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

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zurich and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Zurich is a popular cheap holiday destination in Switzerland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Switzerland, Zurich is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Drop by the renowned Lindenhof. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Zurich, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Babu's, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Cantinetta Antinori - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on El Lokal, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Rio Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, La Stanza is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Zurich, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Botanical Garden. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,198 visitors.

Next, make your way to Zürichhorn. This top attraction is a river delta with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,512 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Zürich Opera House. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 travelers.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Zurich. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Switzerland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Zurich is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Aurora stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Kafi Dihei offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Weisses Rössli, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Ebrietas Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Rimini Bar is the perfect place.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Switzerland!

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Zurich. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Swiss National Museum. This organization is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Fraumünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,411 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 visitors. Visiting Kunsthaus Zürich means you'll be one of 382,603 people who do so every year.

Touring the best attractions in Switzerland offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Switzerland you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Switzerland. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Switzerland.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Switzerland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Zurich that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Viadukt, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is La Pasta, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Metropol, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 3: Orselina, Lavertezzo, and Goldau. You'll stay in Lugano for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Madonna del Sasso. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,479 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Goldau and set your GPS to Lavertezzo. 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 2 hours 7 min. Upon reaching Lavertezzo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ponte dei Salti. This stone arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,917 reviews.

Set your GPS to Goldau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Goldau beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Nature and Animal Park Goldau is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,104 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Lugano. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lugano, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Lugano has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your foodie adventure at Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Bar Laura, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Il Fermento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Oops, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Lugano and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Lugano — 1 night.

Kick off the day at Parco Ciani, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,286 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Lugano Arte e Cultura. Lugano Arte e Cultura is a museum building with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,055 reviews.

Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Lugano, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to La Tinèra, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Ristorante SEVEN LUGANO the restaurant - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Vermouth by Martini promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

A road trip vacation in Lugano can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Switzerland!

Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland is another proof that cheap holidays in Switzerland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Bellinzona, Monte Carasso, and Rapperswil. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of St. Gallen, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Monte Carasso and set your GPS to Bellinzona. 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 7 min. Upon reaching Bellinzona, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Three Castles of Bellinzona. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,522 visitors.

Montebello Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,137 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Lugano, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Monte Carasso. Your travel time is around 31 min.

Make Antico Convento delle Agostiniane one of your first sightseeing stops in Monte Carasso. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 148 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bellinzona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rapperswil may take around 2 hours 13 min. Upon your arrival in Rapperswil, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. St. Gallen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting St. Gallen on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

Savor the culinary delights of St. Gallen, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the town offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Kafi Franz stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, tibits St. Gallen offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Zur alten Post, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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. Paparazzo Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Neuhausen and St. Gallen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Schaffhausen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in St. Gallen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Neuhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Neuhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rhine Falls. Previous visitors have rated this waterfall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Abbey of Saint Gall. This benedictine abbey is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,646 visitors.

When you’re finished at Abbey of Saint Gall, head to St. Gallen Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,083 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Roter Platz. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 300 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Drei Weieren. This urban park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,727 visitors.

Schaffhausen offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Switzerland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Schaffhausen is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Discover the heart of Schaffhausen through its culinary scene, starting with Gerberstube. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Adler, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant La Piazza, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Eckhaus GmbH after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar No13 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tabaco Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!

Day 8 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Sellenbüren, Winterthur, and Aathal. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zurich, where you'll stay 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Üetliberg, a remarkable mountain where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,065 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Uetliberg Lookout Tower. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,349 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Winterthur. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Drop by the renowned Swiss Science Center Technorama. This popular technology museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,644 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Wildpark Bruderhaus. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,573 visitors, this wildlife park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

Drop by the renowned Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This popular natural history museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,092 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Zurich. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Zurich, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Zurich, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Oliver Twist, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Café Bar ODEON offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Tibits is the perfect spot for you!

A road trip vacation in Sellenbüren can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Switzerland!

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zurich.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Switzerland forever.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Zurich, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Swiss Chuchi Restaurant, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The International Beer Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Kennedy's Irish Pub is a highly recommended spot.

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!