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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zurich.

Make a stop at Zürich Zoo. This popular zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Grossmünster located in Zurich for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zürich Opera House. Its historic features will captivate you. After the opera house, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Swiss National Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing 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 The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Zurich, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Winterthur, Aathal, Sellenbüren, and Goldau.

Set your GPS to Winterthur and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Winterthur beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Swiss Science Center Technorama, a worthwhile science center in Winterthur. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aathal. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Aathal Dinosaur Museum, a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Aathal should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sellenbüren. This car ride takes around 45 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. Spend some time admiring the gorgeous features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alpenrose, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kafi Dihei offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Weisses Rössli is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, and Hagenwil. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in St. Gallen, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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 Neuhausen. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rhine Falls, a famous waterfall that everyone visiting Neuhausen should see.

When you’ve had your share of Neuhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Schaffhausen. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen is a locally appreciated monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Museum Zu Allerheiligen, a visually striking museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kreuzlingen. This drive usually takes around 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Seeburgpark, an increasingly popular park that everyone visiting Kreuzlingen should see.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in St. Gallen by booking a table at Netts Schützengarten, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in St. Gallen, Einstein Gourmet shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Jägerhof is known as a top local spot in St. Gallen for its delicious modern and international cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in St. Gallen and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Hundwil and St. Gallen. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to St. Gallen, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Hundwil on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Let Drei Weieren set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this peaceful lake before continuing your journey. St. Gallen Cathedral is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing church is one of the best-rated sights in St. Gallen.

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 Abbey Of Saint Gall. This symbolic monastery is a sight to behold.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to St. Gallen and set your GPS to Hundwil. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Hundwil, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hundwil is Säntis - Schwebebahn, an intriguing tramway that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hundwil is Lillyweg, a beloved hiking area that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

St. Gallen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in St. Gallen.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Süd Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Einstein Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Øya Bar Kafé Klub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Parco Ciani is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Swiss Museum Of Transport and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne, another highlight in Lucerne. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Bern by securing a reservation at ZOE. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!