13-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Bern, Lucerne, Lugano, Chur, St. Gallen, and Schaffhausen 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Zürich Zoo, a notable zoo in the city. Then, head to Zürich Opera House and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect opera house.

There are many interesting places to see in Zurich, and when you are ready for more, go to Kunsthaus Zürich. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the art gallery, visit the curiosity-inducing Swiss National Museum.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Zurich, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Restaurant is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your lively evening at Eldorado, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gotthard Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Stanza 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!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the beloved Fraumünster, a breathtaking church in Zurich. Next, go to Grossmünster.

After visiting Fraumünster and Grossmünster, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zürichhorn. This mesmerizing park offers a unique experience. Chinagarten Zürich is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Botanical Garden, one of the most eye-catching 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.

Experience shopping bliss at Zurich as you explore Sihlcity. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Sihlcity offers more options, including restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Dine in style at Alpenrose, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kafi Dihei boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Weisses Rössli. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Geneva. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting The Geneva Water Fountain, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Jardin Anglais, another must-visit landmark and well-known park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bern by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to L'horloge Fleurie. This noteworthy art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bern experience. We also recommend visiting Bains Des Pâquis, a curiosity-inducing swimming pool.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, 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 Lucerne's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lucerne by reserving a table at Lucide. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french and seasonal dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 58. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Penthouse, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lugano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Lucerne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Chapel Bridge, an interesting historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Swiss Museum Of Transport, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Lion Monument Lucerne. This monument is one of the town’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lucerne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of St. Leodegar. After exploring the church, head to the worthwhile Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Lugano by securing a table at Flamel. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another premier location with a delectable menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Il Fermento, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Oops, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lugano, Melide, Mesocco, and Chur, 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 Chur. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Parco Ciani. This notable park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lugano Arte E Cultura, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lugano on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Swissminiatur, an intriguing miniature park in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Mesocco Castle and Bernina Express.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chur. Chur 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 Chur. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, an iconic dining spot in Chur. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Frohsinn, a popular restaurant in Chur. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei, a hidden gem nestled in Chur. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Hemingway after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Churchill Pub Chur for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Confetti Aperitif Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann and Rapperswil. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Chur allows for both. Start by heading to Pizolbahnen. This worthwhile ski resort provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Bergbahnen Wildhaus, an eye-catching ski resort, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Atzmännig, a frequently visited adventure park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Knie's Kinderzoo.

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 an authentic adventure.

Start 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.

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

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in St. Gallen for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming town of St. Gallen. Your adventure starts at Abbey Of Saint Gall, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is St. Gallen Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander St. Gallen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Abbey Library Of St. Gallen. This heritage-rich library offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Drei Weieren is also worth visiting.

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 St. Gallen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Thai Dragon, a top-rated dining spot in St. Gallen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zur alten Post, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro St. Gallen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in St. Gallen.

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

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring 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.

Roter Platz is must-visit point of interest and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Natural History Museum St. Gallen, an intriguing museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Botanischer Garten, an eye-catching botanical garden, 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zum Goldenen Schäfli, a top-rated dining destination in St. Gallen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Stars and Stripes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Blumenmarkt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in St. Gallen this evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.

On day 11 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 Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, Salenstein, and Warth-Weiningen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Schaffhausen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore St. Gallen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Seeburgpark is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring park before continuing your journey. Hagenwil Castle is your next stop. This often recommended castle is one of the best-rated sights in St. Gallen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Napoleon Museum Arenenberg. This breathtaking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ittinger Museum.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Schaffhausen. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at D'Chuchi in Schaffhausen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, D'Chuchi offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Theaterrestaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Eckhaus Gmbh after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar No13, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tabaco Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Winterthur, Aathal, Kloten, and Sellenbüren. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Schaffhausen. Your adventure starts at Swiss Science Center Technorama, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This intriguing museum is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Schaffhausen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Observation Deck B. This awe-inspiring observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Üetliberg is also worth visiting, along with Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

As you explore more of Zurich, 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.

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.

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

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