11-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling west to Lugano, Interlaken, Lausanne, Geneva, and Bern

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Set aside time today to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Niederdorf, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Lindenhof. This history-steeped historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Zürich Opera House and learn what makes this romantic opera house unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Zürich Zoo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Zurich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eldorado, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gotthard Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Stanza offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

On day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lucerne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Lucerne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Lucerne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an up-and-coming historical landmark known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Chapel Bridge, a well-known historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Lion Monument Lucerne and uncover the details of this picture-perfect monument. Make sure to also explore Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lugano. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Lugano is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Lugano.

Begin your culinary exploration in Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Il Fermento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Oops, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 5 destinations, including Interlaken, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, Harderkulm, and Beatenberg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lausanne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Interlaken is only getting started when you visit Höhematte Interlaken, an up-and-coming local hot spot.

When you’ve had your share of Interlaken, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Schattenhalb. Your travel time is around 29 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aare Gorge West Entrance. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Schwanden bei Brienz. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, a beloved museum in Schwanden bei Brienz. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lausanne, 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 Lausanne's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Berceau des Sens, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Anne-Sophie Pic is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Lausanne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Table du Lausanne Palace. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Captain Cook Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. King Size Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pin Up Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Lausanne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Geneva, where will spend 3 nights.

Experience Lausanne Cathedral, a worthwhile church in the city. Then, head to Montbenon and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Lausanne, and when you are ready for more, go to The Olympic Museum. This is one of the city’s most underrated respected spots of interest.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

Spend your afternoon discovering Chillon Castle, a well-known castle known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Geneva. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Geneva. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Tosca in Geneva by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Tosca offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious tuscan menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore L'Atelier Robuchon, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing french contemporary cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Il Lago, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional italian and mediterranean menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Coyote Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Roi Ubu, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Phare likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Geneva, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Lavey-Morcles, Montreux, and Corsier-sur-Vevey.

When you’ve had your share of Geneva, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lavey-Morcles. Your travel time is around 1 hour 28 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Les Bains De Lavey, a beloved spa that everyone visiting Lavey-Morcles should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Montreux may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Montreux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Freddie Mercury Statue, a curiosity-inducing monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Golden Pass Railway, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Corsier-sur-Vevey. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Chaplin's World. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Geneva.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at la Finestra Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant l'Atelier offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chez ma Cousine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Geneva.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pub Lord Jim, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Bretelle Bar Associatif provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Bateau-lavoir offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Geneva and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Geneva has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Geneva.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Carouge. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Check out the increasingly popular church, St Pierre Cathedral. Afterward, continue to L'horloge Fleurie, an art installation every traveler should visit. As you explore Geneva’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Jardin Anglais. This interesting park is an essential stop. Following that, head to The Geneva Water Fountain, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Crowned Eagle, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Little Kitchen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Oh Martine! is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Geneva.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mulligans Irish Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Geneva and Gruyères. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Bains Des Pâquis is an essential stop in Geneva. This frequently visited swimming pool provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Broken Chair, a picture-perfect art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva, an increasingly popular botanical garden.

After soaking in Geneva’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gruyères. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 25 min. When you arrive in Gruyères, it's time to take a break from the road.

Château De Gruyères is a locally renowned castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bern. Bern offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bern by reserving a table at ZOE. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Steinhalle, recognized for its delicious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Wein & Sein, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Zum Kuckuck after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Piazza Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Taube is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Bern and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 10 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bern and Basel are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the intriguing Unesco - Bern Old Town, a romantic historical landmark in Bern. Next, go to Bear Pit.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Basel, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bern to Basel may take around 1 hour 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Basel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Basel Zoo, a well-known zoo in Basel. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basel Minster. This often recommended church is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alpenrose, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafi Dihei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Weisses Rössli. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Babalu, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Nelson is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.