6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Schaffhausen and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Switzerland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bern, Geneva, Basel, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Zurich, and Lucerne. 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 4 nights in Bern and 1 night in Schaffhausen. 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 Bern, 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 Jardin Anglais, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Geneva Water Fountain.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Geneva, Basel, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Zurich, and Lucerne, 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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Day 1
- Bern - Arrival day
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- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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Welcome to Bern, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Bern's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bern 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 Unesco - Bern Old Town, or just 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 Bern. 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 Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Brasserie Obstberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Süder beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Leichtsinn. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Zum Kuckuck, known for its lively atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Bern
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour
- Rosengarten Bern
- bear pit
- Museum of Communication
- Matte
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bern for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Matte is a fantastic place you can explore today in Bern. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Bern-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the curiosity-inducing Rose Garden Bern, a romantic botanical garden in Bern. Next, go to Bear Pit.
After visiting Rose Garden Bern and Bear Pit, have a stroll along Bern's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Of Communication. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bern. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. An esteemed 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ebrietas Bern, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Adrianos Bar & Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Bern
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Bains des Pâquis
- The Geneva Water Fountain
- Jardin Anglais
- The Flower Clock
- Mon Repos Park
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bern for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Geneva.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bains Des Pâquis. This increasingly popular swimming pool is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is The Geneva Water Fountain, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Jardin Anglais, one of the most captivating places to see in Bern. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, L'horloge Fleurie. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this art installation offers. Then, head to Parc Mon Repos, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bern and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bern. 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 a delicious meal at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kesar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aarbergerhof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Attika Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Say good night to Bern and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Bern
- Schaffhausen
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Drive 195 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Basel Minster
- Mittlere Brücke
- Zoo Basel
- Rhine Falls
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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 Basel and Neuhausen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Schaffhausen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Bern on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile church, Basel Minster. Afterward, continue to Middle Bridge, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.
As you explore Bern’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Basel Zoo. This well-known zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rhine Falls, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Schaffhausen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Schaffhausen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Schaffhausen by reserving a table at D'Chuchi. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Theaterrestaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eckhaus Gmbh, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar No13 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tabaco Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Schaffhausen
- Bern
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Lindenhof
- Chapel Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Zurich and Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Schaffhausen includes a zoo and a historical landmark. Zürich Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lindenhof, a notable historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Chapel Bridge, a romantic historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Bellevue Palace, an iconic dining spot in Bern. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurants Terrasse, a popular restaurant in Bern. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Jack's Brasserie, a hidden gem nestled in Bern. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
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Day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Bundesplatz, a history-steeped public square before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.
If you're eager to try something different, consider The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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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