One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Andermatt, Lugano, Chur, and St. Gallen

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Andermatt, 1 night in Lugano, 1 night in Chur, 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 Piazza Grande.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Andermatt, Melide, Pazzallo, Lugano, Lavertezzo, Orselina, Locarno, Chur, Rapperswil, Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, St. Gallen, and Winterthur, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Zurich

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Bahnhofstrasse
LindenhofZürich Opera HouseZürich ZooOld Town (Altstadt)Niederdorf
Swiss National MuseumKunsthaus ZürichGrossmünsterFraumünster Church
SwissminiaturMonte San SalvatoreLugano Arte e CulturaCiani Parc
Ponte dei SaltiMadonna del SassoPiazza GrandeLido Locarno
Holzbrücke Rapperswil-HurdenKnie's KinderzooSchwabentorRhine Falls
Abbey of Saint GallDrei WeierenSwiss Science Center TechnoramaÜetlibergUetliberg Lookout Tower
Arboretum Zürich

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Zurich - Arrival day
  • More
  • Bahnhofstrasse
  • More

Say hello to Zurich! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zurich for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Differente, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at zum Kropf, 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 Babu's. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Widder Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rio Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 10 km, 45 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Zürich Zoo
  • Old Town (Altstadt)
  • Niederdorf
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Old Town (Altstadt) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zurich, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Niederdorf, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Zurich.

Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a historical landmark, an opera house, and a zoo. Lindenhof is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Zürich Opera House, an increasingly popular opera house, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zürich Zoo, a breathtaking zoo, 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.

Visit Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and luxurious stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Bahnhofstrasse has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 symphony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Widder Restaurant delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, acclaimed for its delectable sharing and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at The Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Eldorado, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gotthard Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, La Stanza provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Zurich
  • Andermatt
  • More

Drive 112 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • Swiss National Museum
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
  • Grossmünster
  • Fraumünster Church
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Zurich, 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 Andermatt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Swiss National Museum, a frequently visited museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kunsthaus Zürich, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Grossmünster. This church is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zurich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Fraumünster.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Japanese Restaurant in Andermatt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, The Japanese Restaurant offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious japanese contemporary and fusion menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pinte Pub&club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Vinothek 1620 is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Andermatt
  • Lugano
  • More

Drive 122 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Swissminiatur
  • Monte San Salvatore
  • Lugano Arte e Cultura
  • Ciani Parc
  • More

On day 4 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 Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Andermatt. Begin your sightseeing with Swissminiatur. This worthwhile miniature park is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Monte San Salvatore, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Andermatt, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lugano Arte E Cultura. This beloved cultural center is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parco Ciani, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Il Fermento, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Oops offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lugano.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Lugano
  • Chur
  • More

Drive 211 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Ponte dei Salti
  • Madonna del Sasso
  • Piazza Grande
  • Lido Locarno
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Locarno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chur, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Ponte Dei Salti. This is an often recommended stone arch bridge you should not miss. Another must-see is Madonna Del Sasso, a worthwhile church in Lugano.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Piazza Grande. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lido Locarno - Cbr Centro Balneare Regionale, another of the village’s worthwhile attractions.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Chur. 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 delicious dinner at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Frohsinn offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Chur.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hemingway, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Churchill Pub Chur is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Confetti Aperitif Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Chur
  • Sankt Gallen
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 27 min

  • Holzbrücke Rapperswil-Hurden
  • Knie's Kinderzoo
  • Schwabentor
  • Rhine Falls
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rapperswil, Schaffhausen, and Neuhausen. 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Chur, including a boardwalk, a zoo, a historical landmark, a waterfall and much more! Start your day at Holzbrücke Rapperswil-hurden. This stunning boardwalk is an up-and-coming place to see in Chur. Then, wander over to Knie's Kinderzoo. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Schwabentor. This historic historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Chur offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Rhine Falls is an extraordinary spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Netts Schützengarten in St. Gallen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Netts Schützengarten delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious international and country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Einstein Gourmet, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Jägerhof, 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 and international cuisine in the city.

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

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Sankt Gallen
  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 113 km, 2 hours 4 min

  • Abbey of Saint Gall
  • Drei Weieren
  • Swiss Science Center Technorama
  • Üetliberg
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - St. Gallen, Winterthur, 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.

Immerse yourself in St. Gallen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Abbey Of Saint Gall. This UNESCO world heritage-designated monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Drei Weieren, a must-visit lake in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Swiss Science Center Technorama, an often recommended science center. For a change of scene, check out Üetliberg, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This observation deck is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, 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 Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Babalu, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nelson offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Zurich - Departure day
  • More
  • Arboretum Zürich
  • More

Day 8 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 Arboretum Zürich, a serene park before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Zurich’s shopping center, the lively Bahnhofstrasse. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Viadukt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Pasta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.