6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling west to Basel and Geneva
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 Bern, 1 night in Basel, and 2 nights in Geneva. 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. Chillon Castle and Jardin Anglais are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Basel, Geneva, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Gruyères, and Pringy, 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
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Day 1 – Bern - arrival day
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Rosengarten Bern
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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 1 night 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 Rose Garden Bern 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 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 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 Brasserie Obstberg, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Süder, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Leichtsinn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Zum Kuckuck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Piazza Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Taube. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2 – Bern and Basel
- Bern
- Basel
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Drive 99 km, 1 hour 28 min
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
- Cathedral of Bern
- bear pit
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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 - Bern. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, a symbolic, an inviting, and an idyllic in Bern. Begin your sightseeing with Unesco - Bern Old Town. This beloved historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zytglogge, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bern, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bern Minster. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bear Pit, 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 Basel. Basel 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Basel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Start your culinary exploration in Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal 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 Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Schall Und Rauch Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Grenzwert Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 8 Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 3 – Basel and Geneva
- Basel
- Geneva
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Drive 303 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Mittlere Brücke
- Kannenfeld Park
- Zoo Basel
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On day 3 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 Geneva, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Basel. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Middle Bridge is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Basel. Next, head to Kannenfeldpark, an intriguing park, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Basel Zoo. This breathtaking zoo offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Geneva. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Geneva. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Coyote Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Roi Ubu. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Phare, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 4 – Geneva
- Geneva
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Drive 11 km, 54 min
- Conservatory and Botanical garden Geneva
- Bains des Pâquis
- Jardin Anglais
- The Flower Clock
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Geneva has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Geneva by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s itinerary in Geneva covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a swimming pool, a park, an art installation, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva. This intriguing botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Bains Des Pâquis, a must-see swimming pool in the city.
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 Jardin Anglais. This captivating park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to L'horloge Fleurie, where you can take in its enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to The Geneva Water Fountain. This awe-inspiring monument offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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 Geneva. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at la Finestra Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Geneva. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant l'Atelier, a popular restaurant in Geneva. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Chez ma Cousine, a hidden gem nestled in Geneva. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 5 – Geneva, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Gruyères, Pringy, and Bern
- Geneva
- Corsier-sur-Vevey
- Montreux
- Gruyères
- Bern
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Drive 208 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Chaplin's World
- Freddie Mercury statue
- Castle of the counts of Gruyères
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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On day 5 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 Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Gruyères, and Pringy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.
Corsier-sur-Vevey’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Geneva behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Corsier-sur-Vevey welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Chaplin's World, an increasingly popular museum in Corsier-sur-Vevey. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Montreux, 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 Corsier-sur-Vevey to Montreux may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Montreux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Freddie Mercury Statue. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gruyères, 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 Montreux to Gruyères may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gruyères, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château De Gruyères. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
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 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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, ZOE offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious vegetarian and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Steinhalle, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and international cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Wein & Sein, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ebrietas Bern after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Adrianos Bar & Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 6 – Bern - departure day
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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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.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Bern’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland.
Start your adventure at Bundesplatz. This intriguing public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.
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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