Travel Guide: Davos

Davos sits high in the Rhaetian Alps on the river Landwasser, between the Plessur and Albula ranges. An Alpine resort town in the canton of the Grisons, it has a permanent population of 10,832 (2020). The town balances mountain landscapes with a compact centre and a selection of cultural and outdoor attractions.

Selected by Anna
Selected by Anna · Updated August 2026

Best time to visit

Climate data show cold, often below‑freezing winters with limited sunshine and milder, sunniest conditions in mid‑summer. Spring and autumn are transitional with variable precipitation, so choose dates according to whether you prioritise winter snow or summer sunshine.

Jan
-5.8°C
Rain114 mm
Sun6.1 h
Feb
-3.4°C
Rain83 mm
Sun7.2 h
Mar
-1.2°C
Rain94 mm
Sun8.6 h
Apr
1.7°C
Rain107 mm
Sun10.1 h
May
5.9°C
Rain173 mm
Sun9.9 h
Jun
11.3°C
Rain147 mm
Sun11.8 h
Jul
13.3°C
Rain134 mm
Sun12.4 h
Aug
13.0°C
Rain160 mm
Sun10.7 h
Sep
8.8°C
Rain126 mm
Sun9.4 h
Oct
5.2°C
Rain119 mm
Sun7.7 h
Nov
-0.4°C
Rain90 mm
Sun6.4 h
Dec
-3.5°C
Rain103 mm
Sun5.4 h

Things to do

In Davos

  • Lake Davos
    This natural waterbody in Davos is popular for leisurely walks along the shore and seasonal water activities such as swimming and small boating. It attracts families and visitors who appreciate calm natural settings within the town.
  • Parsenn Ski Area
    This tourism viewpoint is a well-known ski area in Davos offering expansive mountain views and numerous winter sports activities. Visitors generally come for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the alpine scenery. It suits outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking active mountain recreation.
  • Kirchner Museum Davos
    This museum features an extensive collection dedicated to the expressionist painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. It is a cultural attraction where visitors explore modern art in a serene mountain environment. Suitable for art lovers and cultural travelers.

Around Davos

  • Sertig Valley
    A natural gorge and valley popular for hiking, offering picturesque landscapes and peaceful natural surroundings. Visitors often explore the trails, enjoy wildlife spotting, and appreciate alpine scenery. Ideal for nature lovers and hikers seeking tranquility.
  • Wolfgang Pass
    A mountain pass known for its hiking routes and outstanding panoramic views of the Alps. Visitors hike or bike here to enjoy the alpine environment and natural beauty. Suited for outdoor adventurers and day hikers.
Anna
How we pick hotels
For each category, we shortlist a few standout stays by combining review quality (score), review confidence (volume), and how well the hotel matches the theme (spa, family, lake views, and more).

Spa hotels

Suited to travellers seeking alpine wellness and quiet relaxation, with hotels that emphasise spa and recovery in a mountain setting.
Tip: check if spa access is included or paid, and opening hours/booking rules.

Family-friendly hotels

Suited to families looking for convenient access to outdoor activities and accommodations that cater to children and group stays.
Tip: look for family rooms, breakfast options, and walkable basics (shops/transport).
Tinzenblick
Rating: 10 • 1 reviews
Design Flat Hidden Pearl Davos
Rating: 10 • 1 reviews

Mountain-view hotels

Suited to visitors who prioritise panoramic alpine scenery and prefer rooms or apartments with clear mountain aspects.

Apartments

Suited to travellers who want self-catering flexibility and a more residential stay while exploring Davos and its surroundings.
Bijou Clavadel
Rating: 10 • 1 reviews

Pet-friendly hotels

Suited to travellers bringing pets who need accommodation options that accept animals and access to outdoor walks nearby.
Sertig Ferienwohnung
Rating: 9.7 • 27 reviews
Davosblick
Rating: 9.6 • 27 reviews
Ferienwohnung in Davos
Rating: 9.5 • 26 reviews

Hotels with pool

Suited to guests seeking indoor relaxation and recovery after mountain activities, where pool and wellness facilities are available.
Tip: if traveling off-season, prefer heated or indoor pools; confirm opening dates.
La Suite Swiss Alps
Rating: 9.7 • 10 reviews
Quellenhof C01
Rating: 9.5 • 34 reviews

FAQ

What currency is used in Davos?
You’ll typically pay in CHF (Swiss franc). Cards are commonly accepted, but it’s smart to carry some cash for small purchases.
What kind of place is Davos?
Davos is an Alpine resort town and municipality in the canton of the Grisons, located on the river Landwasser between the Plessur and Albula ranges, with a permanent population of 10,832 (2020).
What outdoor activities are available around Davos?
The area is centred on mountain and valley landscapes, with the Parsenn Ski Area noted for winter sports and places like Sertig Valley and Lake Davos forming focal points for hiking and other mountain recreation.
Are there cultural and sporting venues in town?
Yes; the Kirchner Museum Davos is a destination for visual arts, and the Vaillant Arena serves as a major local venue for sporting events and gatherings.
How mountainous or steep is Davos?
Davos sits in the Rhaetian Alps between mountain ranges, so expect alpine terrain and elevation changes around the town and on approaches to nearby valleys and passes.
How should I plan getting around once I arrive?
The central town area is compact enough for walking, while roads and local transport link to ski areas and surrounding valleys; consult local transport providers for current routes and services.
When is best for skiing versus hiking?
Climate data indicate cold winter months with below‑freezing averages that align with the local ski area season and milder, sunniest conditions in mid‑summer that suit hiking and outdoor lake activities.
Are there accommodation options for families, pets or spa seekers?
Davos offers a range of accommodation types, including family‑oriented hotels, pet‑friendly places, apartments for self‑catering stays, and hotels with spa or pool facilities; consult listings to match specific needs.

Sources