One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Bern, and Freiburg im Breisgau

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, your home for 1 night.

To truly experience Zurich, make sure to drop by Swiss National Museum. This underrated museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Grossmünster, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Zürich Zoo, one of the most captivating places to see in Zurich. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 57 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lucerne is Lion Monument Lucerne, a notable monument that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark that stands out in the city.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Lucerne.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Lucerne’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland and Germany.

Dine in style at Valentino, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Weisses Schloss boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolero. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lucerne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar 58, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lucerne. Penthouse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Grindelwald where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Interlaken, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lauterbrunnen. Your travel time is around 18 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Staubbachfall Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Poblado Lauterbrunnen and admire its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Grindelwald, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grindelwald, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald and explore the picturesque features.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Grindelwald of your choice.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Grindelwald's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the village’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Restaurant Spinne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Pinte Grindelwald is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel - Restaurant Alpenblick Grindelwald. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Grindelwald tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Avocado Bar Grindelwald is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Espressobar, offering a different kind of charm.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Bern in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bern and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bern beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Rose Garden Bern, an intriguing botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Bear Pit, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Next, explore Zytglogge, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area. After the historical landmark, make time to go to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark is well worth the visit.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bern. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Switzerland's delectable cuisine at one of Bern's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brasserie Obstberg, a popular restaurant in Bern. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bern at Süder, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Leichtsinn. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bern tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Zum Kuckuck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Taube provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany. Today's main destinations are Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany, 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 Freiburg im Breisgau. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Freiburg im Breisgau, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bern to Freiburg im Breisgau may take around 1 hour 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Freiburg im Breisgau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Seepark Betzenhausen. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Stadtgarten Freiburg. This up-and-coming park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Kanonenplatz. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the observation deck. Next, take your journey to Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a locally renowned church. Conclude your sightseeing at Bertoldsbrunnen, known for its eye-catching features.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Freiburg im Breisgau. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Freiburg im Breisgau’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel Oberkirch, a top-rated dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're in the mood for something new, try Süden, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at El Gallo Freiburg. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Freiburg im Breisgau.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Am Funkeneck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Beat Bar Butzemann offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!