5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling west to Lausanne and Lucerne

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Description

Explore the best of Switzerland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zurich, Lausanne, Geneva, Lucerne, and Neuhausen. This road trip itinerary in Switzerland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Lausanne, Geneva, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Lindenhof
GrossmünsterZürich Opera HouseChinagarten ZürichZürich ZooLindenhof
Bains des PâquisJardin AnglaisThe Geneva Water FountainThe Flower ClockBroken Chair
SpreuerbrückeChapel BridgeLion Monument LucerneSwiss Museum of TransportRhine Falls
Botanical GardenLindenhof

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Lindenhof
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Zurich and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Lindenhof 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Differente, 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 zum Kropf, 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 Babu's, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Widder Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rio Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zurich
  • Lausanne
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Chinagarten Zürich
  • Zürich Zoo
  • Lindenhof
  • More

On day 2 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 Zurich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lausanne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a monumental, a grand, a romantic, and a peaceful in Zurich. Begin your sightseeing with Grossmünster. This locally appreciated church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zürich Opera House, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

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 Chinagarten Zürich. This frequently visited botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Zürich Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Lausanne by booking a table at Le Berceau des Sens, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Lausanne, Anne-Sophie Pic shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Table du Lausanne Palace is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Lausanne. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Captain Cook Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out King Size Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pin Up Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lausanne
  • Geneva
  • Lucerne
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Drive 331 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Bains des Pâquis
  • Jardin Anglais
  • The Geneva Water Fountain
  • The Flower Clock
  • Broken Chair
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Geneva, 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 Lucerne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Geneva. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Bains Des Pâquis, a curiosity-inducing swimming pool that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Jardin Anglais and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to The Geneva Water Fountain, an interesting monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on L'horloge Fleurie, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Broken Chair, a breathtaking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lucerne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Lucerne by securing a table at Lucide. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Colonnade, famous for its scrumptious modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar 58. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Penthouse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lucerne
  • Neuhausen
  • Zurich
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Rhine Falls
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lucerne and Neuhausen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of a romantic, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a respected, a culturally significant, and a masterful await you in Lucerne on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved historical landmark, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Chapel Bridge. A visit to this historical landmark is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Lucerne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne. This locally renowned monument is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Swiss Museum Of Transport, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

Head to Rhine Falls, a widely recognized waterfall in Neuhausen. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

As you explore more of Zurich, 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eldorado, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gotthard Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out La Stanza. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Botanical Garden
  • Lindenhof
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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.

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.

Discover a day packed with a charming, a picturesque, a breathtaking, and an instagrammable in Zurich. Begin your sightseeing with Botanical Garden. This locally appreciated botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city.

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

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!

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