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. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Lindenhof or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zurich. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Babu's, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cantinetta Antinori, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at El Lokal. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rio Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Stanza, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kick off the day at Botanical Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,198 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zürichhorn. Zürichhorn is a river delta with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,512 reviews.

Chinagarten Zürich is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zürich Opera House. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,213 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Zürich Zoo, a famous zoo in Zurich. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Switzerland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Zurich has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Switzerland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Aurora, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ebrietas Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rimini Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Swiss National Museum. Previous visitors have rated this organization an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

Fraumünster is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,411 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Grossmünster. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,297 reviews.

Kunsthaus Zürich is another outstanding experience in Zurich. Around 6,594 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 382,603 visitors annually.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Zurich 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 Zurich.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Viadukt, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Pasta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Metropol. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Orselina, Lavertezzo, and Goldau, 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 Lugano. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lavertezzo and set your GPS to Orselina. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Orselina, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Madonna del Sasso. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,479 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lavertezzo, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Goldau to Lavertezzo may take around 2 hours 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lavertezzo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Ponte dei Salti your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this stone arch bridge an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,917 reviews.

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 you explore more of Lugano, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , a popular restaurant in Lugano. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Lugano at Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Bar Laura. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lugano tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Il Fermento. Alternatively, go to Bar Oops, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Make Parco Ciani one of your first sightseeing stops in Lugano. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,286 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lugano Arte e Cultura is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,055 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Tinèra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ristorante SEVEN LUGANO the restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vermouth by Martini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lugano.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bellinzona and Monte Carasso. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bellinzona. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Three Castles of Bellinzona. Previous visitors have rated this architectural ensemble an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,522 reviews.

Montebello Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,137 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lugano and set your GPS to Monte Carasso. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Monte Carasso, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Antico Convento delle Agostiniane. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 148 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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Kafi Franz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, tibits St. Gallen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zur alten Post. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in St. Gallen.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Neuhausen and St. Gallen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Schaffhausen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to St. Gallen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Rhine Falls, a remarkable waterfall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of St. Gallen, 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 1 hour 1 min.

Kick off the day at Abbey of Saint Gall, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This benedictine abbey is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,646 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit St. Gallen Cathedral. St. Gallen Cathedral is a cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,083 reviews.

Roter Platz is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 300 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Drei Weieren. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,727 visitors.

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Gerberstube, a top-rated dining destination in Schaffhausen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Adler, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Schaffhausen this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eckhaus GmbH, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar No13 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tabaco Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Sellenbüren, Winterthur, and Aathal. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sellenbüren, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Aathal to Sellenbüren may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sellenbüren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Üetliberg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,065 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Uetliberg Lookout Tower is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,349 reviews.

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. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Swiss Science Center Technorama. Previous visitors have rated this technology museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,644 reviews.

Wildpark Bruderhaus is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This wildlife park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,573 reviews.

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.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Oliver Twist, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Bar ODEON offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tibits is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

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

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Zurich’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Take home a piece of Switzerland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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!