9-Day Road Trip to Spain, France, and Switzerland

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Barcelona in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Barcelona for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Barcelona 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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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 Spain, France, and Switzerland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Barcelona’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 an outstanding Bib Gourmand dining experience at Lasarte. Holding an impressive 3 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Lasarte consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is ABaC, one of the best Bib Gourmand 3-star Michelin fine dining venues in Barcelona. Take your pick from the creative menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Cocina Hermanos Torres in Barcelona. With its prestigious 3-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant with a Bib-Gourmand award, serves creative dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Barcelona. At Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 893 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 743 reviews.

Cerveseria Catalana is also one of the best places in Barcelona where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,751 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland 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.

On day 2, you will wake up in Barcelona with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Barcelona before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain, France, and Switzerland.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Barcelona. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to book a table at El Nacional, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 23,496 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at El Bosc de Les Fades during your stay in Barcelona. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 14,606 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Ciutat Comtal, a renowned dining destination in Barcelona. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 12,951 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Ocaña. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,052 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Elsa y Fred. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,884 customers.

El Xampanyet cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 3,394 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

Take in the ambiance of Barcelona 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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Switzerland. Today's main destinations are Barcelona in Spain and Montpellier 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A tour of Barcelona is not complete without a visit to the famous Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This incredible catholic cathedral and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 travelers.

Make the most of your Barcelona travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Mercado de La Boqueria. This point of interest and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Plaça de Catalunya for an experience worth remembering. This local square and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 visitors.

Montpellier’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Barcelona behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 41 min. Montpellier welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Montpellier.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Montpellier’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Spain, France, and Switzerland.

Don't miss out on experiencing Coldrip food and coffee, a renowned dining spot in Montpellier. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 644 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Empanadas Club while immersing yourself in Montpellier. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,371 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a beloved dining establishment within Montpellier. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,623 satisfied customers.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Les Enfants Rouges. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,050 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at O'Carolans Irish Pub. This popular bar in Montpellier is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,118 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love The Shakespeare. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The Shakespeare has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 903 reviews.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Les Baux-de-Provence in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, your home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, 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 Montpellier to Arles may take around 1 hour 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’ve had your share of Arles, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Avignon. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Avignon today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Palais des Papes. This incredible attraction and palace holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 36,931 visitors. Up to 616,210 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Lyon. 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 2 hours 22 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Lyon of your choice.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Lyon's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Lyon has them.

Make a reservation at L Bar food & drink, a popular dining spot in Lyon. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,758 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Bouchon Tupin while indulging in the charm of Lyon. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, cherished by 969 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of L'Institut Restaurant, a treasured establishment in Lyon. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 853 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Black Forest Society, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Black Forest Society has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 500 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Livestation DIY - Lyon, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Livestation DIY - Lyon captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,452 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière", another local party gem in Lyon. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,225 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and 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 to see in Lausanne in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Geneva, where you will stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Switzerland! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lausanne may take around 2 hours 22 min. Upon your arrival in Lausanne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Lausanne, the extraordinary AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium awaits. This attraction is a valued public aquarium that boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,503 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Lausanne is the spectacular Lausanne Cathedral. This attraction is a cathedral that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,766 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing The Olympic Museum. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,534 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Geneva. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Geneva. 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 Spain, France, and Switzerland.

Tosca 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 tuscan meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Geneva, L'Atelier Robuchon. 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 french contemporary dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Geneva you shouldn’t miss is Il Lago. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this restaurant’s italian and mediterranean menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Beau-Rivage Genève. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,169 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Demi Lune Café. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 968 customers.

Le Kraken cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 898 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Geneva, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Geneva. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Geneva boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Switzerland.

Book a table at Restaurant Les Armures, a famous dining establishment in Geneva. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,758 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Geneva is Cottage Café, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.4 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 1,337 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Geneva’s Tartares & Co for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 707 satisfied diners.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Mr Pickwick Pub. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,993 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Café du Centre. This popular bar in Geneva is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,188 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Les Brasseurs. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Les Brasseurs has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,451 reviews.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Spain, France, and Switzerland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Caluire-et-Cuire in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Nimes where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Caluire-et-Cuire today.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caluire-et-Cuire, France. This car ride takes around 1 hour 49 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Caluire-et-Cuire is the magnificent parc de la Tête d'Or. Around 50,621 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Lyon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Caluire-et-Cuire behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Lyon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Lyon is not complete without a visit to the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This incredible minor basilica and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 travelers.

Make the most of your Lyon travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Place Bellecour. This square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nimes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Nimes’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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 Spain, France, and Switzerland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Nimes’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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Bird, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 659 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Restaurant Skab while in Nimes. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, treasured by 591 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand, a favorite in Nimes. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,576 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at O’Flaherty’s. This famous bar in Nimes has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,377 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 993 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Le Questel. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 575 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, France, and Switzerland! Enjoy your evening in Nimes to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, France, and Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nimes in France and Figueres in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Musée de la Romanité is a travelers’ favorite in Nimes, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors. More than 25,271 people visit this extraordinary museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Nimes, don’t miss Jardin de La Fontaine, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Spain, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Figueres. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Figueres, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Barcelona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Barcelona. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Don't forget to book a table at Paradiso, a well-known eatery in Barcelona. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,403 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona while exploring Barcelona. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,235 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Disfrutar, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,164 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Bobby's Free, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Bobby's Free has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,003 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Restaurant El Foro, a crowd-favorite. Around 2,552 customers have rated their experience at Restaurant El Foro an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Dr Stravinsky belongs to the list of the best bars in Barcelona, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,837 bar-goers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Barcelona 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 Spain, France, and Switzerland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Optimize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Barcelona’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Barcelona 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 Spain, France, and Switzerland.

The time has come to say farewell to Barcelona for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland with fond memories. Safe travels!