12-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Chur, Bern, and Basel and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 3 nights.

Visiting Zürich Zoo is always a good idea. This popular zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable 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 beloved church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Arboretum Zürich, where you can take in romantic features.

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.

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zurich.

To truly experience Zurich, make sure to drop by Botanical Garden. This worthwhile botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Zürichhorn, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Chinagarten Zürich, one of the most underrated places to see in Zurich. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Zürich Opera House. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this opera house offers. Then, head to Swiss National Museum, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alpenrose, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Babalu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nelson 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.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Winterthur, Aathal, Ürikon, and Sellenbüren.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Winterthur. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Swiss Science Center Technorama. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the science center before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Winterthur and set your GPS to Aathal. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 29 min. Upon reaching Aathal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Aathal Dinosaur Museum is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ürikon. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lake Zurich. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the lake before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zurich.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Viadukt, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ebrietas Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Total Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Rimini Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 5 places, which are Thurgau, Thundorf, Salenstein, Kreuzlingen, and Hagenwil. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in St. Gallen, where will spend 2 nights.

Thurgau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Thurgau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Murg Auen Park, a beloved park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Thundorf and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Thundorf beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stählibuckturm. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Salenstein and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Salenstein beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Napoleon Museum Arenenberg, a worthwhile museum known for its instagrammable features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in St. Gallen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Discover the culinary delights of St. Gallen by securing a reservation at Netts Schützengarten. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of international and country cooking cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Einstein Gourmet, renowned for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Jägerhof, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in St. Gallen. You have 1 night left in St. Gallen. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Wildpark Peter Und Paul brings St. Gallen's character to life. This majestic wildlife reserve is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy St. Gallen Cathedral, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Abbey Of Saint Gall, one of the town’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Drei Weieren. This awe-inspiring lake 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Thai Dragon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zur alten Post offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro St. Gallen. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in St. Gallen.

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

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Urnäsch, Hundwil, and Rapperswil. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Chur, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Urnäsch.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Urnäsch. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Savor the day by heading to Appenzell Museum Of Popular Traditions, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Hundwil’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Urnäsch behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Hundwil welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Säntis - Schwebebahn, a curiosity-inducing tramway known for its eye-catching features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Chur, 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 Chur. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Frohsinn offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chur.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Chur, Churwalden, and Heididorf. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Bernina Express. This romantic heritage railway will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Chur Bergbahnen (brambrüesch) and learn what makes this picturesque tramway unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Chur and set your GPS to Churwalden. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Churwalden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Erlebnisberg Pradaschier, a curiosity-inducing adventure park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Heididorf, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Churwalden to Heididorf may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heididorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Heididorf, a worthwhile museum in Heididorf. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bern by securing a reservation at ZOE. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Zum Kuckuck, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Piazza Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Taube offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Goldau on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Goldau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 35 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nature And Animal Park Goldau, a locally appreciated zoo known for its picturesque features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lucerne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Goldau to Lucerne may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating museum in Lucerne. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Chapel Bridge. This popular historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Lion Monument Lucerne is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant monument in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bern and your accommodation.

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.

Savor the flavors at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Gourmanderie Moléson beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 10 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bern and Geneva are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This visually striking historical landmark is an often recommended place to see in Bern.

After soaking in Bern’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Geneva. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 50 min. When you arrive in Geneva, it's time to take a break from the road.

Jardin Anglais is an interesting park we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Geneva Water Fountain, a culturally significant monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by L'horloge Fleurie, an enchanting art installation.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional classic french menu. For a different culinary experience in Basel, roots shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Stucki - Tanja Grandits is known as a top local spot in Basel for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Grenzwert Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 8 Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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