10-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Schaffhausen and Lucerne and surrounding area

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.

Make sure to visit Old Town (Altstadt), a popular neighborhood in Zurich. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Niederdorf today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zurich, including a botanical garden, a historical landmark, and a museum. Start your day at Chinagarten Zürich. This mesmerizing botanical garden is an often recommended place to see in Zurich. Then, wander over to Lindenhof. If standout sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Swiss National Museum. This instagrammable museum is a favorite among visitors.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 itinerary in Zurich covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, an art gallery, a church, an opera house and much more! Start your adventure at Zürich Zoo. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Kunsthaus Zürich, a must-see art gallery in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Grossmünster. This worthwhile church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Zürich Opera House, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kafi Dihei is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Weisses Rössli. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Babalu, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Nelson. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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 Sellenbüren, Kloten, and Winterthur. In the evening, you’ll end up in Schaffhausen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Zurich covers several incredible sights, including a mountain range, an observation deck, a wildlife reserve, a science center and much more! Start your adventure at Üetliberg. This underrated mountain range is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, a must-see observation deck in the hamlet.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Observation Deck B. This intriguing observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Wildpark Bruderhaus, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Swiss Science Center Technorama. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Schaffhausen, 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 Schaffhausen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start 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. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Theaterrestaurant, a popular restaurant in Schaffhausen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Eckhaus Gmbh, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar No13 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Schaffhausen. Tabaco Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Goldau. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Schaffhausen. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, a waterfall, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at Reformierte Kirche St. Johann. This is an underrated church you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Zu Allerheiligen, a curiosity-inducing museum in Schaffhausen.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rhine Falls. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Nature And Animal Park Goldau, another of the town’s beloved attractions.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lucerne by reserving a table at Lucide. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Colonnade, recognized for its delicious modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar 58 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Penthouse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Lucerne for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start by visiting Lion Monument Lucerne, a prime spot to begin your journey. This detailed monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bourbaki-panorama (building), another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing museum renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Lucerne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Church Of St. Leodegar. This history-steeped church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Lucerne experience. We also recommend visiting Museggmauer, a frequently visited historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Zytturm, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 Lucerne's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ampersand, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lucerne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Lucerne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the popular Swiss Museum Of Transport, a heritage-rich museum in Lucerne. Next, go to Verkehrshaus Planetarium.

After visiting Swiss Museum Of Transport and Verkehrshaus Planetarium, have a stroll along Lucerne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Strandbad Lido Luzern. This mesmerizing beach offers a unique experience.

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 explore more of Lucerne, 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 fantastic dining experience at Bar bei Miguel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, la vie en rose offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Schiff is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lucerne.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lucerne. You’ll stay in Lucerne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lucerne today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. This photogenic art gallery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Chapel Bridge and learn what makes this enchanting historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Jesuit Church, Lucerne. After exploring the church, head to Lucerne Needle Dam. This intriguing historical landmark is a highlight in Lucerne. As your day continues, stop by Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, known for its romantic features.

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 Lucerne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Grand Casino Luzern, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Olivo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Heini Conditorei AG. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kriens and Schüpfheim. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lucerne includes a church and a nature reserve. Wallfahrtskirche Hergiswald is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Unesco Biosphäre Entlebuch, an underrated nature reserve, located just a leisurely stroll away.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zurich. Zurich 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 Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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

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