Davos to Varenna: Ultimate Alpine Road Trip Guide

Did you know that the Flüela Pass (H27) connecting Davos to Susch was used by Roman legions over 2,000 years ago? Today, it's the first major climb on the 190-kilometer route to Varenna, which crosses three mountain passes and two national borders. The drive typically takes 3.5–4.5 hours without stops, but with the rich array of attractions, you'll want to allocate a full day.

How long to drive Davos to Varenna? The core driving time is about 3 hours 45 minutes via the A13, A2, and SS36, but scenic detours can add hours. Is it worth driving Davos to Varenna? Absolutely—the route traverses some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Alps, from the barren high-altitude moonscape of the Ofen Pass to the lush green shores of Lake Como. For tips on finding unexpected treasures, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The journey transitions from the high alpine tundra of the Flüela Pass (2,383m) to the rocky gorge of the Ofen Pass (2,149m), then plunges into the lush Valtellina valley with its terraced vineyards, finally ending at the emerald waters of Lake Como. Look for the Swiss National Park near Zernez—its untouched forests host ibex and marmots. The best scenic sunset spot is from the Belvedere viewpoint at the Ofen Pass summit (46.6°N 10.3°E), where the last rays illuminate the Bernina Range.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The route passes within 10 km of the Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscapes (UNESCO). Detour at Preda to ride the Bernina Express or simply view the viaducts from the road. Between Tirano and Varenna, the Sacri Monti of Lombardy (Ossuccio) is a short drive from the lake—adds 20 minutes but offers breathtaking frescoed chapels.

• Local Commerce & Culture: In Sta. Maria Val Müstair, pick up traditional Engadin nut cake (Birnbrot) and alpine cheese from the local dairy. Near Bormio, visit the medieval Bormio Baths (hot springs). In Valtellina, buy bottles of Sforzato wine (a DOCG red) and Bresaola (air-dried beef). Lake Como's Bellano offers hand-painted silk scarves at artisan boutiques.
• Culinary Infrastructure: Three standout stops:
  • Pöstli Flüelapass (just over the Flüela crest) – Swiss alpine macaroni and fresh cream desserts.
  • Ristorante Pizzeria Ponte in Tirano – authentic pizzas baked in wood oven, perfect for a lunch break.
  • Antico Crotto di Moltrasio (on lake shore) – traditional Lake Como polenta with perch.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: All roads are asphalted with good grip. The Flüela Pass has hairpin turns with no guardrails in some sections—drive at 40 km/h. Ofen Pass is wider but subject to rockfall; check for warning signs after rain. Italian A2 is well-lit and safe. Always carry snow chains in winter (mandatory in Switzerland for passes).

Family and Child Suitability: Kids will love the Swiss National Park's adventure trail near Zernez (2 km loop with animal puzzles). In Bormio, the indoor Bormio Bagni Vecchi pool complex has thermal waters and a waterfall. Near Colico, the Lake Como Adventure Park offers ziplining and rope courses. For a quick learning stop, the Museum of the Engadin in St. Moritz has interactive exhibits on alpine geology.

Pet-Friendly Framework: Dogs are welcome on the Swiss National Park's main paths (on leash). Many lakeside restaurants on Lake Como (e.g., Ristorante Lago in Varenna) allow well-behaved dogs on the terrace. For safe walking, the promenade in St. Moritz (via Serlas) has benches and water fountains. The campground near Zernez (Camping Sur En) has a dedicated dog run.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: Recommended rest stops:

• After Flüela Pass descent: parking area at Susch (picnic tables, toilet).
• Mid-route: Zernez next to the Swiss National Park visitor center (sofa area, info desk).
• Before Italian border: Müstair monastery parking (quiet, with a 10th-century church).
• For a nap, the A2 Autogrill at Chiasso has a dedicated nap room (dark, quiet).

Hidden Off-Route Spots: Within 5 minutes of the main route:

• Abandoned village of Laret (just south of Davos): a ghost town of 17th-century stone houses.
• Chapel of San Carlo (near Bormio): a tiny baroque chapel with frescoes from 1535.
• Ruins of the Ospizio di San Giacomo (on the Passo di Foscagno alternatve): a former hospice for pilgrims built in the 13th century. Add 10 minutes from Bormio.

Fuel and Route Economics: Fuel prices in Switzerland average 1.80 CHF/L, while in Italy they drop to 1.60 EUR/L. Fill up in Italy for savings, but note that stations on the Swiss side of the Ofen Pass are sparse—last reliable pump is at Zernez (25 km before the summit). Plan for ~35 liters total, costing roughly €55-65 (depending on currency). The climb to 2,360m altitude reduces fuel efficiency by 15-20%, so use engine braking on descents to conserve fuel.

Road Quality and Tolls: Entire route is paved. Swiss sections (A13, H27) are toll-free except for the Munt la Schera tunnel (CHF 7, cash only). Italian A2 autostrada from Chiasso to Como requires a toll of €3.90 (credit card accepted). The SS36 along Lake Como is a two-lane scenic road with frequent tunnels. Night driving is safe but poorly lit on mountain passes; fog is common at dawn near Graubünden lakes.

• Key Roads: H27 (Flüela Pass), H28 (Engadin valley), A13 toward San Bernardino, H3 (Ofen Pass to Italian border), SS38 (Valtellina), SS36 (Lake Como).
• Milestones: 46.5°N 9.9°E (Davos start), 46.3°N 10.2°E (St. Moritz), 46.2°N 10.1°E (Müstair fork), 46.2°N 9.4°E (Lake Como junction).
• Toll Alert: Munt la Shera tunnel (CHF 7) and A2 south of Chiasso (€3.90). Have cash for Swiss tunnel.