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

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Explore the best of Switzerland on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zurich, Winterthur, Goldau, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, St. Gallen, Rapperswil, Chur, Lugano, Lucerne, Bern, and Basel. This road trip itinerary in Switzerland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Zurich, 2 nights in St. Gallen, 1 night in Lugano, and 1 night in Bern. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Zurich, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Chapel Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Winterthur, Goldau, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, St. Gallen, Rapperswil, Chur, Lugano, Lucerne, Bern, and Basel, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.

Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Zurich - arrival day

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Lindenhof
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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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zurich. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Zurich

  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 13 km, 50 min

  • Zoo Zürich
  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Swiss National Museum
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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 Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,428 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.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Swiss National Museum. This organization is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,221 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern french, and contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delectable sharing, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit The Restaurant, a local gem known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eldorado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gotthard Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Stanza 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.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Zurich, Winterthur, Aathal, Sellenbüren, and Goldau

  • Zurich
  • Winterthur
  • Goldau
  • More

Drive 216 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Swiss Science Center Technorama
  • Aathal Dinosaur Museum
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
  • Nature and Animal Park Goldau
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 1 night left in Zurich, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Winterthur. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Swiss Science Center Technorama, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable technology museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,784 reviews.

After soaking in Winterthur’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aathal. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Aathal, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Aathal Dinosaur Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,151 reviews.

Sellenbüren’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aathal behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Sellenbüren welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,434 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar Babalu, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Nelson, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zurich, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, Hagenwil, and St. Gallen

  • Sankt Gallen
  • Neuhausen
  • Schaffhausen
  • Kreuzlingen
  • Hagenwil
  • More

Drive 164 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Rhine Falls
  • Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen
  • Museum zu Allerheiligen
  • Seeburg Park
  • Hagenwil Castle
  • More

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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rhine Falls is a great place to start. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,797 visitors.

After soaking in Neuhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schaffhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Schaffhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Schaffhausen, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 140 visitors.

Museum Zu Allerheiligen is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 293 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in St. Gallen by securing a table at Netts Schützengarten. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional international, and country cooking menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Einstein Gourmet, famous for its scrumptious creative, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Jägerhof, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern, and international cuisine in St. Gallen. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern, and international cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – St. Gallen, and Hundwil

  • Sankt Gallen
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Drive 64 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Säntis - Schwebebahn
  • Drei Weieren
  • St. Gallen Cathedral
  • Abbey of Saint Gall
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in St. Gallen, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Drei Weieren. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,735 reviews.

Next up, make your way to St. Gallen Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,157 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Abbey Of Saint Gall. This benedictine abbey has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,731 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Hundwil. This drive usually takes around 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Säntis - Schwebebahn. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,644 visitors.

Make Lillyweg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 46 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Thai Dragon, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zur alten Post? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro St. Gallen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in St. Gallen.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – St. Gallen, Rapperswil, Heididorf, Chur, and Lugano

  • Lugano
  • Rapperswil
  • Chur
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Drive 311 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Knie's Kinderzoo
  • Heididorf
  • Bernina Express
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Rapperswil, Heididorf, and Chur, 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 Lugano. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rapperswil. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Knie's Kinderzoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,887 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rapperswil and set your GPS to Heididorf. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 54 min. Upon reaching Heididorf, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heididorf. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,119 visitors.

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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Il Fermento, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Oops offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lugano.

Head back to your accommodation in Lugano and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Lugano, Lucerne, and Bern

  • Bern
  • Lugano
  • Lucerne
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Parco Ciani
  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Lion Monument
  • Chapel Bridge
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lugano, and Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parco Ciani. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,419 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Lugano, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lucerne. Your travel time is around 2 hours 5 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Swiss Museum Of Transport. This much-appreciated technology museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,843 reviews. Each year, 562,605 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,757 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 30,595 reviews.

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 Bern. Bern 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 Bern, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bern by reserving a table at ZOE. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of vegetarian, and modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Steinhalle, renowned for its delectable creative, and international dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Wein & Sein, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-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 Bern.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Zum Kuckuck after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Piazza Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Taube is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bern, Basel, and Zurich

  • Zurich
  • Bern
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 189 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Bear Pit
  • Basler Münster
  • Zoo Basel
  • Mittlere Brücke
  • More

On day 8 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 Bern, and Basel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Bear Pit. This extraordinary architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,330 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Basel, 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 Bern to Basel may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Basel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Basel Minster. This extraordinary cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,564 visitors.

Next, make your way to Basel Zoo. This zoo welcomes around 2,012,511 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,396 reviews.

While in Basel, we also recommend a visit to Middle Bridge. This road bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,094 reviews.

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.

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 a delicious meal at Viadukt, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

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

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Zurich - departure day

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Botanical Garden
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Day 9 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.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Oliver Twist, another premier location with a delectable 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!

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