12-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich traveling south to Lugano, Sion, Geneva, and Bern

Welcome to Zurich, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Zurich's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Zurich 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 Zürichhorn or 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 Zurich. 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 in Zurich. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Known for its 2-star Michelin reputation, Widder Restaurant captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french, and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delectable sharing, and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore The Restaurant, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Switzerland!

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,599 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,760 travelers from near and far. Approximately 382,603 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Zurich.

Zurich is also the home of Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,428 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Zürich Opera House. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,349 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Switzerland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Zurich has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Lokal, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Eldorado, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gotthard Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is La Stanza, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lugano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This wooden bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,153 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,595 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museggmauer. This fortification has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,258 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,757 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,843 visitors. Approximately 562,605 travelers visit Swiss Museum of Transport every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lugano, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Lugano, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Experience a taste of Flamel in Lugano by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Flamel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary, and seasonal cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Laura. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lugano this evening.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your road trip in 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 in Lugano, Melide, and Fürgangen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Parco Ciani, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,419 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Lugano Arte e Cultura. Lugano Arte e Cultura is a museum building with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,125 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lugano and set your GPS to Melide. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Melide, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Swissminiatur. This miniature park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,758 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sion, 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 Sion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Damien Germanier in Sion by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Damien Germanier delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Enclos de Valère? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pavillon des Sports as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sion.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Lausanne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Geneva, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lausanne. This car ride takes around 56 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium. This public aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lausanne, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 7,632 visitors.

Lausanne Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,860 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Place de la Palud. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,848 reviews.

The Olympic Museum is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a museum rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,722 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Geneva. Geneva offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Geneva. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tosca, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional tuscan menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, L'Atelier Robuchon, known for its delicious french contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Geneva is Il Lago, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious italian, and mediterranean menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Coyote Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Roi Ubu offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Phare is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Geneva. You’ll stay in Geneva for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bains des Pâquis. This public bath is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Geneva, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,310 visitors.

L'horloge fleurie is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,932 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jardin Anglais. Visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,416 reviews.

The Geneva Water Fountain is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,374 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Parc de La Grange, perhaps the most famous park in Geneva. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,180 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Geneva has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Geneva offers and add your favorites to your Switzerland travel package below.

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

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pub Lord Jim stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Bretelle Bar Associatif offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Bateau-Lavoir is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Geneva, and Veytaux, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, St Pierre Cathedral is a great place to start. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,538 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Broken Chair. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,646 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. The botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,800 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Geneva, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Veytaux may take around 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in Veytaux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Chillon Castle. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,706 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bern, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. Esteemed as a much-enjoyed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian, and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative, and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Zum Kuckuck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Taube, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 3 nights left in Bern, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to bear pit. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,330 visitors.

Rose Garden Bern is another popular attraction you could visit today. This architectural structure has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,547 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gruyères. This car ride takes around 56 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château de Gruyères. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,730 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pringy and set your GPS to Bern. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Bern, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Maison du Gruyère. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,517 visitors.

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

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

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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ebrietas Bern, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Adrianos Bar & Café offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Titlis Cliff Walk. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,738 visitors.

When you arrive in Meiringen, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Aare Gorge is a great place to start. This narrow canyon is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,359 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lammi, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Harderkulm may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Harderkulm, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aare Gorge West Entrance. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,262 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Bern, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kesar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Aarbergerhof. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bern.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Attika Bar, a prime location for a drink.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Lavey-Morcles, Corsier-sur-Vevey, and Montreux. You still have 1 night left in Bern.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lavey-Morcles, 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 Bern to Lavey-Morcles may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lavey-Morcles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Les Bains de Lavey. This popular spa has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,803 visitors.

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 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Chaplin's World. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,493 visitors.

Montreux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Corsier-sur-Vevey behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Montreux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Golden Pass Railway. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Montreux, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,783 visitors.

Promenade sur les quais de Montreux is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 430 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Freddie Mercury statue. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,945 reviews.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bern's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Bellevue Palace, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurants Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Jack's Brasserie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bern tonight.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Basel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bern and set your GPS to Basel. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Basel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make middle bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Basel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,094 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Basel Minster is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,564 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Tinguely Fountain. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,202 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Basel Zoo and find out why 2,012,511 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 15,396 previous visitors.

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.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kafi Dihei is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Weisses Rössli. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Babalu. Alternatively, go to Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Nelson provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 12 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zurich before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindenhof. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zurich, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,519 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.

Savor the flavors at Viadukt, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Pasta beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Zurich. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!