One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Lugano, 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 1 night.

Zurich is brimming with adventures.

Zürich Zoo is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally renowned zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kunsthaus Zürich, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zurich 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 Grossmünster, an often recommended church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Zürich Opera House.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Widder Restaurant delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, acclaimed for its delectable sharing 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 The Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Eldorado offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gotthard Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Stanza is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Zurich and Winterthur. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in St. Gallen, where will spend 2 nights.

Check out the up-and-coming botanical garden, Botanical Garden. Afterward, continue to Zürichhorn, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Zurich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Chinagarten Zürich. This underrated botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Swiss National Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Swiss Science Center Technorama, a worthwhile science center in the city.

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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Netts Schützengarten in St. Gallen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Netts Schützengarten offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious international and country cooking menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Einstein Gourmet, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Jägerhof, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern and international menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into News Café Music Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Baracca Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Timeout Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 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.

Visiting Wildpark Peter Und Paul is always a good idea. This frequently visited wildlife reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Abbey Of Saint Gall, a must-see monastery 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 St. Gallen Cathedral. This up-and-coming church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Drei Weieren, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect 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.

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.

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.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugano, where you'll spend 1 night.

Swissminiatur is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. Next on your list is Monte San Salvatore, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming mountain range renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of St. Gallen by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lugano Arte E Cultura. This eye-catching cultural center is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full St. Gallen experience. We also recommend visiting Parco Ciani, a popular park.

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

Lugano 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 Lugano.

Discover the culinary delights of Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. Alternatively, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Il Fermento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Oops provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lucerne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Lugano is complete without Swiss Museum Of Transport. This captivating museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Lion Monument Lucerne, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lugano, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Chapel Bridge. This captivating historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl in Basel by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious classic french cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at roots, acclaimed for its delectable modern and seasonal 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 Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Schall Und Rauch Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Grenzwert Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. 8 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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