Davos Ski Resort Switzeralnd Skiing

Davos Ski Resort Switzerland – A Guide on Things to Do

Davos Switzerland is considered to be one of the most prestigious Ski resorts in the world. Even though I was only there for 48hours, my program was jam packed with exciting things to do. From checking out the best areas to ski with my guide, taking a look behind the scenes of the rescue service to doing the Early Bird skiing activity.

Panoramic view of the Swiss Alps and Davos ski runs
Overlooking the ski fields from the top of Weissfluhjoch – Davos Ski Resort

Things to do in Davos

If you have not heard of Davos Klosters Ski Resort Switzerland before I am sure you have now. After all of the news of Donald Trump being in the city for the famous World Economic Forum. An annual event held every winter, with some of the world’s most powerful leaders.

However, there is so much more to this beautiful resort and with it being the biggest Ski resort city in Switzerland you will find plenty of things to do and see.



⇒  Click on the link to check out the latest deals on skiing in Switzerland with Neilson Holidays.

Davos Ski Resort Switzerland

Apart from it being the largest ski resort city in Switzerland, it is also considered to be the highest city in Europe. The ski area is split across two different sides of the Swiss Alps.

The Parsenn and Madrisa on one side and Pischa, Jakobshor and Rinerhorn on the other side. You are definitely spoilt for choice with 350 km’s of guaranteed snow-covered pistes.

Two snowboarders captured getting air in the snow park - Winter Davos Ski Resort Switzerland
Snowboarders riding the snow park

Davos Ski Passes

Davos Ski Passes are really flexible, you can get a lift pass for the individual areas of Parsenn / Jakobshorn / Madrisa or a regional pass which covers Parsenn / Jakobshorn / Madrisa / Pischa / Rinerhorn.

It really depends on your experience, comfort and budget.

  ⇒ Check with your hotel in Davos to see if they are doing any deals with ski passes. Sometimes you can get a discount or even a free pass. 

battery powered heated clothing

Skiing in Davos Ski Area

There are six ski areas in Davos Klosters Switzerland for the family and friends to enjoy. All the ski areas are spread out and are not interlinked. However, it is super easy to get around especially on the local bus and train with your skis and boards. And it is free with your ski pass which is a bonus.

I skied in the Jakobshorn with my guide Oliver and the ski conditions could not have been any more perfect. The best bit was we were the only ones on the slopes as we were first up on the mountain.

The red slopes were just the way I like them, long wide and steep in some bits. As you are so high up most of the slopes are open and the only time that you go through any real forest is on your way back to the resort and when you go off piste near the resort.

I always carry a day backpack when skiing in Switzerland, as well as a water bottle. It keeps me hydrated especially with my rare heart condition and pacemaker/ICD.

Checking the reflection in Mel B's goggles on a sunny ski slope Davos Ski Resort switzerland
A beautiful day for skiing

Overview of the Davos Skiing Area (Regional )

  • 6 Main Ski Areas (Parsenn / Jakobshorn / Madrisa / Pischa / Rinerhorn & Sertigtal )
  • 55 lifts 
  • 110 pistes
  • 300 km or 186 miles ski slopes
  • Super pipe and airbag at Bolgen for freestyle skiing
  • Longest run: 12 km/8 miles, Weissfluhgipfel-Küblis
  • Night skiing in Rinerhorn
  • 8 different sledge runs are available across the Davos Klosters

⇒ Make sure that you have the right travel insurance so your mind can be at ease when you are hitting the ski slopes in Switzerland. Compare the best holiday insurance for FREE

Highlights Skiing in Davos Switzerland

Other Activities in the Resort

There is so much more you can do during winter in Davos Ski area. From dog sledging, and curling to simply just enjoying the food and Swiss wine. I like to mix up my days by skiing half a day and doing an activity for the other half. 

Here are some other winter activities to do in Davos

  • Airboard Snow Bodyboarding on Pischa
  • Go Fatbiking riding on the snow on Pischa
  • Try your hand at Snowshoeing
  • Ice-skating at Davos World of Ice which is the largest mobile artificial ice rink in Switzerland.
  • Ice climbing up a frozen waterfall in Sertigtal valley
  • Watch the famous Davos Ice-Hockey team at the Ice Stadium.

Feeling adventurous, how about experiencing paragliding on your skis above Davos Klosters. I have done the same winter activity when I was in La Cluaza.

Davos Winter Guest Programme 

Davos Ski Resort offer’s a variety of experiences and things to do during the winter period. This is called the winter guest programme and includes everything from Sport & Adventure, Kids & Family, Visits & Excursions as well as Art & Culture.

There is pretty much something available for everyone and every age to do in winter. The experiences are available to guests with a valid Davos Klosters Card and can be booked directly online with the tourism office.

I went on two of the winter guest programme activities, Slope and Rescue service – look behind the scenes Parsenn and Early Bird skiing (Parsenn). I enjoyed both a lot for different reasons.



Things to consider before booking Davos experience

  • If you can not make one of the activities or experiences booked, please let the tourism office know as soon as possible. There are limited spots available on some of the activities and someone else can take your spot. Also, people will be waiting around for you to turn up.
  • This happened on one of the activities that I was on, some people just didn’t bother to turn up and we waited around for them.
Picture of skiers boots while resting in the snow admiring the view of the snow covered mountains - Skiing in Davos Ski Resort
Taking a rest and enjoying the amazing view – Davos Klosters Ski Resort

Slope and Rescue service – look behind the scenes Parsenn

Go behind the scenes and learn about what the search and rescue do daily, how avalanches are dispersed and what it takes to groom a run. You will go away with a good insight on what Davos Klosters do to make sure that you are keeping safe. As well as a greater appreciation for the mountains and the people that take care of them. You might even also go away understanding why it costs so much money for a lift pass.

Davos tourism office has such an activity called ‘Slope and rescue service – look behind the scenes Parsenn’ that takes you into the SOS control to learn what they do and then you go into the snow groomer’s area. You learn everything about what needs to be done to keep the people in Davos Klosters Ski Resort safe.



You also get to learn about why the snow groomers are so expensive, why they don’t fall down the steep slopes and if you are lucky, they let you sit in one (Which is actually really cool).

Additional Information

  • Cost – FREE!!!! (Just your time)
  • Meeting Point – 2 pm. Weissfluhjoch upper terminus by the entrance to the Weissfluh summit cable car 
  • Duration – 2hrs Max
  • What to wear – Warm clothing, good winter shoes and gloves 
  • Register – Up until 9am on the same day (as it is an afternoon activity)
Instructor showing how to make the ski area safe
Preparing explosives for avalanche control

Early Bird Skiing – Parsenn Davos

There is nothing like that feeling of getting up super early and being the first one to tear up the freshly groomed slopes. It is such a great way to start the day. The Davos winter guest programme, Early Bird skiing Parsenn Davos, not only allows you to do this. But you get to ski or snowboard for 2hrs with a guide before the chairlifts officially open.

If you are lucky enough and it is a clear morning you even get to see the sunrise over the Swiss Alps. Unfortunately, I never saw it because I had a whiteout on the morning. Lucky for my two guides Christina and Markus, who were fantastic especially when I lost my sense of bearings. I couldn’t see anything apart from my guides and I was completely comfortable following them down the slopes.

Even though I never saw anything except lots and lots of snow, I still had a great time and it’s an activity that I would definitely do again. 

  • Please note that this is not an activity for someone who is not a confident skier or snowboarder.

battery powered heated clothing

Additional Information

  • Meeting Point – 07:15 am Parsenn Davos lower terminus (Before you catch the train up)
  • Duration – 2hrs
  • Take a day backpack, as well as a water bottle with you to keep hydrated. 
  • Requirements – Confident skiing on red runs & Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult
  • Must Bring – Own or rented skis – or snowboard equipment

 ⇒ Based in England? Do you know that you can take the Snowboarding lesson at The SnowCentre.

Groomed ski runs on a bright sunny day - Davos Ski Resort Switzerland
Enjoying the early morning ski runs in Davos Klosters Ski Resort

Where to have a drink

There is nothing more enjoyable than having a nice glass of wine (or beer) after a hard day of skiing. Aprés in Davos Switzerland is very popular and each area has their own unique place to party. You have everything from Wine bars in the centre of town to chalets on top of the mountains with DJ’s pumping out tunes.

Don’t forget your sunglasses for looking cool, while enjoying the Aprés ski in Switzerland.

Apres skiing in Davos SkiDavos Ski Resort SkiingSkiing in Davos Ski Resort SwtizerlandDrinking Davos Ski Resort

Jatzhutte bar on the mountain

Although I never got to experience the Jatzhutte bar in its full glory with all the ski and snowboarders dancing. I heard that it is a great place to go for Apres Ski. However, I did go there first thing in the morning for a coffee and to warm up, as it was super cold. The views across the Swiss Alps from Jatzhutte bar were impressive.

Jatzhutte bar had some fun-looking facilities like all the deck chairs had rugs to keep you warm outside. And if you are feeling super adventurous there were even two jacuzzis that you could use while enjoying your drinks.

Top Tip

  • I suggest booking one of the chairs in advance, as it gets really busy for Apré ski
A hot tub things to do in Davos Ski Resort
What a place to enjoy a hot tub – Jatzhutte bar

The Pulsa Bar & Lounge Restaurant – Off the Mountain

I do not always recommend bars in hotels that I stay in but I really liked The Pulsa Bar & Lounge Restaurant. It was situated on the ground floor of The Hotel Grischa and was modern, and stylish but casual and cosy at the same time. It was a great spot for a drink after skiing or for pre-dinner drinks.

One part of the bar area had comfortable couches with an open fire and chandelier above. While the other area had a sit-down tables and a bar where you could enjoy the food service. 

If you like cigars there was also the ‘Zino Platinum Cigar Lounge’, a glassed area where you could go to enjoy some good quality cigars and fine drinks like a whisky to match.

Top Tip

  • If you like Gin go check out Cantinetta lounger & bar in the Ameron Hotel

Enjoying a glass of prosecco - Skiing Davos Ski Resort Switzerland

How to get to Davos Klosters

Zurich Airport

Zurich Airport is the closest international airport to Davos Klosters Ski Resort. Your best options from Zurich to Davos are trains, transfers or driving. If you go drive it is roughly a 2-3 hour drive in good weather conditions by train it is about 3 hours. Check with the airline that you are travelling with because some of them allow you to check your skis on the plane for free.

If you like to get a FREE, easy and fast comparison of flights to Zurich Airport, then try out the Travel Supermarket flight comparison site.

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Trains from Zurich

The best and most cost-effective way to get from Zurich to Davos (or Klosters) is via train. This should take around 3 hours from the Zurich Aiport to Davos Ski Resort, depending on changes.

You can book your train in advance and keep track of the trains and platforms using the SBS train app. The standard Train route: Zurich Airport →  Zurich Central Station → Landquart (You change onto the Snow train) → Davos Platz

The Train Ride from Zurich to Davos ski resort

Accommodation in Davos

Being the largest ski resort city in Switzerland and the highest city in Europe, there is a large selection of hotels in Davos. You are definitely spoiled with options when it comes to accommodation. You can choose from From stunning luxury 5 star hotels and chalets to mountain huts and apartments, there is definitely something for everyone with any type of budget.

Check with your hotel in Davos to see if they are doing any deals with ski passes. Sometimes you can get a discount or even a free pass. 

  ⇒  Check the current availability for accommodation in Davos Ski Resort Switzerland.

Hotel Grischa

I stayed at the very stylish Hotel Grischa which was situated in a prime position. Across the road from the main train station and only 5 minutes walk (with skis) to the Jakobshorn cableway. The hotel and staff were friendly and were always happy to help and my Junior Suite was very spacious with a separate living room and a balcony facing the slopes.

The hotel has everything that you can want from a winter holiday, from 5 different restaurants to ski room with a boot dryer and waxing room. You pretty much didn’t need to leave the hotel after your day of skiing.

⇒  Hotels in Switzerland use two different types of plugs for electrical equipment. Plug type C (which has two round pins) and type J ( which has three round pins).

 

Winter Skiing in Davos Ski Resort

Top Tips before heading to Davos Ski Resort

  • You can take the snow train from Davos to St Moritzwhich is only 1 hour and 28 minutes. Then you can spend a few days in each resort and basically have the best of both worlds, skiing in two amazing resorts.
  • Exploring other parts of Switzerland while there? Think about getting a 4 day Swiss Travel Pass.
  • During the winter period, the Davos-Klosters Guest Card provides free use of local buses and trains, as well as other discounts.  
  • The currency used in Davos Switzerland is the Swiss Franc 
  • The number 1 or 3 bus gets you everywhere in Davos Ski resort. If not, all the locals are pretty helpful.
Overlooking the snow covered skiing Davos Ski Resort
Overlooking Davos city – Switzerland

Other Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Discover other Ski Resorts in Switzerland, then feel free to read the following. All are great options for ski holidays.

  ⇒  Make sure that you have the right travel insurance when on the ski slopes in Davos Switzerland for your ski holiday. Compare the best holiday insurance for FREE

Thank you for reading this article on Davos Ski Resort Switzerland. There are so many amazing things to do in Winter, as well as skiing. 

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Davos Ski Resort Switzerland Skiing  Davos Ski Resort Switzerland Pinterest Skiing

Have you been to Davos Ski Resort before? I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

Disclaimer: Even though I was working with the Switzerland Tourism UK and Davos Klosters Tourism office  All views are my own and based on my own experience.

“This post contains affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you if you click on one of the product links, we may earn a commission.”  For further details, you can view our Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions or contact me directly. 

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43 thoughts on “Davos Ski Resort Switzerland – A Guide on Things to Do

  1. Perri says:

    That snow looks awesome! I had never heard of Davos, having only skied in France but will definitely consider it for my next ski trip!

  2. Helene says:

    We never consider going to Switzerland to ski because we have our own slopes in Austria but I can see how this could be a fun weekend outing. The slopes look great, perfect for an extensive day on the snow. 🙂

  3. Renata says:

    This looks just mesmerizing! Although I’m not skiing, I see myself totally hiking through the snow and enjoying the views – they are just so beautiful! I’m pleasantly surprised that it looks so empty.
    However, I think I’m rather the après-ski type: sitting on one of the chairs outside overlooking the mountains, sipping Champagne and waiting for the skiers to come back to the place to keep me company 😉

    • Melbtravel says:

      Davos is a huge city and there is so much more you can do other than skiing and that is what I love about the place. I think it was empty as it was the week after the school holidays and the week before Donald Trump arrived. I definitely recommend it

  4. Ghia Lorenzo says:

    Thanks for sharing these guide things for Davos Ski Resort, I enjoyed reading this all down. I really love all of the photos especially the view of Davos City and the all of Davos Ski. Aside from enjoying skiing, that hot tub is a must try. It is also nice to know that there are rescue team that will always be there for the visitors.

    • Melbtravel says:

      You are more than welcome, it was a great place to ski. My only downside is that I never got to spend longer. I would of loved to seen people jumping around in that hot tub

  5. Lance says:

    The city of Davos looks stunning. The ski slopes look fantastic as well. I like the idea of the Davos Klosters Inside and all the options (including some for families). It looks fascinating to spend some time with the Slope and Rescue Squad. I’d definitely like to see what a day in their lives looks like.

  6. Juliette S says:

    These ski posts of yours are not helping me save money ha ha! I want to go to every one you have written about. I love early bird skiing – or first tracks as its known here – (we have it at Mt Ruapehu in NZ, and after a fresh dumping over night, it’s the most glorious feeling! Especially as we have Life Passes so it doesn’t cost us any extra) but I would love to watch the sun rise over the Alps – what a fabulous view. A shame you lucked out with the weather! And how AWESOME to see the Slope & rescue team and see how it all works! Very cool.

    • Melbtravel says:

      LOL, I will have to take you with me one time to the snow on a press trip and you can help with the filming and take pictures. I would love to ski in NZ that is definitely a bucketlist item for me and I am asked all the time if I have been there. Rescue team where amazing to hear abut too.

  7. lisa says:

    That hot tub looks so awesome! I have never been skiing before in fact I have only seen snow once so this pictures are absolutely beautiful to me. I have read that the Switzerland is one of the best places to Ski. I would also love to get up early and see the fresh smooth slopes and sunrise what a awesome way to see nature, being in the snow in the mountains is on my bucket list and reading this just makes me want to do it even more.

  8. Catherine says:

    Davos Ski Resort looks so beautiful. Our boys just started skiing this winter, and I look forward to many ski adventures with them in the future. The Alps would obviously be a dream trip.

  9. Rachel says:

    Sounds like theres a heck of a lot to keep you entered there, and look at those mountains, so pretty! I cold spend a while trip just taking photos of those!

  10. Helena says:

    This looks so amazing. I would really like to spend a lot of time at the snow. I have only snowboarded in the Australian snowfields but would love to do it here!

    • Melbtravel says:

      I learnt how to ski in Australia and when I tell people that can’t believe it because they think Australia is a desert lol… Definitely get your self over to Europe of a board trip 🙂

  11. Rye Santiago says:

    That’s a spectacular place to go skiing. I was so tempted until I read your warning that it might not suit those who are not confident skiiers. Unfortunately, I’m not. I guess I’d be content watching skiiers as I drink hot chocolate. Haha.

    • Melbtravel says:

      Rye is was so beautiful there and you don’t have to be a confident skier to go there as there was so much to do. Don’t worry I love a good hot chocolate too

  12. Kent says:

    Hey great post mate, l found your post while looking for new resorts to go too. l am keen on that early morning skiing

  13. John H says:

    I have been looking to ski in either between Davos & St Moritz. After reading your review l think I have made my discison.

  14. Lisa says:

    This is a really stunning resort, and I’m not sure I’ll ever get to experience this! I’m really a new skier, so Davos is one resort that looks more for the experienced skier. However, I’d still like to ride that glass top train and see the view! Not sure I could strip off for the hot tub, but I can definitely do drinks on the mountains!

  15. Suzanne says:

    Davos is pretty famous for winter sports. I’m sure it’s a hit with a lot of people. I’m not much of a ski bunny and prefer to look at the white stuff from a warm room instead. I don’t mind snowshoeing though.

    • Melbtravel says:

      It is the biggest ski resort city in Europe and there is plenty to do other than skiing. It is definitely a gorgeous place to wander around in and just take it all in.

  16. Jen says:

    Your photos are beautiful especially the shots with the view and the skier in action! I could only dream of doing this. I tried skiing and snowboarding a couple of times and it isn’t easy as I thought it would be. Definitely not a confident skier/snowboarder here but I would still love to go and do the activities for amateurs! 😉

    • Melbtravel says:

      That skier in the action shot is me, my guide took it for me 🙂 Glad you like it. This is a great place if you want to mix it up and do other activities as well as snowshoeing etc.

  17. Ada says:

    That ski resort looks fabulous! I haven’t learn how to ski yet but I went to Austria once to see those wonderful mountains! The view on top is just breathtaking! Its so white and beautiful! Your photos are amazing, seems like you have good time!

  18. Samantha says:

    I’d heard of Davos, but I had no idea it had such a cool ski resort. I’m not a skier myself, I’m far too terrified, but my step-dad is a keen snowboard and skier and I think he’d appreciate the powder white snow. I’d still love to go because it is so beautiful! Those deckchairs look like the perfect spot for some photography!

  19. Jaypee says:

    Suddenly, Davos become so famous after all the coverage in the news. There are plenty of skiing resorts in Switzerland and I don’t see anything special here. But more than skiing, I love the backdrop of the colorful city behind the snow capped mountains. Beautiful!

  20. aareeba says:

    Switz is my childhood fav destination and this resort looks super cool for a vacation. I have always wanted to visit switz but couldn’t get a chance till now. Thanks for taking me to this beautiful place through your blog 🙂

  21. mangwanya says:

    A skiing holiday is the ultimate travel experience for me but I always get the sense that it is rather expensive – I love the pictures I just hope I can bear the cold!

  22. Ferny says:

    Wow Mel, I heard about Davos, but you describe it wonderful. I’ll do it one day for sure.
    Switzerland was one of my favorite destinations, but theres is a lot more to visit there.

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