5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling south to Lucerne and Lausanne
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bern, Lucerne, Geneva, Lausanne, and Lavey-Morcles.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bern, 1 night in Lucerne, and 1 night in Lausanne. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bern, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Chapel Bridge and Chillon Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Jardin Anglais, learn more about the unique The Geneva Water Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bear Pit.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Lucerne, Geneva, Lausanne, and Lavey-Morcles, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.
Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Bern
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Bern - Arrival day
- More
- Rosengarten Bern
- More
Welcome to Bern, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bern's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bern is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Rose Garden Bern, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bern. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie Obstberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Süder offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Leichtsinn. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Zum Kuckuck is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Piazza Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Taube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Bern
- Lucerne
- More
Drive 110 km, 1 hour 29 min
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
- Cathedral of Bern
- bear pit
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bern. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Bern on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Unesco - Bern Old Town is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring historical landmark before continuing your journey. Zytglogge is your next stop. This underrated historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Bern.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Bern Minster. This inviting church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bear Pit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Lucerne by securing a table at Lucide. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Colonnade, famous for its scrumptious modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 58, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Penthouse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Lucerne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Lucerne
- Lausanne
- More
Drive 330 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Chapel Bridge
- Bains des Pâquis
- The Geneva Water Fountain
- Jardin Anglais
- The Flower Clock
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lucerne and Geneva. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lausanne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lucerne, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Chapel Bridge, a popular historical landmark in the town. Then, head to Bains Des Pâquis and soak in the ambiance of this romantic swimming pool.
There are many interesting places to see in Lucerne, and when you are ready for more, go to The Geneva Water Fountain. This is one of the town’s most popular enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the popular Jardin Anglais. Not far away, you'll also find L'horloge Fleurie. This art installation is a romantic highlight in Lucerne.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lausanne. Lausanne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lausanne's best restaurants.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Berceau des Sens, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and classic menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Anne-Sophie Pic, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Lausanne is La Table du Lausanne Palace, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.
Continue your lively evening at Captain Cook Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. King Size Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pin Up Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Lausanne
- Bern
- More
Drive 185 km, 2 hours 25 min
- Lausanne Cathedral
- The Olympic Museum
- Chillon Castle
- Les Bains de Lavey
- More
On day 4 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 Lausanne and Lavey-Morcles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lausanne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Lausanne Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Lausanne. Next, head to The Olympic Museum, an increasingly popular museum, known for its gorgeous features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Chillon Castle. This stunning castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Les Bains De Lavey. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Bern, Steinhalle shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and international cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Wein & Sein is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Bern. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ebrietas Bern, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Adrianos Bar & Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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.
Day 5
- Bern - Departure day
- More
- Bundesplatz
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Bundesplatz. This locally appreciated public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Bern’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Bern's Old City. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kesar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.