motorcycle road trip switzerland

Motorcycling in Switzerland- the Ultimate Guide

Planning a motorbike trip to Switzerland? Want to tour some of the most beautiful roads and mountains in Europe? Here’s everything you need to know to go motorcycling in Switzerland, step-by-step.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE motorcycle maintenance checklist below to help you get ready for your trip.

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Motorcycling in Switzerland – why you should go!

When you think of Switzerland, what comes to mind? Mountains? Lakes? Chocolate? Switzerland is all that- and so much more. The nature, the wildlife and the friendliness of the people are all wonderful reasons to visit.

You can explore Switzerland using public transport, but it’s so much better if you have your own vehicle- whether that’s a motorhome or campervan, a car, caravan or of course a motorbike.

One of the best things about being able to explore Switzerland by motorcycle touring is that you can see the differences between the regions and really get a feel for the country in a short space of time.

In this guide, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know to for motorbike trips to Switzerland, including getting to Switzerland from the UK or abroad and planning your route, where to stay, some road trip ideas and places to visit, driving tips and other practical advice to help you have an amazing Swiss road trip.

Motorcycle touring in Switzerland- Where to go

When planning a motorcycle trip to Switzerland, the first thing you need to do is decide where you’re going (and how long you want to go for!)

There are some incredible roads in Switzerland. INCREDIBLE. Some of the highlights include:

• Gotthard Pass
• St Bernard Pass
• Albula Pass

but there are literally hundreds of other roads and routes too. Basically, pick a road in the Swiss Alps and you’ll be in riding heaven. Make sure you bring a motorcycle camera or helmet cam – the scenery is spectacular.

How long to go for?

If you’re riding from the UK to Switzerland (we’ll cover that shortly), you need to allow at least a day to get from arriving in France (by either ferry or Eurotunnel) to the Swiss border. And that’s a long day of solid riding (it’s about 7 and a quarter hours (685km) from Calais to Basel, on the north-west border of Switzerland with France.

You can easily visit and explore Switzerland for just a few days or a week and it’s quite easy to drive around. Of course, if you have 10-14 days, you can see a lot more of the country.

How long does it take to drive across Switzerland?

Switzerland isn’t a huge country and you can drive across it quite quickly if you use the main roads.

As a guide, if you wanted to drive from Basel to Como (on the Italian border near Milan), it will take about 4 hours (300km)

If you want to travel across Switzerland from West to East, Geneva (on the western border with France) to St Moritz (in the East) will take about 5 and a half hours (480km)

However, much of the country is made up of the Alps (BIG mountains), so riding those take a lot longer as the roads are full of hairpin bends and steep inclines! Don’t underestimate how long a journey will take you, especially if you’re towing bikes on a trailer in a larger vehicle.

TOP TIP: If you want to drive into northern Italy and the Dolomites , you might find it faster to go through France and then through Italy, rather than negotiating the Swiss Mountains. Get more Italy motorcycling tips.

Best time to go touring in Switzerland

Switzerland is worth visiting at any time of the year, but for different reasons.

If you want to be able to drive freely and have all attractions open, go between April and October. Summer is very busy in the cities and major attractions, but the mountains are fairly empty.

Spring in Switzerland

Spring is lovely- as long as it’s after April. Although technically Spring starts on 21 February, the snows don’t fade until around the end of March, so April, May and June are a great time to visit. Avoid the Easter holidays if you can- prices get hiked up then.

But the flowers are beautiful- be sure to check out the Morges Tulip Festival at Lake Geneva in April. You can also visit Gruyeres on the first Sunday of May for the annual Cheese Festival- expect to try lots of yummy samples.

Summer road trips in Switzerland

Summer is perfect. Highs hit mid-20s, although it can always feel cool up in the mountains, but the skies are often clear and you can see the Milky Way at night. Of course, these means more people and more traffic, so if you are driving any of the crazy mountain passes, be sure to do it as early as possible to avoid oncoming tour buses!

A great day to be in Switzerland is Swiss National Day on 01 August. The entire country will celebrate with fireworks and parties – and they’re happy for tourists to join in.

Autumn in Switzerland

Autumn is one of my favourite times to be motorcycling in Switzerland. The days are still long and mostly warm, the leaves look amazing as they change colours, and the crowds from summer have gone.

The weather can be chilly at end of October into November and many places close at end of October, so do your research if there’s something specific you want to do or see. If you enjoy wine, don’t miss the Basel Wine Fair which happens at the end of October each year (though obviously don’t drink & ride!)

Winter motorcycling in Switzerland

I’ll be honest, winter in Switzerland starts around the end of November and runs until April. It gets COLD, there will be lots of snow and most of the roads will be closed. The days are also shorter, so you’ll have less time to explore.

Personally, I don’t advice motorcycle touring in Switzerland during winter unless you’re very very used to riding in adverse conditions and have all the appropriate safety and heated gear!

Planning a route from the UK to Switzerland

There are a couple of routes for you to get from the UK to Switzerland.

The most obvious is the Eurotunnel, which is generally cheaper and faster than a ferry. If you use the ‘Chunnel’, you’ll end up in Calais.

The quickest route from Calais to Basel (closest major point in Switzerland) is to the NE of Paris, via the A26 and then the N4. This route is around 685km, should take around 7h 25m and will cost about 33€ in tolls for a small camper or a car (if you’re towing your bikes). A motorhome will cost more.

Route 2 is via A26, then N5 and is 725km long. This will cost a car or small camper around 48€ and is estimated to take 7h 39m

Route 3 is via Belgium on the E411 and then the A4. It’s longer, at 736km, will take 7h 42 but will only cost 9€ on the tolls. So it’s up to you which you choose.

Some top tips for route planning:

• Avoid peak days and times on the Eurotunnel
• Try to avoid driving on the weekends or on bank holidays- LOTS of traffic
• Alternatively, get up early and do as much driving as possible before the traffic hits, then stop and have a nap somewhere safe- a huge advantage of having a motorhome or campervan with a bed with you!!

Motorcycle Hire in Switzerland

If you don’t have your own bike, or don’t want to take it, you can easily fly into Switzerland and hire one. Just make sure to ask how to get from the airport to the rental agency- not all of them are at the airport itself and you might need to book a taxi.

To rent a motorcycle in Switzerland most places will expect you to be:

• 25 years or over, depending on the company’s rental policy; (18 years old for scooters and some very small bikes)
• Have a valid driving licence with at least 2 years experience
• show identification (identity card for EU citizens or a valid passport for other nationalities) 

Make sure you have proof that you can take the vehicle across a border if that’s what you’re planning to do.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the rider, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring. If you are  solo motorcycle touring , remember you’ll need to carry everything yourself, including any motorcycle camping kit.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

You can expect to pay anywhere from 80€-180€/ day- based on model. Make sure you ask the right questions to know what’s included in your rental, such as:

• Mileage limits/ surcharge
• Kit included
• Luggage included
• Helmet rental available
• Pillion allowed
• Breakdown/ insurance cover
• Times & location of pick up/ drop off
• Documents needed

Borders / Customs in Switzerland

Ok, let’s get the technical bit out of the way.

Switzerland is in Europe, but it is NOT in the EU. Therefore, there are border restrictions on what you can/ cannot take into the country (and out.) It also does NOT use the Euro- it uses Swiss Francs. (CHF)

Also, Switzerland IS in the Schengen Area, which means that if you are subject to a 90 day limit on your time in the Schengen Area (like UK passport holders are now after BREXIT), then your time in Switzerland DOES count towards those 90 days.

Tobaccos and spirit limits

If you are entering Switzerland, this is what you can carry with you (for persons older than 17 years)

• 250 units/g cigarettes / cigars / other tobacco products
• 5 litres of alcohol (up to 18% vol.) and 1 litre of alcohol (over 18% vol.)

Border Crossings into Switzerland by road

There are many places where you can drive across the border into Switzerland. Some have a proper, official border where you will be stopped and asked to show your passport and other documentation. Other crossings are literally marked with a flag which you look at as you drive past. There are no guards, no customs control and no barrier.

Don’t forget you will need a vignette (more on that later), so you might need to stop at/ near the border to get one.

Motorcycle rules in Switzerland- what gear do you need to carry?

Just like motorcycling in France , there are certain things you MUST carry with you whilst touring in Switzerland.

Don’t forget, if you are driving through France or another country to get to Switzerland, you need all the kit required by that countries, as well as the kit needed in Switzerland.

Things you need to ride in Switzerland- safety gear

These are the things you MUST have with you when you’re motorcycle touring in Switzerland.

• Wearing a helmet is mandatory for riders and pillions and you will be fined for breaking this. .
• CE certified gloves are also mandatory for rider and pillion
• Hi-vis reflective jackets  – these are not legally required in Switzerland but they are in both France and Germany, so you’ll need them if you’re riding there.
• You do not need headlight beam converters on a motorcycle in Europe unless your headlight points dramatically to the left.
• Country (UK) sticker  attached to the back of bike on reg plates. (NOT the EU or GB sticker anymore!)
• If you wear glasses you MUST carry a spare pair

TOP TIP:  Buy these essentials for riding in Switzerland in advance. If you wait until you’re at the ferry/ tunnel, you could spend THREE times as much!

Recommended bike accessories you MIGHT need when motorcycling in Switzerland

The following kit are things you might want to carry in your kit.

• Warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Spare bulbs – not compulsory, but useful
• Snacks and water- just in case!

Don’t forget to do your motorcycle maintenance checks before you leave- grab your FREE motorcycle maintenance checklist here

What documents do you need to road trip in Switzerland?

If you’re riding in Switzerland, you need to carry the following documents:

• Passport (or identity card)
• Driving licence (check it is in date!)
• Motorcycle Insurance documents- check you are covered for riding in Europe
• Breakdown cover
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
• Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
• International Driving Permit if required
• Personal travel insurance

Do I need an international driving permit to drive/ ride in Switzerland?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in Switzerland, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

You might need one if you have:

• a paper driving licence only
• a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

Vignettes in Switzerland

Most countries in Europe have some sort of charge for using their motorways/ major roads. They either use tolls, like France, or they use a vignette, like Switzerland. (Unless you’re used to motorcycing in Holland, where they don’t have anything!)

A vignette is literally a sticker which you must buy from an approved location and stick on your windscreen (in a specific place so the cameras can see it). Once it’s in place, you can then drive on any of the motorways or major roads (Classes 1 and 2) without worry- there are no tolls to pay.

Now, some people make the process of getting a Swiss vignette sound horrendously difficult. It’s really not, especially if your motorhome or campervan is under 3.5 tonnes. You can even order it online in advance and get it sent to your home before you leave from the website  here .

How much does a Swiss Vignette cost?

A vignette currently costs 38.50€ per vehicle. However, if you are towing a caravan OR a trailer (and the total train weight is less than 3.5t), you will need to purchase a second vignette. Also if, like us, you tow a motorbike or a second vehicle, you will need to buy another vignette for that too.

So we, with a motorhome, a trailer and TWO motorbikes, would have needed to buy 4 vignettes if we wanted to ride the bikes in Switzerland. Although, in reality, we only needed to buy two (for our bikes) because our train weight with the motorhome and trailer was greater than 3.5t, so we needed the next level up.

Affixing the vignette to a trailer or bike isn’t as easy as on a car- it must be fixed “on an easily accessible part which cannot be dismantled and replaced.”

How long is a vignette in Switzerland valid for?

A vignette is valid up until the end of January the year after you bought it. (So the 2021 sticker is valid until 31 January 2022.)

And yes, you still need to buy one even if you’re only visiting Switzerland for one day, or even one hour, out of the year, assuming you want to use the motorways.

NOTE: the Vignette is invalid if you remove it. So be sure you won’t be returning within the time limit before you take it off.

Do you HAVE to have a vignette in Switzerland?

If you want to use the motorway network, yes- it’s compulsory. However, you can choose to drive just on the backroads and never buy a vignette- as long as your vehicle/ train weight is less than 3.5t.

What does a vignette NOT cover you for?

You will still need to pay for using any car trains, some of the bigger tunnels and any car ferries. There are also a few private roads which you will need to pay for if you choose to use them, like the Oberaar panorama road at the Grimsel pass.

Vignettes for vehicles UNDER 3.5 tonnes

If you have a vehicle with a train weight of less than 3.5t, and you haven’t bought a vignette in advance, you can buy one from the border or just stop at the first garage/ service station after crossing the border. Simples.

Vignettes for vehicles OVER 3.5 tonnes – Via App

If you have a motorhome which weighs over 3.5t, OR the total weight of your motorhome and trailer exceeds 3.5t, you can’t buy the ‘normal’ vignette. You must pay the HVF (Heavy Vehicle Fee).

To do this, you need to download the VIA app (from your App store or Android store). This App is actually REALLY good. It allows you to select your vehicle type, enter details, select dates and pay- all from within the app. You get a scannable QR code for border crossings if needed to show proof of payment. Find out more about the App and watch a video  here

NOTE: If you are over 3.5t, you need to pay to use any public roads in Switzerland, not just the motorways,

Motorcycling in Switzerland- where to stay overnight

In Switzerland, there are several types of stopovers you can use.

Switzerland Camping sites for motorcycles

It’s easy to find motorcycle campsites in Switzerland and they’re much like campsites anywhere else in Europe. Some are rustic and have very basic facilities, while others are designed for long-term visitors and have entertainment, clubs, pools and bars! If you’re  campervanning in Switzerland  and taking your bikes on a trailer, you’ll have no problem.

Many campsites have large pitches, excellent (and clean) facilities and stunning views. And most have staff who speak excellent English.

Motorcycle Travel in Switzerland- where to stay

Once you’ve got a vehicle to tour around Switzerland in, the next thing to consider is what sort of motorbiking holiday you want to have and where are you going to camp/ park up overnight?

Deciding the type of holiday you want to have will make planning your motorcycle trip a lot easier.

Motorcycle campsites in Switzerland

Like in the UK, campsites in Switzerland vary in quality and price. Some campsites have great facilities, like swimming pools or a beach on a lake, watersports, play area, restaurants, fresh bread delivery, shop etc.

Others are more rustic and aren’t much more than an aire with an attendant. Expect the facilities at cheaper campsites to be much lower in hygiene standards than you might be used to!

There are some gorgeous campsites in Switzerland, right by beaches and lakes, with swimming pools, evening entertainment and kids clubs. If you want a relaxing holiday whilst staying in your own van and enjoying the sunshine, this might be the best option for you.

They work much like in the UK- you arrive, check in (and will usually need to show a passport), are given or can select a pitch with or without electric (depending on what you booked) and that’s it.

Expect some campsites to keep your passport for the duration of your stay with them. This is often at the places where you haven’t paid in advance- I always try to pay in advance and keep my passport where I know it’s safe!

Dogs are normally always welcome on campsites, but there isn’t always a dog walk/ run where they are allowed off lead.

Because we rarely plan a route through Switzerland, and therefore we never know where we’re going to be, we book campsites at the last minute- or just turn up. This doesn’t always work, (especially in  August or between October-March when many campsites shut) but there always seems to be something around which works out.

Swiss motorcycle travel in the school holidays- or not?

If you’re travelling in the school holidays, you’ll want to book up the campsite (if you’re using one) asap- the best ones get booked up months in advance.

If you’re NOT travelling during the school holidays, you might want to consider getting an ACSI camping card– you’ll save a lot of money on campsite charges.

Driving tips for Swiss motorcycle travels

Switzerland is generally not too bad for drivers (at least, not compared to  motorcycling in Portugal  or Italy!)

Some quick tips for driving in Switzerland:

• Switzerland drives on the right, like much of Europe
• Overtake on the left (NEVER undertake)
• Dipped headlights are compulsory during the day
• Helmets and gloves are compulsory
• Traffic from the right (including cyclists) has priority.
• Traffic on roundabouts has priority unless the signs indicate otherwise.
• Police cars, ambulances, fire trucks and trams always have priority.
• You’re legally required to stop for pedestrians at a zebra crossing. NOTE: Trams do NOT have to stop, so don’t walk in front of one thinking it must give way to you- it won’t!
• Wearing earphones or buds is illegal, but intercoms/ bluetooth systems are not.
• In-car speed camera detectors and  motorcycle sat-nav systems  warning of the presence of radars are illegal (whether they’re in use or not!)
• Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, but you can use a hands-free unit without earbuds.
• Minor traffic offences can result in on-the-spot fines.
• UK driving licences are perfectly acceptable to use and you probably won’t need an IDP
• Hands-free calling is allowed, but it is strongly discouraged. Handheld calling will attract a hefty fine.
• In some places, it is mandatory to turn off your engine when waiting for traffic lights, railroad crossings etc.

Speed limits in Switzerland

Speed Limits are determined by location, vehicle and weather and are as follows for motorcycles (unless otherwise signed!)

• 120km/h (74mph)
• Major roads/ expressways- 100 km/h (62 mph)
• Outside built-up areas 80km/h (50mph)
• Built up areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Speed cameras in Switzerland

There are an estimated 1,000 speed cameras in Switzerland, which is a huge number for a small country. Again, pay attention to your speed.

Drink driving laws

Switzerland has stricter drink driving laws than the UK, only allowing 0.25 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood (the UK is 0.8). As always, don’t drink and drive. If you are a new or a professional driver, there is zero-tolerance, so be careful what medication you take.

Filtering in Switzerland- is lane splitting legal?

Filtering is illegal in Switzerland, although you will see bikes doing it.

Riding in Switzerland- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment. Don’t sign anything unless you are happy with what it says.

What to do at the scene:

• Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
• If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
• Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
• Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
• Insurance company details of all parties
• Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

There are plenty of fuel stations across Switzerland. As with everywhere, you’ll find the prices slightly higher on the motorways.

Petrol is Bleifrei (95 / 98), Sans plomb (95 / 98), Senza piombo (95 / 98) – Green handles on pump

Some places are 24h pay at the pump, but may require you to go into the shop and pay the cashier either in advance or after you’ve filled up- there will be a sign to tell you what to do. (Leave your bike in front of the pump and make a note of the pump number.)

You can pay using cash or a credit card. Many places do NOT take American Express. You can usually use your UK cards without a problem.

Motorcycling in Switzerland- security

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your motorbike security when travelling in Switzerland, as motorcycle thefts do happen, as does petty theft and pickpocketing. I know it’s not always possible, but try not to leave your bike unattended in an unsecured area.

More useful things to know when motorcycling in Switzerland

Emergency Numbers:  112 will get you everything you need.

Language – Swiss but English widely spoken. They also often speak French, German and probably many many others. The 4 official languages are French, German, Italian and Romansh. Different regions have different ‘main’ languages.

Currency – Swiss Francs (CHF- NOT EUROS!)

Cards – most major credit and debit cards are accepted. American Express is only taken in large stores (not at tolls and often not at fuel stations)

Timezone – GMT+1 (or one hour ahead in BST)

Tipping – Tipping is not expected but appreciated. 5% – 10% in restaurants is standard if you are happy with the service.

Shops – Food prices are pretty expensive. Many shops close at 6.30pm and do not open on Sundays at all. Bigger supermarkets and garages may be open.

Other posts you might find useful:

• Motorcycle touring- complete guide to getting started
• How I quit my job to tour Europe by motorcycle
• 5 epic roads in Europe
• How to choose the best motorcycle sat nav for you

DISCLAIMER: This post was last updated in April 2022. We try to keep it as up to date as possible, but cannot be held responsible for any changes made to the law since the last update. If you do find any discrepancies, please do let us know. Thanks.

Kat has spent years touring the UK and Europe by motorcycle, car and motorhome. It was the idea of motorcycle touring which pushed her to go from nervous new biker to excited explorer and she still can’t believe some of the crazy mountain roads she’s ridden!

She has owned several bikes, with her favourites being a Triumph Scrambler for long rides and her current speed demon- a ZX6R (both purple!) Whilst she loves to travel, her favourite thing is to help other bikers (both male and female) gain the confidence to have their own epic adventures. Ride safe!

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1 thought on “Motorcycling in Switzerland- the Ultimate Guide”

Hi, thanks for the detailed write-up. Picked up quite a few tips for my upcoming ride to Zurich. Going through Belgium or through France, what would people recommend? cheers.

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Our motorcycle tours in Switzerland

• Motorcycle tours

Switzerland offers a diverse culture, gorgeous scenery, and unforgettable riding!

Imagine carving mountain switchbacks with the slight sting of fresh, cold alpine air hitting your lungs. Imagine riding from city to city, taking in the architecture, cuisine, culture, and the mind-blowing scenery. If any of that got you the slightest bit excited, then you’re in the right place! Planet Ride seeks out only the best motorcycle tours Switzerland has to offer and conveniently features them all in one place for you to compare side by side. We work with expert guides who live in Switzerland and are true locals, and those who at least have a deep familiarity with the country. They operate Switzerland road trip motorcycle adventures that feature unforgettable itineraries and experiences.

Even though I have travelled across the world, Europe continues to hold a special place in my heart and I am always excited about exploring this beautiful region.  In all…

Visit Bellagio city with your motorbike.

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A motorcycle in the Swiss alps

For example, Laurent lives in France but regularly runs tours through the Swiss Alps. A great one is the 10-day Alps Tour, which starts on the French side of Lake Leman, in Thonon-Les-Baines, and heads straight into the mountains on your first day of riding. Sitting atop a BMW F650 GS, F700 GS, R1200 RT, or LC 1200 GS, you’re guaranteed a reliable and powerful machine for this Switzerland road trip motorcycle adventure. Now, with Interlaken, Switzerland as your destination for day two, you’ll stop off in Gruyere (famous for the cheese of the same name), conquer the Chablais massif, and relax beside the unbelievably blue waters of Lake Brienz after a solid day of riding. Surrounded by jagged, snow-capped peaks, and situated between the stunning glacial waters of two lakes, the scenery in Interlaken will be nothing short of incredible. There’s plenty of physical adventure to be had as well, as Interlaken is the outdoor and action sports capital of Switzerland. You’ll have easy access to skydiving, bungee jumping, hiking, white-water rafting, canyoning, and more.

Hopefully, you’re still up for more because day three starts the excitement all over again. Setting out from Interlaken, you’ll attack the longest day of the trip with an adrenaline rush from the slew of hairpin turns and outrageously beautiful mountain views. Specifically, you’ll make your way up and over the passes of Gotthard, Furka, and Grimsel. Deep in the heart of the Swiss Alps, these mountain passes will make for an unforgettable road trip experience. After leaving Switzerland, you’ll continue through Italy, Austria, and Germany before returning to France. There’s a nearly endless number of motorcycle tours Europe can offer, but few will have the same slideshow of breathtaking views as this Alps tour!

Whether you include them before, during, or after your motorcycle tours Switzerland has a ton of culture to explore and sights to see. Located between France, Germany, and Italy, Switzerland is an amalgam of cultures, distinctly influenced by each of its three neighbors. The fact that French, German, and Italian are all official national languages should give you a good idea. Switzerland has a wealth of natural wonders that should not be missed. Mountain peaks like the Matterhorn, Eiger, and Jungfrau stand resolute and menacing, yet strikingly beautiful. Water, from the lakes of Lucerne and Oeschinensee to the frozen glacier of Aletsch adds another element of beauty. Further still are sights like the Rhine Falls and the innumerable bucolic alpine valleys with green grass, farms, and quaint villages beset by mountain peaks.

The man-made wonders are nearly equal in number. Gorgeous castles abound, like those of Chillon and Bellinzona, as well as other destinations, such as the vineyards of Lavaux, the Abbey of St. Gallen, and the nearly 300-meter tall dam of Grande Dixence. Switzerland’s cities also offer plenty to see and do. Zurich is a major center of international banking and the arts, with dozens of museums and galleries, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and nightclubs; Geneva is practically the definition of cosmopolitan and international! There, you’ll find hundreds of governmental and non-governmental organizations, including the United Nations, Red Cross, and others; and Bern with its impressively well-preserved old town.

It’s well understood that Switzerland is known for its mountains, but the geography does vary to include rolling hills, numerous large lakes, and even some flat plains. The variety in landscapes brings with it quite a bit of difference in weather. In general, though, the climate is temperate, with warm, humid summers, and cold, snowy winters. Also, the higher the altitude, the colder and snowier it will be! With that in mind, we would recommend a road trip between May and October. No matter when you plan your motorcycle tours Switzerland is not hard to get to. With major international airports in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, along with numerous regular trains to countries throughout Europe, getting into the country will be relatively simple.

Beyond that, there isn’t much to worry about. Switzerland is one of the safest countries in Europe and the world. Use common sense, and you’re likely to be just fine. However, be sure to learn and follow the local traffic laws – Switzerland is strict and can be unforgiving when it comes to speeding and other offenses! Nothing is going to ruin a road trip faster than an accident, hefty fine, or loss of your driving license!

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Best Road Trip in Switzerland from Zurich

Our ultimate Switzerland road trip takes you along a breathtakingly scenic route, exploring beautiful cities, incredible natural scenery, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This Switzerland itinerary is the perfect adventure for those who love to explore.

From discovering charming lakeside towns and the dramatic Swiss Alps to tackling some of Switzerland’s most famous driving roads, you can also take time to stop and visit local wineries, discover adrenaline sports, and sample delicious Swiss cuisine on this road trip through Switzerland.

In this Switzerland road trip planner, we share travel tips, the best route between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Swiss itinerary.

Where is Switzerland?

Switzerland is a small mountainous country located in central Europe, most famous for the Dufourspitze, the second-highest mountain in the Alps, deliciously creamy Swizz chocolate, secretive Swiss banks, and Heidi, Switzerland’s most well-known literary character.

This landlocked country is home to 451 mountains and is about the size of New Jersey and is sandwiched between France and Italy , and also bordered by Austria , Germany , and Liechtenstein, which lend a cosmopolitan culture and outlook to the country.

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union or European Economic Area but it is part of the Schengen Area, meaning any time spent touring Switzerland by car counts toward your 90 in 180 days allowance.

Getting to Switzerland

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Switzerland in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular European country.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Zurich Airport to start your Switzerland road trip. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Switzerland? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Switzerland. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Traveling in Switzerland by Car

The Swiss make it easy to see their breathtakingly beautiful country, with great roads and a well-managed and maintained network of trains, boats, and cable cars. It’s surprisingly easy to see the mountains and gain real elevation without being a super-fit hiker – everywhere you go, there are mechanical means to help you enjoy the peaks.

Although this is a Swiss Alps road trip guide, you will definitely be using trains, cable cars, and boats to see some of the top sights and attractions. If you prefer to arrange your own trips, a virtual Swiss Travel Pass  offers unlimited travel on all Swiss trains, buses, and boats and discounted or free admission to many Swiss attractions including museums and mountains.

An alternative is the  Swiss Half Fare Card  which gets you 50% discounted tickets on standard fares for trains, buses, boats, and cable cars in Switzerland, for one month. This is not a virtual card, however, and you’re still required to physically purchase your tickets.

RELATED POST: Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Switzerland.

Road Trip Switzerland: Best Time to Go

March to may.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Switzerland, with temperatures warming up across the country. Blooming wildflowers, vibrant greenery in the mountains and cows heading out to pasture mean spring is a fantastic time to experience Switzerland by car. You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

In summer, Switzerland enjoys beautiful weather and the prospect of water sports, mountain hiking, and dining al fresco. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores and mountains, meaning heavier crowds and more traffic.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for a Swiss road trip . The grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vines aflame.

December to February

The winter months in Switzerland can be very cold, but most people come to Switzerland during the months of December to March for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. It’s not the best time for a road trip, as the spectacular mountain passes will be closed and roads can be challenging to drive.

RELATED POST: The Best of Switzerland in Summer: 17 Amazing Highlights

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Switzerland. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Switzerland Road Trip Map & Route

We recommend completing a circular route during your road trip around Switzerland, starting and ending in Zurich. Zurich, the global capital of banking and finance, is home to Switzerland’s largest international airport.

Our two week Switzerland road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes, covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views. 

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip will begin taking you north. Drive towards Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where we recommend stopping at the famous Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel located in the mountains of Bernese Oberland, the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Switzerland
• The Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  

Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

Zurich – Bern – Lausanne – Geneva – Montreux – Nendaz – Zermatt – Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen – Grindelwald – Furka Pass – Lucerne – Zurich

• Distance 991km
• Duration 10-14 days
• Drive Time 17 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Flying into Zurich and renting a car is the easiest way to kickstart your Switzerland road trip. Get our one day Zurich itinerary complete with map, recommendations & Zurich travel tips to help plan your trip to this stylish and cultured Swiss city.

Zurich’s old town is full of cobbled streets with cozy bars, traditional Swiss restaurants, and art museums. It is also home to some of Zurich’s famous Romanesque churches. You can indulge in fabulous shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse with its luxury boutiques, visit Lindenhof Hill with its fantastic views of the city, and sample the famous Lindt chocolate.

If you prefer to have your day organized for you, check out this popular and highly rated private tour with a local guide and get to know the beautiful city of Zurich with a professional guide who will show you the city’s hidden gems and also help you experience this popular destination like a real local.

In the evening, head for Seebad Enge , one of Lake Zurich’s swimming pools, which turns into a lively bar at night. Stop here for a cold beer and a homemade grilled snack to start your evening off the right way, before heading to Oepfelchammer . A mainstay of Zurich dining since 1801, Oepfelchammer is the place to go if you want traditional Swiss food made with regional and seasonal produce.

• Where to Stay in Zurich

Upmarket: Marktgasse Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Rhine Falls Side Trip

Just under an hour away from Zurich in Schaffhausen are the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe with a width measuring 150m (492ft) and a height of 23m (75ft). Over 600,000 liters of water per second plunge over the falls in the summer.

There is an elevator to take you up from Laufen Castle to the viewing platforms for a breathtaking view of the falls. A boat ride to the falls basin is also on offer, and well worth the time. Across the river is a huge rope park, so you can glide from tree to tree and admire the falls from every angle.

If you prefer not to drive, there are lots of day trips to the Rhine Falls from Zurich, but we think this highly recommended Rhine Falls day trip from Zurich is the best. Your driver will take you through a scenic landscape of charming villages to visit the Rhine Falls, you’ll cross the river to the Belvedere Trail viewing platform for incredible views, and learn about the medieval history of Stein am Rhein.

Driving from Zurich to Bern is a scenic journey that takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. From Zurich, you will head towards the Swiss Alps, passing through picturesque villages along the way.

Travel Tip:  We would highly recommend taking a detour on your drive from Zurich to Bern to visit the UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch . This Swiss national park is a biosphere reserve that encompasses approximately 39,000 hectares and is an incredible expanse of the untouched Swiss landscape. 

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic clock tower, the Zytglogge, which is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and the Bear Pits, or Bärengraben , where bears have been housed since 1513 and have come to symbolize the city.

Bern has a variety of unique experiences to offer and the best way to see the city is with our recommended guided walking tour where you’ll have the opportunity to admire Bern’s fountains, towers, quaint streets, and arcades as you learn about the city’s 800 years of history from a local guide.

• Where to Stay in Bern

Upmarket: Stay KooooK Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Los Lorentes Hotel Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

As you leave Bern and head towards Lausanne, you will be surrounded by the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the country’s mountainous natural beauty. However, as you draw closer to Lausanne, the scenery will change from mountains and rolling hills to the shores of Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Leman, where the city of Lausanne is located.  

Lausanne is home to a number of historic churches, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame, as well as several museums and art galleries, including the Olympic Museum , a must-visit for sports fans.

Lausanne is a foodie’s paradise. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as fondue, raclette, and rosti, while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Geneva. 

Travel Tip: From Lausanne, you can take a day trip to Glacier 3000 , an alpine experience near Les Diablerets. A 15 minute cable car journey will give you 360-degree views of the Swiss mountains. Once at the summit, you will enjoy spectacular views of Lac Leman. The Glacier 3000 Peak Walk, the only bridge in the world connecting two summits, provides daring visitors with panoramic views of the alpine landscape. 

• Where to Stay in Lausanne

Upmarket: Hotel Angleterre & Résidence – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Moxy Lausanne City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hôtel du Marché – Booking.com | Agoda

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Driving from Lausanne to Geneva takes approximately 45 minutes and takes you along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Geneva is also the place where our Switzerland road trip route crosses with the Grand Tour of Switzerland route, which takes in five alpine passes, twelve UNESCO World Heritage sites, and 22 lakes.

Travel Tips:   There are many mountain peaks along this route. If you love walking, why not consider stretching your legs and exploring the areas surrounding La Dôle, Le Noirmont, or Crêt de la Neige? 

As you approach Geneva, you will be greeted by the city’s modern skyline, punctuated by the iconic Jet d’Eau, a 140-meter-high fountain located in the heart of the city.

Geneva is renowned for its rich history, beautiful parks and gardens, and world-class museums, including the Museum of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent. We would highly recommend a Lake Geneva cruise to enjoy scenic views of the Swiss and French Alps, as well as Geneva’s landmarks, from the waters of Lake Geneva.

• Where to Stay in Geneva

Upmarket: Hôtel Longemalle – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Mon Repos – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel Genève – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Montreux 

Driving from Geneva to Montreux will take you further along the shores of Lake Geneva and through the picturesque Swiss countryside. The mild climate of Montreux, with a backdrop of the Swiss Alps, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists

Montreux is home to a number of cultural and historical landmarks, including the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle located on a small island in the lake. The city is also renowned for the Montreaux Jazz Festival , which takes place every summer and attracts music lovers from all over the world, and as the home of Charlie Chaplin and his family at Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey for 25 years.

Travel Tip: The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a 20-minute drive from Montreux. They feature miles of vineyards along the hillsides of Lake Geneva and are a must-see for wine lovers.

• Where to Stay in Montreux

Upmarket: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bon Port – Booking.com | Agoda

It’s worth making a stop at Nendaz, at the foot of Mount Tracouet. You won’t be surprised to learn that there is a traditional cable car up the mountain, helping you to enjoy the incredible landscape which surrounds you.

If you’re passing Nendaz in summer you may be lucky enough to experience the Swiss Alphorn Festival . This annual festival held in late July celebrates a work of Swiss tradition and history. The alphorn is a longhorn (around 11 feet) made of wood, historically used as a means of communication, and now used in Swiss folk music.

During the festival, alpenhorn blowers from the entire world descend for the official alphorn blowing competition, a trachten parade featuring folk costumes, concerts, folklore events, village balls, and an alphorn concert which involves a band with over 150 alphorn players! This really is a spectacle and very worth seeing.

• Where to Stay in Nendaz

Upmarket: Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Cret Haute Nendaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Gîte de Planchouet – Booking.com | Agoda

Zermatt 

The drive from Montreux to Zermatt will be one of the longest legs of your trip! However, driving this incredible route will be an unforgettable experience as you further explore the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

As you approach Zermatt, you will be surrounded by towering, mountain peaks offering a glimpse into the heart of the Swiss wilderness. Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts and is renowned for its ski slopes and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.

Did you know that Zermatt is car free? You have to leave your car at one of the parking facilities in nearby Täsch. From there, Zermatt is 12 minutes awy by train, or you can grab a taxi direct to your hotel.

Definitely set aside time to hike in the Matterhorn Valley! We recommend the stunning five lakes hike, which passes the unique lakes of the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee, the latter of which is good for swimming. This is a moderately easy walk and you can reach the trailhead by taking the Sunnegga funicular from Zermatt, and then the gondola to Blauherd.

As well as hiking, Zermatt offers a range of other outdoor activities. With over 360km of ski slopes, Zermatt is one of the largest ski areas in the Swiss Alps and offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing options for all levels.

A number of restaurants in Zermatt, such as Restaurant Zum See and The Cambrian , offer mountain views alongside locally sourced ingredients and traditional Swiss dishes. 

Travel Tip: No trip to Zermatt is complete without a trip up the Matterhorn, which is one of the highest summits in the Alps at 4,478 meters above sea level. Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car or the Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train to the top for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn. 

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland That You Must Visit!

• Where to Stay in Zermatt

Upmarket: Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Mirabeau Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Bahnhof – Booking.com | Agoda

Interlaken 

The drive from Zermatt to Interlaken takes you south through the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. On route, you will pass the Weisshorngruppe. This mountain range is dominated by the Weisshorn peak, which reaches a height of 4,506 above sea level and provides a spectacular backdrop for your road trip.

There are lots of things to do in Interlaken and you can take in the cultural attractions, such as museums, churches, and traditional Swiss architecture. 

Interlaken is also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, Interlaken offers a range of activities such as tandem paragliding , bungee jumping, and white-water rafting on the nearby Lütschine river .

Bordering Interlaken are Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You can enjoy a range of activities on the emerald waters of these lakes. Lake Brienz offers jet boat tours and kayaking experiences while Lake Thun is home to the St Beatus Caves; a cave system featuring lit pathways through tunnels and chambers.

Travel Tip: While in Interlaken, take the time to visit the Harder Kulm viewpoint . With an altitude of 1,322 meters, this high vantage point allows visitors to enjoy unrivaled views of Interlaken and Unterseen.

• Where to Stay in Interlaken

Upmarket: Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Chalet Swiss – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Walters Hostel Interlaken – Booking.com | Agoda

Jungfraujoch Side Trip

The Jungfraujoch is a topographical saddle connecting two major 4,000m+ mountains of the Bernese Alps – the Jungfrau and the Mönch. It lies at an elevation of 3,463 meters above sea level and is directly overlooked by the rocky prominence of the Sphinx, and the incredible Sphinx Observatory.

The Jungfraujoch Railway is the highest in Europe and trains leave Kleine Scheidegg railway station regularly throughout the year for the “top of Europe”. Once there, you can experience breathtaking views of the snow-capped Jungfrau-Aletsch region from the Sphinx Observation Deck and the Glacier Plateau, before hitting the snow park for snow tubing, sledding, and zip lining.

In the Ice Palace are intricately detailed ice carvings and sculptures of animals such as bears, penguins, and eagles, and you’ll also be able to learn about the history of the railway here. Just to top off your visit, nearby is Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven!

With over one million visitors a year, it’s best to book your Jungfraujoch tickets well in advance. With our recommended round trip to the top of Europe package , you get your train tickets, plus entry to all the Jungfaujoch experiences except the snow park. These tickets are on a buy now, pay later basis, so you can always cancel at no cost if your plans change.

Lauterbrunnen  

Driving for twenty minutes will take you from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen. Lauterbrunnen is known for its 72 waterfalls, including the famous 300-meter-high Staubbach Falls, and the nearby Trümmelbach Falls, which gush through mountain crevices past viewing platforms.

Hiking, paragliding, rock climbing, and canyoning are all popular ways to experience what Lauterbrunnen has to offer. For a truly unique experience, consider viewing the landscape and the Bernese Alps from a hot air balloon.

Travel Tip: Lauterbrunnen and Mürren served as filming locations for the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969. From Stechelberg, get the Schilthorn cable cars to Bond World and the Birg Station at 2,970 meters. Once there, test your nerves on the Skyline Walk overlooking a vertical wall and tackle the Thrill Walk along a 200-meter cliff pathway, before walking the remaining distance to the iconic 007 Piz Gloria restaurant, which revolves to reveal a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

• Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen

Upmarket: Hotel Silberhorn – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Valley Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Grindelwald 

The drive from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on road conditions, passing traditional Swiss mountain chalets. These include Sulwald Stübli , a restaurant with mountain views that we highly suggest grabbing lunch in. 

Grindelwald is surrounded by towering peaks including the famous Eiger mountain. The challenging hike along the Eiger Trail offers breathtaking views of this iconic mountain peak.

For a much easier walk, head to the First Cliff Walk at the summit of the First mountain at 2200m above sea level, a quick ride from the village on the Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car. The walk itself is along a metal walkway and a single-rope hanging bridge constructed along a cliff. At the end of the walkway, there is a spectacular observation platform that stretches out 45 meters above the mountains below.

We suggest experiencing the Grindelwald-Männlichen Cableway while in Grindelwald. This cable car ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the famous peaks of the Eiger and Wetterhorn.

Travel Tip:  For an out-of-this-world experience, visit Grindelwald Glacier Canyon , an underground labyrinth carved out by the 250 million-year-old Grindelwald Glacier.

• Where to Stay in Grindelwald

Upmarket: Bergwelt Grindelwald Alpine Resort – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Sunstar Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Grindelwald Youth Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Furka Pass 

To reach the Furka Pass, just over an hour from Grindelwald, you’ll first have to cross the Grimsel Pass, meaning you’ll bag two of Switzerland’s best driving roads in a day. These high-altitude mountain passes in the Swiss Alps are famous for their incredible scenic drives. 

Remember, you will need to time your travel dates correctly to experience this world-renowned drive! The Grimsel and Furka Pass are only open between June and October due to travel conditions and snow on the roads, and will appear closed on our interactive map if you’re planning your route outside of the summer season.

When the road is closed you can transport your rental car by train in the Furka Base Tunnel , connecting Realp and Oberwald.

Travel Tip: The Furka Pass is located in a protected natural area, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, the road up the Furka Pass is steep, narrow, and winding, so it’s important to drive with caution, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving.

Lugano Side Trip

This is more of an optional extra than a side trip! On the other side of the Furka Pass, you have the option to head north on Route 2 to Lucerne, or south to Lugano, a good hour’s drive away. You’ll want a few days spare for this Lugano side trip!

Lugano is in an Italian-speaking region and has a distinctive Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures which are reflected in its architecture and cuisine. The city stands on the shore of beautiful Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains, including Monte San Salvatore, and is full of lively squares, lakeside walks, fun shopping streets, and colorful parks.

To tick another country off your list, hop on a boat from the downtown pier of Lugano Centrale to either Porlezza or Ponte Tresa, both of which are in Italy.

The charming city of Lucerne is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and lakes, showcasing the beauty of the Swiss countryside. A trip to Lucerne is incomplete without exploring Lake Lucerne. We would recommend experiencing the lake on a boat tour, by kayaking or paddleboarding.

While in Lucerne, we would recommend taking a Lucerne city tour to see the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and Lucerne’s historic old town. While visiting this city, you can also take a brilliant Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus trip , known as the golden round trip, which takes you on a boat, cogwheel railway, aerial cableway, and finally a gondola offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city itself.

Driving from Lucerne to Zurich takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and is the final travel day on your ultimate Switzerland road trip. 

• Where to Stay in Lucerne

Upmarket: Grand Hotel National Luzern – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Anstatthotel Horw – Booking.com | Agoda

Mount Titlis Side Trip

A half-hour scenic drive from Lucerne to Engelberg will take you to an unmissable Swiss experience. The Titlis Glacier, found atop Mount Titlis is reached on the Rotair revolving cable car from Engelberg – yep, a rotating cable car!

You can also experience an unforgettable adventure on the Ice Flyer chairlift, step inside a glacier cave and cross the Titlis cliff walk bridge suspended high over the Swiss Alps.

If you prefer not to drive, this highly rated half day tour from Lucerne will transport you to Engelberg and include all the experiences Mount Titlis has to offer.

A road trip through Switzerland is filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. From the rolling hills and pristine lakes surrounding Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne, to the stunning alpine landscapes of Zermatt, Interlaken, and Grindelwald, Switzerland offers a wealth of scenic vistas and outdoor activities.

Along the way, you can explore charming old towns, visit UNESCO world heritage sites, sample delicious Swiss cuisine, and relax in some of Europe’s most beautiful and serene natural settings.

Switzerland Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Switzerland.

• Search for affordable flights to Switzerland with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Switzerland with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Switzerland with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Switzerland with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Tips for Driving in Switzerland

Travelling in Switzerland by car is a pleasure. The roads in Switzerland are well maintained and the drivers are courteous and measured. The engineering of the mountain passes and complex tunnels and bridges that ribbon across the landscape is a real marvel.

Whether you’re traveling in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Switzerland;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Switzerland.
• You may need a visa to enter Switzerland, you can find out more on the State Secretariat for Migration website .
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you road trip in Switzerland.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle inside the car, not in the boot.
• If you wear glasses you must carry a spare pair.
• You will require a Swiss motorway vignette or toll sticker if you want to use the autobahn. It’s almost impossible to avoid doing so, and it’s easy to buy a sticker online , at the border or at a service station just inside the country. If you’re renting a car, the vignette will be included.
• If you’re planning a winter road trip to Switzerland, you should carry snow chains. Road signs will let you know when you need to put them on the car.
• In Switzerland, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Unless otherwise indicated, the vehicle coming from the right has priority at intersections.
• Drivers approaching roundabouts must give way to all traffic already on them unless otherwise indicated by signs.
• If you have a GPS navigation system that shows you where any speed cameras are, you must deactivate this function. Carrying or using radar detection equipment is illegal when driving through Switzerland.
• You may only use a mobile phone whilst driving with a hands-free device.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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«Switzerland» on a motorcycle

Discover the sights and natural wonders of Switzerland with a local guide

Discover Switzerland and its alpine passes with a motorcycle:  The time to discover and to ride the Swiss alpine roads is short. Take the expertise of a local Swiss tour guide and enjoy a stress-free motorcycling holiday in Switzerland.  

Twincruiser Tours offers guided and self-guided tours with motorcycles in Switzerland and the Alps.  You enjoy a worry- and stress-free motorcycle holiday where no-one must prove anything to anyone. 

Switzerland is small on the world map , but it will probably take you a lifetime to discover it all. I did not make the roads winding through the enchanting landscape, but I did spend countless hours finding and assessing the roads that I offer in my itineraries. As local and experienced guide I will make you discover Switzerland’s most scenic drives along open roads on two wheels! With me you will discover thoroughly some of the beauties of that alpine country and find a multitude of unique characteristics and details! Have a look and get inspired at my standard tours and the picture gallery . Don’t underestimate Switzerland, there is a multitude of tours with various possibilities; depending on your interests and available time, I design you very personal tour with a hired motorcycle. Let me introduce you into the “real Swiss life” with a ride along epic itineraries, through spectacular landscapes and meandering mountain passes. Switzerland’s excellent roads offer unique conditions to be discovered consciously on a motorcycle. 

My holiday, my time, my motorcycle tour

See Switzerland your way on a motorcycle. Do you know that feeling, you’re in group of people and each one wants something else. That was the main reason why I no longer offer tours for bikers that do not know each other. My tours are tailored to your interests and just for you and your friends. Find out more with your Twincruiser Tours guide! It is the perfect way to discover and enjoy more of Switzerland. You have the freedom to choose what you want and I have more room for flexibility and individuality. You don’t have to worry about languages, creating the best itinerary with enough time to enjoy in an unknown country, getting information about traffic rules, customs with their entry and exit requirements, local laws, health conditions, booking adequate accommodations, tickets and finding a good restaurant with local specialties. How long is your holiday? How much time do you want to invest in your motorcycling in Switzerland?

The motorcycling season in Switzerland is short ; it starts in June and ends in September. If  you want to be on the safe side, especially if you come from Australia or the USA, plan it from the third week in June until mid-September. Anything else is taking chances, where you will lose money, trust me! Twincruiser Tours organizes the complete trip with all its details and is here to support you while you enjoy your motorcycle tour.  

Touring Switzerland on a motorcycle: Authentic itineraries on open roads along magnificent scenery with your English speaking Swiss tour guide 

“Switzerland is small! How long should I stay in Switzerland?” Granted, Switzerland is small if you look at it on a world map in terms of area. What make it different, is the immense diversity. Within a tiny distance between various regions, you discover completely different and unique particularities.

Therefore, you are very much mistaken, if you think that a few days are sufficient to explore the whole of Switzerland. As with every holiday, it depends on your interests, on what you like to do, to see, to understand and to experience. Is your aim to rush straight through to some point of interests? To quickly shoot a picture with your mobile and to put in into the social media, so that you can say, I was there? And finally to tick an item off your bucket-list? Or do you rather want to see inside, with a local, meet genuine people, try authentic things and be part, even if it just for a while, be part of Switzerland. To what do you compare Switzerland? Most important is its particularities and how “deep” you want to discover the Swiss Alps, Switzerland, and the Swiss people. Swiss alpine roads are often very narrow single lane strips with technical switchbacks, challenging bends and hairpin turns. Some sections are not for the faint-earthed as there are no guardrails between the vertical drop at the edge of the road and you with your vehicle.

Which type are you? A touring-motorcyclist, a photographer, a nature lover, a foodie, a culture vulture, a thrill seeker, a pioneer, a soul searcher, or something else? With Twincruiser Tours your motorcycle holiday is tailored to your personal ideas, preferences, and taste.

Switzerland is packed with details. There is plenty to discover, to learn about, to understand and to appreciate; and all that happens within a few short miles; Swiss people are divided in four different languages in three regions (The Jura, the central plateau, and the Alps). Our caring and experienced tour-guide will get you at your own pace without wasting time, to the point. You received valuable information and tips that you would struggle to find in any book or spent many hours on the World Wide Web. A journey along spectacular and challenging roads, through charming villages, gorgeous landscape, green valley’s, crystal-clear lakes, millions of rivers falling off the mountains, deep gorges, and frightening glaciers, over the famous high Alps covered with snow and through high frosted peaks; a paradise for every connoisseur that cares and loves nature.

Enjoy it all, from a different angle in the saddle of a motorbike ; escorted with a local and multilingual Swiss tour-guide you’ll get familiar with the Swiss-people; their four languages, Swiss German in various dialects and slang, French, Italian and Romansh, their attitude, freakishness of punctuality, customs and traditions, cuisine and lots of other things that you may find totally strange, bizarre and difficult to understand. Switzerland and the Swiss! Not everybody understand why we are the way we are. .. but many appreciate and actually love the way we are!

Excellent tours with motorcycles in Switzerland: Ride to the top until you meet the Edelweiss and the Gentian!  

I grew up bilingual in Switzerland and lived over a third of my life in foreign English-speaking countries. That made me open-minded and familiar in understanding others’ opinions, cultures, way of thinking and lifestyle. Sometimes, my heart is in the African bush, and my soul is in Switzerland. Switzerland and Europe are hugely different to other countries. You will not find a similar piece of land that offers so many curiosities, stories, and attractions within such a short distance. Most people rush through Switzerland and Europe and do not notice the various particularities and details. Within a few miles or kilometers, a huge diversity: The language, the cuisine with its regional gourmets and specialties, the traditions, the shape and the architecture of the houses, all are changing within a few miles or kilometers. I will make you aware of it, so you will not miss it. They are all worth discovering and I will need a long life to discover them all.  With my valued planning system, my unique Twincruiser Tours package, my knowledge, and sense of humor, I will make sure that you get the best of what you really want!   

My website shows just a small selection of what I offer. Since nearly 50 years, I design, plan, and organize motorcycle tours and holidays. Contact me for your very own personal and tailored Swiss Holiday .

Simply… different…

Stress-free travel packages : Your way to enjoy your luxury holiday with motorcycle with complete peace of mind. You holiday begins at your Swiss landing place; whether you arrive at the Swiss airports of Genève-Cointrin, Zürich-Kloten or Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg or at the railway station in Bern, I will be there to welcome you and make you feel at ease in a foreign country.

Get to the point, leave the small talk!

Saying things just to say something, not with me. I prefer to look into your eyes and have deep and authentic talks. The time we spend together is mostly short, therefore let’s get to know each other and have some real good chats. Depending on what you say and the things I find out during our conversation, I will adjust the tour. Don’t worry, I will get you to the discussed and confirmed attractions and reveal some secrets. Due to the over-tourism and mass-tourism, I keep many attractions and special places to myself and do no longer publish them. I have gone away from most social media, because for me, social means to be personally with you. Walking or driving through cities like Bern, Interlaken, Brienz, Genève or Geneva, Interlaken, Gstaad, Lausanne, Basel, Lucerne, Lugano, Ascona, Montreux, Saas-Fee, Täsch, Zermatt, Schaffhausen or Zürich on your own or with me won’t be the same.

Below a few remarkable examples for you to help you make a choice and to decide what you’d like us to combine with your visit:

• The château of Chillon.
• Train journey with the Glacier Express.
• Rack steam railway Brienz Rothorn with the view of not less than 693 peaks built in 1892.
• A weekend in Zermatt with the Matterhorn or Cervin.
• A walk in the snow at the Top of Europe with the Eiger, Mönch and the Jungfrau.
• Enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant Piz Gloria at the Schilthorn, (James Bond movie «On Her Majesty’s Secret Service»).
• Discover the filming location of the various James Bond movies.
• Ride up to the Niesen alongside the longest stairway in the world with 11’674 steps!
• Legend and Myth at mount Pilatus? True or false? You find your own answer at the place where a long time ago, dragons with healing powers lived!
• Find the five members of the “Tatzel-worm” family in the 1,4km or just under a mile long Aare Gorge that was formed over thousands of years.
• Go back in time on the lake of Thun with the steam paddle boat “Blümlisalp” built in 1906.
• Pet a Saint Bernard dog, the real Swiss dog and hear about Barry, the Swiss icon born in 1’800 rescued and saved the lives of over 40 people in the Alps!
• Challenge the strength of a motorboat against Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls.
• Walk over the Chapel Bridge, stop at the Lion Monument and rest a while in the Jesuit Church in Lucerne.
• Hike in the Swiss National Park near Zernez. (Hiking only with appropriate shoes, please)
• Taste some of the unknown Swiss wines along the Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage.
• See interesting places where personalities like Albert Einstein, Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, known as Le Corbusier, Alberto Giacometti, Louis-Joseph Chevrolet that emigrated to the USA to set up Chevrolet in Detroit in 1911, followed by the Frontenac Motor Company in 1916, Charlie Chaplin, Freddy Mercury and his Mountain Studio, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and many others lived.
• The list is long. I know a lot and I won’t run out of suggestions! Take your time to enjoy!

Switzerland, the Swiss Alps, and discovery tours with motorcycles (motorcycle tours)

Switzerland was founded on the first of August 1291, which is also a national holiday and was declared a neutral state in 1515. Switzerland is a mountainous country in the middle of Europe and is not connected to an ocean, it is landlocked. It can be reached through three main international airports, Zürich (Kloten), Geneva (Cointrin) an Basel-Mulhouse, or by train, bus, motorcycle or by car from another European country. Switzerland does not have a capital and Bern is the federal city of Switzerland. Switzerland’s area covers 41’285 square kilometers (15’940,228 square miles) and their roughly 8,5 million people live on a habitable area of 15’700 square kilometers (6’061,80 square miles). This results on an average population density of around 541 people per square kilometers (about 1’402 people per square mile) as more than 60% of the total area is covered by rivers, lakes, forests, hills, mountains, Alps and glaciers. The mountain belt stretches across eight alpine countries, is 1’200 kilometers long (746 miles) and has 82 peaks above 4’000 meters (13’123 feet) above sea level. Out of these 82 ices- and snow- covered majestic peaks, 48 are located within Switzerland, you won’t find this anywhere else; no wonder that Switzerland is called the Roof of Europe. Switzerland on the map! The north-south length is approximately 220 kilometers (140 miles) and the west-east length about 350 kilometers (220 miles). Would it be flattened; it would reach a surface over the half of the USA: Most visitors underestimate the traveling time in the mountainous Switzerland. Our tip is to plan journeys of a minimum of 8-10 days. And who knows? You might come back for more.  Switzerland has 26 cantons and each one has its independence. Four languages Romansh, French, Italian and German or rather Swiss German with various dialects are spoken. The motorcycle season in Switzerland is very short. Depending on the opening of the alpine passes, the season for motorcycles starts around mid-June and ends during September. I experienced snow falls during August and let me tell you that, on a motorcycle it is not funny. It will block you, you might have a bad experience, it will definitely cost you money and believe me, they is no immediate way out. If you are unsure, contact me , I will most probably save you a lot of time, unnecessary costs and expenses and give you a true and right information that you can rely on. 

There is a multitude of places to discover.   Are you one of these very high paced traveller?  Quickly a picture to put into one of these social medias and hope they we go to the next highlight. There is much more than just riding and rushing through Lucerne with the mount Pilatus and the River Reuss, the Titlis, Interlaken with the Jungfrau, Eiger, Top of Europe, Grindelwald and the lakes of Thun and Brienz, Zermatt with the Matterhorn and the Gornergrad Railway, Zürich, Lausanne, and Geneva to name some main tourist magnets.  The trick is to know what, when and how! With an experienced and local insider guide, I  will save you a lot of time, make you see more and deeper with a knowledge that only an indigenous can give you and you will be much less stressed. Don’t forget you are on a holiday to recover from the daily routine life! 

As experienced and local tourist guide , I am able to offer you various packages to natural beauties and attractions for an unforgettable holiday with or without a motorcycle or another vehicle in Switzerland.

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3 Best Motorcycle Roads in Switzerland

If Switzerland isn’t on your motorcycle riding bucket list, get ready to fall in love with one of the most beautiful countries in the world! This mountainous region of Europe is known for its awe-inspiring cliffs, medieval architecture and curvy roads that can easily throw some of the most experienced riders for a loop. You’ll encounter steep inclines and sharp turns that are sure to keep you guessing every step of the way for a riding tour you’ll never forget. Learn about the best motorcycle roads in Switzerland to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

What to Bring

You’ll need a quality set of wheels to get around safely, so make sure your motorcycle is ready for the trip at hand. Whether you ride to Switzerland on your own bike, plan on renting or shipping your bike overseas, spend some time checking the various components or ask a professional to give it a tune-up. Switzerland is known as one of the highest countries in the world with an average elevation of 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level, so you’ll need to keep the brakes engaged when going downhill to decrease your speed. Some cities and roads are paved with cobblestone, which means more turbulence. Check the tire pressure as well and keep a portable pump in your pack to keep the PSI in the ideal range.

Rent or buy all the necessary riding safety gear, including a full-face helmet, gloves, boots and long sleeve shirts and long pants. Turn your helmet into a wireless headset with a motorcycle helmet Bluetooth kit to talk to your companions or passenger hands-free when riding. Mount your phone or GPS on the handlebars to keep them in your line of sight so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.

Use the Cardo Packtalk Edge if you plan on traveling in a group of two riders or more. The device lets you connect to up to 15 riders at a time and uses dynamic mesh communication to keep you connected even when you fall out of formation. It will automatically reconnect when in range to keep you focused on the task at hand.

The best time of year to motorcycle through Switzerland is spring, summer and fall. Temperatures can drop precipitously the higher you go, so bring warm, insulating layers that you can take on and off as needed.

Use a Motorcycle Helmet Bluetooth Kit to Talk Hands-Free

Where to Go

Source: 4kclips/Shutterstock.com

The country is full of beautiful landmarks and terrain to explore, including rural areas teeming with natural wonders and major cities like Zurich and Geneva. These routes are among the most notable drives in all of Europe, so take this opportunity to put your riding skills to the test.

1. Furka Pass

Perhaps most famous for its role in the James Bond film Goldeneye , in which 007 Sean Connery gets chased down the pass in an Aston Martin DB5 by Tilly, who’s driving a Ford Mustang. That won’t happen to you unless you happen to be an international spy, but the path up or down the mountain will still give you a thrill. It sits at 2,431 meters (7,975 feet) above sea level and runs 70 kilometers along the Furka from the town of Brig to Andermatt. It also plays host to a legendary ice tunnel drilled into the Rhone Glacier with a guided walk that takes place every year in the spring. Some stretches are cobblestone, but it is otherwise paved.

2. Gotthard Pass

Known as the “King of Mountain Passes,” the Gotthard Pass zigs and zags its way between the alpine towns Hospental and Airolo. It features an elevation of 2,108 meters (6,916 feet) and once served as the only route to a hospice that once sat at the top of the summit. If you don’t feel like weaving up the pass, you can also take the more modern route, which features a 16.9-kilometer-long tunnel opened in 1980 that takes you through a section of the mountain.

Source: Chris Rinckes/Shutterstock.com

Albula Pass

With an elevation of 2,306 meters (7,565 feet) above sea level, this cliffside road isn’t for the faint of heart, mainly because there is nothing standing between you and the abyss except a thin strip of metal. It weaves 39.9 kilometers west-east from Albula/Alvra to La Punt Chamues-ch and is completely paved. You will need to be comfortable taking sharp turns and steep inclines, but the view at the top is more than worth it.

Explore Switzerland on a Motorcycle

Ready for more adventure? Start planning your Alps motorcycle tour today !

Planning an Alps Motorcycle Tour: The Ultimate Guide

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The Ultimate Alps Motorcycle Route Guide

Welcome to the Alps Motorcycle Route Guide! This article is packed with info on touring the Austrian, Italian and Swiss Alps by motorcycle. It includes an expert 14-day ride report on the BEST Alps route out there with maps, top alpine passes and everything you need to know for the perfect Alps motorcycle tour!

By Paul Yarrow

Over 40 years of motorcycle touring experience in the UK and Europe

The Alps motorcycle route guide

This Alps route guide is a two-week motorcycle immersion in the beautiful Austrian, Italian and Swiss Alps. It covers as many of the top Alpine passes as possible and makes for an unbelievable Alps motorcycle tour. You’ll find everything you need in this guide starting with loads of info on the region, a downloadable Alps Route Map and a day-by-day route guide. If you have any more questions, please feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of this article.

The Alps route map

The Alps route is a 13-night, 2,648-mile loop from the Eurotunnel at Calais. Here are the main destination points: Folkestone – Calais – Alle-sur-Semois – Bad Teinach – Garmisch – Braies – Livigno – Bellinzona – Weggis – Faschina – Turckheim – Soissons – Calais.

Download the entire route: myrouteapp.com/yarromoto 

When to go.

I travelled in June to ensure that the passes were open. You may find that the extra UK Bank Holiday days in May or August/Sept would be more useful for your planning purposes. If you go in May, bear in mind that some of the higher passes may still be closed or subject to local weather conditions. Check out this handy website for more info on European School Holidays

My total cost in June 2019 for dinner and hotels was approx £1,130 (£80-£85 per day). If you want to make it a cheaper trip, simply avoid Switzerland’s hotels, plus Eurotunnel, fuel, lunch snacks and bar bills. I prefer quality hotels with secure parking whenever possible. Cheaper accommodation is widely available dependent on your preference or budget.

Accommodation 

Here’s a list of hotels I used on my trip and recommend:

• Hostellerie Le Charme de la Semois   Alle-sur-Semois, Belgium  T: 0032-6150-8070
• Hotel Therme Bad Teinach, Germany T: 0049-70-53-290
• Hotel Rheinischer Hof Garmisch-Partinkirchen, Germany T: 0049-8821-9120
• Hotel Asterbel Braies, Italy T: 0039-04-7474-9025
• Hotel Posta Livigno, Italy T: 0039-0342-99-6076
• Hotel Bellinzona Sud Switzerland. T: 0041-91-8570-171
• Hotel Friedheim Weggis, Switzerland T: 0041-41-390-1181
• Sport Hotel Domig Faschina, Austria T: 0043-43-5510-2060
• Hotel des Deux Clefs Turckheim, France T: 0033-38-9270-601
• Best Western Plus Soissons, France T: 0033-360-71-4000

Alternatively, check out this Booking.com map of all available hotels in the area.

You should take originals of your passport, driver’s licence, insurance certificate, MoT if required, your V5 (logbook) and insurance for your motorcycle. It’s also highly advisable to get travel insurance.

READ MORE: The UK Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide

International Driving Permits (IDP) are available from your local Post Office and will be required once the UK leaves the EU, probably from Jan 2021. Check the Gov website for more information.

Getting there and away

From the UK I always prefer to take the faster Eurotunnel at Folkestone to Calais, as you can usually time your arrival with a short stop in the boarding line before a speedy train ride to France.

Alternatively, there are slower ferry options available such as Direct Ferries from Folkstone to Calais or the  DFS Ferry from Dover to Calais. If you are travelling from further north, there is a ferry from Hull via P&O Ferry to Zeebrugge, Belgium. 

We recommend booking and checking with directferries.co.uk as you can find up-to-date and current sailing times and routes and book in advance.

And, you could always opt for a transport company to take your bike to Europe so you don’t have to ride all those motorway miles. 

Or, if you’re flying to Europe to rent a motorcycle to ride the Alps, then we recommend using skyscanner.net to find the cheapest flights. Just make sure when selecting dates that you click ‘flexible dates’ and select by month. That way you’ll find the cheapest dates in green.

• How to Transport Your Motorcycle from the UK to Europe
• Recommended UK to Europe Transport Companies

Riding gear, luggage and packing for an Alps motorcycle tour

Below you’ll find info and a selection of links to more in-depth guides on choosing the right gear and equipment for your touring trips.  

Riding gear

Your riding gear depends on the time of year you travel. But let’s assume you’re not going in the middle of winter, so in that case you’re going to want functional touring gear that can cope with hot weather and also keep you warm when blasting down motorways and riding in altitude. You’ll find touring specific gear guides such as our best touring jackets and helmets, winter guides and how to choose the right kit in the below section. 

READ MORE: Motorcycle Riding Gear Guides

Your focus on a European motorcycle tour is to enjoy the riding and so your luggage system shouldn’t hinder or affect your handling and riding. There are plenty of options out there and what you go for will depend on how much you carry, what bike you own and budget. Take a look at the luggage guides below for help choosing the right luggage for your trip.  

READ MORE: Motorcycle Luggage Guides

For a European tour, you don’t need to go crazy with your packing kit list. Everything should be kept as light and minimal as possible with low volume gear. This will ensure your luggage stays tighter and more compact against the bike. Here are all of our dedicated packing guides for you to read up on.

READ MORE: Motorcycle Packing Guides

And here’s a selection of equipment you might find useful on your tour. For example, getting a quality sat nav is important so you don’t waste valuable riding time and can plot out the best routes beforehand. 

READ MORE: Motorcycle Electronics Guides

Top tips for motorcycle touring in the Alps

Speed limits vary between the countries mentioned in this guide, so I recommend that you visit the AA website   and check for current limits.

• Speed limits in France are far more strictly enforced than years gone by and fines can now be routed back to UK riders due to information sharing with the DVLA. This may change once Brexit is finalised, but at the moment you should take extra care.
• Be especially careful within 20 miles of Calais and close to any service areas with a cash point!
• Unless you see a sign indicating otherwise, the speed limits are generally 130kmph (80mph) or 110kmph in the rain on motorways. On other roads, the speeds can range from 50kph to 110kph. Some villages now have 30kph limits (18mph) and again, these are often enforced. (Check AA site above).
• Switzerland: Do not get caught speeding! it can be expensive even if you’re a few kph over limit. 25kph+ over a limit and you will receive a massive fine and be walking home. They can be very covert with their mobile checks, so you probably won’t be aware of an issue until they step into the road and ruin your day.
• Many European villages/towns also have a flashing traffic light system as you enter. If you are speeding, then you will find another set of traffic lights a short distance later, which may be set to red as your penalty for a few moments.

Vignettes are required for Austria and Switzerland and can be purchased via these links or while in transit.

Take Care on the mountain passes. They can be full of motorcyclists, cyclists, camper vans, coaches, tractors, car clubs, horses and cows, and they’re all competing for your part of the road. Also, local motorcyclists know these roads intimately and will usually demonstrate their knowledge, so check your mirrors twice before initiating an overtake.

When do the Passes open? The Drive Alive website is a great resource for checking the status of Passes. This website specifically covers the alpine passes in Switzerland and it offers a downloadable smart phone app.

Check List: Tyre life, travel tickets, passport expiry date and credit/debit cards, euro currency, motorbike insurance/tax/recovery service, travel health insurance, International Driving Permit. Also, download a copy of the official European Accident Statements form before you depart.

Ride Report: The Ultimate Alps Motorcycle Route

Day 1: calais to alle.

• Rating: 3/5

We arrived in Calais at about 10:30 and headed south-west on the A16/E40 motorway network, followed by the E42/N225 via Mons, then joined the N40/N53 across the flat countryside of northern France. At Chimay we took the N99 to Couvin and then onto the E420 through rolling countryside and woodland to Hiraumont.

The final section was an absolute joy as we joined the D1 to ride through the woods, which flow beside the winding River Meuse and then across the bridge to a refreshment stop in Montherme. The road goes on for a further 18 miles and snakes its way beside the River Semois before arriving at a comfortable hotel with ample parking set close to the village of Alle, Belgium at 17:00. The temperature reached 23.5C.

Day 2: Alle to Bad Teinach

• Rating: 4/5

We looked forward to the longish ride to the next overnight in Bad Teinach among the German mountains. Heading south via Alle, we joined the narrow D6 and rode through more woodland down to Douzy before joining the faster and busier N964 road south all the way to Bras-sur-Meuse. 

The route heads east for a few miles to a coffee shop/restaurant located close to the Ossuaire de Douaumont  war cemetery. We paid our respects to the lives lost in 300 days of endless conflict during the Battle of Verdun, which raged between Feb–Dec 1916.  Please read and respect the online rules regarding photography if you intend to look inside this historical monument.

We continue across more rolling countryside before joining the N904 and the open straight roads typical of northern France through the Parc Naturel Regional de Lorraine. From Dieuze continue east on D roads crossing the River Rhine into Germany at Gambsheim and to the well-known spa town of Baden-Baden.

Now we head across the National Park Schwarzwald Nord to join the 462 as it heads south besides the River Murg and then to Seewald. Heading out on the 294 for the last 20 odd miles via some tight, forested bends for our arrival just before 18:30 at an amazing, 4-star spa hotel set within the Black Forest and offering excellent facilities.  Today’s temperature reached 26C.

Day 3: Bad Teinach to Garmisch

Riding southeast on minor roads to our two nights in Garmisch, Germany. Skirting around the North of Rottenburg on the 28, then after joining the L385 you’ll find a fantastic stretch of fast and winding road between Weiler and Ofterdingen.

We then headed for a morning coffee stop in Zwiefalten and parked beside the water fountains at the front. Beware of village speed cameras along the next stretch. Our next major town is Leutkirch, after which we join the L319 for a glorious 10-mile cross country route on some fast sweeping curves towards Kempten. 

We join a main road to cross the River Iller just outside Hegge and onwards to Reutte in Austria and the L255 that skirts the large lake. Stop near the Hotel Seespitze for afternoon refreshments and photos.  Now it’s just a 30-mile ride around the Ettaler forest to arrive at our hotel on the western outskirts of town at 16:30.  The temperature reached 26C.

Day 4: Eibsee

This can be a rest day to explore Garmisch town centre or head for a short ride to the Eibsee cable car station for a lift up to the Zugspize mountain (Germany’s highest at 2,600m) and the glacier and igloo hotel. 

However, you can always opt for a loop ride around the roads circling the nearby Zugspitze Mountain, which loom over the Garmisch area instead. 40 miles into the ride and we easily missed the Heckenbach Waterfall beside the hairpin 11 road leading up to a parking/viewing vantage point on the south side of Kochelsee Lake. 

There’s some fantastic photos to be taken here before a short five-mile ride to the lakeside village of Walchensee for a morning coffee stop at the Seestuberl Restaurant/Cafe and more photos. Due to its beauty, this is apparently a favoured area for retirement by wealthy ex-Munich residents. 

We then headed via the wooded river valleys to Mittenwald and the open Leutasch Valley. It’s worth a quick stop for a bike/view photo here.  After a light lunch stop in Oberer Mooswaldweg, which sits at the south of the loop ride, we then headed onto the fast winding valley roads to Lermoos before a short ride back to Garmisch in the shade of the mighty Zugspitse mountain. The temperature reached 27C.

Day 5: Garmisch to Braies

• Rating: 5/5

We left at 09:30 for this 9-hour day to Braies in Italy mainly due to photo stops and filming. Heading south to Telfs before jumping on the A12 motorway for a short distance and picking up the B186 south for 32 miles down a river valley to the toll station for the Timmelsjoch Pass 2,509m. There are many viewing points to enjoy and several café/hotels as you negotiate the splendid bends up and over this well-known road.  

A little further on we find the start of the ride up the San Leonardo Pass SS44 with its multitude of hairpins. We lunched at the Gasthof Schlossborg located on the right some way up. The terraced area offers wonderful views into the valley and you can also watch the low-riders scraping their pegs around the hairpin. Afterwards, we ride the bends on our way further up this pass and over to the Jaufenpass 2,094m, which becomes the Di Giovo (apparently the Italian translation of Jaufen). 

The SS12 and SS49 take us further into Italy and our modern 4-star ski hotel at Braies, which is located about one mile off the SS49 and up a lush, quiet valley, dwarfed by the surrounding Dolomite mountains.  The spacious timber beamed bedrooms are very comfortable and come with large balconies. The temperature reached 25C.

Day 6: Braies to Livigno

We left the hotel at 09:15 in warm sunshine and returned westward in the anticipation of another 9 hours of riding numerous passes before eventually arriving in Livigno, Italy.

First, we returned on the ribbon of roads leading back over the SS44 via Giovo/Jaufen and San Leonardo passes down to Merano. From there we picked up the SS38 heading further west for about 35 miles to Spondigna.

About 7 miles from the start of the Stelvio Pass, we exited a tunnel to be met with pouring rain and hail stones that forced an early roadside lunch stop further down this road to change out of sodden Gore-Tex gloves.

The SS38 now heads along the approach to the infamous 48 hairpins and steeper side to the Stelvio Pass summit. I strongly suggest that you try to traverse the Stelvio early morning, or much later in the day than myself at 15:30-16:00 otherwise you’ll find it heaving with bikes, car clubs and camper vans. Due to the traffic, we found it quite “challenging” meeting other travellers on the hairpin corners where sometimes one or the other will have to come to a complete stop. You will relish the opportunity of a break at the summit to calm your nerves, take onboard refreshments and buy your Stelvio sticker as proof of passage.

Head over the summit towards Bormio now and steer left at the first junction unless you fancy a pleasant diversion down the Umbrail Pass.  However, we continued down the many bends with spectacular views on our descent of the SS38 to Bormio. There are usually a couple of Stelvio cameramen on this section to snap you for a memento. Perhaps slow to enjoy the cascades of water falling in front of you on one particular downhill section.

Once at the bottom there are about 20 miles to go. It started to rain heavily on us for the remainder of the ride as we ventured over the Foscagno Pass towards central Livigno and our traditional ski hotel with views of ski slopes from the rear bedrooms. The hotel provides a slippery floored underground car park too. The temperature today was variable.

Day 7: Tirano

A rest day to explore the delights of Livigno, or take my short morning loop ride via Tirano in the south. At 09:30 I led a small group on a clockwise ride to stretch our bike legs. The weather app forecast better weather for the morning before rain would come into the area later.

We headed back over the Foscagno Pass, through the border crossing with its backdrop of peaks and down via Bormio before heading south on the SS38. This is a fairly main road with around six 2km-long tunnels with 70kph limits on our way to our morning stop in Tirano. We had just settled down to our coffees and pastries in the centre of town when out of nowhere a train appeared through the town centre and up the road junction next to us!

Onward on the SS38 in a northerly direction this time, cross the border again, stop at Lake Poschiavo for a photo op, into the town of the same name and watch out for rail tracks that cross the road. The drizzle started as we pushed on up the fast and exciting Bernino Pass. We made progress up and over the border summit where, surprisingly, roads remained fairly dry, before returning to Livigno as the rain really set in. Duty Free fuel in Livigno, so try to fill up here.

Day 8: Livigno to Bellinzona

• Rating: 5/5 (if dry)

A snaking 8-hour south-westerly adventure today via the Fluella, Albula, Julier and San Bernadino Passes to our next location in Bellinzona, Switzerland.

We left the hotel at 09:00 in the rain with a forecast of more during our day. Turning north out of Livigno, we ride past the reservoir and pay 12 euros per bike at the toll booth. It’s for the 3.5km single-bore Munt La Schera tunnel that fires you through the mountain side from Italy into Switzerland once the traffic lights change in your favour. It was well lit and not as claustrophobic as I had expected. As we exited the tunnel into Switzerland, a border guard checked our bikes for visible vignettes as we rode past him. These should only be required for the motorway system at present, so unsure why he checked.

As we turned left onto the 28, I reminded myself of Swiss speed limits as we threaded our way up the tree-lined bends to Zernez before continuing on the 28 along the winding River Inn valley and into the centre of picturesque Susch. Taking a left at the junction signposted for Davos and at the top of the rise, we see the sign that confirms the Fluelapass 2,383m is open. By now it was properly raining and my Gore-Tex gloves were giving up the fight to repel water. We rode the open hairpins up the Fluelapass to a coffee stop for a warm-up at the welcoming Gasthaus zum Tschuggen .

Heading down the open sweepers of the valley beyond into Davos, where we head south-west towards Alvaneu down a ribbon of bends hugging the valley side to the T-junction at the bottom. We turn left, up the valley towards the Albulapass 2,312m and as we ride higher, the mountains on either side start squeezing in on the road as it first narrows before quickly opening into another valley where the roads deteriorated a little down to Preda. Afterwards, we turn right onto the 27 and follow the perimeter road of Engadin airfield on our left before riding through the famous ski town of St Moritz.

At Silvaplana, we turn right on the smooth 3 with its wide and rocky outcrops up to the open Julier Pass 2,284m before the sharpish hairpins on the far side of the summit and switchbacks down the other side to beautiful Lake Marmorera. We then rode north up the 3 to the town of Albula where we continue on the well-maintained sweeping roads signposted towards Chur. At Thusis we head south on the fast A13, pass Nufenen and join the smaller 13 up the valley and through hairpin corners. It leads to the summit of the San Bernandino Pass 2,066m and Moesola lake where the weather eventually started to brighten.

Be warned, Swiss prices can be horrendous…we pulled into a small, family-run refreshment stop mid-afternoon and innocently ordered four coffees with three slices of home-made cake, a bottle of water…and my turn at paying the bill came to 34 euros. Ouch!.  We swiftly moved on following the A13 to our hotel which backs onto views but is part of a less attractive fuel/restaurant/parking complex within the Bellinzona valley. 

Day 9: Bellinzona to Weggis

Eight hours of warm weather was predicted on our way north via the Lukmanier Pass and Klausenpass to Weggis for two nights overlooking Lake Lucerne in Switzerland.

We left in 22C warmth up to Gorduno. Then the 2 running north to Biasco before turning onto the 416 further north and our first climb of the day up the fast and smooth Lukmanier Pass 1,915m, which offers spectacular vistas. At the summit, Lake Sontga Maria provides a great photo opportunity before descending the curves of the open valley to a bend in the road at Pardatsch. Here you can park to look at the stream and the nearby polished boulders formed into evocative forms.

Continuing down via Disentis and the 19 along the elevated roadway of another valley, all the way to Landquart before changing onto the E43 dual carriageway and eventually passing the long Walensee lake on the right-hand side. After the lake we take an exit south onto the 3/17 for about 20 miles and then onto the best part of day: the Klausen Pass 1952m.

I had never ridden the brilliant Klausenpass before, but we fought for road space with the cattle that littered the lower pastures before we negotiated the easy hairpins with stunning views back down the valley. It dramatically rises through myriad of bends, although choked with traffic in places, reaching a small, snowy plateau and the Restaurant Clariden for refreshments and photographs of the valley. The descent on the far side of the summit was challenging for my vertigo. It’s more like a wide balcony road with little in the way of barrier protection other than a few infrequently spaced steel posts and one horizontal rail that optimistically hopes to save you from a flight to the valley floor.

Once we reach the bottom of the 17, we headed onto the 4 dual-carriageway north with the sun bouncing off the surface of Lake Lucerne on our left while heading to our hotel in an semi-elevated location within Weggis. Its exact location is not immediately obvious, but after a few moments we realise that it must be at the top of a single-track residential lane. The location provides a stunning view for miles over Lake Lucerne from the balconies of our spacious rooms in this twin-building hotel arrangement. The evening meal was served on the terrace as we basked in a delightfully warm evening overlooking the lake. The temperature ranged 24-27C today.

Day 10: Furka and Grimsel

Another fabulously sunny morning for our rest day in Weggis.  However, a small group of riders decided to join me on a five-hour loop ride to tick off the Furka and Grimsel Passes that we had to detour the previous day. 

It was already very warm as we left Weggis on a clockwise route back around the 2B main road on the eastern side of Lake Lucerne. 47 uneventful miles later and we arrive on the smaller roads approaching the Furkha Pass and stop for a morning coffee at the Hotel Post  in the charming alpine hamlet of Realp.

Refreshed with caffeine, we headed up the 19 used for a cameo part in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger. The roads wind up to the summit of the Furkha 2,431m before traversing to the Rhone Glacier at 2,300m and the Belvedere Hotel , which was built in 1882. In the 1950s the glacier extended about 2km further than in 2019, right down into the valley basin and town of Gletsch. Unfortunately, the glacier has retreated so much over the last 100 years that it’s mostly retreated past the hotel and car park now.

From here, the bends are faster down into the valley floor and along to Gletsch where we turn right off the 19 and head up the many sweepers to the Grimsel Pass 2,165m summit car park and Lake Totensee. Snow still stands tall on either side of the road up here.

We ride downward on the wide hairpins past the Grimelsee and Raterichsbodensee lakes to Guttennen. Beyond these the 6 road to Innertkirchen is particularly enjoyable with fast woodland bends, elevations and well-maintained roads. The 4 road then heads towards the city of Lucerne and past the rich green colour of Lakes Lungernersee and Sardersee before joining the dual-carriageway and a return to Weggis. The temperature today was 26C.

Day 11: Weggis to Faschina

We enjoyed our last breakfast on the lawn overlooking Lake Lucerne in 20C. Another day in paradise!

We head eight hours east to Faschina in the mountains of Austria via the Klausenpass in reverse direction this time: the toll road, Silvretta Pass and the Hochtannbergpass.

Our route started with another ride of the fantastic Klausenpass on stunning roads. Continue on the 17 road up to Niederurnen before turning further east on the A3 dual-carriageway along to Regitzer Spitz. Join the A13 passing Vaduz in Lichtenstein and up to Feldkirch. We had to stop several times for water because of the 33C heat. Thankfully it was only 24C in the long and frequent tunnels as we headed south east on the A14/188 to Partenen.

Rolling up to the western toll station of the 22km long Silvretta Pass 2037m. It’s known as the “Dream road in the Alps for connoisseurs” containing 34 fantastic hairpins, but bear in mind that it usually remains closed until early June. We experienced traffic lights and road works along the lower Vermuntstausee reservoir section, but I guess you have to expect constant maintenance on any type of toll road.

The road is race-track smooth over the majority of the pass length and can be fully exploited if the traffic is light. The best photo stop is regarded to be high up between bends 22 and 23, but to be honest I’d lost count by then and just chose a point at a section overlooking double hairpins. Pushing onto the summit and past the huge reservoir of Silvretta-Stausee, which perches on the far side with the road threading its way down the hillside to the eastern toll station. 

We then travel towards Pians before hooking onto the S16 road travelling west now and onto the mountain roads via St. Anton, then joining the 198 road north to Warth. Only 20 miles remaining via the 200 road over the Hochtannberg Pass and into the slower riding through the peaks of this ski area to our hotel , which is located on a hairpin bend and proudly stands near the top of a valley in Faschina with stunning views from our balcony rooms. Drained from the heat and glad to finally arrive, we grab a beer on the sunny, elevated terrace and wait to cheer the remainder of our group as they appear over the summit. Temperature reached 33C today.

Day 12: Faschina to Turckheim

Due to predicted high temperatures today, some of our group chose to leave very early this morning. Two of us left at 08:45 for an eight-hour day to our next hotel in the cobbled centre of Turckheim in France. As we needed to free-up some time to visit the Bugatti Museum in Mulhouse on our way, we chose to navigate a quicker route. You may choose to re-route this day across fewer main roads.

We started with a short ride back to Damuls before heading west on the L51 in the direction of Feldkirch. Only a few short miles from the hotel we unexpectedly found the twists of the Furkajoch Pass, which provided another memorable photo opportunity before pursuing 15 more miles and then riding via Koblach and onto the minor road through the delightful Apfenzellar valley in 27C heat. As we stopped to take more photos of the vista, we both confided that the heat was making us a little lightheaded, so we promised to stop more regularly for water breaks.

Just outside of St Gallen we jumped onto the 1 dual-carriageway for 30 miles to Winterthur before changing onto the 7 travelling further west to Koblenz and crossing the River Rhine onto the 34. Riding north of Basel and into Mulhouse and the car park for the Schlumpf Motor Museum . The entry fee was 13 euros per adult. We would’ve probably paid twice that amount just to sit in the air-conditioned restaurant and cool from the sweltering heat.

The museum is massive. The Schlumpf brothers had to originally take larger collections that included different models just to acquire the Bugatti they really desired, so the variety of vehicles is truly mind boggling. The 1.5 hours we had spare for the collection did not do it any justice. I would also have liked to spend more time within each of the specialist areas that also covered motorsport and the contemporary Bugattis. Guess I’ll have to revisit sometime then! 

Our final destination was located directly north of Mulhouse on the western side of Colmar, and in the central cobbled area of Turckheim old town. Our charming hotel is a Renaissance building built in 15 th  century and classified as a historic monument since 1930. It has to be the most interesting of this trip with a maze of ground floor rooms, is full of character, has a romantic dining room and warmly decorated bedrooms…but no a/c.  The temperature reached 33C today.

Day 13: Turckheim to Soissons

The route today is from Turckheim to Soissons via the old Reims motor racing grandstands. Our group left the hotel at 08:30 and it was already a scorching 28.5C.

Due to the predicted 36C at the height of the day, I abandoned my longer, original route for a relatively direct five-hour ride. North west today and a lovely 25 miles through the cooler Vosges switchbacks on the D415 with very little traffic to Arnould.

North on the D415 up to the N59 dual-carriageway starting at Sainte-Marguerite through to the southern outskirts of Nancy and the A31/N4 westward 80 miles to Vitry-le-Francois. We had to stop frequently for refreshment stops along the way.

The N44 took us past Chalons-en-Champagne and the N31 to the Circuit Reims on the D27 for the obligatory photographs. Soaking up the atmosphere while wandering around the old racing pits and grandstand complex in 35C heat.

Having ticked that box, we headed back onto the N31 which took us the 30 miles to our next hotel in Soissons. The hotel was quite a modern contrast from last night. It was very welcome after such a hot day’s ride, however, I was less pleased to hear that the a/c had yet to be installed. Another hard day’s night to look forward to then. The temperature reached 36C today.

Day 14: Soissons to Calais

An 08:50 start on our last day of the trip for our D roads north-westerly ride across countryside to the Eurotunnel at Calais. We pick up the D6 across the typically flat farmland of this area, up to Blérancourt before taking the D934 via Noyon and more open countryside. We divert around the centre of Roye and back onto the open D934 to then move onto the less busy D23 with a few more sweepers north to Doullens.

The D916 heads across more countryside via Frevent and then the D104 farmland up to Fruges. The sparse traffic on the D191 offered more elevation changes as we glided through long sweepers between little villages and towns, across the lovely Parc Naturel via Coulomby to join the A26/E15 for the last 20 miles to arrive at Eurotunnel check-in at 12:50.

 A quick note: for 2020, the Tour de Suisse cycle race has been cancelled, so you won’t experience the route closures that we had to detour around on one day.

About the author

Paul Yarrow is based in the UK with 40 plus years’ touring experience of the UK & Europe. Two years ago, he started filming his trips and created a growing YouTube channel, plus social media pages to share his trips, photos and routes with other motorcyclists.

You can follow Paul’s travels here:

• YouTube: Yarro Moto 
• Facebook: Yarro Moto
• Instagram: Yarro_Moto
• Downloadable route: myrouteapp.com/yarromoto 
• Read more of Paul’s articles on our   Contributors page

Read more on motorcycle travel in the Alps and Europe

Thanks for checking out our Ultimate Alps Motorcycle Route and Guide. We hope you enjoyed it! Here’s a few more articles on motorcycling in the Alps and Europe that we recommend you read next. 

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ps.  We may receive a small commission, at absolutely no cost to you, if you purchase any products using the links on this page. We’re not sponsored by anyone, are completely impartial and don’t run ads. So this helps us keep the site running. Thank you for your support.

Try these next…

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Motorcycle Travel Guide: Europe

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Are you planning a motorcycle tour in the Alps or do you have any questions or tips to share? Let us know in the comments below. 

26 thoughts on “the ultimate alps motorcycle route guide”.

Cracking writeup. Just got to wait for this all to clear up and then will be looking to follow this route. Thanks

Hi Davey! Glad you liked Paul’s article. Hoping it clears up soon and you get to go on your tour! Let us know how you get on. Cheers!

Cheers Davey, you’ll love the routes…just watch your speed in Switzerland. All the best. Paul.

Hi Paul one thing i cant agree with you more is fitting all the route in the ride. I’m piking up a bike form Munich for 6 days and I need your help sharing an actual route to plug it my Tom-tom . I’m thinking Germany , Vienna , Italy Swiss and Back to Munich . Can you please advise

Hi Maliter,

Paul may not check this article’s comment section before your trip starts in two days time, so you could always try sending him a message on his Facebook page: Yarro Moto

And if you need to download a route urgently, then go with my forum suggestion of: As you’re starting your trip imminently, I have a good suggestion for you. Visit http://www.simonweir.co.uk and take a look at his downloadable GPX routes. They’re priced at about 70p per route so very, very fair. He has a Contact page where you can get in touch if you need additional help.

Cheers and best of luck,

thank you Andy , Regards

Can I ask you how far in advance you booked your hotels,re: did you book them all in advance of your trip or as you went

Also, would you estimate that there’s is always sufficient accommodation available tom allow say booking 1 day ahead ?

All hotels were pre-booked, as I find that to be my preference.

There are a huge choice of hotels to choose from.

I completely agree with you Paul about fitting all the routes in the ride. As I am biking from Munich for six days, I would appreciate it if you could send me an actual route that I can plug into my Tom-Tom. I’m thinking of Germany, Vienna, Italy, Swiss, and back to Munich. I would appreciate your advice

Apologies for the delay in responding, I do not always get flagged immediately with fresh comments on here.

As you can see above, you can download the routes that I rode but with a full time job, I do not have time to offer a custom route-planning service on demand.

I would suggest looking to use the route planning MyRoute-app for your desktop. Use the ‘HERE’ map option, plot your overnight stops first, then use the Toolkit > Avoid > Highways, then drag the route to ride interesting roads between your stops…flip between the ‘HERE’ map and the ‘Michelin’ map option, so that you can see where the interesting Green/White roads are highlighted, that normally suggests the better route.

Have a great trip and I hope this information helps.

Thanks to Paul & MadorNomad for sharing this ride! I’ve been following the advice & route guidance closely and now have all these routes plotted into my Calimoto app. I’ll be travelling down from Inverness, Scotland so I’ll be using the ferry crossing from Newcastle – Amsterdam, but otherwise my planned routing & overnight stops will remain largely the same. I’m happy to say my Hotels & Ferry all booked for July 2023. Thanks guys! Andy

Hi Andy, Thanks for your comment and I’m glad to hear you found this article helpful. Enjoy your trip and all the best! Please do let us know how you get on once you’re back! And ps, thanks for subscribing to our newsletter and Paul’s Youtube channel! Much appreciated 🙂 Cheers, Andy

Now subscribed to the MadorNomad Newsletter & Paul’s ‘Yarro Moto’ Youtube channel. Invaluable sources of info! Thanks

Thank you Andy, I appreciate your support on my YouTube channel. I’m in the process of editing the video of my recent 18 day Sept trip around the ‘Pyrenees, Portugal & Picos’, which you may find interesting. I look forward to hearing how your own trip goes? ATB, Paul.

Good article and as someone planning a trip from Australia this year very helpful.

However, when checking accom on the booking links you had, the rooms were substantially higher than suggested(80 quid a day, the hotels were 150 quid).

Would this be due to the time of year(i’m looking at June/July)? Or were you finding smaller places as you went that are not on booking.com?

My plan is to not book ahead to give myself as much flexibility as possible, just find accom whereever i am as i need it. Is this viable and what would be the realistic cost of cheap accom?

I found the very same thing, re: room costs. I’ve opted for hotels in similar areas but more within my budget. I’ve provisionally booked hotels through Booking.com, so they’re all together in one app – pay on arrival. I’m SO looking forward to this tour!

As mentioned on my comment to Liam’s post above/below…my trip was June 2019, so 4 years ago this Summer. Switzerland is hugely expensive for beers/food/accommodation…FINES etc, so budget accordingly!

Sounds like you’re well on your way with your plans…you’ll have a great time.

Personally, I’m riding the ‘High Alpine Passes’ of France in September 2023 because although I’ve ridden many of the Passes before, it was before I got into filming my trips. So, hopefully I’ll have a full account of them this year.

Best wishes with your trip and consider following my exploits via the FB & Insta links above.

Thanks Paul. I watched your YouTube series on the Tour too & enjoyed that too! I’m [very] new to filming my bike rides, but I’ll definitely be filming this one! I’ll use my time before I head off in July to get some filming practice & have my routine sorted. Many thanks for all your info! Cheers Andy

You are very welcome Andy, have a great time. Paul.

Hi Liam, you may have read that my trip was in June 2019, so, it’s not too surprising to hear that costs have risen in 4 years I’m afraid.

The hotels were all selected and pre-booked by the two trip organisers from our PEMC motorcycle club in the UK, as about 20 people were on this trip, therefore, leaving it until each evening to find a suitable hotel was not an option.

If you’re riding alone or in a small group, you should be able to decide on accommodation each day but I suggest that you don’t leave it until late in the afternoon. Better to pre-book each morning with a location in mind. I’m obviously out of date on the costs Liam, so you’ll need to look into this yourself.

Why not take a look at the PEMC list of events for 2023, you may find something that interests you…then leave the hotels etc to the organiser. Ride on your own each day, if that’s your preference, but have food and company with the rest of the group each evening?

Let me know how you get on, or DM me via my FB or Insta links for further info.

Yeah, i did see it was 4 years ago…. I’d have hoped they didn’t increase that much, but such is life.

Thanks for the advise re.PEMC, but i am very much a solo traveller and do things very randomly so it probably wouldn’t suit me.

Totally understand your thinking, if you prefer solo travel Liam. Good luck with your trip, have a fantastic ride. Paul.

Hi Paul, my wife found your site last year and we are following it with 5 other couples, we arrived in Garmisch last night and I must say we had three fantastic days following your route. Today is a day off the bikes as we’re heading up the zugspitze and visiting the Eibsee hotel where Chris worked while she was a student. Thank you for sharing all this brilliant information. Rich

Hi Richard, I’m glad that you found the routes helpful and thank you for taking the time to post your feedback. Continue to have a great adventure! Paul.

Hi Paul, We have just completed day 8 Livigno to Bellinzona and I can’t stop grinning!! The weather has been perfect and the roads have been very quite. One member of our group ignored my reminders about the Vignate and has had a €200 fine plus having to buy it anyway!! Thanks again Rich

Hi Richard, Day 8 is a great ride! Sorry to hear of the Vignette fine, in my experience it’s better to have one and not need it…but the Swiss have a way of funnelling you onto a motorway somewhere! Hope the rest of your trip is epic. Paul.

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20 Tips & Laws to Know Before Your Motorcycle Trip in Switzerland

• Motorcycle Laws , Motorcycle Travel

Planning a motorcycle trip to Switzerland? Here are 20 essential tips and laws you need to know before hitting the road. Switzerland offers incredible roads like Gotthard Pass and Furka Pass, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it’s crucial to be well-prepared and informed.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose your destination and timing wisely, considering popular routes and the best time to visit based on weather and crowd levels.
• When renting a motorcycle, check the requirements and have the necessary documents, including a valid driving license and proof of border crossing permission.
• Familiarize yourself with the local laws, such as wearing a helmet and carrying a high visibility vest.
• Be aware of common road signs and know what to do in case of an emergency.
• Prepare for potential delays when crossing borders and follow the procedures accordingly.
• Experience Switzerland’s must-visit attractions, including the Verzasca Dam, the Matterhorn, the Aletsch glacier, and the famous Swiss Alps roads.
• If camping, make sure to stay in official campsites, as camping elsewhere is not allowed.
• Be mindful of tolls on the roads and follow the instructions for payment.
• Respect local authorities, ride safely, and always carry your license and other necessary documents.

Planning a motorcycle trip to Switzerland requires research and preparation, but the beauty of the landscapes and the thrill of the ride make it all worth it. Remember to stay informed, follow the laws, and have an unforgettable adventure on two wheels in Switzerland!

Choosing Your Destination and Timing

Switzerland offers incredible motorcycle routes, such as Gotthard Pass and Furka Pass, that showcase breathtaking scenery. Here’s how to choose the right destination and timing for your Swiss adventure.

If you’re looking for a thrilling ride through winding mountain roads and picturesque landscapes, the Gotthard Pass is a must-visit. It’s one of the most famous mountain passes in Switzerland, offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The Furka Pass is another popular route, known for its hairpin turns and panoramic vistas. Both routes provide an unforgettable experience for motorcycle enthusiasts.

When planning your motorcycle trip to Switzerland, consider the best time to visit. Summer is the busiest season, with clear skies and warm temperatures, making it ideal for riding. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and want to witness the beauty of Swiss landscapes during the spring or autumn, these seasons offer milder weather and colorful scenery. Winter can be challenging due to snow and cold weather, so it’s best to avoid motorcycle touring during this time.

To make the most of your Swiss adventure, plan your destination and timing accordingly. Research the routes, check local weather forecasts, and consider the level of traffic you’re comfortable with. By selecting the right destination and timing, you can ensure a memorable and safe motorcycle trip in Switzerland .

Renting a Motorcycle and Required Documents

Renting a motorcycle in Switzerland? Here’s what you need to know about the required documents and preparations for a smooth trip:

When planning your motorcycle trip in Switzerland , it’s important to consider renting a motorcycle that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a sportbike, cruiser, or adventure bike, there are rental agencies throughout the country that offer a wide selection of motorcycles. Before renting, it’s crucial to have the necessary documents and preparations in order to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Here are the key documents and preparations you need to keep in mind:

Having these documents and preparations in order will help streamline the rental process and ensure that you are ready to hit the road with peace of mind. Remember to check the specific requirements of the rental agency you choose, as some may have additional conditions or restrictions.

With your motorcycle rented and documents in hand, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable adventure on two wheels in Switzerland!

Understanding Swiss Motorcycle Laws

Before hitting the Swiss roads, familiarize yourself with the local motorcycle laws to ensure a safe and legal ride. Switzerland has specific regulations in place to protect riders and promote motorcycle safety . Here are some essential laws and regulations to keep in mind:

• Helmet Requirements: In Switzerland, wearing a helmet is mandatory for both the rider and the passenger. Make sure to wear a helmet that meets the required safety standards to protect yourself in case of an accident.
• High Visibility Vest: It is also mandatory to carry a high visibility vest while riding a motorcycle in Switzerland. This vest should be easily accessible and worn in case of an emergency or breakdown.
• Lane Splitting : Unlike some countries, Switzerland permits lane splitting, which is the act of riding between lanes or filtering through slow-moving traffic. However, it is crucial to ride safely and be considerate of different lane speeds.

These are just a few of the important motorcycle laws in Switzerland. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the complete set of regulations before embarking on your motorcycle trip. Knowing and adhering to these laws will help ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience in Switzerland.

To help you navigate Swiss roads with confidence, refer to the table below for a summary of the key motorcycle laws:

Remember, understanding and following the motorcycle laws in Switzerland is not only a legal requirement but also a key aspect of ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road. So, be prepared, ride responsibly, and enjoy your motorcycle journey through the stunning landscapes of Switzerland.

Road Signs and Emergency Preparedness

Understanding Swiss road signs and being prepared for emergencies are crucial for a smooth and secure motorcycle trip in Switzerland . To ensure a safe journey, familiarize yourself with common road signs that you may encounter along the way. Switzerland uses standardized road signs that are easily recognizable and provide important information for riders.

Here are some essential road signs to be aware of:

Being prepared for emergencies is just as important as understanding road signs. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Carry a First Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand in case of injuries or accidents. It should include bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and any necessary medications for pre-existing conditions.
• Have Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local authorities and your embassy or consulate. This ensures that you can quickly seek assistance during unforeseen situations.
• Inform Someone of Your Itinerary: Before setting off on your motorcycle trip, inform a trusted friend or family member of your intended itinerary. Provide them with details of your route, accommodation, and expected time of arrival at each destination.

By familiarizing yourself with Swiss road signs and being prepared for emergencies, you can enhance your safety and enjoyment during your motorcycle trip in Switzerland. Remember to ride responsibly, respect local laws, and always prioritize your well-being and that of others on the road.

Crossing Borders and Potential Delays

If you’re planning a motorcycle trip in Switzerland , it’s important to understand the border crossing procedures and be prepared for potential delays. Switzerland, being located in the heart of Europe, shares its borders with multiple countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. Each border has its own customs and immigration procedures, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth journey.

When crossing the borders, you’ll need to present your valid driving license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration documents. It’s also advisable to carry your passport or national ID card, as you may be asked to provide it for identification purposes. Additionally, depending on the country you’re entering, you might be required to purchase a vignette or toll pass for road usage, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements for each border.

While most border crossings are relatively straightforward, it’s important to note that there can be delays, especially during peak travel times or holiday seasons. To minimize potential delays, it’s recommended to plan your travel accordingly, avoiding rush hours and high-traffic periods. It’s also advisable to stay updated on any border control measures, as rules and regulations can change due to factors such as security concerns or unforeseen circumstances.

Border Crossing Tips:

• Research and familiarize yourself with the border crossing procedures for each country you plan to enter.
• Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including a valid driving license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
• Carry your passport or national ID card for identification purposes.
• Check if you need to purchase a vignette or toll pass for road usage.
• Avoid peak travel times and high-traffic periods to minimize potential delays.
• Stay updated on any border control measures or changes in rules and regulations.

By being well-prepared and informed about the border crossing procedures, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable motorcycle trip in Switzerland. Take the time to research and plan ahead, and always be patient and respectful while interacting with border officials. With proper preparation, you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and thrilling roads that Switzerland has to offer.

Must-Visit Attractions in Switzerland

Discover the stunning attractions and breathtaking roads that await you on your motorcycle adventure in Switzerland. This beautiful country offers a plethora of must-visit destinations that will leave you awe-struck. From natural wonders to iconic landmarks, Switzerland has it all.

Verzasca Dam

Make sure to include the Verzasca Dam in your itinerary. Located in Ticino, this architectural marvel is a sight to behold. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, it offers a dramatic backdrop for memorable photos. Ride along the winding roads leading to the dam, and don’t forget to stop and soak in the astonishing views.

The majestic Matterhorn is another must-see attraction. Rising over 14,000 feet, this iconic mountain is a symbol of Switzerland. As you approach the region of Zermatt, the Matterhorn’s imposing peak will captivate you. Take a moment to marvel at its beauty and snap some incredible pictures to capture the memory forever.

Aletsch Glacier

If you’re craving an adventure, a visit to the Aletsch Glacier is a must. As the largest glacier in the Alps, it offers a mesmerizing experience. As you navigate the scenic roads leading to the glacier, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It’s a sight that will leave you breathless and make your motorcycle trip truly unforgettable.

These are just a few of the incredible attractions that Switzerland has to offer. Embark on your motorcycle adventure and explore the enchanting roads that will lead you to these stunning destinations. Remember to plan your trip carefully, pack all the necessary essentials, and ride safely to make the most out of your motorcycle journey in Switzerland. Adventure awaits!

Camping and Accommodation Options

If you’re planning a motorcycle trip to Switzerland, it’s important to know the camping and accommodation options available to you. Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor wonders, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure on two wheels . Whether you prefer camping or staying in traditional accommodations, there are options to suit every traveler’s preference and budget.

For motorcycle riders looking to immerse themselves in nature, camping is a popular choice. Switzerland offers a variety of official campsites where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. These campsites are well-maintained and equipped with essential amenities such as restrooms, showers, and electricity. It’s worth noting that wild camping is not allowed in Switzerland, so it’s important to choose an official campsite for your overnight stays.

If camping is not your preferred option, there are plenty of other accommodation choices available. Switzerland is home to a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and mountain lodges that cater to all budgets. From luxurious hotels with spa facilities to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day of motorcycle exploration.

When planning your motorcycle trip to Switzerland, it’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak travel season. This will ensure you have a place to stay that suits your preferences and allows you to make the most of your time exploring the Swiss roads. So whether you choose to camp under the stars or indulge in the comfort of a hotel, Switzerland offers a wide range of options that cater to every motorcycle traveler’s needs.

Tolls and Riding Etiquette in Switzerland

Navigating tolls and understanding riding etiquette is essential for a smooth and hassle-free motorcycle trip in Switzerland. When traveling on Swiss roads, it’s important to be aware of the toll system in place. Switzerland uses a vignette system, where vehicles must display a special sticker, known as a vignette, on the windshield. This vignette grants access to the Swiss motorway network and is valid for a full calendar year. It’s crucial to purchase and affix the vignette to your motorcycle before entering the country to avoid fines and penalties.

Moreover, it’s vital to respect riding etiquette while exploring Switzerland on two wheels. Swiss motorcyclists have a reputation for being conscientious and considerate on the roads, and visitors should strive to uphold this standard. Remember to always ride defensively and be courteous to other road users. It’s important to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, signal your intentions clearly, and obey traffic rules and speed limits.

Additionally, when riding in Switzerland, it’s crucial to remember that in urban areas and residential zones, the speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour). On open roads, it’s usually 80 kilometers per hour (50 miles per hour), while on motorways, it’s 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour) unless otherwise stated. However, keep in mind that speed limits can vary depending on the specific location and road conditions, so it’s essential to pay attention to the signage.

By familiarizing yourself with the toll system and riding etiquette in Switzerland, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable motorcycle trip. Remember to adhere to the speed limits, display the necessary vignette, and always prioritize safety on the roads. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your adventure through the stunning Swiss landscapes.

Are the Tips & Laws for Motorcycle Trips in California Also Applicable to Switzerland?

When planning motorcycle trip tips in california , it’s important to note that they might not be applicable to Switzerland. Although both countries offer picturesque landscapes and thrilling routes, there are specific laws and regulations that differentiate them. Additionally, road conditions, traffic rules, and cultural differences may vary, urging riders to research and abide by Switzerland’s specific guidelines.

By following these 20 tips and laws, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable motorcycle adventure in Switzerland. When planning your trip, consider the stunning roads that Switzerland has to offer, such as the famous Gotthard Pass and Furka Pass, which showcase breathtaking scenery. Choose the best time to visit, keeping in mind that summer is the busiest season but also provides clear skies and warm temperatures. Alternatively, spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and beautiful landscapes. However, it’s best to avoid motorcycle touring during winter due to snow and cold weather.

When renting a motorcycle, ensure you have the necessary documents, including a valid driving license and proof of border crossing permission. Familiarize yourself with Swiss motorcycle laws , such as wearing a helmet and carrying a high visibility vest. While lane splitting is legal, always ride safely and be mindful of different lane speeds. Moreover, it’s essential to know common road signs and be prepared for any emergency situations that may arise.

When crossing borders, be aware of potential delays and follow the necessary procedures. During your trip, don’t miss out on visiting must-see attractions like the Verzasca Dam, the Matterhorn, the Aletsch glacier, and the breathtaking roads of the Swiss Alps. Remember that camping in Switzerland is only allowed in official campsites, so plan your accommodations accordingly.

Lastly, be mindful of tolls on the roads and ensure you follow the instructions for payment. While riding, always respect local authorities and be prepared to present your license and other necessary documents when stopped. Planning a motorcycle trip to Switzerland requires research and preparation, but the stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences make it all worth it.

Q: When is the best time to travel to Switzerland for a motorcycle trip?

A: The best time to travel to Switzerland for a motorcycle trip is during the summer, as it offers clear skies and warm temperatures. However, spring and autumn are also great times to visit, with fewer crowds and beautiful landscapes. It’s best to avoid motorcycle touring in Switzerland during winter due to snow and cold weather.

Q: What are the requirements for renting a motorcycle in Switzerland?

A: When renting a motorcycle in Switzerland, make sure to check the requirements of the rental company. Generally, you will need a valid driving license and proof of border crossing permission. It’s essential to have the necessary documents in order to rent a motorcycle.

Q: What are the local laws for motorcycle riders in Switzerland?

A: In Switzerland, motorcycle riders must abide by certain laws. It is mandatory to wear a helmet and carry a high visibility vest. Lane splitting is legal in Europe, but it’s important to ride safely and be aware of different lane speeds. Familiarize yourself with the local laws and follow them to ensure a safe riding experience.

Q: What should I do in case of an emergency while riding in Switzerland?

A: In case of an emergency while riding in Switzerland, it’s important to know what to do. Familiarize yourself with common road signs and emergency procedures. If you need assistance, contact the local authorities or emergency services. Stay calm and follow the necessary protocols for a safe resolution.

Q: What should I expect when crossing borders during my motorcycle trip in Switzerland?

A: When crossing borders during your motorcycle trip in Switzerland, be prepared for potential delays. Follow the procedures and have the required documents ready. Cooperate with the border officials and be patient. It’s important to understand and respect the regulations for a smooth border crossing process.

Q: What are some must-visit attractions for motorcycle riders in Switzerland?

A: Switzerland offers incredible attractions for motorcycle riders. Some must-visit places include the Verzasca Dam, the Matterhorn, the Aletsch Glacier, and the famous Swiss Alps roads. These attractions offer stunning landscapes and unforgettable riding experiences.

Q: Can I camp anywhere in Switzerland during my motorcycle trip?

A: No, camping in Switzerland is only allowed in official campsites. It’s important to plan your accommodation accordingly and make arrangements for staying at authorized campsites. Alternatively, there are other accommodation options available, and it’s advisable to research and book in advance.

Q: Are there tolls on the roads in Switzerland?

A: Yes, there are tolls on the roads in Switzerland. Make sure to follow the instructions for payment and be prepared to pay toll fees. Respect local authorities and be prepared to present your license and other necessary documents if stopped.

Q: How important is it to plan and prepare for a motorcycle trip in Switzerland?

A: Planning and preparation are crucial for a successful motorcycle trip in Switzerland. It’s important to research and gather information about routes, laws, and requirements. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the stunning landscapes and roads of Switzerland.

Source Links

• https://bikergirllife.com/motorcycling-in-switzerland/
• https://www.adventurebikerider.com/article/10-things-need-see-touring-switzerland/
• https://thetejanabiker.com/ultimate-guide-to-touring-europe-on-a-motorbike/

About The Author

Daniel Shakibaie

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Destination: Switzerland

Ride a BMW motorcycle to Switzerland in Central Europe. Europe will reveal its secrets and treat you with fantastic views over the mountains.

Ride along Santa Maria Vall Mustair and enjoy a motorcycle ride on Umbgrail and Albula Passes. A motorcycle adventureisincluded in our 15 Day multi-country motorcycle adventure in Central Europe. Besides Switzerland, the itinerary brings together the best motorcycle roads Austria, Germany and Italy.

The itinerary includes fabulous motorcycle rides, lovely cities, picturesque landscapes, traditional food, and rider companions from all over the World.

Enjoy a joyride in Switzerland with The Mighty Alps – guided motorcycle tour. Book your preferred BMW motorcycle, the GS range. Travel with a BMW Motorrad Official Travel Partner.

Europe Motorcycle Tour – Colossal Alps

Venture on a fabulous motorcycle adventure riding the highest alpine passes in Europe. Conquer the highest paved mountain roads of Austria, Germany, Italy and Switzerland, cross narrow canyons and ride along its largest lakes.

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Road trip 101

Drive around the whole of Switzerland by car, campervan or motorcycle? Here is an overview of key questions and helpful tips for a pleasant road trip.

The best time for the Grand Tour of Switzerland is between April and October. In spring when the snow slowly melts and the passes open up, the mild weather and the road beckon. The months of April and May are perfect for a city break . The summer months are high season for taking the Grand Tour. The best way to experience it is to combine the drive with a hike  and then a refreshing dip in one of Switzerland’s numerous lakes . As the days start to take on a slight chill and the leaves turn, autumnal outings  and cosy wellness hotels  are the way to bask in the season.

On the Grand Tour of Switzerland, obviously. By following the route clockwise the 650 signposts will guide you around the whole of Switzerland. You can use our GPS  or offline  road maps  to guide you. We also have additional information about the sights  along the way and the individual  segments of the route,  and we have  tips for excursions as well.

Hop in your car or get on your motorcycle. Don’t have one? Then simply  hire one. Prefer green holidays? The Grand Tour of Switzerland is the world’s first road trip for electric vehicles . A dense network of charging stations supplies the entire route, guaranteeing over 1,600km of relaxing, eco-friendly driving pleasure.

The car is ready and your bags are packed? To make sure your trip is enjoyable, you want to stay overnight in places that are right for you. If you like things a little rustic, then Switzerland has a great many campsites  and  youth hostels . We’ve also put together an overview  of all the best places to stay along the Grand Tour of Switzerland. Too many to choose from? Then book one of our packages  and we’ll take care of the rest.

In addition to accommodations, meals are the other planning priority. With so many restaurants  in Switzerland, you’ll never go hungry.

Mode of transport?

If you’re taking a road trip for the first time, then you should know that planning is somewhat different from other kinds of trips. In addition to a reliable vehicle, you also need the right gear. We have put together a packing list  so you don’t have to stress.

You also need the right tunes for your trip. Find the perfect playlist for each segment, or just listen to our songs the whole way.

Excursions are the perfect way to round off your road trip. Find loads of ideas  and choose the ones that speak to you – outdoors, sports, culture, culinary or adventures.

Visit all of our photo spots  and share your experience with us on Instagram .

Why take a road trip? Why should you go now? Why Switzerland? We have answers for any questions and seven good reasons  why you should do the Grand Tour of Switzerland.

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Grand tour of switzerland.

1,600km, 22 lakes, 5 Alpine passes, 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 4 linguistic regions – on the Grand Tour of Switzerland it’s all about the journey.

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Switzerland

Switzerland motorcycle tours.

Switzerland is a landlocked country comprised of the Alps, Jura and Swiss Plateau regions. There are four primary language and cultural regions: German, French, Italian and Romansh, where over 60% is German-speaking. The country is divided into 26 cantons or states which all have a high degree of independence. Switzerland holds one of the oldest constitutions--from 1848, is not part of any alliance, such as the EU, and has a 500+ year legacy of international neutrality.

The country has a high living standard, and so you will find expenses here to be higher than in neighboring countries. Mountains, lakes , waterfalls and glaciers interconnected with an incredibly sophisticated road system make Switzerland a perfect country for riding!

Roads and Riding

Roads in Switzerland are near perfection. Engineered high into the mountains, snaking their way up to the highest summits, those ribbons of tarmac are just perfect. There are many high-speed sections, but beware of melting snow on the road. Technical skills are required here. Roads on some parts are rarely bordered by fences or safety rails; usually there will only be a block of stone every few meters. There are many tunnels along Swiss roads, and so navigate them with caution. We strongly recommend that you not exceed speed limits, as the penalties are harsh and without compromise.

Climate & Environment, When to Go

Most of the country has a central European climate, with daytime temperatures around 18° to 28°C in summer (64°F - 82°F). At any time, as you travel around the country, you'll hit many different climatic conditions. The continental climate in the Alps tends to show the greatest extremes between summer and winter. Summer tends to bring a lot of sun, but also the most rain. It lasts roughly from June to September and offers the most pleasant climate for outdoor pursuits. The best time to ride the Swiss Alps is from July to October.

Sights, People, Food and Drink

The roads we ride in Switzerland take us to amazing places. Interlaken is one on the top of the list. The city between lakes is also a great gateway to the Jungfraujoch region, where the train takes you to the very top of Europe. In Montreux, you will experience the 11th century as it is embodied in the iconic Chillion Castle. Jump forward 1000 years into hip, luxurious St. Moritz, known for great skiing, luxury, and nightlife.

The Swiss are very self-reliant, serious, precise and peaceful people. Their traditional dishes tend to be plain and made from simple ingredients, such as potatoes and cheese. Don't miss the national sausage, cervelat, and the popular drink, Rivella – a carbonated drink based on lactose.

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Tours in switzerland, guided tours self-guided tours, alsace and the black forest.

Home to storybook castles, you'll see King Ludwig II’s beloved Neuschwanstein and medieval walled towns originally built of timber-framed houses. 

Western Alps Adventure

This tour will take you right into the heart of the Swiss and French Alps, revealing more than just the exhilarating high alpine passes. Tune in!

Alps Deluxe & French Riviera

This is a tour for those particularly adventurous and proficient riders. We leave Milan to cruise the crest of the Alps through Italy, Austria, Swi...

Top of the Alps

This tour is all about riding the best passes and switchbacks in the Swiss, Austrian, and Italian Alps. 

ALPS DeLUXE VARIATION self-guided tour

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TOP OF THE ALPS VARIATION self-guided tour

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Trans Euro Trail: Switzerland

Posted on november 5th, 2019 by motorcycle diaries.

Another TET adventure waits! After exploring the Northern Italian Alp tracks, I head for the mountains of Switzerland.

Switzerland, country of Gruyere & Emmenthal cheese, but also the place where you can find an incredible number of mountain roads in all forms and sizes. The great difference between the Italian TET tracks and the Swiss is the high number of asphalt roads in the Swiss part. Due to strict regulations on riding on unpaved roads, it’s nearly impossible to ride gravel sections in this country. The linesman however has found some unpaved sections, but still the Swiss TET consists of 95% tarmac roads. I wonder how this looks like. There’s only 1 way to find it out… take the bike and hit the road!

A 560 km track in a mountainous country without any technical sections. It sounds as a perfect destination to explore with my orange KTM990SM.

I enter Switzerland via the North Western side of the country, The Jura region. A very dense populated area in the French speaking part of the country. Coming from Lucelle in France you cross the border to Switzerland almost unnoticed. No grumpy customs officers who squeeze your toothpaste tube empty, but just a small sign on the side of the road that tells you that you’re crossing the border. The roads are narrow, winding and hardly with any traffic. It stays that way for the next kilometers. No spectacular views, but a lovely landscape with smooth hills and easygoing roads. All of this covered in the most beautiful warm autumn colors.

After these first very easy and calm hours the traffic becomes busier, but never too full. Once passed the Neuchatel Lake there is some more urbanization and the roads are less interesting than the first kilometers. It forms a kind of liaison to the German speaking area of Switzerland. Fortunately, by the time it gets too boring, the Gurnigel pass is showing up. A great little mountain road that crawls up and provides you with some stunning views.

Near the city of Thun, I reach the end of section 1. I still have enough time left to start section 2 and proceed the ride into Central Switzerland. I’m enjoying all these small roads. Even though I’m not even in the high Alps it’s already a lot of fun to ride the twisty tarmac roads. And occasionally some minor gravel sections. Not a hard or technical ride but just pleasant enough to make it a fun ride on these unpaved roads.

The Entlebuch region, where I’m in next, is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. An extremely beautiful place with some stunning nature and a very quiet region. My most favorite place of the day.  And this day is running to an end.  The sun is setting low and it’s time to find a place for the night.  The road goes downhill, with a spectacular view on the Sarnen lake and the snowy peaks in the distance. I will explore these snowy mountains tomorrow. In the town of Sarnen I find myself a place for the night. 

The next day - a cold morning – is close to perfect! Just out of Sarnen a small tarmac road takes me up in the mountains. A great road! But it’s narrow… I’ll have to stay focused. Once up there is a junction. To the left the road is going further up. But it’s even narrower! A sign indicates specific hours of passage. In my impatience I don’t take the time to figure out what it actually says. I just hit the throttle and I’m revving up the mountain. A marvelous little lane, just 1 car wide and with some great views. This road goes up to the Aelggialp where you can find the geographical center of Switzerland.

After a short stop at this place I start the ride back down. A few 100m further I encounter an oncoming car. The man tells me that this is a one- way street at this moment and I have to wait 15 minutes before I can go further down. I did not pay any attention to the signs, now I know why they were there. The problem is that the road is too narrow and steep to turn back. I try my luck and just continue the ride downwards. In the hope I don’t encounter too much traffic going up. 

Beside of a VW van, which nearly squeezes me into the rock face, I get down without any trouble. Let this be on the list of the most stupid things I have done this year! It could have been a lot worse…

Back at the junction the road downhill is still very narrow. This is not the place to find out the top speed of your bike. I cautiously drive further down to lake Sarnen where the road is wide and open again.

After this stretch of more open roads I encounter a minor stretch of gravel which brings me up the top of the Brünig pass and further on to the Susten pass. The pass roads are packed with motorbikes on probably one of the last mild & sunny Sundays of the year. And it seems they know the spots for speed controls, because a lot of sports bikes are heading for pole position at some stages! Most of the bikers drive up the Grimsel pass, but the TET track is directing me on the Susten pass which is a lot much dense in traffic. This 2260m high mountain pass provides great views over the Stein glacier and the curvy road is paved with some smooth tarmac.

I enjoy the relative lower traffic and head on a sports/touristic pace to the center of Andermatt. A small touristic but very cozy town at 1447m above sea level at the feet of the Gothard-, Oberalp- and Furka pass. There are a high number of hotels in this place. I pick one of them and leave my luggage.  Next stop is the tourist office to purchase a day permit which allows me to drive the unpaved road “Unteralp”.

This permit costs 12 CHF. For this you get a drive up a +/- 7 km stretch of gravel road, which is heading to the Vermigel lodge, a mountain refuge at the end of the Unteralp. It’s one of the highlights of Swiss TET. Beautiful surrounding, mountains tops all around, and an easy to drive gravel road that leads you high up into a deserted landscape. It’s a one-way road and I’m back in Andermatt a while later. Next on the trajectory is the Furka pass. With an elevation of 2,429 meters it’s connecting Gletsch , Valais with Realp , Uri . A magnificent road winding up high up into the snow-covered mountaintops. Nearly at the top of the Furka, another small treasure awaits.

The Tätschstrasse above Realp. Again, for this road you need a permit (7CHF) that can be purchased at a vending machine at the trailhead (coins only!) The Tätschstrasse is a little adventurous gravel path, which leads you away from the tarmac road. After a few hundred meters it feels like you’re all alone in this high alpine deserted landscape. (You’ll find yourself above 2000m altitude). It’s an enchanting place. But, be alert! Because the second part of this non-surfaced road is quite washed away and it’s rather steep.

This section is also a one-way road, the good side of it is that it gives you the opportunity to ride this remarkably trail twice. Once back at the starting point of this track I make a quick side step to the top of the Furka pass before heading back downhill to Andermatt.

In the very chilly but sunny morning I go up the Furka pass again. It looks almost even more beautiful in the morning sun than the day before. The trajectory is leading further south into the Rhone valley and leads you further up via Brigg to the Simplon Pass. This mountain pass is connecting the Swiss TET with the Italian TET. The trajectory through the Rhone valley is much higher on traffic and not so interesting as the rest of the roads. But, the Swiss linesman (Jan Eckert) is working on a more interesting alternative for this last part of the TET Switzerland. 

In a café high on a mountain pass, while drinking a cappuccino, I reflect on the trajectory I just rode the last few days. It’s not a TET ride with a high adventure level or technical difficulties. Does this make the trajectory less interesting? No, not at all! Just realize this is not the TET section you must choose to ride with your competition enduro bike. It’s a fantastic track for every kind of road bike or big adventure bike. Leave your knobbies at home, get some good road tires on the bike and enjoy the superb flawless Swiss back roads, mountain passes and the few (but great) gravel sections!

See our other episodes about the  Trans Euro Trail

To know more about TET go to:

www.transeurotrail.org

www.facebook.com/transeurotrail  

Explore  the best roads & POI's around and  plan your next trip based on those roads.

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Stelvio Express - Swiss & Italian Alps

8 days / 7 nights 1490 km, self-guided : june to oct. guided : june 22-29, 2024 & on request, france, italy switzerland, from €1,005, motorcycle tour in swiss & italian alps.

Our motorcycle tour in Swiss & Italian Alps takes you all the way to the mythical Stelvio Pass . We organize your guided or self guided motorbike trip in Switzerland & Italy, on the best driving roads in the Alps with one of our motorbikes for rent …

Swiss & Italian Alps tour

Stunning motorcycle tour in Swiss & Italian Alps on the best driving roads in the Alps ! Ride the highest passes in the Alps , ride along Switzerland’s turquoise water lakes, explore the stunning region of the Great Italian Lakes , admire picturesque castles and vineyards in the Aosta Valley , drive around the Mont-Blanc , Europe’s highest Peak at a height of 4,810m… Treat yourself to the generous Alpine Cuisine in a cosy chalet or with an Italian dinner through Aosta Roman ruins or on the shores of Lake Como. This unique motorbike trip in Switzerland, Italy & France takes you from the French Alps to the mythical Stelvio Pass through the Swiss & Italian Alps by motorcycle…

The Alps – Lakes of Thun & Brienz – Mythical Alpine mountain passes (Gotthard, Stelvio, Little St-Bernard…) – Italian Great Lakes – Lake Como – Moto Guzzi Museum – Bellagio – Aosta Valley – Alpine & Italian Gastronomy

Day 1 : Arrival in Aix-les-Bains

Transfers, meet & greet, relax, visit and briefing.

Wash away some jetlag, have a walk to the nearby lake, wander in the old streets and shaded parks, delight yourself in the hot pool… By the end of the day, enjoy your first evening filled with familiarizing yourself with the excitement of what lays ahead whilst enjoying a taste of the Alpine Cuisine…

Day 2 : Aix-les-bains → Thun (Switzerland)

290km / 5h45.

Great start of our motorcycle tour in Swiss & Italian Alps . The ride starts on the twisty roads of the French Alps … Cross the border to Switzerland and go exploring the most idyllic Swiss landscapes you’ve ever dreamed of… Cows grazing in verdant Alpine pastures, cosy chalets and fir forests with snow-capped summits in the background, the perfect cliché! The day ends up in Thun , its castle and its crystal-clear lake nestled in the heart of the surrounding mountains…

Day 3 : Thun (Switz.) → Disentis (Switz.)

250 km / 5h30.

Breathtaking motorbike ride along the lakes of Thun and Brienz before riding a series of mountain passes higher than 2,000m, including the mythical Gotthard Pass and its World-famous Tremola road , one of the best driving roads in the Alps ! This perfect motorcycle route in the Swiss Alps ends in the mountain village of Disentis …

Day 4 : Disentis (Switz.) → Stelvio Pass (Italy)

Motorcycle ride of a lifetime in the Swiss Alps with another series of valleys and mountain passes which lead you to the Worldwide famous Stelvio Pass , another top-rated drive in the Alps ! Overcome its 48 hairpin turns by motorbike to reach the Italian border at a height of 2,758m …

Day 5 : Stelvio Pass (Italy) → Bellagio (Italy)

220 km / 4h45.

Zigzag between Italy and Switzerland to fully enjoy the best motorbike roads of the Swiss & Italian Alps . Ride through the famous town of St-Moritz to finally reach the superb region of the Great Italian Lakes … En route, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic Moto Guzzi Museum in Mandello del Lario! By night, treat yourself to the delicious Italian Cuisine on one of the numerous terraces on Lake Como ‘s shore…

Day 6 : Bellagio (Italy) → Aosta (Italy)

260 km / 5h15.

Great start of the day riding along the superb Lake Maggiore siting between Italy and Switzerland! Follow the road through the Aosta Valley and its picturesque castles and vineyards heading to the nice city of Aosta and its Roman Ruins. Italian Cuisine , wine from the Valley and a great night surrounded by the highest Alpine Peaks …

Day 7 : Aosta (Italy) → Aix-les-Bains

Breathtaking motorbike route in the Italian Alps with the legendary Little St Bernard Pass that brings you back to France . Enjoy the ride through the countryside roads of the French Alps back to the shore of France’s largest natural lake in Aix-les-Bains where ends our motorcycle tour in the Swiss & Italian Alps , WHAT A TRIP!

Day 8 : Departure from Aix-les-Bains

Breakfast and transfers.

All good things must come to an end… See you next time!

The daily riding kilometres are approximate distances and may vary. Route and overnight places may change due to unforeseen events.

Tour prices

Self-guided, june to october.

 Low seat can be ordered as a free option Depending on the bike model and upon reservation

Included services

Included services :

*if motorcycle rental option chosen

Services not included :

june 22-29, 2024 & on request Get your private guided tour on the dates of your choice

Why ride with us , motorcycle tours agency.

27 rue Jacotot 73100 Aix-les-Bains, FRANCE

Tel : +33 6 21 39 73 00 Email :  [email protected]

BMW R 1300 GS Basse

Correcteur d’assiette adaptatif

Hauteur selle basse : 820 mm

Avec correcteur d’assiette : 800 mm

237 kg          145 cv

350 km / jour

Bagagerie moto : 140 L

Assurance tous risques

 GPS TomTom Rider ou support de téléphone (au choix)

  Dépôt de garantie : 2 500 €

Permis moto A

25 ans min.

BMW R 1300 GS LOW

Adaptive Vehicle Height Control (AVHC)

Low seat height : 820 mm

With AVHC : 800 mm

237 kg          145 HP

350 km / day

Luggage capacity : 140 L

Fully comprehensive insurance

 GPS TomTom Rider or phone mount (as per your choice)

  Security deposit : € 2,500

Full motorcycle driving licence

25 years old min.

Honda 1100 Africa Twin

Hauteur de selle : 850 / 870 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 825 mm

231 kg          102 cv

Bagagerie moto : 154 L

Dépôt de garantie : 2 200 €

24 ans min.

Seat height : 850 / 870 mm

Low seat height : 825 mm

231 kg          102 HP

Luggage capacity : 154 L

Security deposit : € 2,200

24 years old min.

KTM 890 Adventure R

Seat height : 880 mm

Low seat height : 855 mm

215 kg          105 HP

Luggage capacity : 120 L

Hauteur de selle : 880 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 855 mm

215 kg          105 cv

Bagagerie moto : 120 L

BMW R 1300 GS

Seat height : 850 mm

Low seat height : 800 mm

Hauteur de selle : 850 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 800 mm

Honda CB 750 Hornet (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 795 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 770 mm

190 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 114 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 200 €

Permis moto A2 ou A

18 ans min.

Seat height : 795 mm

Low seat height : 770 mm

190 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 114 L

Security deposit : € 1,200

A2 & full motorcycle driving licence

18 years old min.

KTM 390 Adventure (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 855 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 830 mm

172 kg          32 kW / 44 cv

Bagagerie moto : 88 L

YAMAHA MT-07 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 805 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 780 mm

184 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 80 L

HONDA CB 500 X / NX 500 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 830 mm

196 kg          35kW / 47,5 cv

Bagagerie moto : 144 L

  Dépôt de garantie : 1 200 €

20 ans min.

YAMAHA TÉNÉRÉ 700

Hauteur de selle : 875 mm

204 kg          74 cv

Bagagerie moto : 98 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 800 €

21 ans min.

YAMAHA TRACER 7 GT (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 835 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 815 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 116 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 500 €

YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT

Hauteur de selle : 825 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 810 mm

220 kg          119 cv

Bagagerie moto : 133 L

23 ans min.

BMW F 900 XR

Hauteur selle basse : 795 mm

219 kg          105 cv

Bagagerie moto : 136 L

BMW F 750 GS

Hauteur de selle : 815 mm

227 kg          77 cv

Bagagerie moto : 146 L

Dépôt de garantie : 2 000 €

22 ans min.

DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 S

Hauteur de selle : 840 / 860 mm

240 kg          170 cv

26 ans min.

TRIUMPH TIGER SPORT 660

206 kg          81 cv

Bagagerie moto : 106 L

SUZUKI SV 650 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 785 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,5 cv

Bagagerie moto : 117 L

GPS TomTom Rider ou support de téléphone (au choix)

Seat height : 805 mm

Low seat height : 780 mm

184 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 80 L

Seat height : 855 mm

Low seat height : 830 mm

172 kg          32 kW / 44 HP

Luggage capacity : 88 L

Seat height : 785 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,5 HP

Luggage capacity : 117 L

GPS TomTom Rider or phone mount (as per your choice)

  Security deposit : € 1,200

20 years old min.

Seat height : 830 mm

196 kg          35kW / 47,5 HP

Luggage capacity : 144 L

Seat height : 875 mm

204 kg          74 HP

Luggage capacity : 98 L

Security deposit : € 1,800

21 years old min.

Seat height : 835 mm

Low seat height : 815 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 116 L

Security deposit : € 1,500

Seat height : 825 mm

Low seat height : 810 mm

220 kg          119 HP

Luggage capacity : 133 L

23 years old min.

Low seat height : 795 mm

219 kg          105 HP

Luggage capacity : 136 L

Seat height : 815 mm

227 kg          77 HP

Luggage capacity : 146 L

Security deposit : € 2,000

22 years old min.

Seat height : 840 / 860 mm

240 kg          170 HP

26 years old min.

206 kg          81 HP

Luggage capacity : 106 L

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Riding Furka Pass: Exploring Switzerland’s “Big 3” Passes

Motorcycle Tourer | 31 January 2022 16 April 2021 | Route Planning , Routing Tips

Riding Furka Pass should definitely be on your agenda if you’re visiting Switzerland’s mountain passes for the first time!

In our last post, we looked at Grimsel Pass .

In this installment, we move onto the Furka which is probably a more exhilarating ride, but also comes with its own unique challenges.

Our next post will take on Susten Pass. And along with a little mini route, will complete our summary of riding Switzerland’s Big 3 mountain passes.

Riding Furka Pass: One Of Switzerland’s Iconic Mountain Passes

The Furka Pass is one of those roads that makes you work for the pleasure! The twists and turns can be challenging, the traffic can be insane and the surface can also catch you off-guard.

And as if that isn’t bad enough, the pass is in one of the snowiest parts of Alps. So don’t be surprised if you come across some of the cold stuff whilst you’re there.

I was last there in mid-July – in the height of summer – and there was still snow shovelled up on the side of the road!

It’s worth noting that whilst most of Switzerland’s mountain passes open in May (sometimes even April), the Furka is usually closed until June.

If you’re a James Bond fan, you may also recognise Furka Pass as the setting for Goldfinger in 1964. You can even visit James Bond Strasse on the east side of the Pass if that’s your thing.

In our opinion, riding Furka Pass is certainly more fun than driving it in an Aston Martin DB5. Although admittedly, that would be a close second!

Furka Pass: At A Glance

Where is it? Switzerland

Where does it start/end? Uri / Valais

How far is it? 31 km (19 miles)

How high is it? 2431 m

When is it open? June to October (can change)

What’s the road surface like? Good – some narrow sections

The Furka traces the northern side of the Furkareuss valley between Grimsel Pass and Andermatt.

Hence it connects Andermatt in Uri with Gletsch in Valais.

As with many of Switzerland’s mountain passes, the original uses date back to the Romans.

And more recently, Furka Pass has been used for military purposes.

The 1982-built tunnel at around 2100 m gave access to the Pass and now invites bikers to the Alps to enjoy this incredible riding experience.

Riding Furka Pass: The Details

The fun starts from the moment you reach the pass.

Riding Furka Pass from the west, the ascent is steep and challenging with a plethora of switchbacks.

Additionally, there isn’t really a warm-up to this road. The technicalities are instant and are a surefire way to get the adrenalin pumping!

But after the hairpins, the road tempts you into a smooth and sweeping riding rhythm as glorious views of the valley open up to the east.

Following the pass to Andermatt, the road narrows considerably so make sure you’re paying attention!

Consequently, the roads are steep. And as you perch on your saddle, you become acutely aware of the lack of barriers protecting you from steep drops off the roadside.

Once you’ve negotiated this tricky section, the pass opens up with a 2.5 km section of flat, straight tarmac. Open the throttle and take the opportunity to blow away that shitty smell that seems to be coming from between your legs!

Despite the tricky sections, don’t let that put you off if you’re a beginner. Take your time, and don’t try to keep up with the bravado of the other bikers on the pass.

Ride it at your own pace and you’ll love it!

Things To See

Riding Furka Pass from the Reuss Valley, you can enjoy the trip through the Schöllenen Gorge until you reach the village of Realp – the start of the Furka’s accent.

At the 2431 m summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Ursan Valley and the Gotthard Massif. The views from here are breath-taking and it’s really worth stopping to take a few photographs whilst enjoying your lunch.

Furthermore, you can find epic views of the Rhône Glacier just below the ridgeline. You can also hike to the Glacier and even take a trip inside the glacial ice grotto which is rebuilt from scratch every year.

If hiking is your thing, there are also numerous trails for you to explore along the Pass – especially at the foot of the Furka where you can find lovely little nature trails.

In the final section of our mini series, we’ll discover the wonders of Susten Pass.

We’ll provide you with a route to enjoy riding Furka Pass in combination with Grimsel and Susten as well as some hints and tips – and some things to watch out for!

Planning your own trip to the Alps? You might enjoy these posts:

• Which Motorcycle Tent Do You Need For Touring?
• Motorcycle Travel Is Good For You! 10 Scientifically Proven Reasons
• Do You Need Heated Grips For Motorcycle Touring?

Top image via Drivetribe

Riding Grimsel Pass: Exploring Switzerland’s “Big 3” Passes

Riding susten pass: exploring switzerland’s “big 3” passes.

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