Davos to Grindelwald Drive: Epic Swiss Alpine Road Trip Guide

The road from Davos to Grindelwald is not just a drive—it's a masterclass in Alpine diversity. Did you know that the Flüela Pass (H27), the first major ascent from Davos, climbs from 1,560m to 2,383m in under 15 kilometers? That's a gradient that tests both engine and nerves. This 160-kilometer route weaves through two cantons (Graubünden and Bern) and passes within sight of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest in the Alps. While the most direct way via the A13 and A8 takes about 2 hours 45 minutes, the scenic route over the Flüela Pass and Susten Pass can stretch to 3.5 hours. Understanding the nuances of this drive is key—whether you're asking how long to drive Davos to Grindelwald or wondering is it worth driving Davos to Grindelwald, the answer lies in the journey itself. For more on unearthing hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

This guide breaks down every aspect—from fuel costs to child-friendly stops—so you can plan a seamless trip. Below is a quick snapshot of key logistics.

Safety on this route demands attention: Flüela Pass has no guardrails on some sections, and Susten Pass can be icy even in summer (morning shade). Always carry tire chains in winter. Infrastructure safety is high—all tunnels are lit and monitored. For rest, the service area in Chur (A13) has a large parking lot with a playground and a café. Another recommended stop is the Wassen rest area on the A2 (near Andermatt) with panoramic views.

• Family-friendly: Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne (1 hour detour) or Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken.
• Pet-friendly: The Berggasthaus Bären (Flüela Pass) welcomes dogs; the Hundeschwimmbad in Brienz offers a dog swimming spot.
• Hidden off-route: The abandoned village of Mulegns (Turnaspalast) is a 5-minute detour from the A13.

Fatigue can creep in on long mountain roads. The designated rest zone at the top of Susten Pass (2,224m) has benches and a snack bar. If you need a quick nap, pull into the parking area at Lake Lungern (off the A8) – it's quiet and scenic. For things to do between Davos and Grindelwald that are offbeat, visit the Meyers Canvass Factory in Interlaken (free tour of historic textile printing). Remember: take breaks every two hours.

The standard route begins in Davos, heads south on the H27 to the Flüela Pass (open June–October), then connects to the A13 at Susch. From there, it's a smooth ride on the A13 and A8 through Chur, Lucerne, and Interlaken to Grindelwald. Alternatively, the all-weather route uses the H28 via Klosters and the Vereina Tunnel to avoid the pass, adding 20 minutes. For best stops Davos to Grindelwald, include a break in Chur (Switzerland's oldest city) and Lauterbrunnen (valley of 72 waterfalls).

• Fuel stations: Well-spaced along highways; average cost CHF 1.80/liter. Budget around CHF 50–70 for the trip.
• Toll system: A13/A8 require a motorway vignette (CHF 40, valid for calendar year); no cash tolls on pass roads.
• Road quality: Excellent asphalt on all routes; Flüela and Susten passes are narrow with sharp turns—drive cautiously.

If driving an electric vehicle, charging stations are available in Davos, Chur, Lucerne, and Interlaken. On the scenic route, plan for a top-up in Andermatt. For fuel economy, use engine braking on descents—especially on the 10% gradients of Susten Pass.

The geographical transition is profound: from the high alpine desert of the Flüela Pass (barren, windswept slopes) to the lush green valleys of the Bernese Oberland. The A13 corridor reveals the dramatic Rhine Gorge (Swiss Grand Canyon) near Thusis, while the Susten Pass offers views of the Steingletscher and the Trift Bridge. A UNESCO World Heritage Site lies within a short detour: the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona (Glarus thrust fault) is 30 minutes off the A3 near Elm. Additionally, the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn region (UNESCO) includes Grindelwald itself.

• Must-see viewpoint: Eiger Glacier lookout on the way to Grindelwald.
• Local delicacies: Chur pastries (Bündner Nusstorte), Bernese Rösti, and Engadin nuts.
• Crafts: Wood carvings from Brienz (20 km from Grindelwald).

For authentic shopping, stop at the weekly market in Chur (Saturday mornings) or the cheese dairy in Meiringen (just off the Susten route). These spots offer genuine regional goods without tourist markup.