9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling east to Interlaken, Lugano, and Zurich
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Description
Explore the best of Switzerland on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bern, Beatenberg, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, Interlaken, Melide, Lugano, Lavertezzo, Orselina, Goldau, Zurich, Winterthur, Neuhausen, and Lucerne. This road trip itinerary in Switzerland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Bern, 1 night in Interlaken, 1 night in Lugano, and 3 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 Zürich Zoo, learn more about the unique Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Titlis Cliff Walk.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Beatenberg, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, Interlaken, Melide, Lugano, Lavertezzo, Orselina, Goldau, Zurich, Winterthur, Neuhausen, and Lucerne, 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
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Matte
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Bern and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bern for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Matte, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bern. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 delightful dinner at Brasserie Obstberg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Süder? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Leichtsinn as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Zum Kuckuck is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Piazza Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Taube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Bern
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Drive 2 km, 41 min
- Rosengarten Bern
- bear pit
- Münster-Plattform
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bern has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bern by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the intriguing Rose Garden Bern, a mesmerizing botanical garden in Bern. Next, go to Bear Pit.
After visiting Rose Garden Bern and Bear Pit, have a stroll along Bern's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Münster Platform. This awe-inspiring park offers a unique experience. Unesco - Bern Old Town is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Zytglogge, one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Bern.
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.
Visit Wankdorf Center in Bern for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Wankdorf Center has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bern. 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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bern by reserving a table at ZOE. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Steinhalle, recognized for its delicious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Wein & Sein, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ebrietas Bern is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Adrianos Bar & Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Les Amis / Wohnzimmer. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Bern
- Interlaken
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Drive 172 km, 3 hours 27 min
- St. Beatus Caves
- Titlis Cliff Walk
- Aare Gorge - West Entrance
- Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
- Harderkulm
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Beatenberg, Schattenhalb, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Harderkulm. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves. This worthwhile cave system is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Titlis Cliff Walk, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Aare Gorge West Entrance, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Bern. This canyon is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Harderkulm, a top-rated observation deck that adds another dimension to your day.
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.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Radius by Stefan Beer, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible regional and swiss menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Taj Palace is another top choice with a popular menu.
Continue your lively evening at Brasserie 17, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.
Day 4
- Interlaken
- Lugano
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Drive 232 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Swissminiatur
- Lugano Arte e Cultura
- Ciani Parc
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Melide and Lugano. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugano, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Interlaken is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Swissminiatur, an often recommended miniature park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Lugano Arte E Cultura, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Parco Ciani. This park is one of the village’s most well-known spots.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lugano. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lugano. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Il Fermento after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Oops for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Lugano
- Zurich
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Drive 267 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Ponte dei Salti
- Madonna del Sasso
- Nature and Animal Park Goldau
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lavertezzo, Orselina, and Goldau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Lugano on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ponte Dei Salti is the first of them. Madonna Del Sasso is your next stop. This underrated church is one of the best-rated sights in Lugano.
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 Nature And Animal Park Goldau. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold.
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 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.
Begin your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Widder Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rio Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge. 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 6
- Zurich
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Drive 153 km, 2 hours 45 min
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
- Wildpark Bruderhaus Winterthur
- Eulachpark
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
- Rhine Falls
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Greet day 6 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 2 nights 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 Sellenbüren, Winterthur, and Neuhausen.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This curiosity-inducing observation deck is a romantic place to see in Zurich. Continue your discovery at Wildpark Bruderhaus, an instagrammable wildlife reserve with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zurich, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eulachpark. This curiosity-inducing park offers an enchanting encounter with Zurich. Next, make your way to Swiss Science Center Technorama to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Rhine Falls, a famous waterfall that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zurich.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zurich.
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 Cantinetta Antinori, 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 El Lokal, 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 Aurora. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.
Keep the evening going at Eldorado, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gotthard Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is La Stanza, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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 7
- Zurich
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Drive 9 km, 34 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Niederdorf
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Old Town (Altstadt) is a fantastic place you can explore today in Zurich. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Zurich-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Bahnhofstrasse, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.
Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Lindenhof, an interesting historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zürich Zoo, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal.
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 Zurich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Alpenrose, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kafi Dihei beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Weisses Rössli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Babalu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nelson likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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
- Bern
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
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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 Lucerne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.
Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a monument, and a historical landmark. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Swiss Museum Of Transport and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lion Monument Lucerne, a picture-perfect monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Chapel Bridge, one of the town’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
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. Consider reserving a table at Aarbergerhof as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Attika Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 9
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
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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, begin at Bundesplatz. This curiosity-inducing public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Bern’s shopping center, the lively Wankdorf Center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurants Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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