5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lausanne and Lucerne
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Zurich, 1 night in Lausanne, and 1 night in Lucerne. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Zurich, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Chapel Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Zürich Zoo, learn more about the unique Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chillon Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Lausanne, Basel, Lucerne, and Neuhausen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.
Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Zurich - Arrival day
- More
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 1 night immersing yourself in Zurich's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Differente, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider zum Kropf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Babu's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Widder Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rio Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Zurich
- Lausanne
- More
Drive 240 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- More
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 1 vibrant destinations - Zurich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lausanne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zurich. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Lindenhof is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most captivating places to visit in Zurich. Next, head to Zürich Zoo, a well-known zoo, known for its breathtaking features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lausanne. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Lausanne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lausanne by reserving a table at Le Berceau des Sens. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern french and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Anne-Sophie Pic, renowned for its delectable creative 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 La Table du Lausanne Palace, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french 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 Lausanne.
Continue your lively evening at Captain Cook Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. King Size Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pin Up Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Lausanne
- Basel
- Lucerne
- More
Drive 327 km, 4 hours
- Chillon Castle
- Mittlere Brücke
- Zoo Basel
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Basel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Begin your journey at Chillon Castle and explore the standout features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Middle Bridge, an intriguing historical landmark that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Basel Zoo, an instagrammable zoo that stands out in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, 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 in Lucerne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a memorable dining experience in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Lucerne, Colonnade shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and seasonal cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar 58, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Penthouse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Lucerne
- Neuhausen
- Zurich
- More
Drive 167 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Rhine Falls
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne and Neuhausen, 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 Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Lucerne includes a historical landmark, a monument, and a museum. Chapel Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, a notable monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a culturally significant museum, also available for your discovery today.
Neuhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. Neuhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Rhine Falls and explore the romantic features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Zurich. Zurich offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.
Start your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Eldorado, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gotthard Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. La Stanza is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich - Departure day
- More
- Botanical Garden
- More
Day 5 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.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Zurich’s shopping center, the lively Bahnhofstrasse. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zurich allows for both. Start by heading to Botanical Garden. This underrated botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.