Davos Klosters -- The Highest City in Europe and World-Class Alpine Resort

TL;DR: Davos Klosters is Switzerland's legendary dual alpine resort in the Graubunden Alps, combining the highest city in Europe (1,560 m) with one of the largest ski areas in Switzerland (Parsenn, Jakobshorn, and four more mountains). Known globally as the host of the annual World Economic Forum and beloved by the British Royal Family, Davos Klosters offers world-class skiing in winter and superb hiking in summer. Reachable from Zurich in 2 hours 30 minutes by train via the scenic Prattigau valley.

Quick Facts

Top 5 Things to Do in Davos Klosters

1. Ski the Parsenn / Weissfluhjoch

The Parsenn ski area, accessed from Davos by the Parsennbahn funicular to Weissfluhjoch (2,662 m), is one of the most famous ski areas in the Alps. With 100 km of marked pistes, a vertical drop of 2,034 meters (the longest runs descend all the way to Kublis at 810 m -- one of the longest ski descents in Switzerland), and reliable snow from November to April, Parsenn offers skiing for all abilities. A 1-day lift pass for the entire Davos Klosters region (6 mountains, 300 km of pistes) costs CHF 79 adults (2026 prices). The Parsennbahn operates from mid-November to mid-April. Allow a full day.

2. Visit the Schatzalp

The Schatzalp (1,861 m) is a panoramic terrace above Davos, reached by a charming 1899 funicular railway in just 7 minutes from Davos Platz. Originally the site of a famous tuberculosis sanatorium (it inspired Thomas Mann's novel "The Magic Mountain"), the Schatzalp is now a car-free oasis with a historic hotel, a botanical alpine garden (600+ species, free entry, June-October), and panoramic restaurant. In winter, it offers a family-friendly sledging run (3.5 km descent back to Davos, sled rental CHF 10). Funicular round trip: CHF 12 (2026 prices). Allow 2-3 hours.

3. Walk around Lake Davos (Davosersee)

Lake Davos is a peaceful alpine lake at the southern end of town, offering a 5-km circular walk along flat, well-maintained paths. In summer, the lake is open for swimming (free access, water temperature 18-20°C in July-August), paddleboarding, and rowing boat rental. In winter, the lake sometimes freezes for ice skating (conditions permitting). Free, always accessible. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the loop. GPS: 46.7850, 9.8280.

4. Explore the Kirchner Museum

The Kirchner Museum houses the world's largest collection of works by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880-1938), the German Expressionist painter who lived in Davos from 1917 until his death. The museum, designed by Zurich architects Gigon/Guyer and opened in 1992, contains over 1,400 works including paintings, prints, drawings, and sculptures depicting the Davos landscape and alpine life. Entry: CHF 14 adults (2026 prices), free with Swiss Museum Pass. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00. Allow 1-2 hours. Address: Promenade 82, 7270 Davos Platz.

5. Discover Klosters village

Klosters, 10 km north of Davos and connected by train (12 minutes by RhB), is a quieter, more traditional village that has long been a favorite of the British Royal Family -- King Charles III has holidayed here regularly since the 1970s. The village retains its charming Walser architecture with wooden chalets and a medieval church. The Gotschnabahn cable car from Klosters provides direct access to the Parsenn ski area. In summer, the Klosters area offers excellent hiking, including the scenic trail to the Silvrettasee (3-4 hours one way). Free to explore; allow a half day.

History & Culture

Davos was originally a Walser settlement, colonized by German-speaking settlers from the Valais in the 13th century. For centuries, it remained a remote farming community in the high Prattigau valley. The transformation began in the 1860s, when German physician Alexander Spengler discovered that Davos's dry, high-altitude air was beneficial for tuberculosis patients. The first sanatoriums opened in 1865, and within two decades, Davos had become one of Europe's most famous health resorts.

The literary connection came in 1912 when Thomas Mann visited his wife at a Davos sanatorium. The experience inspired his 1924 novel "The Magic Mountain" (Der Zauberberg), one of the great works of 20th-century literature, set in a fictional sanatorium above Davos. The real-life sanatorium that most closely matches Mann's description was the Schatzalp, now a hotel.

Winter sports arrived in the late 19th century, and Davos hosted the first-ever Spengler Cup ice hockey tournament in 1923 -- the oldest invitational ice hockey tournament in the world, still held annually between Christmas and New Year. The Parsenn ski area opened in 1931 with one of the first ski lifts in Europe.

Since 1971, Davos has hosted the World Economic Forum (WEF) each January, bringing global leaders, CEOs, and heads of state to the small mountain town. The annual meeting has made "Davos" synonymous with global economic discussion. The WEF Congress Centre is located in the center of town.

Klosters, meanwhile, gained fame as a royal retreat. King Charles III (then Prince Charles) began visiting in the 1970s and has returned regularly, often with his family. The understated village atmosphere and excellent skiing access via the Gotschnabahn have kept it a favorite of discerning visitors who prefer tranquility over the bustle of larger resorts.

Top Attractions

Parsenn / Weissfluhjoch (2,662 m)

The Parsenn is the flagship ski area of Davos Klosters, accessed by the Parsennbahn funicular from Davos Dorf. At the Weissfluhjoch summit station, the panoramic restaurant offers views across 700 peaks. The ski area connects to Klosters via the Gotschnagrat, creating a vast interconnected network.

• Lift pass (full region, 1 day): CHF 79 adults, CHF 40 children 6-17 (2026 prices)
• Lift pass (6 days): CHF 375 adults (2026 prices)
• Season: Mid-November to mid-April (snow conditions permitting)
• Pistes: 300 km total across 6 mountains (Parsenn, Gotschna, Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn, Madrisa, Pischa)
• Vertical drop: 2,034 m (Weissfluhjoch to Kublis -- one of the longest in Switzerland)
• GPS (Parsennbahn base): 46.8081, 9.8443

Jakobshorn (2,590 m)

The Jakobshorn is Davos's "youth mountain," known for its freestyle park (one of the best in Switzerland), snowboarding culture, and the famous Jatz Hut igloo bar at the summit. In summer, it is a popular hiking and paragliding launch point. The gondola from Davos Platz reaches the summit in 15 minutes.

• Lift pass: Included in the regional lift pass
• Summer gondola: CHF 38 round trip (CHF 19 with half-fare card, 2026 prices)
• GPS (summit): 46.7780, 9.8470
• Highlight: The panoramic sunrise breakfasts offered on select summer mornings

Schatzalp (1,861 m)

The Schatzalp combines Belle Epoque nostalgia with Alpine gardens and winter fun. The original 1900 sanatorium building is now the Schatzalp Hotel, retaining its Art Nouveau interiors. The Alpinum Schatzalp botanical garden, located adjacent, showcases over 600 species of alpine plants from around the world.

• Funicular round trip: CHF 12 adults (2026 prices)
• Botanical garden: Free entry, open June-October
• Sledge run: 3.5 km descent to Davos, sled rental CHF 10 (winter only)
• GPS (top station): 46.8020, 9.8190
• Thomas Mann connection: A plaque and small exhibition document the link to "The Magic Mountain"

Kirchner Museum

Designed by Annette Gigon and Mike Guyer, the museum's four glass-walled cubes are filled with natural light, providing an ideal setting for Kirchner's vivid Expressionist paintings of the Davos landscape.

• Entry: CHF 14 adults, free under 16 (2026 prices)
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00 (year-round)
• Address: Promenade 82, 7270 Davos Platz
• GPS: 46.7985, 9.8320
• Swiss Museum Pass: Free entry
• Allow: 1-2 hours

Lake Davos (Davosersee)

A scenic alpine lake at the southern end of Davos, surrounded by forest and mountain meadows. The flat circular path (5 km) is accessible year-round and suitable for families and strollers.

• Cost: Free
• Swimming: Free access, supervised beach area in summer
• Boat rental: Rowing boats CHF 20/hour, paddleboards CHF 25/hour (summer only)
• GPS: 46.7850, 9.8280
• Winter: Ice skating possible when the lake freezes (check local conditions)

Activities & Experiences

Winter Activities

Summer Activities

WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF)

Davos is home to the SLF (WSL-Institut fur Schnee- und Lawinenforschung), one of the world's leading avalanche research institutes. Located on the Weissfluhjoch, the institute has monitored snow and avalanche conditions since 1936. While not a tourist attraction per se, the SLF visitor exhibition in the Weissfluhjoch station explains avalanche science and safety. Free entry during lift operating hours.

Getting Around

Public Transport

Davos and Klosters are connected by the Rhatische Bahn (RhB) railway, with trains running every 30 minutes (12-minute journey). Within Davos, local buses operated by Davos Klosters Bergbahnen connect Davos Platz, Davos Dorf, and all mountain railway base stations. The Swiss Travel Pass covers all RhB trains and local buses. A local bus ticket costs CHF 3.00 (2026 prices).

The Davos Klosters Guest Card (given free to hotel guests) includes unlimited local bus travel and various discounts.

On Foot

Davos stretches for approximately 4 km along the valley floor from Davos Dorf (north) to Davos Platz (south). Walking between the two takes approximately 40 minutes along the main promenade. Key distances from Davos Platz station:

• Kirchner Museum: 5 minutes
• Schatzalp funicular: 8 minutes
• Lake Davos: 15 minutes
• Congress Centre (WEF): 3 minutes
• Jakobshorn gondola: 5 minutes

Klosters village center is compact and walkable in 15 minutes.

By Train (RhB)

The Rhatische Bahn connects Davos to the Swiss rail network via Landquart. Trains run through the scenic Prattigau valley. Klosters is an intermediate stop (12 minutes from Davos). RhB trains are covered by Swiss Travel Pass.

Where to Eat

Traditional Swiss & Graubunden

Mountain Restaurants

Budget Options

• Co-op Restaurant: Self-service, CHF 10-16, Promenade, Davos Platz
• Migros Restaurant: Self-service, CHF 10-15, Davos Platz
• Mountain hut lunches: Most SAC and private huts serve hearty meals from CHF 15-25
• Bakery Schneider: Traditional bakery, pastries and sandwiches from CHF 5, Davos Platz and Klosters

Where to Stay

By Budget

Where to Stay: Neighborhood Guide

• Davos Platz: The center of Davos with most shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Close to Jakobshorn and Schatzalp.
• Davos Dorf: Quieter, closer to the Parsennbahn (main ski area access). Preferred by serious skiers.
• Klosters: Quieter village atmosphere, direct Parsenn access via Gotschnabahn. More exclusive, fewer crowds.
• Tip: In winter, choose your location based on which ski area you plan to use most -- Davos Dorf for Parsenn, Davos Platz for Jakobshorn, Klosters for Gotschna/Madrisa.

Day Trips from Davos Klosters

Practical Information

Getting to Davos Klosters by Train (SBB + RhB)

Tip from ch.tours: The RhB train ride from Landquart to Davos through the Prattigau valley is one of Switzerland's most scenic standard rail journeys -- lush green valley, timber chalets, mountain peaks, and the Landquart river gorge. The train is covered by Swiss Travel Pass (no reservation needed). Sit on the left side heading toward Davos for the best views.

Swiss Travel Pass in Davos Klosters

The Swiss Travel Pass covers:

• Free: All RhB trains to/from Davos and Klosters, all local buses, Kirchner Museum entry
• Not covered: Ski lift passes, Parsennbahn, Jakobshorn gondola, Schatzalp funicular (separate tickets required)
• Note: The Davos Klosters Guest Card (free from hotels) provides local bus travel and discounts, complementing the Swiss Travel Pass

Weather by Season

Weather data: MeteoSwiss climate normals for Davos (station 7270)

Emergency & Practical Numbers

• Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 112
• Police: 117
• Ambulance: 144
• Avalanche bulletin: SLF (slf.ch), updated daily during winter
• Ski patrol / mountain rescue: 1414 (Rega)
• Tourist Information: Davos Klosters Tourism, Talstrasse 41, Davos Platz, +41 81 415 21 21
• Opening hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-18:00, Saturday 09:00-17:00, Sunday 09:30-16:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Davos Klosters worth visiting?

Yes, Davos Klosters is one of Switzerland's premier alpine destinations. In winter, the six interconnected ski mountains offer 300 km of pistes for all levels, including some of the longest descents in the Alps. In summer, over 700 km of hiking trails traverse stunning alpine landscapes. The Kirchner Museum, the Thomas Mann literary connection, and the unique atmosphere of Europe's highest city add cultural depth beyond the outdoor activities.

How many days do you need in Davos Klosters?

In winter, three to five days allows you to explore multiple ski mountains and enjoy the apres-ski atmosphere. In summer, two to three days is sufficient for key hikes, the Schatzalp, Lake Davos, and the Kirchner Museum. If you are a dedicated skier, a full week allows you to cover all six mountains without repetition.

How do you get to Davos from Zurich?

Take an IC train from Zurich HB to Landquart (approximately 1h 20min), then change to a Rhatische Bahn (RhB) train to Davos Platz (50 minutes). Total journey: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. Trains connect every hour. A second-class ticket costs CHF 56 (free with Swiss Travel Pass). For Klosters, exit the RhB train at Klosters Platz (12 minutes before Davos).

What is the best time to visit Davos Klosters?

For skiing, January to March offers the most reliable snow and the longest days (March has the most sunshine). December is festive with the Spengler Cup ice hockey tournament. For hiking, July and August have the warmest weather and all trails are fully open. June brings wildflowers, and October offers spectacular golden larch forests. Avoid the "shoulder" months of April-May and November when many facilities close.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid in Davos Klosters?

The Swiss Travel Pass covers all RhB trains to and from Davos and Klosters, all local buses, and entry to the Kirchner Museum. However, the Swiss Travel Pass does not cover ski lift passes, the Parsennbahn funicular, the Jakobshorn gondola, or the Schatzalp funicular. For skiers, separate lift passes must be purchased.

What is the World Economic Forum?

The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an annual meeting of global leaders in politics, business, and civil society, held in Davos every January since 1971. During the WEF (typically the last week of January), Davos transforms: security is heightened, many roads are restricted, hotel prices surge, and the town buzzes with international media and delegations. Unless you are attending the WEF, ch.tours recommends avoiding Davos during this week, as accessibility and value are significantly reduced.

What is the difference between Davos and Klosters?

Davos is larger, higher (1,560 m vs. 1,191 m), more urban, and has a wider range of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It is home to the WEF Congress Centre, the Kirchner Museum, and direct access to the Jakobshorn ski area. Klosters is smaller, quieter, more traditional, and has a village atmosphere favored by those seeking understated elegance. Both share access to the Parsenn ski area and are connected by a 12-minute train ride. Many visitors stay in one and visit the other.

Can you visit Davos as a day trip from Zurich?

It is possible but not ideal. The 2-hour-30-minute each-way journey leaves approximately 4-5 hours in Davos for a day trip. This is sufficient for a summer visit (walk around the lake, visit the Kirchner Museum, take the Schatzalp funicular), but not practical for skiing. ch.tours recommends an overnight stay, especially in winter.

Is Davos Klosters good for beginners?

Yes. The Madrisa area above Klosters is particularly well-suited for beginners and families, with wide, gentle slopes and a children's ski school. The Rinerhorn area on the Davos side also offers excellent beginner terrain. The Parsenn area has long, cruising intermediate runs that advanced beginners can enjoy. Ski school lessons start from CHF 80 for a half-day group lesson (2026 prices).

What was Thomas Mann's connection to Davos?

Thomas Mann visited his wife Katia at the Waldsanatorium in Davos in 1912, where she was being treated for a lung condition. His three-week visit inspired his masterpiece "The Magic Mountain" (Der Zauberberg, published 1924), set in a fictional sanatorium called "Berghof" above Davos. The Schatzalp sanatorium (now a hotel) is the most commonly cited real-life model. A Thomas Mann walking trail in Davos connects sites related to the novel.

How high is Davos?

Davos Platz sits at 1,560 meters above sea level, making Davos the highest city in Europe (among settlements with year-round populations exceeding 10,000). The altitude means reliable winter snow and cool summer temperatures, but visitors coming from sea level may notice mild altitude effects such as shortness of breath during the first day. The highest ski point, Weissfluhjoch, reaches 2,662 meters.

Insider Tips from Locals

1. The Kublis run on Parsenn: The legendary 12-km ski run from Weissfluhjoch (2,662 m) all the way down to Kublis (810 m) is one of the longest continuous descents in the Alps. Time it for a morning start when the pistes are freshly groomed. You can return to Davos by train from Kublis (included in the lift pass).

2. Spengler Cup atmosphere: The annual Spengler Cup ice hockey tournament (26-31 December) at the Vaillant Arena is one of the most atmospheric sporting events in Switzerland. Even if you are not a hockey fan, the energy and tradition make it a unique experience. Tickets sell out quickly -- book months in advance.

3. The Sertigtal in June: Take PostBus 312 from Davos Platz to the end of the Sertigtal valley (20 minutes) and hike the flower-filled meadows. In mid-June, the alpine flowers are at their peak, and the valley is blanketed in wildflowers. The waterfall at the valley's end is a highlight.

4. Schatzalp night sledging: On select winter evenings, the Schatzalp offers guided night sledging with fondue at the summit. The descent through the dark, lit by headlamp, is a quintessential Davos winter experience. Check the Schatzalp website for dates. Reserve in advance.

5. The Gotschnagrat sunrise in summer: Take the first Gotschnabahn cable car from Klosters on a clear summer morning. The sunrise view from the Gotschnagrat (2,285 m) over the Prattigau valley and the Silvretta Alps is extraordinary and far less crowded than famous sunrise spots like Rigi.

6. Klosters for apres-ski: While Davos has the larger nightlife scene, the apres-ski bars in Klosters village (particularly the Casa Antica and the Chesa Grischuna bar) have a more intimate, convivial atmosphere. The Chesa Grischuna restaurant has hosted luminaries from Audrey Hepburn to Greta Garbo.

7. Free concerts at Davos Festival: The Davos Festival (Young Artists in Concert) takes place annually in late July / early August, bringing emerging classical musicians to perform in atmospheric venues including the Kirchner Museum and local churches. Some concerts are free.

8. The RhB train from Davos to Filisur: The RhB train from Davos to Filisur (30 minutes) passes through the stunning Zuge gorge and over the Wiesen Viaduct (89 m high). From Filisur, you can view the famous Landwasser Viaduct (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) from the viewing platform -- a 10-minute walk from Filisur station.

Source: ch.tours | Last updated: March 2026 | Data from MySwitzerland.com, SBB (sbb.ch), Rhatische Bahn (rhb.ch), MeteoSwiss, Davos Klosters Tourism (davos.ch), SLF (slf.ch)