One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich traveling east to Lugano, Chur, and Schaffhausen

Welcome to Zurich, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Zurich's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zurich. 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 a lovely meal at Restaurant Differente, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, zum Kropf is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Babu's. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Widder Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rio Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Kunsthaus Zürich. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,760 visitors and gets around 382,603 visits every year.

Grossmünster is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This church building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,428 travelers.

Zurich is also the home of Fraumünster. Around 3,482 people have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Swiss National Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 8,221 reviews, a visit to this organization is a great idea.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you explore more of Zurich, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french, and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing, 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 The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eldorado, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gotthard Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out La Stanza. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you're ready to see some sights, Zürich Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,599 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Chinagarten Zürich. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,600 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Zürich Opera House. The opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,349 visitors.

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 Einsiedeln. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Einsiedeln Abbey. This extraordinary territorial abbey has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,675 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Zurich, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Babalu, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nelson offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Goldau, Melide, 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Goldau. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Nature And Animal Park Goldau is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,187 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Goldau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Melide. Your travel time is around 1 hour 54 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Swissminiatur is a great place to start. This miniature park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,758 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lugano, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Flamel in Lugano by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Flamel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary, and seasonal menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Il Fermento, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Oops is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Locarno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chur. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Lugano’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lavertezzo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Lavertezzo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Ponte Dei Salti, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stone arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,035 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Orselina. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Madonna Del Sasso, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,543 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Chur. 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.

Make sure to book a table at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, a popular restaurant in Chur. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Chur at Restaurant Frohsinn, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Chur tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hemingway, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Churchill Pub Chur provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Confetti Aperitif Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore St. Gallen, 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 Schaffhausen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

St. Gallen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Chur behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. St. Gallen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Wildpark Peter Und Paul. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,004 reviews.

Continue your journey at St. Gallen Cathedral. This cathedral is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,157 travelers from near and far.

St. Gallen is also the home of Abbey Of Saint Gall. This benedictine abbey has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,731 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Drei Weieren. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,735 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Schaffhausen, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Start your culinary exploration in Schaffhausen by securing a reservation at D'Chuchi. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eckhaus Gmbh, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar No13 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tabaco Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Neuhausen, Winterthur, Kloten, and Sellenbüren. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Neuhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Neuhausen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rhine Falls. This waterfall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Neuhausen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,797 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Winterthur, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Neuhausen to Winterthur may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Winterthur, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Swiss Science Center Technorama one of your first sightseeing stops in Winterthur. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,784 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zurich, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Viadukt, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Pasta, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Day 8 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.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zurich's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Switzerland.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Botanical Garden. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,272 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Metropol, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Oliver Twist offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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!