Relaxed 7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Zurich
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in Switzerland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bern, Lucerne, Zurich, Neuhausen, and Basel. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Bern and 3 nights in Zurich. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bern, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rhine Falls. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chapel Bridge.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Zürich Zoo. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Lion Monument Lucerne. Get close to the spectacular Titlis Cliff Walk and the wonderful Basel Zoo. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Rosengarten Bern
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Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Bern, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bern and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bern. 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 Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Zum Kuckuck is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Piazza Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Taube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Bern as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Bern
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Drive 1 km, 25 min
- bear pit
- Cathedral of Bern
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bern, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Bern on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bear Pit is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking zoo before continuing your journey. Bern Minster is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing church is one of the best-rated sights in Bern.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Unesco - Bern Old Town. This romantic historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Zytglogge.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bern, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bern. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bern, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Adrianos Bar & Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Bern
- Lucerne
- Zurich
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Drive 241 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Titlis Cliff Walk
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
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Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Lucerne. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zurich, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.
Head to Titlis Cliff Walk, an interesting canopy walk in Lucerne. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lucerne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zurich may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Zurich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take your self-guided tour to Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum that everyone visiting Lucerne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This breathtaking monument is one of the most well-known attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark, popular among locals as well as travelers.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zurich in this laid-back road trip in Switzerland. You'll stay here for 3 nights.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delectable sharing and modern 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 The Restaurant, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern 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 Zurich.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zurich. The bars in Zurich make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Widder Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rio Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Zurich
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Drive 15 km, 58 min
- Botanical Garden
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Zürich Opera House
- Arboretum Zürich
- Zürich Zoo
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zurich!
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zurich. Your adventure starts at Botanical Garden, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Chinagarten Zürich. This worthwhile botanical garden is known for its eye-catching appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zürich Opera House. This eye-catching opera house offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Arboretum Zürich is also worth visiting, along with Zürich Zoo. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zurich. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zurich that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zurich to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Zurich offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.
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.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich
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Drive 3 km, 45 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Lindenhof
- Grossmünster
- Kunsthaus Zürich
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zurich, and meet locals along the way!
Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Swiss National Museum, an up-and-coming museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lindenhof, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Grossmünster. This church is one of the city’s most underrated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zurich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Kunsthaus Zürich.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zurich offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Weisses Rössli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zurich and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Babalu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Nelson provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zurich!
Day 6
- Zurich
- Neuhausen
- Basel
- Bern
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Rhine Falls
- Basel Minster
- Zoo Basel
- Mittlere Brücke
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On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Switzerland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Switzerland.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Rhine Falls and explore the mesmerizing features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Basel. This car ride takes around 1 hour 26 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Basel Minster, a locally appreciated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Basel Zoo and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to Middle Bridge, an up-and-coming historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bern. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Switzerland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bern has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
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.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bern and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Attika Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Neuhausen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bern.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Bern’s shopping center, the lively Wankdorf Center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bern is the remarkable Bundesplatz. This public square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,077 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bern or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurants Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bern and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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