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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Awaiting your discovery is the captivating Zürich Zoo, an instagrammable zoo in Zurich. Next, go to Grossmünster.

After visiting Zürich Zoo and Grossmünster, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zürich Opera House. This eye-catching opera house offers a unique experience. Swiss National Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Zurich, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious sharing 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, The Restaurant is known as a top local spot in Zurich for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Eldorado. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gotthard Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Switzerland.

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

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Swiss Science Center Technorama, a photogenic science center in Zurich. Next, go to Aathal Dinosaur Museum.

After visiting Swiss Science Center Technorama and Aathal Dinosaur Museum, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This gorgeous observation deck offers a unique experience. Nature And Animal Park Goldau is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich.

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, and Hagenwil. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, where you'll spend 2 nights.

One of the most spectacular attractions included on the itinerary is Rhine Falls. This stunning waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen and learn what makes this symbolic monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Museum Zu Allerheiligen. After exploring the museum, head to Seeburgpark. This locally appreciated park is a highlight in Zurich. As your day continues, stop by Hagenwil Castle, known for its history-steeped features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in St. Gallen. St. Gallen 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in St. Gallen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in St. Gallen by reserving a table at Netts Schützengarten. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of international and country cooking cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Einstein Gourmet, renowned for its delectable creative 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 Jägerhof, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in St. Gallen.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in St. Gallen, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Säntis - Schwebebahn is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming tramway is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lillyweg, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring St. Gallen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Drei Weieren, a curiosity-inducing lake in the hamlet. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St. Gallen Cathedral and Abbey Of Saint Gall.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Thai Dragon, a highly-rated dining destination in St. Gallen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zur alten Post, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro St. Gallen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in St. Gallen this evening.

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

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.

No visit to Lugano is complete without Parco Ciani. This interesting park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Swiss Museum Of Transport, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lugano, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This popular monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Chapel Bridge, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, 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 Bern. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Zum Kuckuck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Taube provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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