broader mountain environment, particularly off-piste. The Swiss avalanche bulletin (slf.ch) publishes daily risk levels. Anyone venturing off marked runs should have appropriate training, equipment (avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel), and ideally go with a qualified mountain guide. Stick to marked and groomed runs if you are unfamiliar with backcountry conditions.
In summer, mountain weather can deteriorate rapidly. Check the MeteoSwiss forecast before hiking, inform someone of your route, and turn back if conditions worsen. The SOS app from Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) can be a useful tool for mountain users. Hiking alone on difficult high-alpine routes is not recommended without experience.
