14-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Schaffhausen, Geneva, Lucerne, and Lugano 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 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zurich today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Zürich Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Zürich Opera House and learn what makes this picture-perfect opera house unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Botanical Garden. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Chinagarten Zürich. This locally appreciated botanical garden is a highlight in Zurich. As your day continues, stop by Zürichhorn, known for its noteworthy features.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, renowned as 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 earns consistently high praises from previous guests, 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 for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at Eldorado, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gotthard Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is La Stanza, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, an art gallery, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Fraumünster and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Grossmünster, a historic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Kunsthaus Zürich, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Swiss National Museum.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Alpenrose, 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Babalu after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nelson is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 2 nights left in Zurich, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and natural wonders. Start at the frequently visited Swiss Science Center Technorama, a picture-perfect science center in Zurich. Next, go to Wildpark Bruderhaus.

After visiting Swiss Science Center Technorama and Wildpark Bruderhaus, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience. Observation Deck B is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Zurich.

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.

Dine in style at Viadukt, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Pasta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

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, Total Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Rimini Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended zoo, Nature And Animal Park Goldau. Afterward, continue to Hoch-ybrig, a ski resort every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zurich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Holzbrücke Rapperswil-hurden. This underrated boardwalk is an essential stop. Following that, head to Knie's Kinderzoo, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zurich and your accommodation.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tremondi, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Metropol, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oliver Twist. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Safari Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Am Wasser is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar 63 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 6 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 Kreuzlingen, Salenstein, Warth-Weiningen, Thurgau, and Thundorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in St. Gallen, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Seeburgpark. This masterful park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Napoleon Museum Arenenberg, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ittinger Museum, a worthwhile museum. For a change of scene, check out Murg Auen Park, known for its stunning features. We also recommend visiting Stählibuckturm. This observation deck is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in St. Gallen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in St. Gallen by securing a reservation at Netts Schützengarten. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of international and country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Einstein Gourmet, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Jägerhof, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting News Café Music Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Baracca Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Timeout Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions St. Gallen has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in St. Gallen by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Abbey Of Saint Gall. This frequently visited monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St. Gallen Cathedral, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Abbey Library Of St. Gallen, one of the most often recommended places to see in St. Gallen. This library is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Drei Weieren. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this lake offers.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in St. Gallen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Thai Dragon, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zur alten Post is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro St. Gallen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in St. Gallen tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Süd Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Einstein Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Øya Bar Kafé Klub, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

Day 8 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring St. Gallen. You have 1 night left in St. Gallen. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is Roter Platz. Continue your discovery at Natural History Museum St. Gallen, a photogenic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around St. Gallen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Botanischer Garten. This underrated botanical garden offers a peaceful encounter with St. Gallen. Next, make your way to Wildpark Peter Und Paul to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in St. Gallen.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in St. Gallen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Zum Goldenen Schäfli, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Stars and Stripes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Blumenmarkt. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in St. Gallen.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore St. Gallen and Hundwil, 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 Schaffhausen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in St. Gallen covers several incredible sights, including an art gallery, a museum, a park, a hiking area, a tramway and much more! Start your adventure at St. Gallen Museum Of Art. This beloved art gallery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Historical And Folklore Museum, a must-see museum in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Stadtpark. This frequently visited park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Lillyweg, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Säntis - Schwebebahn. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Schaffhausen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Schaffhausen by booking a table at D'Chuchi, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Theaterrestaurant, a popular restaurant in Schaffhausen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Continue your lively evening at Eckhaus Gmbh, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar No13 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tabaco Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Geneva. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Geneva on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Geneva Water Fountain is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting monument before continuing your journey. Jardin Anglais is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in Geneva.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit L'horloge Fleurie. This noteworthy art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Chillon Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lucerne. Lucerne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Lucide in Lucerne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Lucide offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Colonnade, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and seasonal cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar 58, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Penthouse, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lucerne, Melide, and Lugano. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lugano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your adventure at Chapel Bridge. This is a captivating historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating museum in Lucerne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Swissminiatur, another of the town’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Parco Ciani, a serene place of interest in the town.

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

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lugano by reserving a table at Flamel. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. Looking for something different? Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lugano.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Il Fermento, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Oops is another popular option for a drink or two.

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