Olomouc to Davos Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Scenic Drive

The road from Olomouc in the Czech Republic to Davos in Switzerland covers roughly 720 kilometers and crosses three countries. Unlike the more direct but monotonous motorway route via Vienna and Munich, the A1/E55 corridor through Austria and southern Germany offers surprising variety. One little-known fact: the stretch from Olomouc to the Austrian border follows an old imperial road built by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century, designed to connect Moravia with Vienna. Today, sections of this route still pass through villages with original milestone markers. This guide is designed to help you answer the question: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Driving standards in Austria and Switzerland are high, but watch for speed cameras (especially in Austria, where limits are strictly enforced). Motorways have variable speed limits displayed on digital signs. Use the right lane for cruising; overtaking lanes are for passing only. In Switzerland, driving with headlights during the day is required in tunnels. Emergency phones are located every 2 km on motorways. For families, plan stops every 2-3 hours:

• Familiepark Mauthausen (near A1 exit 168): a large indoor play park with a restaurant and rest area.
• Raststation Bad Vigaun (A10 exit 24): has a petting zoo and a playground.
• Mürrenbach-Wasserfall (near Landeck, off-route): a short hike to a waterfall suitable for children.

Fatigue management: the route has many long straight sections, especially in Austria. Use the "20-minute rule" - stop every two hours for a 20-minute break. The Raststation Wörschach (A9 exit 125) offers a dedicated nap room and quiet zones. Alternatively, the Raststation Schwanenstadt (A1 exit 240) has a large grassy area for stretching. For hidden off-route spots, consider the Krimml Waterfalls (detour of 30 minutes from A10), Europe’s highest waterfall, or the ​​Gesäuse National Park, accessible via a 20-minute detour from A1. Pet-friendly framework: Most rest stops have designated pet areas, but check for specific pet-friendly hotels in Davos, such as the InterContinental which offers dog beds and bowls.

The journey traverses four distinct natural regions: the fertile Moravian plains, the Danube valley, the Salzkammergut lake district, and the high Alps. The transition from rolling hills to dramatic mountain scenery occurs after Salzburg, where the ​​Untersberg massif looms on the horizon. One of the best stops is the Hallstatt-Dachstein UNESCO region, but to avoid crowds, consider the equally stunning but less visited hidden gem of Obertraun, with its emerald-green lake and dramatic limestone cliffs.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the route: Historic Centre of Olomouc (Czech), Wachau Cultural Landscape (Austria), Hallstatt-Dachstein (Austria), Semmering Railway (Austria).
• Local commerce: In the Wachau region, stop for apricot liqueur (Marillenlikör) at a roadside stand. Near Salzburg, try fresh dairy products from a farmer's market.

Climatic conditions vary significantly: Olomouc typically sees cold winters (-5°C average) and warm summers (25°C). The weather in the Alps can change rapidly; even in summer, expect cool temperatures at altitude (10-15°C in Davos). Best driving months are May-September, but winter offers a magical snowy landscape if you have winter tires and chains. The direction of travel means you gain altitude gradually, but the pass from Landeck to Davos climbs to 2,360 meters at the Albula Pass – be prepared for potential closures from November to May.

The fastest route uses the D1 motorway from Olomouc to Brno, then the A1/E55 to Vienna, continuing on the A1 through Linz and Salzburg. After Salzburg, take the A10 to Villach, then the A14 into Switzerland via the Arlberg tunnel, and finally the A28 to Davos. Estimated driving time is 8 hours, but plan for 10-12 hours with stops.

• Fuel costs: approx. €100-€120 for a mid-size car. Diesel is cheaper in the Czech Republic; fill up before crossing into Austria.
• Toll vignettes required: Czech (30-day €15), Austrian (10-day €9.90), Swiss (annual €40).
• Traffic bottlenecks: Vienna outer ring (peak hours), Salzburg bypass (weekend traffic), Arlberg tunnel (possible winter queues).

Road quality is excellent on motorways, but mountain passes like the one from Landeck to Davos require careful driving in winter. Snow chains may be mandatory. Rest stops are plentiful: every 30-50 km on Austrian and Swiss motorways, with clean facilities and local food options. Consider the Raststation Ansfelden (near Linz) for a break; it has a large playground and electric vehicle charging stations.