9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Geneva to Montreux, Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zurich
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 Geneva, 1 night in Montreux, 2 nights in Interlaken, 1 night in Lucerne, and 1 night 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 Geneva, 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 Jardin Anglais.
As you hit the open road and drive through Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, Pringy, Gruyères, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne, Zurich, Neuhausen, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Geneva - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Geneva and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Geneva 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.
Geneva 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 Carouge, 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 Geneva. 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 Geneva, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Auberge de Savièse, a top-rated dining spot in Geneva. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Rouge & Le Blanc Genève, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Osteria della Bottega. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Geneva.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Coyote Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Roi Ubu, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Le Phare provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Geneva
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Drive 10 km, 53 min
- St Pierre Cathedral
- The Flower Clock
- Jardin Anglais
- The Geneva Water Fountain
- Palace of Nations
- United Nations Office at Geneva
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Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Geneva. You have 1 night left in Geneva. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Geneva. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. St Pierre Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Geneva. Next, head to L'horloge Fleurie, a locally renowned art installation, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Jardin Anglais. This romantic park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, The Geneva Water Fountain adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Palace Of Nations, a breathtaking museum in Geneva.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Geneva's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at la Finestra Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Geneva. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant l'Atelier, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chez ma Cousine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Geneva this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pub Lord Jim, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Bretelle Bar Associatif is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Bateau-lavoir also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Geneva
- Montreux
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 17 min
- The Olympic Museum
- Montbenon
- Lausanne Cathedral
- Chillon Castle
- Promenade sur les quais de Montreux
- Freddie Mercury statue
- More
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 Lausanne and Montreux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montreux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Geneva on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Olympic Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Montbenon is your next stop. This often recommended park is one of the best-rated sights in Geneva.
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 Lausanne Cathedral. This enchanting church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Chillon Castle and Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux. If time allows, end your day with Freddie Mercury Statue, a breathtaking monument that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Montreux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Montreux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Corsa Al Cilento? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rando Burger Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Montreux.
Continue your lively evening at Riva Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Funky Claude's Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.
Head back to your accommodation in Montreux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Montreux
- Interlaken
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 28 min
- La Maison du Gruyère
- HR Giger Museum
- Castle of the counts of Gruyères
- Thunersee Viewpoint
- Statue Of Yash Chopra
- Höhematte
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Pringy, Gruyères, Alte Aare Bucht, and Interlaken. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Interlaken, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the intriguing La Maison Du Gruyère, a heritage-rich museum in Montreux. Next, go to Hr Giger Museum.
After visiting La Maison Du Gruyère and Hr Giger Museum, take time to explore Montreux's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Château De Gruyères. This history-steeped castle offers a unique experience. Thunersee Viewpoint is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Yash Chopra Statue, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Montreux.
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 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OX Restaurant & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Brasserie 17 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.
Say good night to Interlaken and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Interlaken
- More
Drive 26 km, 51 min
- Staubbach Falls
- Poblado lauterbrunnen
- Wengernalpbahn
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Interlaken, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start by visiting Staubbachfall Waterfall, a prime spot to begin your journey. This idyllic waterfall is sure to impress. Next on your list is Poblado Lauterbrunnen, another must-visit landmark and intriguing waterfall renowned for its stunning features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Interlaken by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Wengernalpbahn. This stunning heritage railway is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Interlaken and your accommodation.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Horn, 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 Indian Tandoori, 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 Chalet Beizli, 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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Interlaken
- Lucerne
- More
Drive 76 km, 2 hours
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Hofkirche St. Leodegar
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Interlaken. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a church, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your adventure at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This is a locally renowned museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Church Of St. Leodegar, an underrated church in Interlaken.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, another of the town’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Chapel Bridge, a romantic place of interest in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lucerne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Valentino, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolero. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar 58, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Penthouse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Lucerne
- Zurich
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Lindenhof
- Grossmünster
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zurich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lucerne, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Swiss National Museum, a worthwhile museum in the city. Then, head to Lindenhof and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking historical landmark.
There are many interesting places to see in Lucerne and when you are ready for more, go to Grossmünster. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.
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.
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.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Widder Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rio Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 8
- Zurich
- Geneva
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Drive 381 km, 5 hours 2 min
- Rhine Falls
- Rosengarten Bern
- bear pit
- fountain of justice
- Zytglogge
- Bundesplatz
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Neuhausen and 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 Geneva. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zurich. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Rhine Falls is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Zurich. Next, head to Rose Garden Bern, a frequently visited botanical garden, known for its serene features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Bear Pit. This history-steeped zoo offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Fountain Of Justice adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Zytglogge, an instagrammable historical landmark in Zurich.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Geneva. Geneva 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 Geneva. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Crowned Eagle, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Little Kitchen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Oh Martine! As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Geneva tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mulligans Irish Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 9
- Geneva - Departure day
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- Rue du Rhône
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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 Geneva before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Rue du Rhône, a street that captures the true essence of Geneva. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Geneva’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Rue du Rhône. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Geneva.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Café de Paris - Chez Boubier, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Geneva. 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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