The Grand Tour of Switzerland combines the highlights of Switzerland with a beautifully scenic route. Motorways on the Grand Tour are chiefly avoided and only taken when it makes traffic-sense. Six of the 46 main attractions are along the Ticino route, which winds through Switzerland's southernmost canton, from the Mendrisiotto to the Gotthard Pass.
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Characteristics of the Grand Tour of Switzerland
- Highlights: 46 top attractions, 13 of which UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 biospheres;
- Lakes: 22 lakes larger than 0.5 square kilometers along the route;
- Recommended travel period: summer (April to October);
- Length: Core route: 1643 km (1021 miles);
- Length: Initial stretch Chiasso - Bellinzona: 109 km;
- Highest point of the Grand Tour: Furka Pass, 2429 m above sea level,
- Lowest point of the Grand Tour: Lake Maggiore, 193 m above sea level.
Recommended duration
With driving time of at least 5 hours a day, we recommended you plan at least 7 days to complete the core route. Depending on your entry point from the border, you may even need more time. The effective duration depends on whether you tend to speed along or make the journey at a leisurely pace to enjoy the many sights along the route.
Recommended direction of travel
The Grand Tour is open in both directions, but Switzerland Tourism recommends you make the journey clockwise. This is especially true in cities with one-way streets - and for observing motorway entrances.
Vehicle suitability
The Grand Tour of Switzerland route is fundamentally aimed at cars and motorcycles. Other larger vehicles have to reckon with restrictions.
Disclaimer
The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a recommended route on the existing Swiss road network. Driving on the route is at your own risk. Switzerland Tourism and the Grand Tour of Switzerland Association do not assume any liability for structural changes, diversions, signposting, special events and safety regulations on the route.