Linz to Davos Road Trip: Alpine Views & Hidden Gems

The drive from Linz to Davos spans roughly 600 kilometers across three countries—Austria, a sliver of Germany, and Switzerland. One little-known fact: the route crosses the Arlberg Pass at 1,793 meters, making it one of the higher alpine crossings that remains open most of the year, though winter chains may be required.

You'll leave Linz on the A1 westbound, merge onto the A8 near Salzburg, then take the A93 into Germany. After a short stint on the A7 and A96, you re-enter Austria at the A14. The Swiss A13 through the Rhine Valley leads directly to Davos. Total driving time is around 6.5 to 7 hours without stops.

Key waypoints to consider: Salzburg (30 min detour), Feldkirch (old town), and Chur (Switzerland's oldest city). For a deep dive into planning, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel costs along this route average €1.50 per liter for gasoline in Austria and Germany, slightly higher in Switzerland (~€1.70). The total fuel cost for a typical sedan is approximately €75-90. Tolls are mainly in Austria (vignette required, €9.50 for 10 days) and Switzerland (annual vignette €40, or pay as you go on some segments).

• Vignette purchase: available at border stations, gas stations, and online.
• Autobahn speed limits: 130 km/h in Austria and Germany, 120 km/h in Switzerland.
• Winter tire mandate: November to April in Austria and Switzerland.

Road quality is excellent throughout: smooth asphalt, clear signage, and well-lit tunnels. The Arlberg Tunnel (A14) is a key connection—length 13.9 km, toll included with Austrian vignette. Expect occasional construction delays in summer.

Safety infrastructure is top-notch: emergency phones every 2 km on Austrian autobahns, service areas with restrooms every 30-40 km. In Switzerland, rest areas are less frequent but well-appointed. Key danger spots: the sharp curves near the Arlberg Tunnel approach (A14 km 165-170) and the steep descent into Davos (A13, 10% gradient).

• Recommended rest stops: Raststation Eching (A1 km 180) with playground and restaurant; Raststätte Stegen (A96) with dog walking area.
• Family-friendly: Salzburg Zoo (Hellbrunn) or the Playmobil FunPark in Zirndorf (near Nuremberg, 30 min detour).
• Pet-friendly: most Austrian rest stops allow dogs on leash; Swiss rest stops require dogs to be carried in the service building.

Fatigue management: plan stops every 2 hours. The drive through the Arlberg Tunnel is monotonous—use cruise control. The scenic beauty after Landeck is invigorating, but watch for photo-taking drivers stopping suddenly. For long trips, use the Wayro method to discover hidden off-route spots like the medieval village of Schellenberg (Liechtenstein, 40 min round trip).

The route slices through three distinct natural zones: the Danube valley near Linz, the Lake District (Salzkammergut) around Salzburg, and the high Alps after Feldkirch. Don't miss the Mondsee exit: a 5-minute detour to Austria's warmest lake, perfect for a quick swim in July-August.

• Salzburg region: limestone peaks, emerald lakes, and the Untersberg massif.
• Bregenz Forest: rolling hills and dairy farms if you detour via A14 exit 34.
• Swiss Rhine Valley: steep vineyards and the iconic Landwasser viaduct near Davos.

Local commerce includes farmers' markets in Thalgau (Wednesday mornings) and Feldkirch (Saturday). Buy Alpine cheese (Bergkäse) and speck. The best stops Linz to Davos for unique souvenirs include the Salzburg Getreidegasse and Chur's old town arcades.

Things to do between Linz and Davos: hike the Zinkenbach waterfall in St. Gilgen, tour the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens (20 min off-route), or taste wine in the Vinschgau Valley. Is it worth driving Linz to Davos? Absolutely, for the diversity of landscapes alone.