7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling east to Zurich, Lugano, and Interlaken

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bern, Basel, Neuhausen, Zurich, Lugano, Lucerne, Interlaken, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Beatenberg.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bern, 1 night in Zurich, 1 night in Lugano, and 1 night in Interlaken. 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 Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Titlis Cliff Walk.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Basel, Neuhausen, Zurich, Lugano, Lucerne, Interlaken, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Beatenberg, 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
Rosengarten Bern
bear pitUNESCO - Bern Old TownZytgloggeBundesplatzThe Parliament Building
Basel MinsterMittlere BrückeZoo BaselRhine Falls
LindenhofZürich Zoo
Ciani ParcLion Monument LucerneChapel Bridge
Titlis Cliff WalkAare Gorge - West EntranceBallenberg, Swiss Open-Air MuseumHarderkulmSt. Beatus Caves
Matte

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bern - Arrival day
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  • Rosengarten Bern
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Bern and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bern for 2 nights 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.

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 just 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Zum Kuckuck, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Piazza Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Taube offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bern
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Drive 2 km, 35 min

  • bear pit
  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Zytglogge
  • Bundesplatz
  • The Parliament Building
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bern for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bern, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a public square, a city hall and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bear Pit. This interesting zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Unesco - Bern Old Town, which may be one of the most UNESCO world heritage-listed places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bern on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Zytglogge, a locally appreciated historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bundesplatz and Federal Palace Of Switzerland.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Steinhalle, renowned for its delectable creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Wein & Sein, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ebrietas Bern, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Adrianos Bar & Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Les Amis / Wohnzimmer, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bern
  • Zurich
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Drive 242 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Basel Minster
  • Mittlere Brücke
  • Zoo Basel
  • Rhine Falls
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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 Basel and Neuhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bern is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a historical landmark, a zoo, a waterfall and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Basel Minster and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Middle Bridge, an enchanting historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Basel Zoo, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Rhine Falls.

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 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.

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.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zurich
  • Lugano
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Drive 213 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Zürich Zoo
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zurich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lugano, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable historical landmark, Lindenhof. Afterward, continue to Zürich Zoo, a zoo every traveler should visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lugano. Lugano offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lugano's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , a popular restaurant in Lugano. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Il Fermento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Oops, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Lugano
  • Interlaken
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Ciani Parc
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Chapel Bridge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lugano and Lucerne, 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 Interlaken. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the captivating Parco Ciani, an instagrammable park in Lugano. Next, go to Lion Monument Lucerne.

After visiting Parco Ciani and Lion Monument Lucerne, have a stroll along Lugano's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Chapel Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Interlaken. 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 Interlaken. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Interlaken by securing a reservation at Radius by Stefan Beer. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of regional and swiss cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Taj Palace boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Brasserie 17, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Interlaken
  • Bern
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Drive 189 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Titlis Cliff Walk
  • Aare Gorge - West Entrance
  • Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
  • Harderkulm
  • St. Beatus Caves
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, Harderkulm, and Beatenberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Interlaken on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Titlis Cliff Walk is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing canopy walk before continuing your journey. Aare Gorge West Entrance is your next stop. This locally appreciated canyon is one of the best-rated sights in Interlaken.

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 Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum. This respected museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Harderkulm and St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kesar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aarbergerhof. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Attika Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bern - Departure day
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  • Matte
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Day 7 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.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Matte, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bern. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Bern’s popular marketplace, Bern's Old City. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

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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