6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Lugano and St. Gallen
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zurich, Lugano, Melide, Bad Ragaz, St. Gallen, Neuhausen, Winterthur, and Kloten.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zurich, 1 night in Lugano, and 1 night in St. Gallen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Zurich, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Zürich Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindenhof, learn more about the unique Parco Ciani, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Grossmünster.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Lugano, Melide, Bad Ragaz, St. Gallen, Neuhausen, Winterthur, and Kloten, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.
Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!
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Day 1
- Zurich - Arrival day
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- Bahnhofstrasse
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Zurich and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zurich for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Bahnhofstrasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zurich. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Differente, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of zum Kropf, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Babu's, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Widder Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Zurich
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Drive 15 km, 50 min
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Niederdorf
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Niederdorf, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zurich, including a botanical garden, a historical landmark, and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This underrated botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lindenhof, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Zurich 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 Zürich Zoo, a well-known zoo in the city.
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 Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eldorado, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gotthard Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, La Stanza also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Zurich
- Lugano
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
- Zürich Opera House
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zurich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lugano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Zurich. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an art gallery, a church, an opera house and much more! Begin your adventure at Swiss National Museum. This is a curiosity-inducing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Kunsthaus Zürich, a locally appreciated art gallery in Zurich.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Grossmünster. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zürich Opera House, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lugano. 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 Lugano. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lugano by reserving a table at Flamel. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Il Fermento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Oops, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 4
- Lugano
- Sankt Gallen
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Ciani Parc
- Swissminiatur
- Casino Bad Ragaz
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lugano, Melide, and Bad Ragaz. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Lugano. Begin your sightseeing with Parco Ciani. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Swissminiatur, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Lugano, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Casino Bad Ragaz. This locally appreciated casino is a traveler-favorite.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Netts Schützengarten, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible international and country cooking menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Einstein Gourmet is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in St. Gallen. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Jägerhof. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern and international cuisine in the city.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting News Café Music Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Baracca Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Timeout Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Sankt Gallen
- Zurich
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Rhine Falls
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
- Wildpark Bruderhaus Winterthur
- Observation Deck B
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
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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 Neuhausen, Winterthur, Kloten, and Sellenbüren. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in St. Gallen today. One of the most impressive attractions included on the itinerary is Rhine Falls. This peaceful waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Swiss Science Center Technorama and learn what makes this visually striking science center unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Wildpark Bruderhaus. After exploring the wildlife reserve, head to Observation Deck B. This often recommended observation deck is a highlight in St. Gallen. As your day continues, stop by Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, known for its romantic features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zurich. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Babalu, known for its lively atmosphere. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Nelson offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich - Departure day
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- Botanical Garden
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Day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zurich before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden before you head out.
On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace, Bahnhofstrasse. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.
You’ll then say farewell to Zurich. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!
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