One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Zurich and 4 nights 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 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. 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 Bear Pit.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zurich, Neuhausen, Lucerne, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, Schattenhalb, Frutigen, 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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Day 1
- Zurich - Arrival day
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- Bahnhofstrasse
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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 2 nights 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 Bahnhofstrasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Differente, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of zum Kropf, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Babu's, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Widder Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Rio Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Zurich
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Drive 111 km, 2 hours 6 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Grossmünster
- Fraumünster Church
- Lindenhof
- Rhine Falls
- Old Town (Altstadt)
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Zürich Zoo. This mesmerizing zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Grossmünster, a must-visit church in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Fraumünster, an intriguing church. For a change of scene, check out Lindenhof, known for its stunning features. We also recommend visiting Rhine Falls. This waterfall is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zurich and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Lokal is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Aurora. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eldorado, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gotthard Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out La Stanza. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 3
- Zurich
- Interlaken
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Mount Pilatus
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Dive into day 3 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 Interlaken. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.
Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a monument, and a mountain range. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Chapel Bridge, an enchanting historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Mount Pilatus.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Interlaken. Interlaken offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Dine in style at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Taj Palace boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OX Restaurant & Grill. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Interlaken.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Brasserie 17, known for its inviting atmosphere.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Interlaken
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Drive 59 km, 1 hour 32 min
- OUTDOOR - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald
- Staubbach Falls
- Trümmelbach Falls
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Interlaken for your remaining 3 nights in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Mürren.
Get ready for an exciting day in Interlaken. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a canyon and a waterfall. Begin your adventure at Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald. This is a worthwhile canyon you should not miss. Another must-see is Staubbachfall Waterfall, an intriguing waterfall in Interlaken.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Trümmelbach Falls.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Interlaken.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Interlaken. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Horn, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Indian Tandoori offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chalet Beizli is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Interlaken.
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 5
- Interlaken
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Drive 69 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Giessbach Waterfalls
- Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
- Aare Gorge
- Aare Gorge - West Entrance
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On day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Interlaken, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Interlaken for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, Meiringen, and Schattenhalb to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Interlaken is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a waterfall, a museum, and a canyon. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Giessbach Waterfalls and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Aare Gorge, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Aare Gorge West Entrance.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Interlaken and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Interlaken's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hüsi Bierhaus, a popular restaurant in Interlaken. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Interlaken at Restaurant Tenne, 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 Café de Paris. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Interlaken tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Interlaken
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Tellenburg Castle
- Blausee
- Oeschinen Lake
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Interlaken, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s agenda in Interlaken includes a castle and a lake. Tellenburg Castle Ruin is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Blausee, a worthwhile lake, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Oeschinen Lake, a mesmerizing lake, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Interlaken.
As you explore more of Interlaken, 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Terrasse, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Café Gleis 3 - Swiss Cuisine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Asllanis Corner as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Interlaken
- Zurich
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Drive 180 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Bundesplatz
- Zytglogge
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- bear pit
- Rosengarten Bern
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On day 7 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 Bern. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Interlaken, including a public square, a historical landmark, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Bundesplatz. This photogenic public square is an up-and-coming place to see in Interlaken. Then, wander over to Zytglogge. If culturally significant sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Unesco - Bern Old Town. This respected historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.
Interlaken offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Bear Pit is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the zoo, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Rose Garden Bern. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular botanical garden.
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.
As you explore more of Zurich, 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.
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. Consider reserving a table at Weisses Rössli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Babalu is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Nelson. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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 8
- Zurich - Departure day
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- UBS Polybahn
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Day 8 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Polybahn, a history-steeped tramway before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zurich.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Viadukt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Pasta offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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