12-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich traveling south to Lugano, Ernen, Geneva, Bern, and Sion

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Zurich and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zurich for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zurich. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Take your Zurich getaway to new heights by dining at Widder Restaurant, a Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 2 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Widder Restaurant consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern french and contemporary cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Zurich is IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its sharing and modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich and reserve a table at the 2-star Michelin restaurant, The Restaurant. Its delectable creative and modern menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

After dinner, visit Tibits, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Zurich. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,746 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Kennedy's Irish Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,395 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend El Lokal. This bar, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,127 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of Zurich.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Switzerland!

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your discoveries in Zurich do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Zurich on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Babu's, an acclaimed dining establishment in Zurich. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,949 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Kronenhalle while experiencing the best of Zurich. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,764 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Markthalle, an elegant culinary destination in Zurich. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,771 previous guests.

An excellent example is Rimini Bar, which has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,417 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Café Bar ODEON. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,374 customers.

Locals also enjoy Oliver Twist, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,495 customers, an after-dinner drink at Oliver Twist is the perfect way to end this day.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Basel for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Basel has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Basel offers and add your favorites to your Switzerland travel package below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Cantinetta Antinori, a distinguished dining establishment in Zurich. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,379 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Zurich is Metropol. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,341 happy diners.

Viadukt stands out as a local favorite in Zurich. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,179 customers.

After dinner, visit La Stanza, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Zurich. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,083 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 870 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend Rio Bar. This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 992 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of Zurich.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Goldau, Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Lugano. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugano. Lugano will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Arth, it's time to take a break from the road.

After soaking in Arth’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lavertezzo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 7 min. When you arrive in Lavertezzo, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ponte dei Salti. This much-appreciated stone arch bridge is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,917 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lugano, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lugano.

Indulge in an exquisite luxury dining experience at Flamel. Renowned for its prestigious rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, Flamel consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional contemporary and seasonal cuisine.

Another favorite dining locale in Lugano is Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,096 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Lugano, enjoy Ristorante Trattoria Galleria’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,111 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city, Il Fermento. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,038 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like Trinity Irish Pub. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 695 customers.

The options in Lugano don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Bar Laura. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 653 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Lugano, Melide, Porza, Fürgangen, and Ernen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ernen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parco Ciani. This much-appreciated urban park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,286 reviews.

Next up is Lugano Arte e Cultura. This museum building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,055 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Melide, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lugano to Melide may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Swissminiatur. This miniature park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,624 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Porza, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Melide to Porza may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your day with a visit to Cornèr Arena. This extraordinary sports venue is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,183 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ernen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ernen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Lausanne, and Geneva. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Geneva. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Ernen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Montreux. Your travel time is around 1 hour 48 min.

Make Freddie Mercury statue your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,801 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Corsier-sur-Vevey. This car ride takes around 14 min.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Geneva. Geneva offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Geneva's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tosca. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Tosca consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional tuscan cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is L'Atelier Robuchon, one of the best Bib Gourmand 2-star Michelin fine dining venues in Geneva. Take your pick from the french contemporary menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Il Lago in Geneva. With its prestigious 1-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant serves italian and mediterranean dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Beau-Rivage Genève and experience the nightlife in the city of Geneva. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,169 customers.

You can also hang out at Demi Lune Café. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 968 customers.

Locals recommend Le Kraken, so definitely check it out too. Le Kraken is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 898 bar-goers.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Geneva has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Geneva by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Geneva on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Geneva. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Les Armures, a popular restaurant in Geneva. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,758 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Cottage Café during your stay in Geneva. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,337 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Tartares & Co, a renowned dining destination in Geneva. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 707 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Mr Pickwick Pub, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,993 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Café du Centre. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,188 customers.

Les Brasseurs is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,451 customers.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.

On day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Geneva, Veytaux, and Bern. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like St Pierre Cathedral. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,386 visitors.

Next, make your way to L'horloge fleurie. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,614 reviews.

While in Geneva, we also recommend a visit to Jardin Anglais. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,129 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to The Geneva Water Fountain. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,281 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Geneva.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Geneva and set your GPS to Veytaux. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. Upon reaching Veytaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Chillon Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,331 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veytaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bern may take around 1 hour 7 min. Upon your arrival in Bern, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bern. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make your stay in Bern one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at ZOE, a 1 Michelin star-rated gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful vegetarian and modern cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. ZOE ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another Michelin restaurant in Bern you shouldn’t miss is the Bib-Gourmand awardee Steinhalle. With 1 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. Steinhalle proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, all delighted by its creative and international culinary offerings.

Wein & Sein is not just another restaurant in Bern. Its 1-Michelin star menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a gastronomic adventure. This Bib-Gourmand awarded restaurant’s modern dishes and numerous glowing reviews from satisfied patrons have solidified its reputation as a culinary gem in Bern.

Locals recommend going for a drink at tibits. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,518 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is Lötschberg. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,268 customers.

Mr. Pickwick Pub Bern also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,069 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bern. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Bern, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Bern below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bern's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Reserve your spot at Kornhauskeller, a popular local restaurant in Bern. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,436 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Luce during your stay in Bern. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,541 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Casino Bern, a popular local gem in Bern. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,429 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. Adrianos Bar & Café is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 865 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out Einstein – café & bel étage –. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 837 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Klösterli Weincafe. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 759 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Ballenberg, Harderkulm, Beatenberg, Lammi, and Sion, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sion. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beatenberg. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Harderkulm. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Harderkulm. This mountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,635 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sion, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sion.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Damien Germanier, a Bib Gourmand local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Damien Germanier consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Brasserie du Grand Pont while experiencing the best of Sion. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,135 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Pizzeria Pont du Rhône, an elegant culinary destination in Sion. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,154 previous guests.

Experience the local nightlife scene. Luigia is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 707 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like L' AMBASSADE. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 161 bar-goers.

La Matriochka Café is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 144 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Switzerland, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Lucerne and Zurich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich. Zurich will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sion, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Swiss Museum of Transport, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 reviews. Every year, Swiss Museum of Transport welcomes more than 562,605 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Lion Monument Lucerne is a recommended place to visit. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Lucerne is Chapel Bridge. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Lucerne offers an experience you will remember.

Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Lucerne. This wooden bridge promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,066 reviews.

Zurich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Zurich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Zurich. Zurich offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Reserve your spot at La Pasta, a popular local restaurant in Zurich. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,041 satisfied guests.

When you’ve finished your meal and an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit The International Beer Bar, one of the best bars in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 773 customers, and is the perfect complement to your refreshing weekend getaway experience in Switzerland.

If you would like to try another place, Aurora is another great option that serves a variety of drinks. Considered one of the most popular bars in Zurich, this bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 705 customers.

Ebrietas Bar is also a great bar where you can have nice chats with locals and fellow travelers in the area. Ebrietas Bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 560 customers.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 12 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zurich before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Zurich’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.

You’ll then say farewell to Zurich. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!