11-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Schaffhausen, St. Gallen, Lugano, Lucerne, and Bern and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zurich today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Zürich Zoo. This gorgeous zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fraumünster and learn what makes this historic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Grossmünster. After exploring the church, head to Zürich Opera House. This frequently visited opera house is a highlight in Zurich.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eldorado, known for its lively atmosphere. Gotthard Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Stanza offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Zürichhorn. This noteworthy park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Chinagarten Zürich, a must-visit botanical garden in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Botanical Garden, an often recommended botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Kunsthaus Zürich, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Swiss National Museum. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alpenrose, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kafi Dihei? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Weisses Rössli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Babalu, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Nelson, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sellenbüren, Winterthur, Neuhausen, and Schaffhausen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Schaffhausen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming hamlet of Zurich. Your adventure starts at Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Wildpark Bruderhaus. This often recommended wildlife reserve is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Swiss Science Center Technorama. This instagrammable science center offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Rhine Falls is also worth visiting, along with Museum Zu Allerheiligen. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Schaffhausen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Schaffhausen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Schaffhausen by securing a reservation at D'Chuchi. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Theaterrestaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Eckhaus Gmbh, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar No13 is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tabaco Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Salenstein, Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, Bischofszell, and Hundwil. In the evening, you’ll end up in St. Gallen, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Schaffhausen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a park, a castle, a historical landmark, a tramway and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Napoleon Museum Arenenberg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Seeburgpark, a masterful park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Hagenwil Castle, one of the hamlet’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Alte Thurbrücke (bischofszell). When you're finished at the historical landmark, Säntis - Schwebebahn awaits your visit. This tramway is an instagrammable highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in St. Gallen. St. Gallen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of St. Gallen, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a memorable dining experience in St. Gallen by booking a table at Netts Schützengarten, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in St. Gallen, Einstein Gourmet shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Jägerhof is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern and international cuisine in St. Gallen. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. News Café Music Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Baracca Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Timeout Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to St. Gallen and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore St. Gallen. You’ll stay in St. Gallen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in the charming town of St. Gallen. Your adventure starts at Wildpark Peter Und Paul, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Abbey Of Saint Gall. This underrated monastery is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander St. Gallen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St. Gallen Cathedral. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Drei Weieren is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in St. Gallen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Thai Dragon, a popular restaurant in St. Gallen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of St. Gallen at Zur alten Post, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bistro St. Gallen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in St. Gallen tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Süd Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Einstein Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Øya Bar Kafé Klub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lugano, Melide, and Lavertezzo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your day with a visit to Parco Ciani. This well-known park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lugano Arte E Cultura, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lugano on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Swissminiatur, an increasingly popular miniature park in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ponte Dei Salti.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lucerne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible contemporary and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Colonnade is one of the best restaurants for modern french and seasonal cuisine in Lucerne. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 58. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Penthouse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Lucerne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Chapel Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Swiss Museum Of Transport, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the town’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Church Of St. Leodegar. This enchanting church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an increasingly popular historical landmark, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bern. Bern offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bern. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a symphony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, ZOE delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious vegetarian and modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Steinhalle, acclaimed for its delectable creative and international specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Wein & Sein, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Zum Kuckuck offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Piazza Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Taube is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!