9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Lugano, St. Gallen, and Schaffhausen

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 2 nights.

Your adventure in Zurich is only getting started when you visit Botanical Garden, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Zürichhorn. This underrated park is known for its peaceful appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Chinagarten Zürich. This stunning botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zürich Opera House is also worth visiting, along with Zürich Zoo. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whatever your travel style is, Swiss National Museum is an essential stop in Zurich. This locally appreciated museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fraumünster, a breathtaking church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Grossmünster, a frequently visited church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Kunsthaus Zürich.

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.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Niederdorf, the top shopping destination in Zurich. Browse local boutique shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Niederdorf has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kafi Dihei is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Weisses Rössli. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Babalu, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Nelson ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Goldau, Lavertezzo, and Orselina. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lugano, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Goldau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Goldau, it's time to take a break from the road.

Nature And Animal Park Goldau is an underrated zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Orselina and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Orselina beckons with new experiences!

Madonna Del Sasso is a curiosity-inducing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Continue your lively evening at Il Fermento, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Oops is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Monte Carasso, Bellinzona, and Rapperswil. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Monte Carasso and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Monte Carasso beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Antico Convento Delle Agostiniane, an often recommended monastery known for its culturally significant features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bellinzona. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Three Castles Of Bellinzona, a curiosity-inducing castle known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Montebello Castle, a worthwhile castle.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rapperswil, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bellinzona to Rapperswil may take around 2 hours 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rapperswil, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Knie's Kinderzoo, a worthwhile zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in St. Gallen by reserving a table at Netts Schützengarten. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to Einstein Gourmet, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Jägerhof, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in St. Gallen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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.

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of St. Gallen and Neuhausen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Schaffhausen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the underrated monastery, Abbey Of Saint Gall. Afterward, continue to St. Gallen Cathedral, a church 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 town.

Next, make your way to Roter Platz. This worthwhile point of interest is an essential stop. Following that, head to Drei Weieren, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Neuhausen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from St. Gallen to Neuhausen may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Neuhausen is Rhine Falls, an impressive waterfall that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Schaffhausen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at D'Chuchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Theaterrestaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eckhaus Gmbh, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar No13 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tabaco Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Winterthur, Aathal, and Sellenbüren. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich, where will spend 1 night.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Swiss Science Center Technorama and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Wildpark Bruderhaus, another highlight in Winterthur.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Winterthur and set your GPS to Aathal. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Aathal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Aathal Dinosaur Museum is an often recommended museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Aathal, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sellenbüren. Your travel time is around 45 min.

Savor the day by heading to Üetliberg, a curiosity-inducing mountain range that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Viadukt, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!