One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Geneva to Basel, Zurich, and Bern

Welcome to Geneva, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Geneva's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Geneva. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Elevate your stay in Geneva by dining at this restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Tosca consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional tuscan cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Geneva is L'Atelier Robuchon, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its french contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to L'Atelier Robuchon’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at Il Lago. This celebrated dining spot in Geneva is renowned for its creative meals and italian and mediterranean menu. Countless guests have praised this restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star status.

After dinner, visit Beau-Rivage Genève to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Geneva, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,169 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Demi Lune Café. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Demi Lune Café has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 968 customers.

Le Kraken is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 898 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

Day 2 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.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Geneva, 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 Geneva below.

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

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.

Mr Pickwick Pub is one of the best bars in Geneva and the perfect place for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,993 customers.

You may also want to check out Café du Centre. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your celebrations. Café du Centre is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,188 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Les Brasseurs. Les Brasseurs has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,451 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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, Gruyères, and Basel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Geneva’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Corsier-sur-Vevey. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Corsier-sur-Vevey, it's time to take a break from the road.

After soaking in Corsier-sur-Vevey’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montreux. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Montreux, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Freddie Mercury statue one of your first sightseeing stops in Montreux. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,801 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Golden Pass Railway is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,676 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Basel. Basel 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Basel. 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.

Elevate your stay in Basel by dining at this Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional classic french cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Basel is roots, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern and seasonal menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to roots’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. This celebrated dining spot in Basel is renowned for its creative meals and creative and modern menu. Countless guests have praised this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 2 Michelin-star status.

KLARA 13 AG is one of the best bars in Basel and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,460 customers.

You may also want to check out HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,144 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Flanagan's. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,232 customers.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Basel, Neuhausen, and Zurich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to middle bridge. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,025 visitors.

Basel Minster is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,442 visitors.

Basel Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 2,012,511 people visit this top attraction every year. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 visitors.

Neuhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. Neuhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Rhine Falls. This much-appreciated waterfall is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

Set your GPS to Zurich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zurich beckons with new experiences!

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

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

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Widder Restaurant, a Bib Gourmand local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 2 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Widder Restaurant consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern french and contemporary cuisine.

Also highly recommended is IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, one of the best 2-star Michelin establishments in Zurich. Take your pick from the sharing and modern menu, which has consistently earned IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Zurich and reserve a table at the 2-star Michelin restaurant, The Restaurant. Its delectable creative and modern offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to Tibits. Around 2,746 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Basel also enjoy the drinks at Kennedy's Irish Pub. This place is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,395 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is El Lokal. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,127 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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

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

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.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Rimini Bar is a popular option with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,417 customers.

Another top option is Café Bar ODEON. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,374 customers.

Oliver Twist is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,495 customers.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Lucerne, Innertkirchen, and Bern, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lucerne. This car ride takes around 45 min.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bern, 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 Bern.

ZOE is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature vegetarian and modern meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Bern, Steinhalle. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative and international dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Bern you shouldn’t miss is Wein & Sein. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit tibits, one of the best bars in the city. Tibits is an excellent place to have a refreshing evening drink after exploring Bern. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,518 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Lötschberg. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,268 customers.

Mr. Pickwick Pub Bern also belongs to the list of the best bars in Bern, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,069 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 7 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 Bern, Veytaux, Lavey-Morcles, and Geneva. In the evening, you’ll end up in Geneva, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors.

When you’re finished at UNESCO - Bern Old Town, head to bear pit. This one-of-a-kind architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Set your GPS to Veytaux and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Veytaux beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Chillon Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,331 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lavey-Morcles. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Les Bains de Lavey. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,702 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Hôtel du Parc des Eaux-Vives while you’re in Geneva. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 532 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Geneva is Bologne. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 244 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

While in Geneva, enjoy Café du Soleil’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,890 satisfied guests.

After dinner, stop by one of the best bars in Geneva. Hôtel Métropole Genève often offers travelers and locals alike a great time. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 843 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at Britannia Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 870 customers.

Hôtel Bristol Genève is another top-rated bar in the city. This place enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 634 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Geneva before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Geneva’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Geneva. 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!