One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling east to Andermatt, Lugano, Chur, and St. Gallen

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Old Town (Altstadt) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zurich, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Niederdorf, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Zurich.

To truly experience Zurich, make sure to drop by Lindenhof. This interesting historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Zürich Opera House, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Zürich Zoo, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Zurich. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Zurich's bustling shopping hub, Niederdorf. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Niederdorf offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zurich are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Andermatt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Swiss National Museum. This photogenic museum is an underrated place to see in Zurich. Then, wander over to Kunsthaus Zürich. If visually striking sites excite you, this art gallery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Grossmünster. This picture-perfect church is a favorite among visitors.

Zurich offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Fraumünster is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Andermatt by reserving a table at The Japanese Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional japanese contemporary and fusion menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pinte Pub&club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Vinothek 1620, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Melide, Pazzallo, and Lugano. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lugano, where will spend 1 night.

As you explore Melide’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Melide, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pazzallo. This drive usually takes around 3 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Swissminiatur.

Pazzallo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Melide behind. This drive usually takes around 3 min. Pazzallo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Monte San Salvatore, an up-and-coming mountain range known for its eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lugano. This drive usually takes around 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Lugano Arte E Cultura, an intriguing cultural center that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Parco Ciani, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lugano, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible contemporary and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Is another top choice with a popular menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Il Fermento, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Oops is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Locarno. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chur, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Orselina. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Madonna Del Sasso, an increasingly popular church that draws visitors from near and far.

Chur’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Locarno behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min. Chur welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Locarno is Piazza Grande, an intriguing public square that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Lido Locarno - Cbr Centro Balneare Regionale, a picture-perfect swimming pool that stands out in the village.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Frohsinn offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Chur.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Hemingway. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Churchill Pub Chur offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Confetti Aperitif Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Rapperswil, Schaffhausen, and Neuhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in St. Gallen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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 55 min. Upon your arrival in Rapperswil, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Holzbrücke Rapperswil-hurden, a curiosity-inducing boardwalk that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Knie's Kinderzoo, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rapperswil and set your GPS to Schaffhausen. 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 1 hour 5 min. Upon reaching Schaffhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Schwabentor. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Schaffhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Rhine Falls, a widely recognized waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in St. Gallen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in St. Gallen by booking a table at Netts Schützengarten, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional international and country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in St. Gallen, Einstein Gourmet shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Jägerhof is known as a top local spot in St. Gallen for its delicious modern and international cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at News Café Music Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Baracca Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Timeout Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including St. Gallen, Winterthur, and Sellenbüren. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zurich, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Abbey Of Saint Gall is always a good idea. This increasingly popular monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Drei Weieren, a must-see lake in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Winterthur. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Swiss Science Center Technorama, a beloved science center that everyone visiting Winterthur should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sellenbüren. This car ride takes around 39 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Üetliberg and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, another highlight in Sellenbüren.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Babalu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Nelson provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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