Switzerland is a country of unparalleled natural beauty. From the towering Alps to the peaceful lakes, it offers a stunning array of landscapes ready to be discovered. While many of Switzerland’s iconic landmarks are easily accessible by public transport, some of its most beautiful and remote places are best enjoyed by car.
Renting a car allows you to discover hidden gems, enjoy scenic drives, and explore Switzerland at your own pace. In this blog post, we'll highlight ten must-see destinations best explored by car. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, these spots promise unforgettable adventures. Get ready to hit the road and make the most of your journey!
The Gotthard Pass is one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain routes, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the country. It connects the northern and southern regions, guiding you through dramatic alpine scenery, rugged peaks, and charming historic villages. The route is an adventure making it ideal for those seeking a taste of Switzerland’s natural beauty. With winding roads and stunning vistas around every bend, the drive may be challenging—but the views make it more than worth the effort.
Tucked between the Swiss Alps and northern Italy, Lake Lugano combines mountain beauty with a warm Mediterranean vibe, creating a setting that feels both relaxed and refined. Framed by lush hills, elegant villas, and charming towns, Lake Lugano is ideal for a peaceful drive. As you follow the lakeside roads, stunning views of the water and mountains around every bend. Stop in Lugano to wander its charming town center or unwind in the tranquil greenery of Parco Ciani.
The Furka Pass is one of Switzerland’s most famous scenic drives and is a must-do for anyone who loves winding mountain roads and breathtaking views. Situated in the Swiss Alps, the Furka Pass connects the towns of Gletsch and Realp and takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. The route offers a thrilling experience, with sharp turns and steep ascents. From the top of the pass, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Rhône Glacier. The Furka Pass is also known for being one of the filming locations for the James Bond movie Goldfinger, so you’ll be driving on a piece of cinematic history.
Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts and a gateway to the mighty Matterhorn, one of the most recognisable mountains in the world. While Zermatt itself is car-free, the drive to the town is an experience itself. To reach Zermatt, you’ll first need to drive to Täsch, a small village near the base of the Matterhorn. You can take a short shuttle train or taxi into Zermatt from here.
The drive from Täsch to Zermatt provides some of the most scenic views of the surrounding mountains, including glimpses of the iconic Matterhorn. If you're visiting during the summer, you can enjoy hiking or riding the Gornergrat Railway for breathtaking views of the Alps. In the winter, Zermatt transforms into a world-class skiing haven, drawing snow sports enthusiasts from around the globe to its slopes and charming atmosphere.
Lake Geneva, or Lac Léman, is one of the largest lakes in Europe, and its shores are dotted with charming towns, vineyards, and castles. One of the most stunning places to visit on the lake is the town of Montreux, known for its beautiful lakeside promenade and the famous Montreux Jazz Festival. The route along the shores of Lake Geneva offers spectacular views of the water and the surrounding Alps.
Stop in the town of Vevey to visit the Charlie Chaplin Museum or head to Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress by the lake. Explore hidden gems like the Lavaux Vineyards—an acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its sweeping views over the lake. The journey around Lake Geneva is a peaceful and scenic experience, perfect for appreciating the region’s beauty.
The Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, is an extraordinary natural wonder that spans over 23 kilometres. Located in the Jungfrau Region, it is framed by dramatic mountain peaks, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. To reach the glacier, take a cable car from the village of Betten to the Aletsch Arena, where you can enjoy panoramic views. Explore the area on foot or take in the breathtaking sights from several scenic viewpoints nearby. Don’t miss the nearby villages of Riederalp and Fiesch, where you can learn about the region’s history and the glacier’s impact on the local environment.
Luzern, a charming city on the shores of Lake Lucerne, is a perfect base for exploring Switzerland’s iconic mountain peaks. Mount Pilatus is the most popular nearby peak offering breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne, the city below, and the surrounding Alpine landscape. While the drive to Luzern is beautiful, the real adventure begins when you take the road to Mount Pilatus. The Pilatusbahn, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, takes you to the summit, but you can also enjoy scenic drives through the nearby villages and forests on the way up. In addition to the views, the area around Luzern offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring the medieval Château de Chillon.
The Engadine Valley is a stunning and relatively undiscovered region in the eastern part of Switzerland. Known for its charming villages, lush green meadows, and spectacular mountain views, the Engadine Valley is perfect for a peaceful road trip. The drive through the valley is incredibly scenic, with winding roads that pass through quaint villages like Sils Maria and Pontresina. If you’re a fan of hiking, there are many trails to explore, including the famous Swiss National Park, home to diverse wildlife and spectacular alpine views.
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of Switzerland's most breathtaking valleys, known for its dramatic cliffs and numerous waterfalls. Often referred to as the Valley of 72 Waterfalls, the landscape is dotted with cascading falls. As you explore, you'll pass through charming villages like Stechelberg and Mürren, offering serene views and a peaceful atmosphere. The valley provides easy access to nearby mountains, including Schilthorn and Jungfrau.
The Swiss National Park is located in the Engadine Valley and is Switzerland’s oldest and largest national park. The area is home to various wildlife, including ibex, marmots, and golden eagles, along with numerous hiking trails and breathtaking mountain landscapes. To explore the Swiss National Park, drive to the town of Zernez and enjoy the journey through the beautiful landscapes surrounding the park. The park’s roadways and villages offer access to the country’s most stunning natural beauty.
Make your journey even more convenient by renting a car with Finalrentals. Explore Switzerland’s top destinations on your terms and enjoy a smooth, budget-friendly car rental service. Whether hitting the open road or discovering hidden treasures, Finalrentals provides the ideal car for every adventure.
Switzerland is a country of natural beauty, and the best way to truly experience its hidden gems is by car. From the dramatic landscapes of the Gotthard Pass to the serene beauty of Lake Lugano, a rental car allows you to discover Switzerland at your own pace and explore lesser-known spots. Rent a car in Switzerland today, and start your scenic road trip that will take you to some of the country’s most breathtaking and unforgettable destinations. With the freedom to explore at your leisure, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
