14-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Schaffhausen, Geneva, Lucerne, and Lugano and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Zürich Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo in Zurich. Next, go to Zürich Opera House.

After visiting Zürich Zoo and Zürich Opera House, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden 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 Zürichhorn, one of the most serene places to visit in Zurich.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delectable sharing and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore The Restaurant, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 3 nights.

No visit to Zurich is complete without Fraumünster. This intriguing church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Grossmünster, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kunsthaus Zürich. This up-and-coming art gallery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Swiss National Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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.

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.

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 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Winterthur, Aathal, Kloten, and Sellenbüren.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Winterthur may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Winterthur, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Swiss Science Center Technorama, a worthwhile science center in Winterthur. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Wildpark Bruderhaus. This locally appreciated wildlife reserve is a top recommendation in the area.

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 28 min. Upon reaching Aathal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Aathal Dinosaur Museum, an underrated museum that everyone visiting Aathal should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kloten, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Aathal to Kloten may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kloten, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kloten is Observation Deck B, a beloved observation deck that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features.

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.

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. Additionally, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you have 1 night left to stay.

As you explore Goldau’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Goldau. This car ride takes around 39 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nature And Animal Park Goldau. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hoch-ybrig, a beloved ski resort in Goldau. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rapperswil, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zurich. This drive usually takes around 36 min.

Savor the day by heading to Holzbrücke Rapperswil-hurden, an increasingly popular boardwalk that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Knie's Kinderzoo, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Safari Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Am Wasser is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar 63 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, including Kreuzlingen, Salenstein, Warth-Weiningen, Thurgau, and Thundorf. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Zurich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kreuzlingen. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Seeburgpark, an intriguing park that everyone visiting Kreuzlingen should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salenstein. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Napoleon Museum Arenenberg and explore the historic features.

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

Savor the day by heading to Ittinger Museum, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions St. Gallen has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in St. Gallen.

Visiting Abbey Of Saint Gall is always a good idea. This frequently visited monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of St. Gallen Cathedral, a must-see church in the town.

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 Abbey Library Of St. Gallen. This locally appreciated library offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Drei Weieren, where you can take in mesmerizing 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.

St. Gallen 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 St. Gallen.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Thai Dragon, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zur alten Post offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro St. Gallen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in St. Gallen.

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

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

Day 8 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.

Your adventure in St. Gallen is only getting started when you visit Roter Platz, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Natural History Museum St. Gallen.

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 Botanischer Garten. This romantic botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Wildpark Peter Und Paul is also worth visiting.

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 delightful dinner at Zum Goldenen Schäfli, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Stars and Stripes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Blumenmarkt as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in St. Gallen.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of St. Gallen and Hundwil. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Schaffhausen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at St. Gallen Museum Of Art. This visually striking art gallery is an often recommended place to see in St. Gallen. Then, wander over to Historical And Folklore Museum. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stadtpark. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

Savor the day by heading to Lillyweg, an increasingly popular hiking area that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Schaffhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schaffhausen beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Säntis - Schwebebahn. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the tramway before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen 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 Schaffhausen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a memorable dining experience in Schaffhausen by booking a table at D'Chuchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Eckhaus Gmbh stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar No13 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tabaco Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Geneva. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lucerne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let The Geneva Water Fountain set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this masterful monument before continuing your journey. Jardin Anglais is your next stop. This interesting park is one of the best-rated sights in Geneva.

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 L'horloge Fleurie. This visually striking art installation is a sight to behold.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Chillon Castle, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Geneva should see.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Lucide in Lucerne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Lucide offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Colonnade, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and seasonal cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar 58 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Penthouse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 12 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lucerne, Melide, and Lugano are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Chapel Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Swiss Museum Of Transport, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the town’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lucerne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Melide. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Swissminiatur, a curiosity-inducing miniature 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.

After soaking in Melide’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lugano. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Lugano, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parco Ciani and explore the peaceful features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lugano. Lugano 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 Lugano's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Il Fermento, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Oops is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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