Introduction
The route from Colmar (France) to Davos (Switzerland) via the A35, A5, and A13 covers roughly 320 km and takes about 4.5 hours without stops. A little-known fact: the stretch along the Rhine Valley was once part of the Roman road connecting Gaul to Raetia.
This guide helps you decide if it's worth driving Colmar to Davos and reveals the best stops Colmar to Davos. For extra tips, see our article on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
| Segment | Distance | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost (mid-range SUV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colmar to Basel | 70 km | 45 min | ~€10 |
| Basel to Zurich | 85 km | 1 hr | ~€13 |
| Zurich to Davos | 165 km | 2 hr 45 min | ~€25 |
| Total | 320 km | 4 hr 30 min | ~€48 |
Route Logistics and Infrastructure
The road from Colmar to Davos includes French autoroutes (A35, A5 toll-free), Swiss motorways (A2, A1, A3, A13), and a scenic final ascent to Davos (road 28). You need a Swiss vignette (€40) for Swiss motorways.
Fuel: Stations are frequent; prices rise after Basel. Fill up in France or Germany for lower cost. Diesel averages €1.50/L in France, CHF 1.80/L in Switzerland. The Alpine climb (Flüela Pass) increases consumption to ~10 L/100 km. Total estimated fuel cost: €48-55.
- Highways: A35 (Colmar-Basel), A2 (Basel-Zurich), A3/A13 (Zurich-Davos)
- Last fuel before Davos: Landquart (CHF 1.75/L)
- Tolls: French A35 free, Swiss vignette required
- Driving time: 4.5 hours non-stop; plan 6-8 hours with stops
Road Safety, Family Stops, and Fatigue Management
The A13 from Chur to Davos is a winding mountain road (Flüela Pass). In winter, snow chains may be required. Surface condition is excellent but watch for livestock on the pass. Night illumination is poor beyond Chur; use high beams.
Pet-friendly: Rest stop Heidiland (A13) has a dog run. Café im Dorf in Davos allows dogs.
Family Stops
- Technorama (Winterthur): interactive science museum, 15 min from A1
- Knies Kinderzoo (Rapperswil): animal park with petting zoo
- Swiss Transport Museum (Lucerne): detour 30 min, huge child-friendly exhibition
Fatigue Management
Safe parking for naps: Autobahnraststätte Aare (A1 between Zurich-Bern) has quiet parking. Or use Parkplatz Heidiland (A13) near Maienfeld.
Recommended rest stops every 2 hours: Basel (EuroAirport parking), Zurich (Mövenpick Hotel car park, free 2 hrs), Landquart (train station park & ride).
Hidden Off-Route Spots
- Roman ruins of Augusta Raurica (exit Augst, A3/A2): 5 min detour
- Aareschlucht (Gorge): 5 min from A9 near Meiringen
- Älplisee (Fideris): tiny alpine lake, 2 min off road 28
Climatic notes: Fog common in the Rhine Valley (Oct-Feb), clear skies at altitude. Best sunset viewpoint: Aussichtsplattform Davos (Monstein) - arrive 30 min before sunset.
Natural Landscapes and Local Commerce
Colmar to Davos traverses three distinct landscapes: the Alsatian vineyards, the Rhine Valley plain, and the Swiss Alps. The transition at Tirggis tunnel (A3) marks the shift from gentle hills to rugged peaks.
UNESCO: The Colmar region (Strasbourg, etc.) is part of the Strasbourg–Grand Île, but Davos itself has no UNESCO sites. However, the Benedictine Convent of St. John in Müstair (a detour 45 min from Davos) is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Colmar: half-timbered houses, wine stalls (try Pinot Noir)
- Rheinfelden (A3 exit): old town with salt springs
- Zurich: Bahnhofstrasse luxury, but skip if short on time
- Landquart: factory outlet village (shoes, sportswear)
- Davos: mountain huts (e.g., Schatzalp) for local cheese
For authentic goods, stop at farmer's markets in Kirchberg (car park every Saturday) or buy Swiss chocolate at Läderach in Landquart.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Colmar to Davos?
Non-stop about 4.5 hours, but plan 6-8 hours with breaks and sightseeing.
Is it worth driving from Colmar to Davos?
Yes, for the scenic variety: vineyards, Rhine, and Alps. Also cheaper than flying for families.
What are the best stops between Colmar and Davos?
Basel (old town), Zurich (if interested), Landquart shopping, and Heidiland rest stop.
Are there any UNESCO sites along the route?
No directly on route, but a short detour to Müstair (45 min from Davos) has a UNESCO convent.
Is the road pet-friendly?
Yes; rest stops like Heidiland have dog areas, and many cafes in Davos allow pets.
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