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 what to see in Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Zürich Zoo brings Zurich's character to life. This picture-perfect zoo is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Fraumünster, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Grossmünster, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Zürich Opera House. This romantic opera house is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Zurich is brimming with adventures.

Make time for Zürichhorn, an increasingly popular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Chinagarten Zürich, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Botanical Garden. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most worthwhile 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 Kunsthaus Zürich. After exploring the art gallery, head to the intriguing Swiss National Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Savor the flavors at Alpenrose, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kafi Dihei beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Weisses Rössli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Sellenbüren, Winterthur, Neuhausen, and Schaffhausen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Schaffhausen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich before the crowds roll in. This enchanting observation deck is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Wildpark Bruderhaus, a must-visit wildlife reserve in the hamlet.

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 underrated science center. For a change of scene, check out Rhine Falls, known for its serene features. We also recommend visiting Museum Zu Allerheiligen. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the hamlet to the fullest.

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

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 Schaffhausen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Schaffhausen by booking a table at D'Chuchi. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Theaterrestaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eckhaus Gmbh, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar No13 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tabaco Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, including Salenstein, Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, Bischofszell, and Hundwil. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Napoleon Museum Arenenberg makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular museum is a gorgeous place to see in Schaffhausen. Continue your discovery at Seeburgpark, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Schaffhausen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hagenwil Castle. This locally appreciated castle offers a romantic encounter with Schaffhausen. Next, make your way to Alte Thurbrücke (bischofszell) to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Säntis - Schwebebahn, a worthwhile tramway that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Schaffhausen.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of St. Gallen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Begin your culinary exploration in St. Gallen by securing a reservation at Netts Schützengarten. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of international and country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Einstein Gourmet, celebrated for its delectable creative 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 Jägerhof, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in St. Gallen. You’ll stay in St. Gallen for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

To truly experience St. Gallen, make sure to drop by Wildpark Peter Und Paul. This worthwhile wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Abbey Of Saint Gall, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out St. Gallen Cathedral, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in St. Gallen. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Drei Weieren. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this lake offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 St. Gallen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Thai Dragon, an iconic dining spot in St. Gallen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zur alten Post, a popular restaurant in St. Gallen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro St. Gallen, a hidden gem nestled in St. Gallen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Lugano, Melide, and Lavertezzo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Parco Ciani is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lugano Arte E Cultura, another must-visit landmark and underrated cultural center renowned for its instagrammable features.

We also recommend visiting Ponte Dei Salti, an often recommended stone arch bridge.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lucerne. Check in and relax 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 Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Lucide in Lucerne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Lucide delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Colonnade, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and seasonal specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 58, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Penthouse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Lucerne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern, where will spend 1 night.

Chapel Bridge leaves a lasting impression. This historical landmark is one of the most popular places to visit in Lucerne. Next, head to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a notable museum, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This picture-perfect monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Church Of St. Leodegar and Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Bern is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bern.

Experience a harmony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, ZOE offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious vegetarian and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Steinhalle, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and international cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Wein & Sein, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

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