Davos stands as a vibrant mountain resort renowned for its expansive ski areas, boasting 269 km of diverse slopes and cutting-edge lift systems. Shared with its neighbor, Klosters, the resort guarantees snow-sure conditions complemented by a rich international dining experience and an array of non-ski activities.
As one of the top ski resorts in Switzerland, Davos offers both adventure and leisure for skiers and non-skiers alike. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Davos ski holiday. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Davos is located in the eastern part of Switzerland, in the canton of Graubünden.
Nearest airport
St Moritz Engadin airport (60 km)
Transfer time
St Moritz Engadin airport (1hr 03 min)
Davos the resort
Resort altitude: 1560 m
Resort permanent residents: 10732
Davos, celebrated as Europe's highest town, offers a distinctive blend of architectural and atmospheric elements that encapsulate its high-altitude charm and urban sophistication. Divided into Davos Dorf and Davos Platz, each area brings its unique flavor to the town's overall character. Davos Dorf, set closer to the mountains, presents a picturesque landscape, with traditional Swiss buildings featuring sloping roofs and wooden facades, seamlessly blending into the ski slopes. In contrast, Davos Platz, the hub of urban activity, pulses with a more contemporary vibe. Here, modern hotels and shopping centers coexist with historical structures. This blend of Davos Dorf's serene mountain scenery and Davos Platz's dynamic city atmosphere provides you with a uniquely enriching experience, embodying the best of both alpine tranquility and urban excitement.
Pros
Cons
Great variety of ski runs
Sometimes difficult bus transportation between ski areas
Exceptionally average snowfall
Only few ski-in/ski-out accommodation
Fabulous piste restaurants
Large modern city with very little traditional charm left
Davos Klosters, offers an extensive skiing experience with over 269 km of pistes across six skiing sectors spread across 70 pistes (31% blues, 49% reds, 20% blacks), and served by 56 lifts. Davos Klosters's six skiing sectors, include:
Jakobshorn: A hotspot for freestylers with the Jakobshorn Snowpark. It offers a variety of slopes, popular among younger crowds for both its runs and vibrant après-ski scene.
Madrisa: Family-friendly and sunny, this sector, with the Madrisa Snowpark, is ideal for beginners and intermediates, offering gentle slopes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Parsenn/Gotschna: The heart of the ski area, Parsenn boasts the longest run and caters to a range of abilities. It's known for its extensive red runs and connections to other resorts like Klosters.
Pischa: Renowned for its off-piste and freeride opportunities, Pischa is perfect for adventure-seeking skiers looking for natural, ungroomed terrain.
Rinerhorn: Often less crowded, offering a mix of enjoyable runs for families and intermediate skiers. It’s known for its relaxed pace and scenic routes.
Schatzalp: Unique for its decelerated skiing, Schatzalp is ideal for leisurely skiing experiences, particularly appealing to beginners and those preferring a serene atmosphere
Skiing in Davos
Beginners
For novices, Davos offers an optimal starting point with its nursery zones, particularly at the base of the Jakobshorn ski area. Gentle blue runs on Parsenn and higher up on Jakobshorn allow beginners to progress comfortably.
Intermediates
Intermediate skiers can delight in long cruises across five mountains, excluding Pischa. Notably, the Weissfluhjoch presents an unforgettable descent to Küblis, spanning over 2000 vertical meters, culminating in a scenic train ride back. Additionally, both Jakobshorn and Rinerhorn present a variety of cruising terrains.
Advanced
From the freeride haven of Pischa, dedicated solely to ungroomed landscapes, to the ski routes trailing off Jakobshorn, adrenaline-pumping experiences are abundant. The upper runs at Madrisa also provide opportunities for expert skiers to test their mettle.
Off-piste skiing
With vast off-piste options available, particularly on Pischa and routes behind Jakobshorn, enthusiasts can truly experience the raw beauty of the alps. Additionally, when snow conditions are ideal, skiers can embark on one of Europe's longest prepared runs, a 12km descent from Weissfluh to the charming village of Küblis.
Snowboarding
Jakobshorn stands out as the go-to destination for snowboarders, renowned for its snowpark.
Davos ski season dates
The ski season in Davos for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 24th and run until April 14th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Davos this season, be sure to explore our Davos ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Davos snow history
Davos offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 29 cm and 31 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.3 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 27 cm but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.5 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Davos, with an impressive 42 cm of snow over 4.3 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 23 cm of snow over 3.4 days.
Alp Garfiun: This mountain-side retreat is known for its traditional alpine cuisine and panoramic views,
Berggasthaus Naturfreunde: Offering a rustic ambiance, this mountain eatery is the go-to spot to refuel amidst nature.
Berggasthaus Parsennhütte: Located conveniently on the slopes, this restaurant provides hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere to unwind in.
Berghaus Erika: A popular spot, it offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes with spectacular views.
Berghaus Stafelalp: Known for its authenticity, it provides a quintessential mountain dining experience with local delicacies.
Schatzalp Snow Beach Terrassenrestaurant: With its spacious sun terrace, it's the ideal spot to relax, tan, and dine while taking in the mountainous beauty.
Parsenn Gada: Perfectly located for those coming down the slopes, this eatery offers a mix of quick bites and hearty meals.
Resort restaurants
Dorfbeiz: Located within the heart of the resort, Dorfbeiz is known for its delightful ambiance and a varied menu.
Kessler Restaurant: A fine dining experience in Davos, Kessler offers an exquisite menu with international and local delicacies.
Restaurant Alpenhof Davos: Combining elegance with tradition, Alpenhof is the place to experience Swiss cuisine in a refined setting.
Things to do in Davos
Snowshoeing
Aquatic centre
Färbi sports hall
Sledging
Horse-drawn carriage riding
Airboarding
Ice skating
Winter sport museum
Ice hockey games
Paragliding
Davos apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
The Montana Bar: A popular après-ski spot with an extensive drink menu.
The Gaudy's Graströchni: Known for its authentic alpine charm, this bar is just perfect for enjoying a drink while relishing the mountain views.
The Bolgen Plaza: Located near the base of the mountain, this is a hotspot among skiers and snowboarders.
The Schneebar Totalp: A true winter wonderland, this snow bar provides an icy yet warm atmosphere.
Caprizzi Sportsbar: A haven for sports enthusiasts.
Ignis Bar & Lounge: Offering a sophisticated setting, Ignis is the place to enjoy specialty cocktails and premium spirits.
Nightclubs
The Casa Antica: One of Davos' premier nightclubs.
The Ex Bar: A trendy spot with a vibrant ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Bolgenschanze: Renowned for its pulsating energy, this nightclub offers an electrifying atmosphere with live music and DJ sets.
Tijuana Bar: Bringing a touch of Latin flair to Davos, Tijuana Bar offers a unique blend of dance beats and signature cocktails.
Platzhirsch Club Davos: The epitome of luxury and elegance.
