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HomeRoad TripsEuropeWest EuropeSwitzerlandSwitzerland
Matterhorn

Switzerland Road Trip

Zurich - Kreuzlingen - St. Gallen - Bellinzona - Lugano - Zermatt - Geneva - Bern - Interlaken

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Switzerland Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km1,173 h/stage1.8

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Switzerland Road Trip in Switzerland?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 756EUR drive & more 163EUR sleep & more 1,265EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,580EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,336EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 972EUR drive & more 213EUR sleep & more 2,222EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,163EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,135EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,620EUR drive & more 288EUR sleep & more 3,168EUR eat & more 2,304EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,760EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,380EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 313EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,125EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,825EUR
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Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

The Switzerland Road Trip is an excellent way to explore the beauty of the country. Starting in the city of Zurich, this 12-day journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes and historical sites in the country. You'll travel through Kreuzlingen, Bellinzona, Lugano, Zermatt, Geneva, and Interlaken, covering a total distance of 1173km. Along the way, you'll get to see some of Switzerland's UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the Monte San Giorgio and the Three Castles of Bellinzona. You'll also be able to take in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps, visit the beautiful Lake Lugano, and explore the cobblestone streets of Geneva. The best time to do this road trip is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. The roads in Switzerland are well maintained, making for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. This road trip is suitable for everyone, from experienced drivers to first-timers, and is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish for years to come. However, it should be noted that this road trip can be a bit pricey, so you should plan your budget accordingly.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 1,173 km route length
budget extreme budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Zurich

Distance 1,173 km Driving time 16.4 h Pace: fast 351.9 kWh Airports ZRH
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Zurich is the ideal starting point for the Switzerland Road Trip. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Zurich is the largest city in the nation and the economic capital of Europe. The city is a mix of modern, cosmopolitan metropolis and traditional, small-town charm. Zurich is nestled between stunning mountains and crystal-clear lakes, offering a unique combination of nature and city life. Visitors can explore the city’s many attractions, from the picturesque Old Town, to the beautiful churches and cathedrals, to the world-class art galleries and museums. Zurich also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and sailing. The closest international airport to Zurich is Zurich Airport (ZRH). From there, visitors can easily rent a car and begin their Switzerland Road Trip. Car rental is available at the airport from a number of major companies, such as Avis, Hertz, and Sixt. For those looking to explore Zurich, some of the most interesting sights in town to visit include the Fraumünster Church, the Grossmünster Church, the Kunsthaus Zurich art museum, the Bahnhofstrasse shopping district, and the Uetliberg mountain. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and convenient transportation, Zurich is the perfect starting point for the Switzerland Road Trip.

1 Zurich - Schaffhausen - Kreuzlingen

Distance 93 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 28.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome to the Zurich-Kreuzlingen road trip stage! This stage starts in Zurich, Switzerland and takes you through the beautiful city of Schaffhausen before ending in Kreuzlingen. The 93km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, so keep an eye out for some of the most interesting places to visit along the way. In Zurich, you can visit the Swiss National Museum or take a stroll around the lake and admire the old architecture. In Schaffhausen, don't miss the Rhine Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe. Finally, in Kreuzlingen, explore the old city center and the nearby lakeside park. As you drive, keep an eye out for some of the historical sites you'll encounter along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

2 Kreuzlingen - Lake Constance - St. Gallen

Distance 43 km Driving time 0.9 h Pace: modest 11.2 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape accommodation options junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site camper parking available
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Embark on a scenic road trip adventure from Kreuzlingen, Switzerland to St. Gallen, passing through the picturesque Lake Constance. This 43 km journey takes less than an hour to complete, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the sights along the way. Marvel at the historical sites and stunning landscapes as you drive along the lake. Make sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Gallen Abbey, and take in the beautiful views of the lake from the surrounding hills. Don't forget to take a break at the romantic Pfänder Mountain, the highest point of the lake. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 St. Gallen - Bellinzona

Distance 219 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 65.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available
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Embark on a 219km journey from St. Gallen to Bellinzona, a drive that will take you fewer than 3 hours. As you travel, you will pass through some of Switzerland's most beautiful landscapes and explore historical sites. Along the way, you will find some UNESCO Heritage sites, so make sure to take some time to admire the beauty of these places. As you drive, you will also pass through some of the most picturesque villages in the country. Once you arrive in Bellinzona, you will find a stunning medieval city with three castles, one of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from St. Gallen to Bellinzona!

4 Bellinzona - Lago Maggiore - Lugano

Distance 31 km Driving time 0.5 h Pace: fast 9.4 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available interesting  historic site
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Start your road trip in Bellinzona, Switzerland, a picturesque city with its three medieval castles, and travel through Lago Maggiore, one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the mountains, and take your time to explore the charming towns that line the lake's shores. From Lago Maggiore, continue your journey to Lugano, a vibrant city located in the hills of southern Switzerland. The 31 km drive will take you less than an hour, and along the way, you will be mesmerized by the stunning scenery and the picturesque landscapes. Don't forget to take a break and admire the historical sites that you will find in both Bellinzona and Lugano. When you arrive in Lugano, be sure to explore the city's cobblestone streets, the colorful buildings, and the many shops and restaurants. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

5 Lugano - Brig - Zermatt

Distance 199 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: modest 51.7 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available attractive landscape
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Start your road trip in Lugano, Switzerland and enjoy a scenic journey of 199 km that will take you to the beautiful mountain town of Zermatt. Along the way you will pass through Brig, a charming city with a rich history. Make sure to take some time to explore the old town and admire the beautiful architecture. As you drive through the Swiss Alps, you will be surrounded by breathtaking views. Take a few stops to admire the alpine meadows, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Once you arrive in Zermatt, explore the Matterhorn Museum and the Gornergrat Bahn, a mountain railway that offers stunning views of the Matterhorn. Visit the old churches and enjoy the restaurants and shops in the pedestrian area. Make sure to take a few pictures of the iconic Matterhorn! As you plan your trip, remember to check the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.

6 Zermatt - Lausanne - Geneva

Distance 231 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: fast 69.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options attractive landscape
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Welcome to the fabulous road trip stage from Zermatt to Geneva! This 231km drive will take you less than 4 hours and you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in Switzerland. Start your journey in Zermatt, a beautiful mountain village at the foot of the Matterhorn. Here you can admire the majestic mountain peaks and take some stunning pictures. Then, head to Lausanne, the Olympic Capital of the world, to explore its vibrant cultural life. Don't forget to visit the Olympic Museum and the beautiful old town. Finally, your road trip will take you to Geneva, the international city of peace. Here you can take a stroll along the lake and admire the Jet d'Eau, the iconic fountain of the city. You can also visit the United Nations Palace or take a tour of the old town. As you drive along this route, make sure to admire the picturesque landscapes and historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

7 Geneva - Bern

Distance 157 km Driving time 1.7 h Pace: fast 47.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Geneva to Bern! This 157 km drive, taking less than 2 hours, will take you through some of Switzerland's most beautiful countryside. Along the way, you'll be able to visit a number of historical sites, including the Lausanne Cathedral and the Château de Chillon, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Be sure to take in the stunning views of Lake Geneva and Lake Thun, and don't forget to stop at the Aare Gorge for some breathtaking photographs. Finally, you'll arrive in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. There, you can explore the old town and its cobbled streets, as well as the impressive Zytglogge tower. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

8 Bern - Interlaken

Distance 63 km Driving time 0.8 h Pace: fast 19.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Then look no further than the Bern-Interlaken route! Located in the heart of Switzerland, this route offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps. With a distance of 63 km and a driving time of under an hour, you can easily make the most of your time here. Start your journey in Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Here you can explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit the Clock Tower and the Bear Park. As you drive along the route, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Your next stop is Interlaken, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can go hiking, biking, and rafting. You can also take a cable car up to the Harder Kulm viewpoint for stunning views of the Jungfrau region. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drive or an outdoor adventure, the Bern-Interlaken route has something for everyone. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage.

9 Interlaken - Lucerne - Zurich

Distance 136 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 40.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on a 136-km journey from Interlaken to Zurich and experience the best of Switzerland! Start off in Interlaken, a picturesque town in the Bernese Oberland, and make your way to Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most popular cities. Admire the stunning views of the Alps and the beautiful Lake Lucerne, and don't miss the Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge. As you make your way to Zurich, take in the breathtaking views of the countryside and the rolling hills. Stop in Zurich to explore the city's many attractions, such as the Grossmünster Church, the Fraumünster Church, and the Kunsthaus Zurich. Along the way, take in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque landscapes. With fewer than 2 hours of driving time, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

  Zurich

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Your Switzerland Road Trip ends in Zurich - the largest city in Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Zurich. Known for its picturesque old town, Zurich is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. One of the most popular places to visit in Zurich is the Grossmünster church, which was built in the 12th century. The church is known for its two towers, which offer a spectacular view of the city. The Lindenhof hill is another great spot to visit, offering a stunning view of the city and the lake. If you're looking for a bit of culture, head to the Kunsthaus Zürich, the city's main art museum. It's home to a variety of art from around the world, including works by Picasso and Monet. The Zurich Zoo is another great place to visit, with a variety of animals from around the world. For a bit of shopping, visit the Bahnhofstrasse, a popular pedestrian shopping street. Here you'll find a variety of stores, restaurants, and cafes. If you're traveling by car, Zurich is easily accessible by car from other Swiss cities. The closest international airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), which is located just outside the city. Zurich is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. From its stunning views to its vibrant culture, it's the perfect place to end your Switzerland Road Trip.

Switzerland Road Trip at a glance

We believe that our journey idea gave you numerous inspirations for your future holidays.
The tour we’ve suggested can be used as a template that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original beauty spots of your choice.
If travelling by car is your plan when exploring highlights around Switzerland, there are a number of important road rules to follow and a list of elements to be mindful of to make your journey safe. These tips will surely become useful for drivers who opt for hiring a vehicle or camper rental in Switzerland.
Travelling around Switzerland in a car requires you to follow the local traffic regulations. When moving around Switzerland in a car, try avoiding alcoholic beverages at all costs. Drivers should remember that the legal alcohol limit for drivers is not very high and is only 0.3‰. In order to avoid a speeding fine, it is best to never exceed 50km/h, which is the maximum allowed speed when driving around the build-up areas. In rural areas, holidaymakers can travel at the maximum permissible speed of 80km/h. Avoid driving faster than the maximum speed of 120km/h when travelling along highways. In order to stay safe, it is best to equip your car with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher and drive with your headlights on during the day.
The majority of drivers wonder about the costs of the whole tour. The total expenses during the whole road trip may vary depending on the budget option of your choice. A wide range of budget possibilities is described below.
If you go for the budget option, you have to spend the maximum of 163 EUR on fuel to cover the planned 10 stages. Economy accommodation options will cost holidayers approximately 1,265 EUR. Holidaymakers should also remember about the fact that they will spend roughly 1,152 EUR for restaurants and food in this option. Travellers will have to pay about 756 EUR if they aim for the budget car hire option as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the costs of the road trip from approximately 2,580 EUR to roughly 3,336 EUR.
Holidaymakers who are interested in greater comfort and the standard option will pay more or less 213 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the itinerary. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should bear in mind that the expenses can amount up to more or less 2,222 EUR. 1,728 EUR is the amount of money that you need to pay for food and restaurants within the standard range of services. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of more or less 972 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay approximately 5,135 EUR for the whole road trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend about 4,163 EUR.
Travellers who are into the highest level of comfort will be pleased with the premium option. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total about 7,380 EUR for drivers who are considering vehicle rental and 4,163 EUR for those who do not need a hire vehicle. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a premium hire vehicle can expect a cost of roughly 1,620 EUR. When it comes to the top standard option of the adventure, the cost of the fuel needed to cover all stages around Switzerland is roughly 288 EUR. Travellers who will go for top services in all aspects of their itinerary should expect to pay about 2,304 EUR for restaurants and food and approximately 3,168 EUR for hotels.
Camper lovers will be equally happy with [trip_name. If you choose this travel means, it costs around 2,700 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole road trip, they will amount to about 313 EUR. Tourists who will go for camper rental should expect to pay about 660 EUR for overnight stays and roughly 1,152 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section shows all the mentioned details in a simple way.
The part of Switzerland mentioned in our itinerary idea is great to be explored between May and October. There are multiple interesting scenic drives and road trips that we offer on our website if you like Switzerland Road Trip. Even the most demanding of travellers will surely be taken aback by the great versatility of travel opportunities that we offer.

Facts for safer driving in Switzerland

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.3
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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