9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zurich

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bern, Thun, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Lucerne, Schwanden bei Brienz, Brienz (BE), Axalp, Zurich, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Stein am Rhein, and Gruyères.

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 Bern, 2 nights in Interlaken, 2 nights in Lucerne, and 2 nights in Zurich. 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 Bern, 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 Lion Monument Lucerne, learn more about the unique Chillon Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bear Pit.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Thun, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Lucerne, Schwanden bei Brienz, Brienz (BE), Axalp, Zurich, Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Stein am Rhein, and Gruyères, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Zytglogge
Bundesplatzbear pitRosengarten BernZentrum Paul KleeThun Castle
GOMS Bridge (Hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach)Staubbach FallsTrümmelbach Falls
SpreuerbrückeLion Monument LucerneBallenberg, Swiss Open-Air MuseumBrunngasse BrienzGiessbach Waterfalls
Swiss Museum of TransportChapel BridgeRosengart CollectionMount Pilatus
ÜetlibergSwiss National MuseumLindenhof

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bern - Arrival day
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  • Zytglogge
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Say hello to Bern! 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 Bern for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bern 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 Zytglogge, or just 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 Bern. 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 Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie Obstberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Süder offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Leichtsinn. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Zum Kuckuck, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Piazza Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Taube offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bern
  • Interlaken
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Drive 59 km, 1 hour 57 min

  • Bundesplatz
  • bear pit
  • Rosengarten Bern
  • Zentrum Paul Klee
  • Thun Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bern and Thun. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Interlaken, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Bern on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bundesplatz is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching public square before continuing your journey. Bear Pit is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Bern.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Rose Garden Bern. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Zentrum Paul Klee and Thun Castle.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Taj Palace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OX Restaurant & Grill as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Brasserie 17, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Interlaken
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Drive 600 km, 7 hours 14 min

  • GOMS Bridge (Hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach)
  • Staubbach Falls
  • Trümmelbach Falls
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Wake up to day 3 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!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Interlaken allows for both. Start by heading to Goms Bridge (hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach). This locally appreciated canopy walk provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Staubbachfall Waterfall, a serene waterfall, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Trümmelbach Falls, an often recommended waterfall.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Interlaken
  • Lucerne
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
  • Brunngasse Brienz
  • Giessbach Waterfalls
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Lucerne, Schwanden bei Brienz, Brienz (BE), and Axalp. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Interlaken allows for both. Start by heading to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This underrated historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Lion Monument Lucerne, a remarkable monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, an often recommended museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Brunngasse Brienz. Round off your day at Giessbach Waterfalls, another gem in Interlaken with mesmerizing features to discover.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Valentino, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Weisses Schloss offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bolero is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lucerne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar 58 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Penthouse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Lucerne
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Drive 27 km, 1 hour

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Rosengart Collection
  • Mount Pilatus
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Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Lucerne. You have 1 night left in Lucerne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lucerne, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum in the town. Then, head to Chapel Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Lucerne, and when you are ready for more, go to Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the art gallery, visit the underrated Mount Pilatus.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ampersand, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lucerne tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Lucerne
  • Zurich
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Üetliberg
  • Swiss National Museum
  • Lindenhof
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Sellenbüren and Zurich, 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 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Lucerne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Üetliberg. This awe-inspiring mountain range is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Swiss National Museum, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Lindenhof, one of the hamlet’s most notable attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Widder Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Rio Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zurich
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • Rhine Falls
  • Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen
  • Museum Lindwurm
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Greet day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zurich for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, and Stein am Rhein.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Rhine Falls, an impressive waterfall in the town. Then, head to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen and soak in the ambiance of this stunning monastery.

There are many interesting places to see in Zurich, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Lindwurm. This is one of the town’s most often recommended historic spots of interest.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lokal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aurora. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

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
  • Bern
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • HR Giger Museum
  • The Fork - Alimentarium
  • Chillon Castle
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On day 8 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 Gruyères. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Château De Gruyères. This romantic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Hr Giger Museum, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to The Fork - Alimentarium, an underrated art installation. For a change of scene, check out Chillon Castle, known for its history-steeped features.

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

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bern, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Adrianos Bar & Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Bern - Departure day
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  • Münster-Plattform
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Day 9 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern 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 Münster Platform, a history-steeped park before you head out.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bern's best shopping area, Bern's Old City. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Switzerland. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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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