Como to Sion Road Trip: Best Stops and Scenic Alps Drive

The drive from Como to Sion spans approximately 200 kilometers, weaving from Italy's Lombardy region into the Swiss canton of Valais. The route follows the A9 motorway, crossing the Simplon Pass, one of the highest paved roads in the Alps at 2,005 meters. This historic pass has been a vital trade and military route since Roman times, and the current road was completed in the early 19th century by Napoleon.

As a travel journalist for Wayro, I've driven this route countless times, and each journey reveals new details. The drive takes 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, but you'll want to budget at least a full day to truly experience the highlights. From the shimmering lakes of Lombardy to the dramatic gorges of Valais, this is a road trip that rewards those who slow down.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: The roads are generally excellent, with smooth asphalt and clear signage. The Simplon Pass road is well-maintained but narrow in places with steep drop-offs. In winter (November to April), snow chains or winter tires are mandatory. Swiss highways have speed cameras; adhere to 120 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on main roads. Emergency phones are located every 2 km on the A9.

Fuel and Route Economics: Petrol is cheaper in Italy than Switzerland. Fill up before crossing the border. The Vignette is a fixed cost; Italian tolls cost about 5 EUR total. Budget 50-60 CHF for tolls and fuel for the Swiss portion. There are several rest stops with free toilets and picnic areas along the A9.

• Best stops Como to Sion for families: Swissminiatur in Melide, Technorama in Winterthur (slightly off-route), Adventure Park in Sion
• Pet-Friendly Framework: Most hotels and restaurants accept dogs; many gas stations have pet relief areas. The Simplon Pass summit is ideal for dog walks.
• Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: After 2 hours of driving, pull over at the Bellinzona rest area (A2) or the Brig service station (A9). Coffee and snacks available.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: The Gondo Gorge (Kunst and Gschicht) offers a short trail through a spectacular canyon. The village of Simplon Dorf has a charming chapel with frescoes. The Felsenegg view point near Sion provides a stunning panorama of the Valais Alps. For a unique experience, visit the Stockalperschloss in Brig – a 17th-century merchant's palace with gardens.

Culinary Infrastructure: Along the route, you'll find Michelin-starred restaurants in Como (e.g., I Tigli) and Sion (e.g., Le Bistro). For a quick bite, the Autogrill at the A9 service stations offer decent panini and coffee. In Locarno, try the local minestrone and risotto. In Valais, the traditional 'raclette' is a must – many roadside taverns serve it. Don't miss the wine tasting cellars in Sion's old town.

• Como: Fresh fish from the lake, polenta
• Locarno: Cold cuts, local wines
• Brig: Swiss fondue, cheese boards
• Sion: Chasselas wine, dried meats

The primary route is the A9 motorway from Como through to Sion, but the most scenic and authentic path involves taking the SS340 north from Como to the Swiss border at Chiasso. After crossing into Switzerland, follow the A2 to Bellinzona, then switch to the A13 and A9 towards Brig and Sion. The total distance is about 220 km via this route.

For those wondering how long to drive Como to Sion, the fastest way is via the A9/SS340, taking approximately 3 hours 45 minutes. However, is it worth driving Como to Sion with stops? Absolutely, as the journey offers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.

• Highways: A9 (Swiss), A2 (Swiss), A13 (Swiss), SS340 (Italian)
• Tolls: Switzerland requires a vignette (40 CHF for a year), Italy has tolls on the A9 (approx 5 EUR)
• Gas stations: Plentiful at each major town; filling up in Italy is cheaper than in Switzerland
• Parking: Free or low-cost parking at Simplon Pass summit; paid garages in Como and Sion

For tips on discovering hidden spots along the way, check out this guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The drive from Como to Sion is a visual feast of alpine grandeur. Starting with the lake district of Lombardy, you pass through the wine-growing terraces of Valais, then climb over the Simplon Pass with its rugged peaks and snowfields. The Rhône Valley later unfolds with its dramatic gorges and medieval castles.

Don't miss the viewpoint at the Simplon Pass summit, offering panoramic views of the Lepontine Alps. The Gondo Gorge, just north of the pass, features a dramatic narrow canyon with waterfalls and a historic fortified village. For a detour, the Aletsch Glacier (UNESCO site) is accessible from Brig via a short train ride.

• Lake Como: Cruise or stroll in Bellagio
• Locarno: Explore the old town and Lake Maggiore
• Simplon Pass: Stop at the summit monument and Alpine garden
• Brig: Visit the Stockalper Palace and ride the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn
• Sion: Two medieval castles – Tourbillon and Valère

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The region boasts three UNESCO sites along or near the route. The Vineyard Terraces of Lavaux, though a bit west of Sion, are a magnificent example of human cultivation; the Aletsch Glacier and Jungfrau region are accessible from Brig. The Castles of Bellinzona, just south of Locarno, are a trio of medieval fortresses that are well worth a stop.

Local Commerce & Culture: In Como, silk has been produced since the 15th century – visit a silk factory showroom. In Valais, the local economy is driven by wine (especially the white Fendant) and cheese (raclette and fondue). Weekly markets in Sion (Saturday mornings) feature local produce, crafts, and the famous Valais apricots.

• Como: Silk scarves, handmade pasta
• Locarno: Mercato di Locarno (Wed mornings)
• Brig: Visit the weekly market on Saturdays
• Sion: Wine cellars and cheese dairies open for tasting