Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, featuring snowy mountain peaks, crystal-clear blue lakes, and charming alpine villages. To experience all the beauty the country has to offer, the best way to explore is by taking the Grand Tour of Switzerland. This 1,643-kilometre route takes you through the country’s most iconic locations, from historic cities and quiet valleys to dramatic mountain roads and peaceful lake shores.
With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you can make the journey your own. Stop to explore a quaint old town, capture incredible photos in the Alps, or relax by a lakeside café as the sun sets. Now, let’s take a closer look at what makes this legendary road trip one of the best ways to see Switzerland.
The Grand Tour of Switzerland was created by Switzerland Tourism to highlight the country’s incredible diversity, bringing its most scenic and cultural highlights together in one seamless route. Marked clearly with brown “Grand Tour” signs, the loop covers every corner of Switzerland, weaving through its most beloved landmarks and hidden treasures. It passes by 22 lakes, climbs 5 Alpine passes, and visits 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Unlike many road trips that focus only on getting from point A to point B, the Grand Tour is all about the journey. The route takes you away from busy motorways and guides you along scenic roads where you can fully enjoy the stunning surroundings. It is more than just a drive because every kilometre offers a chance to experience Switzerland’s landscapes, cultures, and traditions from the comfort of your own car.
Most travellers begin the Grand Tour in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city and international hub. With its excellent infrastructure and connections, it’s the ideal place to pick up a car and begin your adventure. Before hitting the road, spend a day exploring Zurich’s old town, walking along the Limmat River, and enjoying a coffee at a lakeside café.
From here, the route officially starts, heading towards the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. The sheer power of the water is mesmerising, and the platforms and boat rides allow you to get up close to the falls. The journey then winds its way to St Gallen, a city known for its rich textile heritage and its stunning abbey library, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The eastern section of the Grand Tour takes you to Appenzell, a region that feels like a step back in time. Its gentle green slopes, colourful houses, and deep-rooted traditions make it one of the most charming parts of Switzerland. Here, you can sample local cheeses, explore hiking trails, or relax and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
From Appenzell, the route climbs into the Engadin valley, where St Moritz awaits. This glamorous resort town is famous for winter sports, but it’s just as captivating in summer. Surrounded by sparkling lakes and dramatic peaks, it’s the perfect place for hiking, biking, or enjoying the alpine air.
One of the highlights of the Grand Tour is the transition from the alpine regions of the north to the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino in the south. As you descend towards Bellinzona, the landscape changes dramatically. Palm trees line the streets, the air feels warmer, and the pace of life slows.
Bellinzona itself is known for its trio of castles, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, that once guarded the valley. A short drive away, the lakeside towns of Locarno and Ascona invite you to stroll along their promenades, sip espresso at a café, and enjoy the Mediterranean vibe without ever leaving Switzerland.
The central section of the Grand Tour is where the road trip truly shines for driving enthusiasts. This part of the route takes you across some of the most legendary Alpine passes in Europe, including the Tremola, Furka, and Great St Bernard passes. These winding roads offer thrilling hairpin bends, panoramic views, and plenty of places to pull over for photos.
The Tremola road, in particular, is a highlight. Built in the 1800s, its cobblestone surface and dramatic switchbacks make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era of motoring. Just remember to take it slow and enjoy the ride because the views are worth every turn. For more inspiration on scenic drives like these, check out Breathtaking Swiss Drives That Take You from Alpine Peaks to Sparkling Lakes.
As you continue west, the route brings you to the heart of the country, where Bern, the capital city, offers a mix of history and charm. Its well-preserved old town, with its arcaded streets and iconic clock tower, is perfect for a stroll. From Bern, the road leads to Lausanne, perched above the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. The vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, line the hillsides, creating one of the most scenic and memorable stretches of the drive. Stop for a wine tasting or admire the views before continuing along the lakeside roads.
The final sections of the Grand Tour take you through Neuchâtel and the Jura region, where the scenery softens into hills and peaceful forests. This quieter part of Switzerland is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a slower pace of travel. Finally, the route returns to Zurich, completing the 1,643 kilometre loop. Many travellers choose to spend an extra day or two in the city to rest and reflect before heading home, making the most of the cultural attractions and excellent dining options.
To make your Grand Tour even more memorable, don’t miss exploring some of Switzerland’s most stunning hidden gems. For ideas on where to stop during your time in Switzerland, take a look at Ten Breathtaking Places in Switzerland You Can Enjoy by Car, where you’ll find incredible spots that will make your road trip unforgettable.
Driving in Switzerland is generally easy and enjoyable, thanks to its excellent infrastructure and well-marked roads. However, there are important rules and tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and smooth trip. Here are the key things to remember when planning your drive:
For a deeper look at driving tips and regulations, check out What You Should Know Before Getting Behind the Wheel in Switzerland.
Exploring the Grand Tour of Switzerland is an unforgettable experience, and the best way to enjoy it is with the freedom of your own vehicle. When you rent a car with Final Rentals, you gain the flexibility to travel at your own pace, uncover hidden gems, and make every part of your journey uniquely yours.
For more helpful tips on making your road trip simple and stress-free, check out What You Need to Know to Drive Through Switzerland with Ease.
The beauty of the Grand Tour of Switzerland is that it’s more than just a scenic drive, it’s a true journey through the very essence of the country. Each region has its own personality, from the sophisticated cities and cultural landmarks to the untouched mountain landscapes and quiet lakeside retreats.
You’ll discover the famous sights but also hidden corners that many travellers never see. It could be a tiny alpine chapel, a roadside cheese shop, or a quiet trailhead leading to a viewpoint with no one else around. These are the moments that make the Grand Tour truly unforgettable.
Driving the Grand Tour of Switzerland is an experience like no other. It combines adventure, culture, and relaxation in a single, seamless route. Whether you’re marvelling at the engineering of an Alpine pass, sipping coffee by a quiet lake, or wandering through a historic old town, every day brings something new to enjoy.
If you want to make the most of this extraordinary journey, plan carefully, allow plenty of time for stops, and most importantly, rent a car in Switzerland with Final Rentals so you can travel entirely on your own schedule. With their reliable vehicles and convenient service, you’ll have everything you need for the road trip of a lifetime.
