7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling east to Zurich, Lugano, and Schaffhausen
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Description
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, Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Winterthur, Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Basel.
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 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 Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Titlis Cliff Walk.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Lucerne, Zurich, Lugano, Winterthur, Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Basel, 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
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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 2 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 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bern. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie Obstberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Süder offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Leichtsinn is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bern.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Zum Kuckuck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Piazza Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Taube, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Switzerland!
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 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Bern. You have 1 night left in Bern. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the interesting Bear Pit, a respected zoo in Bern. Next, go to Bern Minster.
After visiting Bear Pit and Bern Minster, take time to explore Bern's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This enchanting historical landmark offers a unique experience. Zytglogge is another noteworthy stop.
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 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bern after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Adrianos Bar & Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne. 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.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Titlis Cliff Walk, a captivating canopy walk that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’ve had your share of Lucerne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zurich. Your travel time is around 43 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Swiss Museum Of Transport, a popular museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne and admire its breathtaking features. When you’re ready, continue to Chapel Bridge, a locally renowned historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Widder Restaurant offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing sharing and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Restaurant, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Widder Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Rio Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Zurich
- Lugano
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
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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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Lindenhof is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking historical landmark before continuing your journey. Zürich Zoo is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Zurich.
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 Kunsthaus Zürich. This eye-catching art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Grossmünster.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lugano. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lugano. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Start your culinary exploration in Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and seasonal cuisine. 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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Il Fermento, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Oops offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Lugano
- Winterthur
- Schaffhausen
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Drive 297 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Ciani Parc
- Üetliberg
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lugano, Sellenbüren, and Winterthur. 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.
Start your adventure at Parco Ciani. This interesting park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
Sellenbüren’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lugano behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Sellenbüren welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Üetliberg. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the mountain range before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This intriguing observation deck is a traveler-favorite in the town.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Winterthur, 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 Sellenbüren to Winterthur may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Winterthur, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Swiss Science Center Technorama. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the science center before you continue to your next stop.
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 Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen 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 Schaffhausen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Schaffhausen by securing a reservation at D'Chuchi. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Theaterrestaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eckhaus Gmbh, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar No13, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tabaco Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.
Day 6
- Schaffhausen
- Neuhausen
- Basel
- Bern
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Drive 200 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Rhine Falls
- Basel Minster
- Zoo Basel
- Mittlere Brücke
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Neuhausen and Basel, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Schaffhausen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Rhine Falls is a widely recognized waterfall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Set your GPS to Basel and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Basel beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Basel Minster, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Basel Zoo, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings. Next, explore Middle Bridge, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area.
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 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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Attika Bar, where the evening is just getting started.
Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
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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.
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.
Begin your adventure at Bundesplatz. This is an underrated public square you should not miss.
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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