To transition from Italy to Switzerland in just three days, the most scenic and efficient route enters via the Simplon Pass and ends in Geneva. This path takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, past the iconic Matterhorn, and along the shores of Lake Geneva before your flight to France.
Day 1: Italy to the Valais (Zermatt & The Matterhorn)
- Route: Depart from Milan or Lake Como and head toward Domodossola. From there, take the Simplon Pass (SS33 into Switzerland). This high-altitude drive offers wide, sweeping turns and incredible views of the Monte Leone.
- Stay: Täsch/Zermatt. Since Zermatt is car-free, you will park your car in a terminal in Täsch and take a 12-minute train shuttle into Zermatt.
- Highlights: Evening views of the Matterhorn and a traditional fondue dinner in the village.
Day 2: The High Alps & Interlaken
- Morning: Take the Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt for the best panoramic view of the Matterhorn and Gorner Glacier.
- Afternoon Drive: Return to your car in Täsch and drive north toward Visp. For a unique experience, use the Lötschberg car train (Goppenstein to Kandersteg); you drive your car onto a train for a 15-minute tunnel shortcut through the mountains.
- Highlight: Visit Lauterbrunnen, the "Valley of 72 Waterfalls," located just 20 minutes from Interlaken. Walk to Staubbach Falls, which drops nearly 300 meters right into the village.
- Stay: Interlaken or Grindelwald.
Day 3: Lake Geneva & The French Border
- Route: Drive from Interlaken toward Montreux via the Simmental valley. This is a classic Swiss landscape of rolling green hills, wooden chalets, and Cowbells.
- Afternoon: Visit Chillon Castle, a 13th-century island fortress on Lake Geneva. Continue through the Lavaux Vineyards (a UNESCO site) for a scenic lakeside drive.
- Final Destination: Geneva Airport (GVA). This airport is perfectly situated for flights to France. It even has a French Sector that allows you to fly domestically within France even though the airport is in Switzerland.
Practical Tips for One-Way Self-Driving
- Car Rental Fees: Dropping off an Italian rental car in Switzerland can incur a "one-way drop fee" (typically €300–€500). To save money, consider dropping the car in Domodossola (Italy) and taking the train across the border, or budget for the fee if you prioritize the driving experience.
- Swiss Vignette: You must have a motorway sticker (Vignette) to use Swiss highways. It costs 40 CHF and can be purchased at the border or most gas stations. Ensure your rental doesn't already have one before buying.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Highly recommended (and often legally required in Italy) for non-EU license holders.
- September Travel: Early to mid-September is the "Goldilocks" period. The mountain passes are still open, the summer crowds have thinned, and the weather is generally crisp and clear—ideal for visibility of the mountain peaks.