Switzerland, with its breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes, and winding alpine roads, offers some of the most spectacular scenic drives in the world. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for dramatic mountain passes or a leisure traveler in search of serene countryside views, Switzerland’s road trips promise unforgettable landscapes at every turn.
This guide highlights the best scenic drives in Switzerland, complete with route details, must-see stops, and driving tips to help you plan the ultimate Swiss road trip.
1. The Furka Pass: A High-Alpine Adventure
Route Overview:
- Distance: 31 km (19 miles)
- Duration: ~1 hour (without stops)
- Best Time to Drive: June to October (closed in winter)
- Starting Point: Andermatt
- Ending Point: Gletsch
Why Drive It?
The Furka Pass is one of Switzerland’s most thrilling high-altitude mountain roads, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, deep valleys, and winding switchbacks. Made famous by the James Bond movie Goldfinger (1964), this route provides an exhilarating ride through some of Switzerland’s most rugged terrain.
Must-See Stops:
- Rhône Glacier – A breathtaking glacier with an ice grotto that you can walk inside.
- Hotel Belvédère – A legendary abandoned hotel with stunning views of the glacier.
- Andermatt Village – A charming alpine town perfect for a rest stop.
Driving Tip:
This road has sharp hairpin turns and steep inclines, so drive cautiously, especially in foggy conditions.
2. The Grand Tour of Switzerland: The Ultimate Road Trip
Route Overview:
- Distance: 1,600 km (994 miles)
- Duration: 10–14 days
- Best Time to Drive: May to October
- Starting Point: Zurich (or any major Swiss city)
- Ending Point: Circular route (you can start anywhere)
Why Drive It?
The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a carefully designed route that covers Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes—from towering Alps and turquoise lakes to UNESCO-listed towns and breathtaking waterfalls. This is the ultimate road trip for those who want to experience the best of Switzerland in one journey.
Must-See Stops:
- Lucerne and Lake Lucerne – A stunning lake surrounded by mountains.
- Interlaken and Jungfraujoch – Gateway to the “Top of Europe.”
- Zermatt and the Matterhorn – The most famous mountain in Switzerland.
- Montreux and Lavaux Vineyards – A scenic drive along Lake Geneva.
Driving Tip:
Plan for multiple overnight stops, as this road trip spans several regions with unique landscapes and cultures.
3. The Grimsel Pass: A Journey Through Alpine Beauty
Route Overview:
- Distance: 38 km (24 miles)
- Duration: ~1 hour (without stops)
- Best Time to Drive: June to October (closed in winter)
- Starting Point: Meiringen
- Ending Point: Gletsch
Why Drive It?
The Grimsel Pass is a mesmerizing high-mountain road, famous for its serpentine curves, alpine lakes, and panoramic views. It connects the Bernese Oberland with the Valais region, offering a mix of raw wilderness and Swiss engineering marvels.
Must-See Stops:
- Grimsel Dam and Lake – A surreal turquoise reservoir set against rocky peaks.
- Aare Gorge – A stunning narrow gorge with walkways through towering rock walls.
- Handegg Suspension Bridge – A thrilling 70-meter-long bridge above the valley.
Driving Tip:
Pair this trip with the Furka Pass for an epic loop through Switzerland’s best mountain roads.
4. The Bernina Pass: A Drive Through Two Countries
Route Overview:
- Distance: 55 km (34 miles)
- Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Best Time to Drive: May to October
- Starting Point: St. Moritz
- Ending Point: Tirano (Italy)
Why Drive It?
The Bernina Pass is one of the few alpine routes that allow you to drive from Switzerland into Italy, offering a blend of Swiss mountain scenery and Italian charm. This route follows the famous Bernina Express railway, passing glaciers, alpine lakes, and the highest railway crossing in Europe.
Must-See Stops:
- Morteratsch Glacier – A scenic hiking spot near the road.
- Lago Bianco – A striking white-colored alpine lake at the top of the pass.
- Poschiavo – A picturesque Swiss-Italian village with great local cuisine.
Driving Tip:
This road is less steep than other mountain passes, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed alpine drive.
5. The Gotthard Pass: A Historic Swiss Route
Route Overview:
- Distance: 27 km (17 miles)
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Best Time to Drive: June to October (closed in winter)
- Starting Point: Andermatt
- Ending Point: Airolo
Why Drive It?
The Gotthard Pass has been a historic trade route since Roman times, making it one of the most important and scenic roads in Switzerland. Today, you can either take the modern highway or the old cobbled Tremola Road, a beautifully preserved historic route with tight switchbacks.
Must-See Stops:
- Tremola Road – A breathtaking cobblestone road with zigzagging turns.
- Gotthard Museum – Learn about the history of this famous pass.
- Devil’s Bridge – A legendary bridge with a dramatic setting.
Driving Tip:
If you love history, take the Tremola Road instead of the highway for a more authentic experience.
6. The Lavaux Vineyard Road: A Scenic Drive Along Lake Geneva
Route Overview:
- Distance: 30 km (19 miles)
- Duration: ~45 minutes
- Best Time to Drive: April to October
- Starting Point: Lausanne
- Ending Point: Montreux
Why Drive It?
This drive takes you through the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards, offering stunning terraces overlooking Lake Geneva. Unlike the rugged mountain passes, this route provides a more relaxed and picturesque journey, perfect for wine lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Must-See Stops:
- Chexbres – A village with panoramic vineyard views.
- Lavaux Wine Cellars – Stop for a wine tasting experience.
- Château de Chillon – A fairytale castle on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Driving Tip:
Plan for a leisurely drive, as this route is best enjoyed with stops for wine tasting and lakeside walks.
Conclusion
Switzerland offers some of the most diverse and scenic road trips in the world, from dramatic high-mountain passes to serene vineyard routes. Whether you seek an adrenaline-pumping drive through the Alps or a relaxed cruise along crystal-clear lakes, these routes provide unforgettable landscapes at every turn.
For road trip enthusiasts, exploring Switzerland by car is the ultimate way to experience its natural beauty, historic sites, and hidden gems.
