Arosa ClassicCar 2026

Vintage automotive excellence returns to the Swiss Alps

Dates: September 3–6, 2026
Location: Arosa and surrounding Graubünden region
Best for: Classic car enthusiasts, vintage vehicle owners, automotive photographers, couples seeking unique alpine events, luxury travelers, Swiss Alps explorers

Overview: what is Arosa ClassicCar?

Arosa ClassicCar is a premium gathering of vintage and classic automobiles set against the dramatic backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Each September, collectors and enthusiasts drive their prized vehicles through mountain passes and into Arosa's village center, where the cars are displayed and admired. The 2026 event marks the 22nd edition of this elegant celebration, combining scenic alpine drives with static exhibitions and creating a refined appreciation of automotive heritage in one of Switzerland's most picturesque settings.

Unlike competitive rallies, this is a relaxed, connoisseur-focused event where the emphasis is on appreciation, craftsmanship, and the joy of driving exceptional vehicles through exceptional landscapes. Visitors can view rare models up close, meet owners, and enjoy the sight and sound of classic engines echoing through mountain valleys.

Dates and programme

Typical event rhythm

Arosa ClassicCar unfolds over four days, with different activities each day:

• Wednesday: Arrival day. Classic cars begin arriving in Arosa; informal gatherings and first displays in the village
• Thursday: Morning alpine drives through local passes; afternoon village display and owner meet-and-greets
• Friday: Main exhibition day with the largest number of vehicles on display; additional scenic drives; evening gatherings
• Saturday: Final displays and farewell drives as participants depart

The exact daily schedule varies year to year, but the rhythm remains consistent. The most impressive displays typically happen Thursday afternoon through Friday.

What to expect

The experience

Expect to see dozens of meticulously maintained classic cars ranging from pre-war models to modern classics, parked throughout Arosa's village center and along key viewing areas. You'll hear the distinctive sounds of vintage engines, see gleaming chrome and leather interiors, and watch as owners carefully navigate the alpine roads. The atmosphere is relaxed and accessible. Most owners are happy to discuss their vehicles. Photography is generally welcomed. Beyond the static displays, you'll witness classic cars in motion on mountain roads, creating memorable visual and auditory moments against the alpine scenery.

Who it's for

This event appeals to classic car enthusiasts of all levels, from serious collectors to casual admirers. It's well-suited for couples and visitors who appreciate design, engineering, and automotive history. Families with older children who have an interest in cars will find plenty to see, though very young children may lose interest after initial viewing. Photographers, both automotive specialists and landscape photographers, find rich material here. The event is also popular with luxury travelers seeking distinctive alpine experiences beyond skiing and hiking.

Practical tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for village streets and light outdoor standing. Arosa's September weather can be variable, ranging from pleasant sunny days to cooler mountain conditions. Bring layers including a jacket or sweater for morning and evening viewing. Sunglasses and sun protection are recommended for midday displays if the weather is clear. If you plan to photograph vehicles, morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light. Respect owners' vehicles by not touching unless invited. The village can feel busier than usual during the event, so patience when moving around display areas is appreciated.

Best ways to enjoy it

• Visit at different times of day. Morning arrivals, midday displays, and evening departures each offer distinct atmospheres and lighting conditions.
• Position yourself along departure routes early on Thursday or Saturday. Watching classic cars navigate alpine roads in convoy is a highlight many visitors miss by staying only in the village center.
• Strike up conversations with owners. Most participants are passionate about their vehicles and enjoy sharing stories about restoration, provenance, and driving experiences.
• Combine car viewing with Arosa exploration. Use quieter moments to visit nearby viewpoints or take the cable car. The contrast between automotive heritage and natural alpine beauty is part of the event's charm.
• Bring a good camera. The combination of vintage vehicles and mountain scenery creates exceptional photographic opportunities that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

How to get there from Hotel Altein Arosa

On foot (recommended)

Hotel Altein Arosa is within easy walking distance of the village center where classic cars are displayed. Simply walk toward the main village area and follow event signage or the concentration of visitors. Display locations may vary slightly year to year, but the main exhibition areas are clearly marked and visible. The walk takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on where specific vehicles are positioned.

Local transport

Arosa's local bus routes continue to operate during the event, though schedules and routes may be adjusted to accommodate road closures or display areas. Our reception team can provide current information about any transport changes for the event weekend. In practice, walking is almost always faster and more convenient given the compact nature of the village and display areas.

By car

If you're driving to Arosa specifically for this event, be aware that parking may be more limited than usual, and some village streets may have restricted access to accommodate classic car displays. Hotel guests with vehicles should check with reception about parking arrangements for the event weekend. For viewing the cars themselves, walking from any accommodation is strongly recommended over trying to drive around the display areas.

Make it a weekend: stay at Hotel Altein Arosa

Staying at Hotel Altein Arosa during Arosa ClassicCar means you're minutes from all the automotive action while having a peaceful retreat to return to between viewing sessions. Start each morning with breakfast before the day's displays begin, then explore the exhibition at your own pace. Take a midday break back at the hotel when you need rest, then return refreshed for afternoon and evening viewing. After a day of walking and photography, you'll appreciate the hotel's comfortable rooms and relaxed atmosphere, a perfect complement to the excitement of vintage cars and alpine scenery.

Frequently asked questions

When is Arosa ClassicCar in 2026?
September 3 to 6, 2026. This is the 22nd edition of the event. Wednesday is arrival day with the first displays, Thursday and Friday feature the main exhibitions and alpine drives, and Saturday morning offers final viewing before participants depart.

Is it suitable for families?
Families with children who have an interest in cars will enjoy the event, particularly seeing rare and beautiful vehicles up close. The displays are accessible and owners are generally welcoming. However, very young children may tire of looking at stationary cars after a while. The event works well for families who combine car viewing with other Arosa activities like the cable car or lakeside walks.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing mountain weather (September can be cool in Arosa), sun protection if the weather is clear, and sunglasses. If you're interested in photography, bring your camera with flexible lens options for both detail shots and vehicles in landscape settings. A small daypack is useful for carrying layers and water as you move around display areas.

Do I need to plan ahead or buy tickets?
The public displays throughout Arosa village are typically free to view with no tickets required. You can simply show up and walk around the exhibition areas. Some associated events or gatherings may be invitation-only for participants and their guests, but the main street displays and public areas are open to all visitors. Arriving early on Thursday or Friday morning secures the best viewing positions before crowds build.

What types of cars will be on display?
The event attracts a wide range of classic and vintage automobiles, from elegant pre-war models to sports cars from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. The specific vehicles change each year depending on which collectors and enthusiasts participate, but you can expect to see rare European marques, British sports cars, Italian exotics, and Swiss-registered classics. The diversity is part of the event's appeal.

Can I drive the alpine passes where the classic cars go?
Yes, the mountain passes around Arosa are public roads open to all vehicles. If you have your own car, you're welcome to drive routes like the Lenzerheide pass or other scenic roads in the region. However, during organized classic car drives, you may encounter groups of vintage vehicles moving at a leisurely pace. Patience and respect for their right to enjoy the roads is appreciated.

Plan your visit around the classics

Arosa ClassicCar offers a distinctive way to experience the Swiss Alps, combining automotive heritage with mountain beauty in a setting that few other events can match. Whether you're a serious enthusiast or simply appreciate the sight of beautifully crafted machines in spectacular surroundings, these September days bring something special to Arosa. Book your stay at Hotel Altein Arosa for the event weekend and enjoy easy access to all the displays, comfortable accommodation, and the perfect base for exploring both the cars and the mountains.

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