Ferrara to Mulhouse Road Trip: Scenic Drive Through Italy, Switzerland, France

Driving from Ferrara to Mulhouse is a journey through three distinct European regions: the flat plains of Emilia-Romagna, the dramatic Swiss Alps, and the rolling hills of Alsace. The total distance is approximately 700 kilometers, with a driving time of around 7 hours without stops. The route primarily uses the A13 from Ferrara to Bologna, then the A1/E35 northward through Milan, followed by the Swiss A2 through the Gotthard Tunnel, and finally the French A35 into Mulhouse.

Did you know? The stretch between Bellinzona and Lucerne via the A2 passes directly beneath the iconic Gotthard massif, where the Gotthard Base Tunnel—the world's longest railway tunnel—runs parallel. This route was historically a treacherous mule track used by merchants crossing the Alps since the 13th century.

For travelers wondering how long to drive Ferrara to Mulhouse, plan for 7-8 hours of pure driving, but factor in at least 9-10 hours with breaks. The question is it worth driving Ferrara to Mulhouse is answered by the breathtaking transition from Italian vineyards to Alpine peaks and Alsatian half-timbered villages. Use our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to enhance your journey.

The drive from Ferrara to Mulhouse showcases a remarkable geographical shift. Leaving Ferrara, you cross the flat, fertile Po Valley, known for its endless rows of corn and sunflowers. Near Reggio Emilia, the Apennines appear as soft blue silhouettes. After Milan, the terrain becomes pre-Alpine, with the first signs of the Alps near Como. The A2 climbs dramatically from Bellinzona to the Gotthard Tunnel, surrounded by granite peaks and sheer cliffs. Emerging from the tunnel, the landscape opens into the Reuss Valley, with emerald meadows and alpine villages.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the route: The historic centre of Ferrara (UNESCO) is your starting point. In Switzerland, the Old Town of Bern (UNESCO) is a 30-minute detour from the A2 via the A1 exit Bern-Neufeld. The Benedictine Convent of St. John at Müstair is further east, not on this route. In France, the Strasbourg Grand Île (UNESCO) is a 1-hour detour west of Mulhouse.

• Natural highlights: Lake Maggiore vista from the A2 near Ascona (exit Ascona/Locarno). The Reuss River gorge near Andermatt. The Alsatian vineyards visible from the A35 between Colmar and Mulhouse.
• Local commerce: Near Ferrara, stop at a salumeria for traditional cotechino and zampone sausage. In the Swiss Alps, pick up a piece of Sbrinz (hard cheese) at a roadside stand. In Alsace, buy a bottle of Sylvaner wine at a local vigneron near Colmar.

The A1 in Italy is well-maintained but can be congested around Milan; the Swiss A2 is smooth with variable speed limits in tunnels. The Gotthard Tunnel (16.9 km) is a highlight but can cause drowsiness due to monotony—take a break before entering. Night lighting is excellent on all motorways. However, in Switzerland, deer crossing signs are common near forested sections; reduce speed at dusk.

• Family stops: Ferrara: Parco Massari playground. Swiss A2: Swissminiatur (Melide) – a miniature park with trains. Alsace: Écomusée d'Alsace (near Colmar) – open-air museum with traditional houses and farm animals.
• Pet-friendly spots: Autogrill Secchia (A1): designated pet area. Gotthard Service Nord: walking path behind the station. Aire de Saint-Louis (A35): grassy pet zone.
• Fatigue management: Rest area "Pieve" (A1 near Piacenza): quiet, shaded. Parking near Erstfeld (A2): free, with mountain view. Aire de Sélestat (A35): 24-hour security.

Hidden off-route spots (within 5 min drive from highway): Rocca di Sala (near Reggio Emilia exit): a small castle ruin accessible via a short dirt road. Wassen Church (near A2 exit Wassen): a historic hilltop church overlooking the Reuss Valley. Château de Haut-Kœnigsbourg (near A35 exit Sélestat): an impressive medieval castle, albeit slightly popular, worth the detour.

Fuel costs for this route depend on your vehicle's efficiency. Assuming a mid-size car consuming 7 L/100 km, the total fuel needed is about 49 liters. At current average fuel prices (€1.80/L in Italy, €1.90/L in Switzerland, €1.70/L in France), expect to spend roughly €85-95. Fuel stations are abundant on Italian autostradas, but in Switzerland, they are closed on Sundays in rural areas. On the Swiss A2, the Gotthard service area offers fuel but at a premium.

• Toll roads: Italian A13/A1 require vignette or pay-per-use (approx. €25 for the segment). Switzerland requires a vignette (€40 for 1 year) for all motorways. French A35 from Basel to Mulhouse is toll-free.
• Best fuel stops: Autogrill Secchia (A1 near Modena) for affordable Italian fuel; Gotthard Service Nord (A2) for Swiss fuel; Aire de Saint-Louis (A35) for French fuel.
• Currency: Italy uses Euro, Switzerland uses Swiss Franc (CHF). Carry some CHF for tolls and parking in Switzerland, though many places accept cards.