Como to Davos Road Trip: Scenic Drive Through Alps

The Como to Davos road trip traces a dramatic transition from the Italian lake region into the high Swiss Alps. This route covers approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) and typically takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours driving time without stops. The journey passes through two countries and crosses the Splügen Pass (Passo dello Spluga), a historic artery that once connected the Duchy of Milan to the Holy Roman Empire.

Driving this route means ascending from 200 meters above sea level at Lake Como to over 1,500 meters in Davos. The contrast in landscapes—from palm-fringed lakesides to snow-dusted Alpine peaks—is one of Europe's most striking drives. Along the way, you'll encounter medieval villages, engineering marvels, and spectacular viewpoints.

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

The SS37/H13 over Splügen Pass is well-maintained but narrow with sharp hairpin bends. Guardrails are present but not continuous. In winter (November–May), the pass is often closed; check conditions at viabilità.ch. Summer driving is safe, but watch for cyclists and motorcycles. Italian roads are generally good but can be potholed in rural stretches.

Family and Child Suitability

• Great for kids: Fattoria Didattica in Colico (farm visit, animal feeding).
• Splügen Pass summit has a short nature trail and picnic area.
• Davos offers the Funtensee adventure playground and indoor pool.
• Best stops Como to Davos for families: Chiavenna's Cascate dell'Acquafraggia (waterfalls, easy walk).

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Plan rest stops every 90 minutes. Recommended:

• Chiavenna (parking near the historic center, cafes).
• Splügen Pass summit (restaurant and viewing platform).
• Splügen village (picnic tables by the river).

Road Numbers and Key Junctions

From Como, take SS340 north along the western shore of Lake Como. At Sorico, join SS36 towards Chiavenna. Continue on SS37 to the Swiss border (passing through customs at 1,500m). In Switzerland, the road becomes H13 over Splügen Pass, then H417 and H28 to Davos.

Fuel and Route Economics

• Petrol stations are frequent in Italy, but scarce on the pass segment. Fill up in Chiavenna.
• Swiss petrol is about 20% more expensive than Italian. Consider filling up at the border.
• Motorway vignette (€40) required for Swiss motorways, but not for pass roads.
• Toll roads in Italy: SS36 is toll-free; the A9 motorway from Como (€2.50) optional.

Natural Landscapes and Attractions

The first third of the drive hugs Lake Como's turquoise waters, passing through towns like Menaggio and Colico. After the town of Chiavenna, the road climbs steeply into the Val San Giacomo, revealing towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. The Splügen Pass offers one of the best stops Como to Davos: the Pass summit at 2,115 meters features a historic hospice and panoramic views.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscapes (near Thusis, not directly on route but a 30-minute detour from Chiavenna via Madesimo).
• Mount San Giorgio (fossil site) near Mendrisio, south of Como.
• Three Castles of Bellinzona (20 km detour south of the route).

Local Commerce and Culture

Chiavenna is known for its crotti, natural stone cellars where local cheeses and salami are aged. In Davos, the Kirchner Museum holds the world's largest collection of works by Expressionist painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. For how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, consult this guide.