One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Lugano, and Basel and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for an exciting day in Zurich. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, an art gallery, a church, an opera house and much more! Begin your adventure at Zürich Zoo. This is a well-known zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Kunsthaus Zürich, an intriguing art gallery in Zurich.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Grossmünster. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zürich Opera House, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions.

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

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

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 itinerary in Zurich covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a park, a museum, a science center and much more! Start your adventure at Botanical Garden. This frequently visited botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the noteworthy wonders of Zürichhorn, a must-see park in the city.

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 Chinagarten Zürich. This locally appreciated botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Swiss National Museum, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Swiss Science Center Technorama. This eye-catching science center offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in St. Gallen by reserving a table at Netts Schützengarten. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to Einstein Gourmet, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Jägerhof, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in St. Gallen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Round off your dining experience by visiting News Café Music Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Baracca Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Timeout Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Wildpark Peter Und Paul. This often recommended wildlife reserve is a visually striking place to see in St. Gallen. Continue your discovery at Abbey Of Saint Gall, a stunning monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around St. Gallen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to St. Gallen Cathedral. This locally appreciated church offers a breathtaking encounter with St. Gallen. Drei Weieren is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in St. Gallen.

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.

Savor the flavors at Thai Dragon, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zur alten Post beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bistro St. Gallen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in St. Gallen tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Süd Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Einstein Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Øya Bar Kafé Klub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 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 Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in St. Gallen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Swissminiatur. Then, enjoy Monte San Salvatore, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Lugano Arte E Cultura, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Parco Ciani. This majestic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Il Fermento is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Oops, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Basel, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lugano. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Swiss Museum Of Transport is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most well-known places to visit in Lugano. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a locally renowned monument, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Chapel Bridge. This grand historical landmark offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional classic french menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, roots, known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Basel is Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Grenzwert Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 8 Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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.