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 explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned zoo, Zürich Zoo. Afterward, continue to Kunsthaus Zürich, an art gallery 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 Grossmünster. This curiosity-inducing church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Zürich Opera House, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 Bahnhofstrasse. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and high-end shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Bahnhofstrasse offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eldorado, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Zurich and Winterthur, 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 St. Gallen. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Botanical Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this peaceful botanical garden before continuing your journey. Zürichhorn is your next stop. This up-and-coming park 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 Swiss National Museum and Swiss Science Center Technorama.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Netts Schützengarten, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional international and country cooking menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Einstein Gourmet, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in St. Gallen is Jägerhof, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern and international menu.

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.

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

Day 4 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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in St. Gallen. Begin your sightseeing with Wildpark Peter Und Paul. This increasingly popular wildlife reserve is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Abbey Of Saint Gall, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.

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 St. Gallen Cathedral. This often recommended church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Drei Weieren, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Thai Dragon, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zur alten Post is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro St. Gallen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in St. Gallen tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Süd Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Einstein Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Øya Bar Kafé Klub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugano, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

St. Gallen is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Swissminiatur, an intriguing miniature park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Monte San Salvatore, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Lugano Arte E Cultura. This cultural center is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring St. Gallen at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Parco Ciani.

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.

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

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 6 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 Lucerne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming town of Lugano. Your adventure starts at Swiss Museum Of Transport, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Lion Monument Lucerne. This notable monument is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lugano's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Chapel Bridge. This romantic historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Basel. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional classic french menu. For a different flavor experience, head to roots, renowned for its delectable modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Basel. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Schall Und Rauch Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Grenzwert Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Basel. 8 Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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