One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken

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Photo of beautiful view of historic city center of Zurich with famous Fraumunster Church, Switzerland.
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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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Bahnhofstrasse
Zürich ZooGrossmünsterFraumünster ChurchLindenhofRhine FallsOld Town (Altstadt)
SpreuerbrückeChapel BridgeLion Monument LucerneMount Pilatus
OUTDOOR - Glacier Canyon GrindelwaldStaubbach FallsTrümmelbach Falls
Giessbach WaterfallsBallenberg, Swiss Open-Air MuseumAare GorgeAare Gorge - West Entrance
Tellenburg CastleBlauseeOeschinen Lake
BundesplatzZytgloggeUNESCO - Bern Old Townbear pitRosengarten Bern
UBS Polybahn

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Day 1

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zurich. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 delicious meal at Restaurant Differente, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider zum Kropf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Babu's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Widder Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Rio Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

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, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Zurich and Neuhausen. You still have 1 night left in Zurich.

Old Town (Altstadt) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zurich, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Zürich Zoo, a notable zoo in the city. Then, head to Grossmünster and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant church.

There are many interesting places to see in Zurich, and when you are ready for more, go to Fraumünster. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the interesting Lindenhof. Not far away, you'll also find Rhine Falls. This waterfall is a romantic highlight in Zurich.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Lokal, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aurora. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eldorado, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

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Day 3

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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On day 3 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 Lucerne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Interlaken, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zurich, including a historical landmark, a monument, and a mountain range. Start your day with a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This underrated historical landmark is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Chapel Bridge, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zurich on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne, a popular monument in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Mount Pilatus.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Interlaken, 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 Interlaken's best restaurants.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Brasserie 17. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

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Day 4

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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On day 4 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 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Mürren to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today's adventure in Interlaken promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald. This scenic canyon is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Staubbachfall Waterfall, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Trümmelbach Falls, one of the village’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Horn, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Indian Tandoori? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chalet Beizli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.

Head back to your accommodation in Interlaken and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 5

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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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Interlaken, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Giessbach Waterfalls. This underrated waterfall is a peaceful place to see in Interlaken. Continue your discovery at Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, a historic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Interlaken, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Aare Gorge. This up-and-coming canyon offers an enchanting encounter with Interlaken. Next, make your way to Aare Gorge West Entrance to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Interlaken.

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

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Interlaken
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 55 min

  • Tellenburg Castle
  • Blausee
  • Oeschinen Lake
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 1 night left in Interlaken, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

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, an intriguing lake, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Oeschinen Lake, a peaceful 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Interlaken's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Terrasse, a top-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Café Gleis 3 - Swiss Cuisine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Asllanis Corner. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this 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.

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Day 7

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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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Bern, 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 Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Interlaken promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bundesplatz. This photogenic public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zytglogge, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Unesco - Bern Old Town, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bear Pit. This peaceful zoo is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Rose Garden Bern, a locally appreciated botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zurich. Zurich 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 Zurich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, 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 Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Babalu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nelson is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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.

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Day 8

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, begin at Polybahn. This intriguing tramway is a popular place to see in the city.

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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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