9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Lugano, St. Gallen, and Schaffhausen

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the locally appreciated Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden in Zurich. Next, go to Zürichhorn.

After visiting Botanical Garden and Zürichhorn, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Chinagarten Zürich. This instagrammable botanical garden offers a unique experience. Zürich Opera House is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Zürich Zoo, one of the most visually striking places to visit 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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Eldorado stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. La Stanza is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

Day 3 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a museum, a church, and an art gallery. Swiss National Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Fraumünster, a beloved church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Grossmünster, a respected church, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Weisses Rössli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Babalu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nelson likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Goldau, Lavertezzo, and Orselina, 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 Lugano. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Nature And Animal Park Goldau, an often recommended zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Continue your exploration at Madonna Del Sasso. This church is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lugano at Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Il Fermento, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Oops is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Locarno has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Lugano by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lugano today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Grande. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Locarno–madonna Del Sasso Funicular and learn what makes this stunning tramway unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Parco Ciani. After exploring the park, head to Lugano Arte E Cultura. This beloved cultural center is a highlight in Lugano.

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 Lugano's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bottegone is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar Laura. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lugano tonight.

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 6 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 Monte Carasso, Bellinzona, and Rapperswil. In the evening, you’ll end up in St. Gallen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lugano today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Antico Convento Delle Agostiniane. This respected monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Three Castles Of Bellinzona and learn what makes this enchanting castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Montebello Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Knie's Kinderzoo. This frequently visited zoo is a highlight in Lugano.

At the end of the day, you will drive to St. Gallen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in St. Gallen by reserving a table at Netts Schützengarten. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to Einstein Gourmet, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Jägerhof, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in St. Gallen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in St. Gallen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of St. Gallen and Neuhausen. 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.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St. Gallen Cathedral, a grand church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Roter Platz, one of the town’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Drei Weieren. When you're finished at the lake, Rhine Falls awaits your visit. This waterfall is a romantic 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 Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen 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 Schaffhausen, 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Schaffhausen by securing a reservation at D'Chuchi. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Theaterrestaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Keep the evening going at Eckhaus Gmbh, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar No13, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tabaco Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 - Winterthur, Aathal, and Sellenbüren. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Schaffhausen allows for both. Start by heading to Swiss Science Center Technorama. This up-and-coming science center provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Wildpark Bruderhaus, an enchanting wildlife reserve, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Aathal Dinosaur Museum, an up-and-coming museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Üetliberg. Round off your day at Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, another gem in Schaffhausen with romantic features to discover.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Viadukt, 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 La Pasta, 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 Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Total Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Rimini Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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