One-Week Relaxed Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Geneva to Zurich
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in Switzerland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Geneva, Lausanne, Lucerne, Zurich, and Bern. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Geneva and 3 nights in Zurich. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Geneva, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Chapel Bridge. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Zürich Zoo.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Jardin Anglais. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable The Geneva Water Fountain. Get close to the spectacular Bear Pit and the wonderful Lindenhof. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland today!
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Day 1
- Geneva - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Geneva, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Geneva and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
Geneva 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 Carouge, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Geneva. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Geneva, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Auberge de Savièse, a top-rated dining destination in Geneva. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Rouge & Le Blanc Genève, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Osteria della Bottega. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Geneva this evening.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Coyote Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Roi Ubu offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Phare, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Geneva as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Geneva
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Drive 6 km, 51 min
- St Pierre Cathedral
- The Flower Clock
- Jardin Anglais
- The Geneva Water Fountain
- Parc de La Grange
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Geneva, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Start by visiting St Pierre Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning church is sure to impress. Next on your list is L'horloge Fleurie, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned art installation renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Geneva by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Jardin Anglais. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Geneva experience. We also recommend visiting The Geneva Water Fountain, a well-known monument. Nearby, you'll also find Parc De La Grange, ready to add charm to your journey.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Geneva. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Geneva that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Geneva to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Geneva has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Geneva by reserving a table at Tosca. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional tuscan menu. For a different taste experience, head to L'Atelier Robuchon, recognized for its delicious french contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Il Lago, a local favorite known for its delightful italian and mediterranean cuisine in Geneva. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning italian and mediterranean foodies seeking culinary excellence.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Geneva and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pub Lord Jim, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Bretelle Bar Associatif, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Bateau-lavoir provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Geneva as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Geneva
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 17 min
- Palace of Nations
- Broken Chair
- Conservatory and Botanical garden Geneva
- Mon Repos Park
- Bains des Pâquis
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Geneva. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Geneva. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Geneva!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Geneva on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palace Of Nations is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect museum before continuing your journey. Broken Chair is your next stop. This up-and-coming art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Geneva.
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 Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc Mon Repos and Bains Des Pâquis.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring the food culture in Geneva offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Crowned Eagle, an iconic dining spot in Geneva. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Little Kitchen, a popular restaurant in Geneva. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Oh Martine!, a hidden gem nestled in Geneva. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Geneva’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mulligans Irish Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Geneva can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Geneva
- Zurich
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Drive 336 km, 3 hours 57 min
- AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium
- Chapel Bridge
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Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Lausanne. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zurich, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.
Geneva is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Aquatis Aquarium-vivarium, a locally appreciated aquarium that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Chapel Bridge, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Zurich. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Widder Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich
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Drive 1 km, 22 min
- Lindenhof
- Swiss National Museum
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Niederdorf
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zurich, and meet locals along the way!
A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Bahnhofstrasse, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the notable Lindenhof, a history-steeped historical landmark in Zurich. Next, go to Swiss National Museum.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zurich, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lokal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aurora. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zurich.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eldorado, known for its lively atmosphere. Gotthard Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Stanza offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich
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Drive 10 km, 46 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
- Zürich Opera House
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a zoo, an art gallery, a church, an opera house and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Zürich Zoo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Kunsthaus Zürich, an instagrammable art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Grossmünster, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Zürich Opera House.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zurich offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zurich, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Savor the flavors at Alpenrose, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kafi Dihei beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Weisses Rössli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zurich. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Babalu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Nelson provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Zurich
- Geneva
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Drive 285 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Rosengarten Bern
- bear pit
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
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On day 7 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Switzerland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Switzerland.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zurich. Your adventure starts at Rose Garden Bern, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bear Pit. This captivating zoo is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This visually striking historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zytglogge is also worth visiting.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Geneva. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Switzerland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Geneva, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at 22 grand'rue, an iconic dining spot in Geneva. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café de Paris - Chez Boubier, a popular restaurant in Geneva. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel Métropole Genève, a hidden gem nestled in Geneva. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Geneva and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.
Day 8
- Geneva - Departure day
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- Rue du Rhône
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Geneva.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Geneva’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Rue du Rhône. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Rue du Rhône, a street that captures the true essence of Geneva. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Geneva or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Geneva and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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