Luxury Self-Drive Tour in the Swiss, Italian & Austrian Alps

Andermatt, Dolomites & Grossglockner

This Tour is 100% Customizable

The Mountain Passes of Europe

  • Tour starts in Zurich
  • Tour ends in Salzburg
  • Arrival at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and departure from Salzburg Airport (SZG)

BEST PERIOD

June to October

 

Duration

12 days & 11 nights

DISTANCE

Approx. 1,500 km

BEST CAR

Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Tour Highlights

  • Conquer some of the world’s most iconic driving roads
  • Get the full Alpine treatment at selected boutique accommodations
  • Indulge in gourmet delights – artisan cheeses, fondue and regional wines
  • Discover the soul of the Alps through curated, insider experiences across Switzerland, Italy, and Austria.

A playground for those who crave the road less travelled—but travelled well—this twelve-day journey through Switzerland, Italy, and Austria brings together the best of the Alps in one seamless loop. This is a trip designed for those who appreciate the thrill of the drive as much as the stillness that follows: legendary mountain passes, hidden valleys, and landscapes that change with every curve in the road. Starting in Zurich and winding through Andermatt, St. Moritz, the Stelvio Pass, the Dolomites, and into the Austrian Alps, the journey balances adrenaline with ease, with plenty of time to slow down in between.

There’s more than just driving, of course. Along the way, you’ll find yourself learning the rhythm of alpine life—long lunches in quiet mountain towns, private wine and cheese tastings, and walks that take you off the map, but closer to the place. From the sharp beauty of the Dolomites to the sweeping views of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, and finally into the historic heart of Salzburg, this is the kind of trip that stays with you—not because it was fast, but because every moment was fully felt.

Zurich-City-and-Mountains-View

Arrival

Touch down in Zurich, where your private transfer awaits to take you to the refined comfort of La Réserve Eden au Lac, perfectly set along the lake. With no plans but time on your side, the afternoon invites you to unwind—perhaps with a drink on the rooftop terrace or a stroll along the waterfront promenade. Your car will be delivered to the hotel later in the day, with a full handover to get you ready for the road ahead.

grimselpass-road-lake-view

Lucerne & the Passes

Leave Zurich behind as the road winds south into the mountains, with a stop in Lucerne. From there, continue into the heart of the Alps and settle into Andermatt, a mountain village surrounded by some of Switzerland’s most iconic driving routes. Spend the next two days exploring the Furka, Grimsel, and Susten Passes, each offering a different pace, elevation, and view worth pulling over for. Between drives, there’s space to slow down—mornings without a rush, afternoons for the spa or a walk, and evenings framed by stillness and fresh mountain air.

saint-moritz-lake-view

Saint-Moritz

Your journey continues east toward St. Moritz where you’ll have time to explore this iconic resort town at your own pace—whether it’s lakeside walks, nearly mountaintops, or simply enjoying a drink with a view. Beyond the village, scenic drives await, with quiet mountain roads and picture-perfect stops along the way.

loire-valley-chateau-de-chenonceau

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley offers a blend of rich heritage, refined charm, and quiet indulgence. Grand châteaux, like Chambord, open their doors for private, after-hours visits, while local artisans invite you to taste wines and craft chocolates in intimate settings. The legacy of Le Mans adds a touch of thrill, and a hot air balloon ride brings the landscape to life—rolling vineyards, winding rivers, and storybook castles stretching out below.

burgundy-castle-vineyard

Stelvio Pass & the Dolomites

Next, the road leads you south to one of the most legendary drives in the world—the Stelvio Pass. With its dramatic switchbacks and soaring altitude, it’s a true driver’s rite of passage and a highlight of the entire journey. End your day at your haven for the next three nights in the Dolomites, where the pace takes a welcome turn. Take in the sharp beauty of the peaks on scenic drives through winding mountain roads, or set out on foot to explore well-marked trails and quiet valleys. Between outdoor adventures, settle into moments of stillness with long lunches, spa time, and the warm hospitality of the region.

grossglockner-high-alpine-road-viewpoint

Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Cross into Austria for the final stretch of the journey, where sweeping valleys and perfectly maintained roads lead you deep into the heart of the Alps. Over two days, take on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, one of Europe’s most celebrated driving routes. Between drives, discover charming villages, enjoy relaxed meals, and take in the crisp mountain air that makes this region so memorable.

salzburg-night-panoramic-view

Departure

End the journey in Salzburg, a city known for its classical music heritage, pastel-hued old town, and views of hilltop fortresses. With a few unhurried hours before departure, you might explore a quiet square, visit a local café, or simply take in the atmosphere that inspired Mozart himself.

alps-tour-map

Whether you’re exploring options or ready to begin crafting a bespoke self-drive itinerary for your client, schedule a one-on-one call or reach out to us directly.

Contact our team

Luxury Hotels in Switzerland, Italy and Austria

Luxury Private Experiences in Switzerland, Italy and Austria

Why choose DRIVUSO for a Self-Drive Tour in Switzerland, Italy and Austria?

Our team of experts dedicates time and care to understanding the nuances of each destination, ensuring your clients enjoy a seamless, end-to-end experience. Thanks to our trusted network of partners, we handpick the finest hotels, restaurants, and experiences, while crafting routes that highlight the most scenic and rewarding roads. Throughout the journey, our concierge team is available 24/7 to support both you and your clients, handling last-minute changes, reservations, and special requests.

Our services

  • ^Driving route planning and route GPS
  • ^24/7 concierge service
  • ^Digital and paper roadbook
  • ^Suggested stops, restaurant reservations and more
  • ^Modify your trip anytime

Luxury Car Rental in Switzerland, Italy and Austria

  • personal delivery & collection
  • guaranteed make and model
  • all-inclusive pricing

FAQ

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What is special about the Alps?

This Alpine corridor brings together three distinct mountain cultures within a single journey. Switzerland offers precision and high-altitude passes, Italy introduces the dramatic rock formations of the Dolomites, and Austria combines alpine scenery with baroque towns and lakes. The route moves from structured landscapes to more rugged terrain, then into softer Alpine valleys, creating natural variety throughout the drive.

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What is the best period to visit the Alps?

Mid-June to October is generally the most reliable window. Mountain passes are typically open, and weather conditions are more stable. July and August offer long daylight hours, though they are busier. Early September often provides clear views and fewer visitors.

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What are the best cities in the Alps?

Zurich provides a calm and efficient starting point before heading toward central Switzerland and passes such as the Furka or Grimsel, depending on conditions. St. Moritz or Andermatt offer access to high mountain scenery. In Italy, the Dolomites stand out around Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena, with distinctive limestone peaks. Crossing into Austria, Innsbruck reflects imperial heritage beneath Alpine backdrops, while Zell am See and the Salzkammergut region lead naturally toward Salzburg.

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What is the best way to tour the Alps?

A car is essential to fully experience the mountain passes and panoramic roads. While trains connect major cities such as Zurich, Innsbruck, and Salzburg, they do not provide access to the high passes or many of the Dolomite routes. Driving allows flexibility, careful pacing, and the ability to adapt to weather conditions in higher elevations.

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