Fascinating Switzerland Self-Drive
- Duration
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,669
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Discover the many sides of Switzerland on this picturesque self-drive across the nation. Beginning in Zurich, you’ll drive to Montreux, Zermatt, and Lugano to stroll along the banks of Lake Geneva, gaze upon the Matterhorn, and explore the Italian-speaking region of Ticino.
This 7-day Switzerland self-drive takes you across the country to Montreux, Zermatt, and Lugano. It’s ideal for travellers want to move at their own pace.
Your Swiss vacation begins in Zurich, where you’ll pick up your rental car and embark on your journey across the nation. First stop is Gruyeres, where you’ll visit a cheesemaker and learn about the world-famous cheese that shares the town’s name. Continue to the Cailler Chocolate Factory to taste some excellent Swiss chocolate before reaching Montreux, a chic resort town on the banks of Lake Geneva. Montreux has long been a popular vacation getaway for European trendsetters. A city tour will showcase the highlights, from Chillon Castle to the lakeside boulevard with famous views of the Swiss Riviera. Take a day trip to Lausanne, another picturesque town on the banks of Lake Geneva, where you can sample local wines and tour the abundance of vineyards.
From Montreux, drive to Zermatt, a gorgeous resort town lying in the shadow of the Matterhorn, Europe’s most famous mountain. Spend a day exploring the town and the surrounding mountain. Stroll along the main street, Bahnhofstrasse, to pick up some souvenirs and ride the cable car up the “Little Matterhorn” for views of the Matterhorn. Continue to Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of Switzerland. Take a city tour to see its Italian-inspired architecture and the Neo-Classical palace in the main square, Piazza della Riforma. While in Lugano, you’ll head into the Verzasca Valley to see the Dam of Verzasca and the Ponte de Salti, which bridges the deep-jade green river below. After stopping in Ascona to stroll through the narrow streets, return to Lugano.
From Lugano, drive back to Zurich, passing through Bellinzona, Ticino’s capital, known for its abundance of medieval castles, foremost of which is the Castelgrande Castle. Tour Castelgrande before continuing on to Giornico and finally Zurich, where you’ll drop off your rental car and head to the airport or spend a few days exploring the city.
- Duration
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,669
Itinerary View Trip Map
Zurich - Gruyeres - Montreux
Travel from Zurich to Montreux. On the way you may stop to visit a local cheese maker in Gruyeres where you can learn more about the cheese production. You can then visit the Cailler Chocolate Factory with a chocolate tasting. Arrival in Montreux, a lovely city located on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Montreux - Lausanne - Montreux
In the morning you may be treated to a city tour of Montreux. Later you can continue to visit the wonderful Chillon Castle whose photos are present in almost each of Switzerland's calendars. Next you'll go to Lausanne. Lausanne is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Geneva surrounded by vineyards. You can have a panoramic city tour and then return to Montreux.
Montreaux - Zermatt
Travel to Zermatt. On your way you'll pass through the wine area of Sion. Then you'll continue through the valley of the Rodano River to Täsch. Here you can board a train to Zermatt, which is located at the foot of the impressive Mount Cervin, or alternatively drive up to Zermatt.
Zermatt
Today you have a free day to take an optional tour to the "Matterhorn Glacier Paradise", board the cable car to the top of the 3883 meter "little" Matterhorn to enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Cervin which is located just on the opposite side. A visit to the highest ice palace of the world is going to make this tour an extraordinary experience.
Zermatt - Lugano
After breakfast return to Täsch by train, or drive dowm. Today the route takes you over the Nufenenpass to later arrive in Lugano, which is located in Ticino, the Italian speaking part of Switzerland. On a walking city tour you can discover this beautiful city and its historic center (not included). Relax at the Mediterranean squares or take a stroll along the boardwalk on the shores of Lake Lugano.
Lugano - Verzasca Valley - Ascona - Lugano
Today you may tour to the impressive Verzasca Valley, located in the mountains above Lugano. It highlights the dam of Verzasca and the picturesque bridge of "Ponte de Salti" that crosses the magical jade green waters of the river. Continue to Ascona. Stroll through the narrow streets with its old houses, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries. In the afternoon, return to Lugano.
Lugano - Bellinzona - Giornico - Zurich
After breakfast travel to Bellinzona, Ticino's capital. This historic city is well known for its impressive medieval castles that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. You may visit the Castelgrande Castle. On the way back to Zurich stop in Giornico, a city with incredible cultural heritage. Your tour ends at the hotel or at the airport in Zurich.
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 7 day car rental category C (VW Golf manual or similar) with airport pick-up and drop-off and unlimited mileage
- 6 nights in moderate or first-class accommodations
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1)
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
30 Jan 2024
