Davos to Savona Road Trip Guide: Alps to Mediterranean

This road trip from Davos (1,560 m altitude) to Savona on the Ligurian coast drops 1,500 meters over 380 km, crossing three countries and the main Alpine divide. The most direct route uses the A13 and A2 in Switzerland, then the A26 in Italy. A unique local quirk: the San Bernardino tunnel (A13) replaces the historic pass road, saving 30 minutes but skipping spectacular views.

The journey from Davos to Savona combines Swiss and Italian motorways. In Switzerland, the A13 runs through the San Bernardino tunnel (toll included in the motorway vignette). After crossing into Italy at Chiasso, the A9 connects to the A26 near Gravellona Toce. Be aware: Swiss motorway vignette (CHF 40) required, while Italian motorways use a toll system (pay at exit or via Telepass).

Fuel stations are abundant on both sides, but Swiss stations close earlier (by 8 PM). In Italy, Autogrill and Q8 stations are open 24/7 on major highways. Fuel costs: in Switzerland approx. CHF 1.80/litre, in Italy €1.70/litre. The mountainous terrain reduces fuel efficiency by 10-15%; a diesel SUV will cost about €60-70 total.

• Estimated fuel cost: €60-70 (Diesel SUV)
• Toll cost Italy: approximately €15 (A26 only)
• Swiss vignette: CHF 40 (annual, valid all year)

To plan efficient stops, use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The A13 and A2 are well-maintained, with good lighting only near tunnels. The Italian A26 is also modern. Key safety: watch for wildlife (deer, chamois) between Davos and Thusis, especially at dawn/dusk. Snow possible from October to April on the Swiss section; carry chains. Italian police (Polizia Stradale) enforce speed cameras actively.

Family-friendly stops include the Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne (detour, but 1 hour from route) or the Falconeria Locarno (birds of prey show, near Bellinzona). For children, the adventure park at Funtasy Island, Lake Maggiore, is a 15-minute detour. Pet-friendly: most Swiss rest areas have dog walking zones; in Italy, Autogrill allows dogs but only in designated areas.

• Family: Falconeria Locarno (30 min from Bellinzona)
• Pet-friendly: Swiss rest area "Gottardo Sud" has a dog park
• Children: Sigriswil adventure trail (near Davos, but off-route)

Fatigue management: Recommended rest zones include the "Viamala" rest area (A13, near Thusis) with panoramic views, and the "Lago Maggiore" service area (A26, near Verbania) with cafes and green space. Both have safe parking for a nap. Hidden off-route spots: the abandoned village of Cresciano (Ticino) lies 5 km from the A2 exit Riviera, featuring overgrown stone houses.

The route crosses three distinct landscapes: the high Alps (Davos), the Swiss Prealps and Ticino valleys, and the Italian Piedmont hills descending to the Ligurian coast. The transition is abrupt after the San Bernardino tunnel, where Mediterranean vegetation appears. A UNESCO World Heritage site lies near the route: the Three Castles of Bellinzona (just off the A2/A13 junction, a 5-minute detour). These medieval castles are worth a 1-hour visit.

Local commerce includes Swiss chocolate in Davos, Ticino wines (Merlot) from the Mendrisiotto region, and Ligurian olive oil in Savona. Stop at roadside stalls near Magadino (Switzerland) for chestnuts, or at the Riviera di Ponente markets for pesto and Focaccia.

• Davos: Engadin nuts, Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef)
• Bellinzona: Salami, local cheeses, Castles souvenirs
• Verbania (Lago Maggiore): Ceramic crafts, lake fish specialties
• Savona: Extra virgin olive oil, focaccia, Campari