7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne and Montreux

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Photo of beautiful view of historic city center of Zurich with famous Fraumunster Church, Switzerland.
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Explore the best of Switzerland on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zurich, Lucerne, Beatenberg, Interlaken, Gruyères, Pringy, Montreux, Lausanne, and Bern. 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, 2 nights in Lucerne, and 2 nights in Montreux. 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. Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument Lucerne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chillon Castle, learn more about the unique Bear Pit, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Swiss Museum Of Transport.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Lucerne, Beatenberg, Interlaken, Gruyères, Pringy, Montreux, Lausanne, and Bern, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Old Town (Altstadt)
Swiss Museum of TransportLion Monument LucerneSpreuerbrückeJesuitenkirche Hl. Franz XaverChapel Bridge
St. Beatus CavesHarderkulmHöhematteSchloss InterlakenLake Brienz
Castle of the counts of GruyèresLa Maison du GruyèreFreddie Mercury statueMontreux MuseumChillon Castle
AQUATIS Aquarium-VivariumLausanne CathedralMontbenonParc de ValencyThe Olympic MuseumPromenade sur les quais de Montreux
BundesplatzZytgloggeUNESCO - Bern Old Townbear pitRosengarten Bern
Bahnhofstrasse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Old Town (Altstadt)
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Say hello to Zurich! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Zurich. 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 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Widder Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rio Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zurich
  • Lucerne
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Jesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
  • Chapel Bridge
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore 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 Lucerne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a museum, a monument, a historical landmark, a church and much more! Swiss Museum Of Transport is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, a locally renowned monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an awe-inspiring historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zurich. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Jesuit Church, Lucerne. If you’re looking for more, Chapel Bridge is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lucerne. Lucerne 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 Lucerne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Valentino, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Weisses Schloss, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bolero, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Bar 58, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Penthouse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lucerne
  • More

Drive 165 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • St. Beatus Caves
  • Harderkulm
  • Höhematte
  • Schloss Interlaken
  • Lake Brienz
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lucerne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Beatenberg, Harderkulm, and Interlaken. You still have 1 night left in Lucerne.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in Lucerne. Begin your sightseeing with St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves. This frequently visited cave system is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Harderkulm, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lucerne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Höhematte Interlaken. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Interlaken Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Lake Brienz is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lucerne.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lucerne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ampersand, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lucerne
  • Montreux
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Drive 221 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • La Maison du Gruyère
  • Freddie Mercury statue
  • Montreux Museum
  • Chillon Castle
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gruyères, Pringy, and Montreux. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montreux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both. Start by heading to Château De Gruyères. This popular castle provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover La Maison Du Gruyère, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Freddie Mercury Statue, an often recommended monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Montreux Museum. Round off your day at Chillon Castle, another gem in Lucerne with visually striking features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montreux, 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 Montreux, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, a highly-rated dining destination in Montreux. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Corsa Al Cilento, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rando Burger Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Montreux this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Riva Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Funky Claude's Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Montreux
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Drive 64 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium
  • Lausanne Cathedral
  • Montbenon
  • Parc de Valency
  • The Olympic Museum
  • Promenade sur les quais de Montreux
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Montreux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Montreux for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lausanne and Montreux to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the underrated Aquatis Aquarium-vivarium, a photogenic aquarium in Montreux. Next, go to Lausanne Cathedral.

After visiting Aquatis Aquarium-vivarium and Lausanne Cathedral, have a stroll along Montreux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Montbenon. This visually striking park offers a unique experience. Parc De Valency is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to The Olympic Museum, one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Montreux. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Montreux and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Montreux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Beijing Town, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Huit sushi restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bis. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Montreux tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Montreux
  • Zurich
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Drive 211 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Bundesplatz
  • Zytglogge
  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • bear pit
  • Rosengarten Bern
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bern. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Montreux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bundesplatz is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Montreux. Next, head to Zytglogge, a frequently visited historical landmark, known for its picture-perfect 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 Unesco - Bern Old Town. This enchanting historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Bear Pit and Rose Garden Bern. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zurich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cantinetta Antinori, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Lokal offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Aurora is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Eldorado after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gotthard Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Stanza 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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Bahnhofstrasse
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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 Zurich 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 Bahnhofstrasse, a street that captures the true essence of Zurich. 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 Zurich’s popular marketplace, Niederdorf. 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 Zurich.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alpenrose, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kafi Dihei? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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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