Road Trip Switzerland: The Best Routes and the Perfect Car Subscription

Switzerland may be small in size, but its diverse landscapes make it the perfect road trip destination. From majestic Alpine passes to crystal‑clear lakes and picturesque villages, this Alpine country offers breathtaking contrasts in a compact space.

A Swiss road trip promises unforgettable panoramic roads, with every curve revealing a new view. The Grand Tour of Switzerland and its legendary Alpine passes are classics that continue to delight even seasoned travelers.

The key to the perfect road trip? The right vehicle. With a car subscription, you enjoy flexibility and peace of mind. No long‑term commitments, transparent costs, and an all‑inclusive package make it ideal for your Swiss adventure.

What Makes the Grand Tour of Switzerland So Popular?

The Grand Tour of Switzerland is the ultimate road trip experience - 1,643 kilometers of pure driving pleasure, combining the country’s essence into a single route. With 44 handpicked highlights, 5 impressive Alpine passes, and 22 picturesque lakes, it’s a true showcase of Swiss beauty.

Plan at least 7 days for the complete Grand Tour, ideally 10-14 days, to fully enjoy the sights. The route can be divided into segments for shorter trips.

The best travel period is between May and October. During this time, all Alpine passes are usually open, allowing you to experience Switzerland in its full glory. In midsummer (July/August), the mountain passes offer pleasant temperatures while the valleys enjoy full summer warmth. Autumn paints Switzerland in golden hues, making it especially colorful and inviting.

A special feature of the Grand Tour: the entire route is marked with uniform signs featuring the Grand Tour logo. There are also numerous official photo spots along the way - perfect for Instagram‑worthy memories.

Alpine Passes in Switzerland - Which Routes Are Worth It?

Swiss Alpine passes are legendary and often the main reason drivers visit Switzerland. Here are some of the most impressive passes:

• Furka Pass (2,429 m): Famous from the James Bond movie “Goldfinger,” this route offers spectacular curves and views of the Rhone Glacier. It’s a challenging but rewarding drive with 2,150 meters of elevation gain.

• Susten Pass (2,224 m): Connecting the Bernese Oberland with Central Switzerland, it offers breathtaking glacier and rock formations along a well‑built road. A favorite for enjoyable driving.

• Bernina Pass (2,328 m): Located in the Engadin, this pass cuts through dramatic high‑mountain scenery. The nearby Lago Bianco is an ideal photo stop, especially at sunrise or sunset.

• Gotthard Pass (2,106 m): A historic crossing between northern and southern Switzerland, famous for its cobblestone section and the legendary “Tremola” hairpins - a must for tradition lovers.

• San Bernardino Pass (2,066 m): A quieter alternative to the Gotthard, linking eastern Switzerland with Ticino. It offers gentler curves and a touch of Mediterranean flair.

For these passes, a powerful SUV or a modern electric car with good range is recommended. If you drive an EV, plan charging stops in advance, as charging stations may be limited at higher altitudes. However, regenerative braking on downhill stretches can significantly extend your range - a unique benefit of electric driving in the mountains.

Alternative Routes Beyond the Grand Tour

Bernese Oberland & Southern Alps Loop

This 3-5‑day route takes you through some of Switzerland’s most stunning mountain landscapes. Starting in Interlaken, explore the Bernese Oberland with its famous peaks Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Continue over Grimsel Pass into Valais and then across Simplon Pass into the southern Alps.

Highlights:

• Lakes Thun and Brienz with their turquoise waters

• Picturesque villages like Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen

• Spectacular mountain passes with breathtaking views

• Valais wine villages and local gastronomy

Perfect for: Mountain lovers and photographers seeking authentic Swiss culture off the main tourist paths.

Lake Geneva & Western Switzerland Loop

This 4‑day route combines the chic lifestyle of Lake Geneva with the UNESCO‑listed Lavaux vineyards and the charm of the Jura mountains.

Highlights:

• Elegant cities like Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux

• Wine tastings in the Lavaux terracesThe medieval town of Gruyères, famous for its cheese

• La Chaux‑de‑Fonds, the watchmaking city

• Jura Nature Park with its rolling hills and hidden lakes

Perfect for: Travelers who enjoy culture, fine dining, and gentler landscapes.

Ticino & Southern Switzerland Culinary Tour

This 3‑day Ticino route immerses you in Switzerland’s Mediterranean soul. Expect Italian flair, palm‑lined promenades, and world‑class cuisine.

Highlights:

• Lugano and Locarno with their lakeside promenades

• The crystal‑clear Verzasca Valley

• Rustic villages in the Maggia Valley

• Wineries in Mendrisiotto

• Grotti (traditional Ticino restaurants) with local specialties

Perfect for: Sun lovers and foodies seeking a taste of the Mediterranean without leaving Switzerland.

Car Subscription - How to Choose the Perfect Vehicle

A car subscription is the ideal solution for your Swiss road trip: flexibility without long‑term commitment, transparent costs, and all‑inclusive services.

A good car subscription should include:

• Fully comprehensive insurance with a reasonable deductible

• Roadside assistance across Switzerland

• Swiss highway vignette (40 CHF/year)

• Regular maintenance and servicing

• Customer support for any issues

Recommended vehicle types by route:

• For Alpine passes: A powerful electric SUV or all‑wheel drive vehicle, such as the Audi Q4 e‑tron, VW ID.4, or Tesla Model Y.

• For lakes and flatland routes: A spacious wagon or sedan like the VW Passat, Skoda Superb, or BMW 3‑Series.

• For city trips with short excursions: A compact city car like the VW ID.3, Mini Cooper, or Fiat 500e for easy parking and maneuvering in narrow old towns.

Consider modern features like lane‑keeping assist, emergency braking, and a reliable navigation system - especially useful in remote areas.

Vehicle size plays an important role in route selection. While compact vehicles are better suited for narrow mountain roads and parking lots in old towns, larger models offer more comfort for longer distances and luggage space for extended tours.

Planning Tips & Preparation

The best time for a Swiss road trip is between April and October. Most Alpine passes are open, and the weather is generally stable. September is especially attractive, with fewer tourists and stunning autumn colors.

Season overview:

• Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, but some high passes may still be closed.

• Summer (June-August): High season, guaranteed open passes, more tourists and higher prices.

• Autumn (September-October): Golden colors, pleasant driving conditions, fewer visitors.

• Winter (November-March): Only for experienced drivers with proper equipment.

Useful apps for your trip:

• SwissPasses: Current status of Alpine pass openings

• MeteoSwiss: Reliable Swiss weather forecasts

• SwisstopCharge: EV charging station map

• SBB Mobile: For combining trips with public transport

• Switzerland Mobility: Hiking routes and excursions along your road trip

Packing tips:

• Swiss power adapter (if coming from abroad)

• Charging cables/adapters for EVs

• Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV exposure is higher in the mountains)

• Lightweight rain jacket

• Good camera for the panoramas

• Cash for small mountain huts and markets without card payment

Budget - How Much Does a Swiss Road Trip with a Subscription Cost?

Switzerland has a reputation for being expensive, but with good planning, it can be manageable:

• Car subscription: 400-900 CHF/month (e.g., VW Golf from ~450 CHF, SUV like VW Tiguan from ~650 CHF).

• Fuel/electricity: Gasoline ~1.90 CHF/liter. For 1,500 km at 7l/100 km: ~200 CHF. EVs: ~100-150 CHF for the same distance.

• Accommodation: Mid‑range hotels 120-200 CHF/night (double). Apartments from 100 CHF/night, B&Bs from 80 CHF/night. Hostels from 30 CHF/night.

• Food: Restaurant meals 25-40 CHF/person. Self‑catering or picnics 15-25 CHF/day.

• Activities: Cable cars 30-80 CHF/person. Museums 10-20 CHF. Many hikes and lakes are free.

Estimated 7‑day budget for 2 people:

• Car subscription: 500-700 CHF

• Fuel/electricity: 150-200 CHF

• Accommodation (6 nights): 600-1,200 CHF

• Food: 200-400 CHF

• Activities: 100-300 CHF

• Total: 1,550-2,800 CHF

FAQ

Can I drive a subscription car abroad? Yes, most providers allow travel to neighboring countries like Italy, France, Germany, and Austria. Check your provider’s terms and any extra insurance or toll requirements.

What happens in case of a breakdown or accident? Car subscriptions include full coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance. In case of an accident, the provider handles insurance and can supply a replacement car. You only pay the agreed deductible (typically 1,000-2,000 CHF).

Are there mileage limits or extra fees? Most subscriptions include 1,000-2,000 km/month. A 2‑week Swiss road trip (1,500-2,000 km) usually fits within that. Extra km cost 0.20-0.70 CHF/km. Watch out for hidden fees like delivery or return charges.

Do I need special insurance for mountain driving? No, the included comprehensive insurance covers mountain driving. Follow traffic rules and use snow chains where required.

Can I cancel my car subscription early? Most providers offer flexible cancellation between 1-3 months, some even month‑to‑month. Always check terms before signing.

Conclusion

A road trip through Switzerland is one of Europe’s most unforgettable travel experiences. Perfectly maintained roads, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural diversity make the country ideal for car travelers.

The Grand Tour is the ultimate route for a week or longer, while regional trips like the Bernese Oberland loop or Ticino tour are great for shorter 3-5‑day getaways.

Choosing the right car and travel period is key to a successful trip. A car subscription gives you maximum flexibility without long‑term commitments - ideal for testing different vehicle types or trying out an EV.

Ready for your Swiss adventure? Decide on the route and vehicle that suit you best:

• Mountains or lakes? Choose an SUV for passes, or a wagon for relaxed lakeside routes.

• How much time? The Grand Tour takes at least 7 days; regional routes need as little as 3.

• EV or combustion engine? Switzerland’s charging network makes EV road trips easy.

• On a budget or in luxury? Road trips for two start around 1,500 CHF, with room to splurge for more comfort.

Find the perfect vehicle for your Swiss road trip with a flexible car subscription. With the right car beneath you and breathtaking scenery ahead, your Swiss adventure will be unforgettable. Explore CARIFY's cars on subscription!