5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Lugano and St. Gallen

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Photo of beautiful view of historic city center of Zurich with famous Fraumunster Church, Switzerland.
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Explore the best of Switzerland on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Zurich, Lugano, Melide, Bellinzona, St. Gallen, Neuhausen, and Winterthur.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Switzerland. You will spend 2 nights in Zurich, 1 night in Lugano, and 1 night in St. Gallen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Zurich, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Zürich Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Lugano, Melide, Bellinzona, St. Gallen, Neuhausen, and Winterthur, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.

Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Lindenhof
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Say hello to Zurich! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Lindenhof. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zurich. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Differente, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, zum Kropf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Babu's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Widder Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zurich
  • Lugano
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Chinagarten Zürich
  • Zürich Zoo
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On day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zurich are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Grossmünster set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Zürich Opera House is your next stop. This intriguing opera house is one of the best-rated sights in Zurich.

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 Chinagarten Zürich. This instagrammable botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Zürich Zoo.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible contemporary and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Is another top choice with a popular menu.

Continue your lively evening at Il Fermento, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Oops is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Lugano
  • Sankt Gallen
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Ciani Parc
  • Lugano Arte e Cultura
  • Swissminiatur
  • Three Castles of Bellinzona
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Lugano, Melide, and Bellinzona. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Parco Ciani is an essential stop in Lugano. This locally renowned park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Lugano Arte E Cultura, an instagrammable cultural center, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Swissminiatur, a curiosity-inducing miniature park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Three Castles Of Bellinzona.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in St. Gallen. Check in and relax 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 St. Gallen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Netts Schützengarten in St. Gallen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Netts Schützengarten delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious international and country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Einstein Gourmet, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Jägerhof, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern and international cuisine in the city.

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.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Sankt Gallen
  • Zurich
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Rhine Falls
  • Swiss Science Center Technorama
  • Aathal Dinosaur Museum
  • Üetliberg
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Neuhausen, Winterthur, Aathal, and Sellenbüren. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to St. Gallen is complete without Rhine Falls. This top-rated waterfall is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Swiss Science Center Technorama, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of St. Gallen, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Üetliberg, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, 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 Zurich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Begin 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.

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

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Botanical Garden
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Day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zurich before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Botanical Garden. This often recommended botanical garden is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace, Sihlcity. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Zurich. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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