7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Italy, Switzerland, and France With Itinerary from Milan to Lucerne and Annecy
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Description
Explore Italy, Switzerland, and France on an epic 7-day European road trip. Milan, Como, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Annecy await!
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Italy, 2 nights in Switzerland, and 1 night in France.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Italy, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Milan and begin your adventure from there. Explore Milan and Como, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Switzerland. Immerse yourself in the allure of Lucerne, Interlaken, Mürren, and Geneva, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of France. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Annecy.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge and Annecy's iconic Pont Des Amours. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Italy, Switzerland, and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Italy, Switzerland, and France.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Milan - Arrival day
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- Brera
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Milan in Italy. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Milan for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Italy to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Milan before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Milan 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 Brera, 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 Milan. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Milan. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Dine in style at Hotel Morfeo Milano, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Contraste boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out UNAHOTELS Galles Milano. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Milan.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Nottingham Forest, known for its lively atmosphere. Armani/bamboo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mag Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Your multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Milan
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Drive 101 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Castello Sforzesco
- Sempione Park
- Santa Maria delle Grazie Church
- Porta Torre
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Italy, Switzerland, and France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Milan in Italy. With 1 night left in Milan, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Duomo Di Milano Museum. This iconic church is an inviting place to see in Milan. Continue your discovery at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, an enchanting shopping mall with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Milan, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This widely recognized castle offers a picture-perfect encounter with Milan. Next, make your way to Parco Sempione to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church, a popular church that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Porta Torre, a frequently visited monument in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Milan.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Italy's delectable cuisine at one of Milan's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Dessert Bar Milano, a popular restaurant in Milan. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Milan at Radisson Blu Hotel Milan, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ristorante Qui Si Mangia. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Milan tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Frida offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Friends Pub Milano is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take in the ambiance of Milan as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 3
- Milan
- Lucerne
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Drive 252 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Verkehrshaus Planetarium
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Italy, Switzerland, and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lucerne where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Milan covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a planetarium, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This locally renowned museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Verkehrshaus Planetarium, a must-see planetarium in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Lion Monument Lucerne. This interesting monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Chapel Bridge and Chapel Bridge. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Lucerne’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Switzerland's delectable cuisine at one of Lucerne's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.
Make sure to reserve a table at Valentino, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Weisses Schloss, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bolero, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 58, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Penthouse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 4
- Lucerne
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Drive 177 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Harderkulm
- Statue Of Yash Chopra
- Höhematte
- Trümmelbach Falls
- Mürrenbachfall
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Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lucerne for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Harderkulm in Switzerland.
Get ready for an exciting day in Lucerne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an observation deck, a monument, a park, a waterfall and much more! Begin your adventure at Harderkulm. This is a worthwhile observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Yash Chopra Statue, an up-and-coming monument in Lucerne.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Höhematte Interlaken. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trümmelbach Falls, another of the hamlet’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Mürrenbachfall, a majestic place of interest in the hamlet.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Lucerne boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Switzerland.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ampersand, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lucerne tonight.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 5
- Lucerne
- Annecy
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Drive 315 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Palace of Nations
- United Nations Office at Geneva
- Jardin Anglais
- The Flower Clock
- The Geneva Water Fountain
- Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Geneva in Switzerland and Annecy in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Annecy, your home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both. Start by heading to Palace Of Nations. This frequently visited museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover United Nations Office At Geneva, a breathtaking museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin Anglais, an interesting park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned L'horloge Fleurie. Round off your day at The Geneva Water Fountain, another gem in Lucerne with visually striking features to discover.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Annecy of your choice.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Annecy. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 6
- Annecy
- Milan
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Pont des Amours
- Jardins de l'Europe d'Annecy
- Aiguille du Midi
- Le Pas dans le Vide
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France. Today's main destinations are Annecy in France, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Just a short distance away is Jardins De L'europe D'annecy, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Aiguille Du Midi, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Le Pas Dans Le Vide.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Milan. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Milan’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bice Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Milan. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Alto Ristorante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Nero 9. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Milan this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bhangrabar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Rufus Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Ostello Bello Grande. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 7
- Milan - Departure day
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- Corso Vittorio Emanuele II
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Milan before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Milan’s shopping center, the lively Quadrilatero della Moda. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, a street that captures the true essence of Milan. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get a last taste of Italy’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Milan and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and France.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Pasticceria San Carlo, another premier location with a delectable menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Milan for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and France with fond memories. Safe travels!
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