Switzerland’s beauty reveals itself around every turn, from pristine lakes and soaring mountains to charming villages and quiet valleys. Exploring it by car offers the freedom to pause for breathtaking views, uncover hidden spots, and enjoy regional cuisine at your own pace. Over seven days, you'll travel from vibrant lakeside cities to alpine passes and glacier landscapes, taking in the country’s rich culture and natural wonders. Let’s take a closer look at how to make the most of this unforgettable road trip!
Begin your adventure in Zurich, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a mix of urban excitement and natural serenity. After arriving, head into the city centre to explore the charming Altstadt, Zurich’s Old Town. Meandering through its cobblestone streets reveals Gothic churches like the twin-towered Grossmünster, medieval buildings, and a plethora of high-end boutiques and cafés.
Take a relaxing walk along the banks of Lake Zurich, where locals sunbathe, jog, or enjoy ice cream by the water. If you have the time and energy, head up to Uetliberg Mountain, where a short hike rewards you with sweeping views of the city and surrounding Alps. In the evening, explore Zurich’s culinary scene. From traditional Swiss fondue and rösti to global cuisines served in elegant settings, there’s something to suit every palate. Stay overnight in the city centre to rest and prepare for the scenic drive ahead.
Drive south from Zurich to Lucerne, a city just over an hour away but steeped in history and framed by dramatic mountains. Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most beloved destinations, offering the perfect blend of nature, culture, and history. Start by walking across the 14th-century Chapel Bridge, one of Europe’s oldest wooden covered bridges. The Water Tower adjacent to it once served as a prison, archive, and treasury. Wander through the Old Town to admire painted facades, charming squares, and artisanal shops.
Nearby, the Lion Monument, a sorrowful lion carved into a sandstone wall, commemorates Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution. Later, take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne or venture to the top of Mount Pilatus via cable car or cogwheel train for astonishing alpine views. Spend the night in Lucerne, ideally in a lakeside or hillside hotel offering views of the shimmering water and surrounding peaks.
From Lucerne, continue your journey towards Interlaken via the Brünig Pass. The drive itself is a highlight, winding past forests, cliffs, and serene lakes. Take time to stop at Lake Lungern, a tranquil spot perfect for photographs or a coffee break. Upon arriving in Interlaken, you’ll find yourself between two stunning lakes, Thun and Brien, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The town has long been known as a hub for adventure, but even non-thrill-seekers can enjoy its natural charm.
Take a stroll along Höheweg, the main avenue offering unobstructed views of the Jungfrau massif. Optional activities include paragliding, canyoning, or boat rides on the lakes. For a quieter experience, take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for panoramic views and a meal at the mountaintop restaurant. Overnight in Interlaken, where traditional chalets blend with modern hotels.
Today’s drive is short but unforgettable. Head to Lauterbrunnen, a deep glacial valley flanked by cliffs that seem to reach the sky. Here, you’ll encounter no fewer than 72 waterfalls—Staubbach Falls being the most famous, cascading nearly 300 metres into the valley below. Trümmelbach Falls, hidden inside the cliffs, can be accessed via a tunnel-lift system. These glacier-fed waterfalls thunder through the mountain and are a spectacular sight.
From Lauterbrunnen, continue to Grindelwald, a charming village surrounded by towering peaks. Whether you're taking the cable car to the First Summit, enjoying the adrenaline of the First Cliff Walk, or walking through the scenic countryside, Grindelwald is a place to slow down and appreciate the sheer scale of nature. For those with extra time or a passion for high altitudes, consider the excursion to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, offering a snowy world of ice tunnels and glacier views. Stay overnight in Grindelwald or return to Interlaken for another evening of alpine charm.
If you're interested in learning more about these alpine gems and other breathtaking villages worth visiting, check out Six Swiss Alps Villages You’ll Want on Your Road Trip Itinerary for more inspiration.
Depart Interlaken early and head towards the canton of Valais. One of the journey’s highlights is taking the car train through the Lötschberg Tunnel from Kandersteg to Goppenstein. This unique travel experience saves time and energy and allows you to admire the surrounding mountains from the comfort of your vehicle. Once in the Valais region, drive to Täsch, the final stop for vehicles before reaching Zermatt. From Täsch, a short train ride brings you into Zermatt—a car-free village at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn.
Zermatt is renowned for its wooden chalets, boutique shops, and exceptional hiking and skiing opportunities. A ride on the Gornergrat railway is a must; it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the Gorner Glacier. The atmosphere in Zermatt is both relaxed and refined, and the fresh mountain air seems to bring everything into focus. Dine in one of the many local restaurants, where raclette and alpine fare are a speciality.
Return to Täsch by train and resume your drive towards Montreux. This scenic route takes you through the Rhone Valley, famous for its sunny climate, vineyards, and orchards. Stop in the historic towns of Sion or Martigny to explore Roman ruins or enjoy a wine-tasting session. As you approach Montreux, the terrain shifts. Palm trees line the roads, and the air feels Mediterranean.
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux is famed for its jazz festival, luxurious hotels, and vibrant floral promenade. Visit the Château de Chillon, an atmospheric medieval fortress perched on a rocky island. Walk along the lake promenade or relax at one of the waterfront cafés as boats and swans glide by. Stay overnight in Montreux and enjoy a gentle evening beside the lake.
Your final day begins with a scenic drive through the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards. These steeply terraced vineyards offer spellbinding views over Lake Geneva and the Alps. Stop in one of the villages, such as Lutry or Saint-Saphorin, for a morning wine tasting and a peaceful walk among the vines.
Continue onwards to Geneva, a cosmopolitan city home to international organisations, stylish boutiques, and elegant parks. See the Jet d’Eau fountain, explore the Old Town, visit the United Nations headquarters, or relax in the Parc des Bastions. Spend your last evening enjoying fine cuisine with lake views, reflecting on the journey that has taken you from alpine peaks to city streets.
For even more spectacular locations to explore by road, take a look at Ten Breathtaking Places in Switzerland You Can Enjoy by Car for additional ideas to extend or enhance your journey.
Planning a road trip through Switzerland means having reliable, flexible transportation, and that's what Final Rentals offers. Renting a car through Final Rentals gives you access to pick-up points in major cities and airports, a wide range of vehicles, and transparent pricing, making it a convenient choice for travellers who want to explore the country at their own pace.
For more practical advice before hitting the road, check out What You Should Know Before Getting Behind the Wheel in Switzerland.
Driving through Switzerland is a rewarding experience, offering well-maintained roads, scenic routes, and efficient signage. However, to make your journey smooth and stress-free, it’s important to understand a few local driving rules and practical tips.
For more deatiled tips and insights, visit our What You Need to Know to Drive Through Switzerland with Ease.
Switzerland is a year-round destination, but the best time for this itinerary is late spring to early autumn (May to September). The weather is pleasant, alpine passes are open, and villages are alive with cultural events and summer markets. In summer, pack layers, a waterproof jacket, hiking shoes, sunglasses and suncream. In cooler months, add gloves, a wool hat, and thermal clothing. Bring a camera to capture dramatic mountain views and charming villages along the way.
Driving through Switzerland is like travelling through a living postcard. From pristine lakes and charming towns to towering mountains and ancient castles, every day brings something new. Whether you're hiking near the Matterhorn, sipping wine in Lavaux, or cruising across Lake Lucerne, this weeklong journey will leave you with unforgettable memories. To get started, rent a car in Switzerland through Final Rentals. With trusted service, clear pricing, and locations across the country, it's the best way to explore at your own pace!
