9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Lugano, and Bern and surrounding area

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. 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. Zürich Zoo is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing zoo before continuing your journey. Grossmünster is your next stop. This beloved church 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 Zürich Opera House. This romantic opera house is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Swiss National Museum.

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.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Winterthur, Aathal, Sellenbüren, and Goldau. You still have 1 night left in Zurich.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile science center, Swiss Science Center Technorama. Afterward, continue to Aathal Dinosaur Museum, a museum 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 Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This beloved observation deck is an essential stop. Following that, head to Nature And Animal Park Goldau, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zurich.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Alpenrose, 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 Kafi Dihei, 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 Weisses Rössli, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Babalu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nelson likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, and Hagenwil. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Rhine Falls. This top-rated waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Museum Zu Allerheiligen, one of the most underrated places to see in Zurich. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Seeburgpark. Wander around and soak in the detailed atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Hagenwil Castle, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of St. Gallen by securing a reservation at Netts Schützengarten. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of international and country cooking cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Einstein Gourmet, renowned for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Jägerhof, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 1 night left in St. Gallen, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in St. Gallen allows for both. Start by heading to Säntis - Schwebebahn. This frequently visited tramway provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Lillyweg, an enchanting hiking area, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Drei Weieren, an intriguing lake. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing St. Gallen Cathedral. Round off your day at Abbey Of Saint Gall, another gem in St. Gallen with historic features to discover.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Thai Dragon, a top-rated dining destination in St. Gallen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zur alten Post, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro St. Gallen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in St. Gallen this evening.

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

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lugano and Lucerne, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lugano includes a park, a museum, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Parco Ciani is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a picture-perfect monument, also available for your discovery today.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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.