12-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zurich

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 2 places, which are Bern and Köniz. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken, where will spend 3 nights.

Bundesplatz brings Bern's character to life. This instagrammable public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Bear Pit, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rose Garden Bern, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Interlaken, 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 Interlaken's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, an iconic dining spot in Interlaken. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Taj Palace, a popular restaurant in Interlaken. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of OX Restaurant & Grill, a hidden gem nestled in Interlaken. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Brasserie 17, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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, you’ll start and end your day in Interlaken, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Interlaken, Harderkulm, Alte Aare Bucht, and Beatenberg.

Whether you decide to explore Interlaken on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy all that Yash Chopra Statue has to offer. This is an often recommended monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Höhematte Interlaken, an often recommended park in Interlaken.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Harderkulm. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Weissenau Castle, another of the town’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, a standout place of interest in the town. If time allows, add Lake Thun to your itinerary. This underrated lake offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Interlaken.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Horn, an iconic dining spot in Interlaken. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Indian Tandoori, a popular restaurant in Interlaken. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Chalet Beizli, a hidden gem nestled in Interlaken. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Lucerne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Visiting Swiss Museum Of Transport is always a good idea. This interesting museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a must-see historical landmark 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 Jesuit Church, Lucerne. This frequently visited church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Chapel Bridge, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lucerne. Lucerne 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 Lucerne's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Valentino, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolero. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar 58, known for its inviting atmosphere. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Penthouse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lucerne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Lucerne.

Your adventure in Lucerne is only getting started when you visit Mount Pilatus, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Church Of St. Leodegar. This curiosity-inducing church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lucerne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Bourbaki-panorama (building). This history-steeped museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lion Monument Lucerne is also worth visiting.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ampersand, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lucerne.

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

Greet day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 3 nights to stay in Zurich, 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 Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, and Stein am Rhein.

Rhine Falls is must-visit waterfall and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Museum Zu Allerheiligen, a worthwhile museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen, a historic monastery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zurich. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Reformierte Kirche St. Johann. If you’re looking for more, Museum Lindwurm is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Lokal, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aurora. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Eldorado is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gotthard Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Stanza. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Abbey Library Of St. Gallen, an UNESCO world heritage-designated library in Zurich. Next, go to Abbey Of Saint Gall.

After visiting Abbey Library Of St. Gallen and Abbey Of Saint Gall, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Gallen Cathedral. This symbolic church offers a unique experience. Botanischer Garten is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Wildpark Peter Und Paul, one of the most picturesque places to visit in Zurich.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zurich and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, 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 Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Babalu after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nelson is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Gontenbad and Appenzell Innerrhoden. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zurich, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

No visit to Zurich is complete without Barfussweg. This up-and-coming hiking area is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Parish Church Of St. Mauritius, Appenzell, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Appenzell. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite.

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

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.

Dine in style at Viadukt, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Pasta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ebrietas Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Total Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Rimini Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Gruyères and Pringy. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Château De Gruyères is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This enchanting castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Hr Giger Museum, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated museum renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zurich by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to La Maison Du Gruyère. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zurich experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gourmanderie Moléson, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ebrietas Bern, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Adrianos Bar & Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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