One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to St. Gallen, Lugano, and Basel and surrounding area

Day 2 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zurich today. One of the most interesting 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 Kunsthaus Zürich and learn what makes this picture-perfect art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Grossmünster. After exploring the church, head to Zürich Opera House. This up-and-coming opera house is a highlight in Zurich.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Zurich as you explore Sihlcity. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Sihlcity offers more options, including restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Zurich and Winterthur. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in St. Gallen. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zurich, including a botanical garden, a park, a museum, a science center and much more! Start your adventure at Botanical Garden. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zürichhorn located in Zurich for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Chinagarten Zürich. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Swiss National Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this museum. Next up is Swiss Science Center Technorama, a highly recommended science center.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Netts Schützengarten in St. Gallen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Netts Schützengarten offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious international and country cooking menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Einstein Gourmet, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Jägerhof, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern and international menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at News Café Music Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Baracca Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Timeout Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore St. Gallen. You’ll stay in St. Gallen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in St. Gallen, including a wildlife reserve, a monastery, a church, a lake and much more! Start your adventure at Wildpark Peter Und Paul. This locally appreciated wildlife reserve is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Abbey Of Saint Gall located in St. Gallen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St. Gallen Cathedral. Its UNESCO world heritage-listed features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Drei Weieren. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this lake.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Thai Dragon, a highly-rated dining destination in St. Gallen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zur alten Post, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro St. Gallen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in St. Gallen this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Süd Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Einstein Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Øya Bar Kafé Klub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano, 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 1 night.

Today's adventure in St. Gallen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Swissminiatur. Then, enjoy Monte San Salvatore, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Lugano Arte E Cultura, one of the village’s most beloved attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Parco Ciani. This serene park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Il Fermento is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Oops, offering a different kind of charm.

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Lugano on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Swiss Museum Of Transport is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped museum before continuing your journey. Lion Monument Lucerne is your next stop. This locally renowned monument is one of the best-rated sights in Lugano.

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 Chapel Bridge. This romantic historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Basel, 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 Basel's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 8 Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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