Discover the ultimate European Roadtrip
Zürich and Beyond
Zürich - Zürich
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 1: Zürich 1/9
Historic Zürich is a cosmopolitan city where fine dining, shopping and culture are served up in equal measure. Snap a picture of the artsy canopy of umbrellas in the Kreis 5 district, sample sausages at the famous Zeughauskeller beer hall, and stop by Fraumünster Church to view the stunning Chagall windows. There are also dozens of museums to explore, while the more adventurous can embark on a hike to the nearby hills or mountains. Round off your city break with a boat trip on the Limmat river, admiring the rustic beauty of the Old Town buildings as you sail by.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 2: Rhine Falls 2/9
This thundering 75-foot-tall waterfall is Switzerland’s answer to Niagara Falls – and the largest in mainland Europe. Join a boat trip to experience the thrill of the Rhine Falls up close and get a true sense of the awesome power of this beautiful and impressive landmark. You can also hike or cycle around the area, glimpsing the tumbling waters from various leafy viewpoints, or sightsee from the comfort of the Rhyfall-Express train with its rustic carriages. In the evening, a magnificent light show illuminates the falls, transforming this natural wonder into something truly magical.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 3: St Gallen 3/9
Home to the captivating Abbey of Saint Gall, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic town offers a charming insight into Switzerland’s rich past. Wander the Baroque abbey, home to one of the oldest libraries in the world, and St Gallen Cathedral, then head back into the Old Town, admiring the oriel windows that date back to the 16th and 18th centuries. In the summer months, culture flourishes as St Gallen hosts outdoor theater performances in the parks and market places. Dreilinden-Weiher, a relaxing and scenic open-air pool overlooking the town, is another must-visit location when the sun is shining.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 4: Chur 4/9
The cozy alpine city of Chur certainly delivers on views, while also boasting a fresh array of history and culture. Martinskirche is the most famous landmark here – an 8th-century church that was rebuilt in the Gothic style after a destructive fire took hold in the 1400s. Look out for its striking clock face, winding spire and stunning stained-glass windows, which depict the classic Christmas story. You can also hop on a cable car to enjoy spectacular views of the Alps, with the city nestled below, among the towering mountains.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 5: Lugano 5/9
Twist and turn your way to Lugano following the iconic Splügen Pass, which serves up beautiful vistas along the way. This lakeside city offers an intriguing blend of Swiss and Mediterranean cultures and, as the largest town in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, authentic pasta is on the menu. The sparkling waters of Lake Lugano are a must-see, as is Piazza della Riforma, a lively square lined with eye-catching buildings. You can take the funicular railway up to the picturesque mountain of Monte Brè, while the nearby village of Brè boasts works by the famous painter Wilhelm Schmidt.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 6: Thun 6/9
Though it may be small, the picturesque town of Thun is filled to the brim with landmark attractions, all set against the brilliant blue lake waters. Be charmed by not one but two fairy tale castles – starting with the colorful 19th century Schadau Castle and then Schloss Thun, a magnificent Medieval stronghold dating to the 12th century, with tall towers reaching high into the sky. Head to the Panzermuseum in the center of town to see a fascinating display of armored vehicles. Around the corner, you can indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the luxury shopping district of Bälliz.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 7: Lucerne 7/9
Known for its medieval architecture and stunning Old Town, Lucerne is a vintage snapshot of Swiss life. Check out the art on Kapellbrücke – Chapel Bridge – a covered walkway that connects the two halves of the town. The Lion Monument is another landmark attraction, depicting the massacre of the Swiss Guard during the French Revolution, and hailed as a masterpiece of moving stone sculpture. You can also take your trip to even greater heights by traversing up the near 7,000-feet-high Mount Pilatus, also known as ‘Dragon Mountain’, which can be reached by train and gondola.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 8: Zug 8/9
Less than an hour’s drive from Zürich, the colorful city of Zug has a true picture-book feel, being once again nestled among lakes and mountains in spellbinding fashion. For nature lovers, sailing out on the water is a must, where you can admire the forested hillsides veering up from the banks. The Höllgrotten Caves in Baar are another fascinating attraction, dotted with stalactites and stalagmites. The Old Town meanwhile is home to the 170-feet-high Zytturm – an iconic feature of the city skyline – complete with a large, decorative clock face built in 1574 and truly stunning views from the top.
Zürich and Beyond
Stop 9: Zürich 9/9
Return to Zürich and explore even more of this gorgeous city. Pamper yourself at the famous Thermalbad and Spa, where you can soak in a wooden barrel or bathe in a rooftop pool overlooking the sights. Elsewhere, Zürich’s botanical gardens provide plenty of surprises and spectacle, with glass bio-domes filled with tropical plants. Finish your tour with a visit to the quirky Frau Gerolds Garten, which has grown from a humble beer garden into a thriving hub of stores and businesses, including a mouth-watering selection of restaurants serving up gooey fondue – the perfect way to bring your Swiss road trip to a close.
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