8-Day Road Trip to Switzerland, France, and Spain

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Zurich in Switzerland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Switzerland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Zurich before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Zurich. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Zurich. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Weisses Rössli, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city of Zurich. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 525 customers.

Locals also recommend Zeughauskeller as one of the best restaurants in the city of Zurich. Zeughauskeller is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,976 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Zurich is Swiss Chuchi Restaurant. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,383 customers.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Zurich, Old Crow. This famous place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 935 customers.

Another trendy bar is Tales Bar. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 628 customers.

Locals also recommend Kennedy's Irish Pub. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 2,395 delighted customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Zurich and Bern in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern. Bern will be your home for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Zurich — Swiss National Museum. About 7,511 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Grossmünster is another top sight in Zurich that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved church in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,833 visitors.

Zürich Opera House is a highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Zurich, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,390 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Zoo Zürich. Because of its allure and charm, around 25,193 visitors have rated this attraction and zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Bern’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour and 38 minutes.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Bern, Switzerland.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Bern boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Switzerland.

At the top-rated restaurant Süder, you can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of food and drinks. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 519 customers.

If you feel like having something else, Restaurant Rosengarten is another great place to eat. This fantastic restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,281 customers.

A third restaurant you could check out is Kornhauskeller. Kornhauskeller offers a menu of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger. We will let its excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,436 customers speak for itself.

Spend the night downing a few shots of your favorite cocktail at Lötschberg. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,268 customers.

Put your worries away as you toast to a fantastic night at Mr. Pickwick Pub Bern. This famous bar in Bern is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,069 customers.

If you want to check out another famous bar in the area, you’ll love Adrianos Bar & Café. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that will electrify your senses. Adrianos Bar & Café has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 865 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland, France, and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Bern to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, France, and Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bern and Riviera-Pays-d'Enhaut District in Switzerland and Valence in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A tour of Bern is not complete without a visit to the famous UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This incredible attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,343 travelers.

Make the most of your Bern travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful The Cathedral of Bern. This church and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,614 travelers.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Valence, France. This car ride takes around 4 hours and 18 minutes.

Prepare for a great time when you reach Bern. While in Bern, you’ll soak in Switzerland’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bern, including the outstanding UNESCO - Bern Old Town. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,343 reviews, this fascinating attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bern is also home to the captivating The Cathedral of Bern, a local church considered one of the highlights of the city. About 4,614 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Valence, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Valence.

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

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

Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious Michelin rating.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, France, and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Narbonne in France and Castelló d'Empúries and Roses in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Roses. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Spain! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Castelló d'Empúries may take around 4 hours and 26 minutes.

Upon your arrival in Narbonne you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this city and discover some of its most popular sights.

A tour of Narbonne is not complete without a visit to the famous Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur. This incredible church and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,029 travelers.

Roses’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Narbonne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Roses by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Roses.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Roses’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Roses. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Take in the ambiance of Roses as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain, 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 to see in Upper Empordà in Spain and Nimes in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Roses’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nimes, France. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 3 hours and 35 minutes.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in France, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Nimes's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Nimes.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Nimes. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Nimes's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Nimes has them.

We recommend you go to one of the best restaurants in the city of Nimes, Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

L'Instant T is another of the best restaurant options you can find in the city of Nimes. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 752 customers.

Gard O Wine, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Nimes, is a place locals enjoy. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 323 customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned O’Flaherty’s, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Nimes. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,377 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to La bonne mousse, one of the top-rated bars in Nimes, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 428 satisfied customers.

As the night falls in Nimes, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Nimes and Grenoble in France and Geneva in Switzerland, 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 Geneva. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Something that makes Nimes the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Haribo Candy Museum. This local gem has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 17,011 visitors.

The famous Pont du Gard is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Nimes's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 29,439 travelers have rated this incredible travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Nimes to Grenoble. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours and 53 minutes without stops.

As you arrive in Nimes, it’s yet again time for a break from the road for some sightseeing and exploring. In this one-of-a-kind city in France, you’ll find some of the area’s most outstanding sights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Nimes is the fantastic Haribo Candy Museum. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Haribo Candy Museum has earned an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 17,011 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Pont du Gard. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Geneva, Switzerland. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 4 hours and 4 minutes.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Geneva has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Switzerland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Geneva. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Geneva. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain.

Locals enjoy dining at Auberge de Savièse, one of the most popular restaurants in Geneva. This restaurant serves good quality food and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,055 customers.

Alternatively, if you have an appetite for something different, eat at Café du Soleil. Around 1,890 customers have given this fantastic restaurant an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Restaurant Les Armures is another of the best restaurant options in Geneva, offering a menu of delicious meals. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,758 customers, you’ll enjoy dining at this restaurant’s cozy atmosphere.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Le Verre à Monique. This famous bar in Geneva has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 365 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Spinella. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Spinella has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 400 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Black Sheep. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 320 customers.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Geneva and Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich. Zurich will be your home for 1 night.

The Flower Clock is a travelers’ favorite in Geneva, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,847 visitors.

In Geneva, don’t miss Jardin Anglais, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,315 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Geneva off your list when you visit the wonderful The Geneva Water Fountain. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,645 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Bains des Pâquis. This spa and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,686 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Broken Chair awaits. This is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,162 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Geneva, prepare for your next destination. Enjoy the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zurich. Your travel time is around 2 hours and 58 minutes.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop.

To make your fun escapade in Zurich, Switzerland even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Zurich. 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.

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, France, and Spain by rewarding yourself with a taste of Zurich’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Its delightful modern french and contemporary cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its exceptional quality. Widder Restaurant, which has a Bib Gourmand award, gives you the best value for your money, and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

With 2 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, who have been delighted by its sharing and modern culinary offerings.

Its 2-Michelin star menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a gastronomic adventure. This Bib-Gourmand awarded restaurant’s creative and modern dishes and numerous glowing reviews from satisfied patrons have solidified its reputation as a culinary gem in the heart of the city.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Zurich, Markthalle. This famous place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,771 customers.

Another trendy bar is Rimini Bar. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 1,417 customers.

Locals also recommend Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 870 delighted customers.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zurich before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Something that makes Zurich the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Botanical Garden. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,980 visitors.

Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zurich and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain.

You can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of food and drinks at La Pasta. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,041 customers.

If you feel like having something else, Yen's is another great option. This fantastic restaurant serves delectable and comforting food, deserving of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 786 customer reviews.

The time has come to say farewell to Zurich for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain with fond memories. Safe travels!