6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling west to Neuchatel, Bern, and Lucerne
Description
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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 Zurich, Neuchatel, Geneva, Bern, Schattenhalb, 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 Neuchatel, 1 night in Bern, 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 Jardin Anglais.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Neuchatel, Geneva, Bern, Schattenhalb, 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
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Day 1
- Zurich - Arrival day
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- Bahnhofstrasse
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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 Bahnhofstrasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zurich. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 lovely meal at Restaurant Differente, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, zum Kropf is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Babu's. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Widder Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Zurich
- Neuchâtel
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Opera House
- Zürich Zoo
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Zurich, 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 Neuchatel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
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 Opera House, an up-and-coming opera house, known for its eye-catching 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 Zürich Zoo. This instagrammable zoo is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Neuchatel, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Neuchatel. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at La Dispensa in Neuchatel by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, La Dispensa offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious italian and contemporary menu. If you're looking to mix things up, ISAANA Cuisine Thaïlandaise offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Beer O'clock, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Le Charlot, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Au 21 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Neuchâtel
- Bern
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Drive 283 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Bains des Pâquis
- The Flower Clock
- Jardin Anglais
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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On day 3 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 Geneva. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Neuchatel today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Bains Des Pâquis. This romantic swimming pool will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to L'horloge Fleurie and learn what makes this romantic art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Jardin Anglais. After exploring the park, head to The Geneva Water Fountain. This interesting monument is a highlight in Neuchatel.
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 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bern by booking a table at ZOE. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Bern
- Lucerne
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Drive 185 km, 3 hours 30 min
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- bear pit
- Rosengarten Bern
- Titlis Cliff Walk
- Aare Gorge - West Entrance
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bern and Schattenhalb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bern, including a historical landmark, a zoo, a botanical garden, a canopy walk, a canyon and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bear Pit located in Bern for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rose Garden Bern. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Titlis Cliff Walk. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this canopy walk. Next up is Aare Gorge West Entrance, a highly recommended canyon.
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 you explore more of Lucerne, 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 58, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Penthouse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Lucerne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Lucerne
- Zurich
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Rhine Falls
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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 - Lucerne and Neuhausen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Lucerne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Chapel Bridge. This culturally significant historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Lion Monument Lucerne, a must-visit monument in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating museum. For a change of scene, check out Rhine Falls, known for its instagrammable features.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zurich. 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 Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eldorado, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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 6
- Zurich - Departure day
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- Botanical Garden
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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 Zurich 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, begin at Botanical Garden. This frequently visited botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Zurich’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Niederdorf. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
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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