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

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.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular zoo, Zürich Zoo. Afterward, continue to Grossmünster, a church 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 Zürich Opera House. This often recommended opera house is an essential stop. Following that, head to Swiss National Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Eldorado, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gotthard Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Stanza, another top-rated place in the area.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zurich, including a science center, a museum, an observation deck, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Swiss Science Center Technorama. This intriguing science center is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aathal Dinosaur Museum located in Zurich for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Nature And Animal Park Goldau. Visitors usually appreciate the peaceful features of this zoo.

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

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 Alpenrose, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Babalu, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Nelson provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 4 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 Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Kreuzlingen, and Hagenwil. In the evening, you’ll end up in St. Gallen, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Rhine Falls. This top-rated waterfall is a mesmerizing place to see in Zurich. Continue your discovery at Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen, a stunning monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zurich, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Zu Allerheiligen. This locally appreciated museum offers a photogenic encounter with Zurich. Next, make your way to Seeburgpark to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Hagenwil Castle, a beloved castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zurich.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Netts Schützengarten, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional international and country cooking menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Einstein Gourmet, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in St. Gallen is Jägerhof, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern and international menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at News Café Music Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Baracca Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Timeout Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in St. Gallen on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended tramway, Säntis - Schwebebahn. Afterward, continue to Lillyweg, a hiking area every traveler should visit.

As you explore St. Gallen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Drei Weieren. This worthwhile lake is an essential stop. Following that, head to St. Gallen Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Abbey Of Saint Gall, a curiosity-inducing monastery in the hamlet.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Thai Dragon, a top-rated dining spot in St. Gallen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zur alten Post, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro St. Gallen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in St. Gallen.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Süd Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Einstein Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Øya Bar Kafé Klub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in St. Gallen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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, 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.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Parco Ciani. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Swiss Museum Of Transport, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the most interesting places to see in Lugano. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Chapel Bridge. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this historical landmark offers.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, ZOE offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious vegetarian and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Steinhalle, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and international cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Wein & Sein, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

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