Zermatt to Varenna: Swiss Alps to Lake Como Road Trip Guide

The drive from Zermatt (Switzerland) to Varenna (Italy) covers approximately 210 km (130 miles) of alpine roads, sweeping valleys, and lake shores. This route crosses the Swiss border near Brig, passes through the Simplon Pass or tunnels, and winds down to the Italian lake district. A unique fact: the Simplon Tunnel, opened in 1906, was the longest railway tunnel in the world for decades; its road counterpart, the SS33, offers sweeping switchbacks with glacier views. The journey takes about 3.5 hours without stops, but lingering is part of the experience.

This guide answers how long to drive Zermatt to Varenna (around 3.5 hours pure driving), lists the best stops Zermatt to Varenna, and explores whether it is worth driving Zermatt to Varenna instead of taking the train. With diverse terrain, things to do between Zermatt and Varenna range from glacier hikes to lakefront gelato. Use this resource alongside our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to craft your perfect trip.

Key route details and costs are summarized below.

The route transitions from glacier-capped peaks of the Matterhorn to the lush vegetation of Lake Como. Highlights include the Rhone Glacier near Brig, the Simplon Pass views (on clear days, Monte Leone is visible), and the dramatic Valle d'Ossola with its medieval villages. As you descend into Lombardy, olive groves and citrus trees appear.

• Natural highlights: Riffelsee (Matterhorn reflection), Simplon Pass panoramic point, Isola Bella (if detour via Stresa).
• UNESCO sites: Rhaetian Railway (Albula/Bernina) is near the start; Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy (several on route) are UNESCO heritage. The town of Como (lake) is a tentative site.
• Local commerce: Brig market on Saturdays; Domodossola crafts; Varenna's lakefront shops sell silk and local honey.

Climate varies dramatically: Zermatt is alpine cool (5-15°C summer), while Varenna is Mediterranean warm (20-30°C). Summer storms frequent afternoons. Spring and fall offer clear skies and fewer tourists. Winter driving is possible but requires care. The best aesthetic is late September when larch trees turn gold and tourist crowds thin.

From Zermatt, the only road leads north through Täsch and Visp to Brig. The car-train from Täsch to Zermatt is required for non-residents; from Täsch, you drive your own car. The main artery is the A9/E62 to Brig, then the SS33 over the Simplon Pass (closed in winter, use car-train through the tunnel). After Domodossola, take A26 then A9 motorways.

• Fuel: stations in Visp, Brig, and along the A9. Expect €2.0/l in Switzerland, €1.8/l in Italy.
• Tolls: Swiss vignette mandatory (CHF 40 for unlimited). Italian motorways: A26/A9 tolls ~€16 total.
• Parking in Varenna: limited, paid lots outside town center (€2-3/hr).
• Car-train from Täsch to Zermatt: CHF 28 one-way, required unless you stay in Täsch.

Road quality is excellent: Swiss asphalt is smooth, Italian motorways are well-maintained. The Simplon Pass (2,005 m) has tight hairpins; drive cautiously in rain. Winter driving (Nov-Apr) often requires snow chains. The A9 tunnel under Simplon (car-train) avoids pass closures, but queues can form on weekends. Estimated total cost for tolls and vignette: ~€55, plus fuel ~€30 for a typical car.

Swiss roads demand strict adherence: speed cameras frequent, radar traps on mountain passes. Italian motorways have average speed (Tutor) enforcement. Essential items: warning triangle (mandatory both countries), hi-vis vests, spare glasses, and first aid kit. Winter tires or chains mandatory in Switzerland Oct-Apr.

• Family-friendly: stop at Glassier Goms (interactive glacier museum), Domodossola's toy museum, or relax at Lake Orta playgrounds.
• Fatigue management: planned rest areas at Simplon Pass (Grünenboden), Domodossola service area, and Bellinzona (Autogrill).
• Pet-friendly: Swiss trains allow small dogs on the car-train; Italian restaurants often welcome pets on terraces. Many hotels in Varenna accept dogs.

Hidden off-route spots: the abandoned village of Rasa (accessed via cable car from Verdasio), the medieval bridge of Crevoladossola, and the isolated Alpine pasture of Alpe Devero (summer only). For a detour, visit Morcote on Lake Lugano: its botanical park (Parco Scherrer) houses architectural follies from around the world. To find more hidden gems, refer to our article on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.