The Grand Tour of Switzerland is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The now iconic 1,600-km. loop is more than just a scenic drive – it’s a celebration of freedom, discovery, and the joy of the open road, and inviting travellers to slow down, take the scenic route, and rediscover the beauty of Switzerland.
The route encompasses four language regions, crosses five Alpine passes, skirts 22 lakes, and features 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – all on a road that celebrates the journey as much as the destination.
Travellers can hop out of their vehicle and hike around the mighty Aletsch Glacier, watch the sun set over the vineyards of Lake Geneva, or wind their way up the cobbled Tremola road on the Gotthard Pass.
From cosmopolitan cities to cozy alpine villages, the tour “unveils the soul of Switzerland” through its most scenic roads and cultural highlights, says Switzerland Tourism.
Better still, drivers need merely follow the route’s familiar red signs with no itinerary needed.
Hidden corners
Beyond the icons lie places that feel like Switzerland’s best-kept secrets: stroll through the flower-draped village of Grimentz in Valais, sip wine in the terraced vineyards of Chardonne, or find tranquility in the lakeside haven of Morcote. The Grand Tour leads travellers to lesser-known marvels, such as secluded valleys, storybook towns, and panoramic lookouts.
E-Grand Tour
As the world’s first national road trip fully accessible to electric vehicles, the Grand Tour of Switzerland proves that sustainability and scenic travel go hand in hand. The route is lined with a dense and reliable network of charging stations, ensuring seamless and eco-friendly travel from start to finish.
Accessible
From panoramic viewpoints with barrier-free access to accommodations and transport services designed for travellers with limited mobility. The route includes options for accessible travel by car, boat, and panoramic trains. Dedicated services, including vehicles equipped for wheelchair users and experienced guides, help make travel smooth and comfortable.
Culinary
Along the Grand Tour of Switzerland, travellers can embark on a culinary journey that spans mountain cheeses, lake fish, alpine herbs, and Mediterranean-style fare. From fondue in Gruyères to saffron risotto in Ticino, from fresh-caught perch on Lake Geneva to truffle Spätzli in Lugano, the route offers a feast for the senses and for the curious palate. Visit the salt mine in Bex or sample just-laid eggs on a family-run farm, each experience is a chance to discover how deeply tradition and terroir are woven into Swiss identity.
UNESCO treasures
The route links 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a curated cross-section of the country’s global significance. From the awe-inspiring Jungfrau-Aletsch glacier region to the vineyards of Lavaux, the ancient stilt houses of the Alps, and the architectural harmony of Bern’s Old Town, each site tells a story of place, legacy, and preservation.
Photo spots
For those chasing the perfect shot, there are, 88 official Photo Spots to mark the most breathtaking and emblematic vistas: glacier-capped peaks, storybook villages, winding lake roads, and cultural landmarks like the Rhine Falls or Château de Chillon. Each is framed with the iconic red Grand Tour marker.
Grand Train
Not a fan of driving? No problem – the Grand Tour of Switzerland isn’t limited to the road. With the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, travellers can experience the full sweep of the country’s landscapes and cultural highlights – by rail. This 1,300-km route weaves together eight of the country’s most scenic train lines, offering a car-free alternative that’s just as panoramic and far more relaxed. From the iconic Glacier Express to the Bernina, GoldenPass, and Gotthard Panorama trains, the route connects 11 lakes, 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and all four language regions – no GPS or mountain driving required.
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