10-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Schaffhausen and Lucerne and surrounding area

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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zurich.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Old Town (Altstadt). Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Niederdorf, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Chinagarten Zürich leaves a lasting impression. This botanical garden is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Zurich. Next, head to Lindenhof, a well-known historical landmark, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Swiss National Museum. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Zurich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.

Begin your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing 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 The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eldorado, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gotthard Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Stanza offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Make time for Zürich Zoo, a popular zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kunsthaus Zürich, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Grossmünster. This church is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zurich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Zürich Opera House.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 fantastic dining experience at Alpenrose, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kafi Dihei offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Weisses Rössli is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Babalu, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Nelson is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Sellenbüren, Kloten, and Winterthur. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Schaffhausen, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Üetliberg, an increasingly popular mountain range that everyone visiting Sellenbüren should see. Next, head to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This romantic observation deck is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kloten, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sellenbüren to Kloten may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kloten, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Observation Deck B, an often recommended observation deck in Kloten. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Winterthur’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kloten behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Winterthur welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Wildpark Bruderhaus, an underrated wildlife reserve known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Swiss Science Center Technorama, a worthwhile science center.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Schaffhausen, 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, 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Eckhaus Gmbh, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar No13, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tabaco Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Goldau. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne, where will spend 4 nights.

Start your day at Reformierte Kirche St. Johann. This monumental church is an underrated place to see in Schaffhausen. Then, wander over to Museum Zu Allerheiligen. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.

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 Neuhausen. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Savor the day by heading to Rhine Falls, a famous waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Neuhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Goldau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min.

Nature And Animal Park Goldau is a locally appreciated zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar 58 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Penthouse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Lucerne for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Catch Lion Monument Lucerne before the crowds roll in. This picture-perfect monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Bourbaki-panorama (building), 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 Church Of St. Leodegar, a curiosity-inducing church. For a change of scene, check out Museggmauer, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Zytturm. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ampersand, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Lucerne. You’ll stay in Lucerne for 2 nights.

Start your day at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This visually striking museum is a locally renowned place to see in Lucerne. Then, wander over to Verkehrshaus Planetarium. If visually striking sites excite you, this planetarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Strandbad Lido Luzern. This serene beach is a favorite among visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Savor the flavors at Bar bei Miguel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, la vie en rose beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Schiff. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lucerne tonight.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lucerne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Lucerne.

Enjoy all that Sammlung Rosengart Luzern has to offer. This is a frequently visited art gallery you should not miss. Another must-see is Chapel Bridge, a popular historical landmark in Lucerne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Jesuit Church, Lucerne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lucerne Needle Dam, another of the town’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an awe-inspiring place of interest in the town.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Grand Casino Luzern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Olivo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Heini Conditorei AG. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Head back to your accommodation in Lucerne and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 9 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kriens and Schüpfheim are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kriens, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lucerne to Kriens may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kriens, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Wallfahrtskirche Hergiswald is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schüpfheim may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Schüpfheim, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Unesco Biosphäre Entlebuch, a worthwhile nature reserve known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zurich. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Viadukt, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Pasta, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ebrietas Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Total Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Rimini Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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