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

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Zurich and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zurich for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Reserve a table at Widder Restaurant, a 2 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Zurich. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious modern french and contemporary offering makes it a crowd favorite. Widder Restaurant is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Zurich is IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its sharing and modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, The Restaurant. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Zurich for its appetizing selection of food, including its creative and modern courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 2 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

When you’ve finished dinner and you’re in the mood for a drink, we recommend visiting one of the best bars in Zurich. Tibits offers plenty of drink options for every taste and budget. Around 2,746 customers have given this bar an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Alternatively, go to a bar that locals recommend, like Kennedy's Irish Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,395 customers.

If you're looking for something else, check out El Lokal. This bar is one of the best places to enjoy a drink and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,127 customers.

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

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.

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.

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

Book a table at Babu's, a famous dining establishment in Zurich. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,949 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Zurich is Kronenhalle, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 1,764 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Zurich’s Markthalle for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,771 satisfied diners.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Switzerland. One of the best bars in the city is Rimini Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,417 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Zurich, we recommend the cocktails at Café Bar ODEON. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,374 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Zurich is Oliver Twist. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,495 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Zurich has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Zurich offers and add your favorites to your Switzerland travel package below.

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.

Reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, a renowned restaurant in Zurich. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,379 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Metropol while in Zurich. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,341 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Zurich at Viadukt, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,179 customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is La Stanza. This place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,083 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 870 customers.

Rio Bar is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Zurich. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 992 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Goldau, Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Lugano. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugano. Lugano will be your home away from home for 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.

Make Nature and Animal Park Goldau your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,104 reviews.

Lavertezzo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Goldau behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min. Lavertezzo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ponte dei Salti. This stone arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,917 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lugano, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lugano. 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.

Make your stay in Lugano one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Flamel, a gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful contemporary and seasonal cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. Flamel promises exceptional dishes and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Lugano is Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,096 happy diners.

Ristorante Trattoria Galleria stands out as a local favorite in Lugano. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,111 customers.

Make your way to Il Fermento. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,038 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Trinity Irish Pub? This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 695 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is Bar Laura. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 653 customers.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Lugano for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Lugano on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lugano.

Make a reservation at Ristorante Commercianti, a popular dining spot in Lugano. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 972 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Acqua e Farina while indulging in the charm of Lugano. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 676 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of La Tinèra, a treasured establishment in Lugano. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 547 satisfied guests.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to Ristorante SEVEN LUGANO the restaurant. Around 612 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Lugano also enjoy the drinks at Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa. This place is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,009 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. This bar has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 1,476 customers.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Bellinzona, Monte Carasso, Rapperswil, and St. Gallen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lugano, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bellinzona. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bellinzona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rapperswil. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Knie's Kinderzoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,787 visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Netts Schützengarten, a luxury dining venue in St. Gallen. This local gem’s delectable international and country cooking cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Netts Schützengarten is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at Einstein Gourmet, offering a Bib-Gourmand awarded dining experience. With its 2 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible creative and modern cuisine at Einstein Gourmet has earned praise globally.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider reserving a table at Jägerhof. This celebrated dining spot in St. Gallen is renowned for its sumptuous meals and modern and international menu. Countless patrons sing this restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

After dinner, visit HANS IM GLÜCK - ST. GALLEN Kugelgasse, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of St. Gallen. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 747 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Süd Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 721 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend Blumenmarkt. This bar, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 557 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of St. Gallen.

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

On day 7 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 St. Gallen, Neuhausen, and Schaffhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Schaffhausen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Abbey of Saint Gall one of your first sightseeing stops in St. Gallen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,646 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

St. Gallen Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,083 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Roter Platz. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 300 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Drei Weieren. A trip to this popular urban park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,727 previous visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of St. Gallen, 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 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Rhine Falls. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Neuhausen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schaffhausen may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Schaffhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Schaffhausen.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at D'Chuchi, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, D'Chuchi consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Hotel Kronenhof while experiencing the best of Schaffhausen. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 505 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Fassbeiz, an elegant culinary destination in Schaffhausen. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 194 previous guests.

Tabaco Lounge is one of the best bars in Schaffhausen and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 234 customers.

You may also want to check out Bar No13. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Bar No13 is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 158 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Suren's. Suren's has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 124 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Winterthur, Sellenbüren, Aathal, and Zurich, 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 Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Schaffhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Winterthur. Your travel time is around 28 min.

Set your GPS to Aathal 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. Aathal beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This extraordinary natural history museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,092 visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Pasta, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,041 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend The International Beer Bar, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 773 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Aurora. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 705 customers.

Ebrietas Bar is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 560 customers.

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

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.

Optimize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Zurich’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Switzerland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.

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!