9-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich to Lausanne, Geneva, and Bern

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Zurich and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zurich for 3 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.

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 Arboretum Zürich or 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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern french, and contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delicious sharing, and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to The Restaurant, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative, and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Zürich Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,599 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Swiss National Museum. This organization has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,221 travelers.

Grossmünster is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,428 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Zürich Opera House. This well-loved opera house boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 6,349 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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.

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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

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

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aathal, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zurich to Aathal may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aathal, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,151 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sellenbüren, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Aathal to Sellenbüren may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sellenbüren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top of Zurich. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,434 visitors.

After soaking in Sellenbüren’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kloten. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Kloten, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Observation Deck B your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,375 reviews.

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

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 delicious meal at Alpenrose, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 4 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, and Gruyères. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lausanne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lucerne, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zurich to Lucerne may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Swiss Museum of Transport one of your first sightseeing stops in Lucerne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,843 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This technology museum attracts 562,605 visitors every year.

Lion Monument Lucerne is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sculpture is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,757 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,595 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gruyères. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Gruyères. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,730 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lausanne, 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 Lausanne. 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Berceau des Sens in Lausanne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Berceau des Sens delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french, and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Anne-Sophie Pic, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Table du Lausanne Palace, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Captain Cook Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out King Size Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pin Up Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lausanne, and Veytaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Geneva, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lausanne Cathedral. This cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lausanne, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,860 visitors.

Place de la Palud is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,848 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to The Olympic Museum. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,722 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lausanne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veytaux. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Chillon Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,706 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Geneva. Geneva offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Geneva, 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Geneva by securing a reservation at Tosca. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of tuscan cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try L'Atelier Robuchon, renowned for its delicious french contemporary dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Il Lago, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering italian, and mediterranean menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Coyote Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Roi Ubu, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Phare also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 6 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva is a great place to start. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,800 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Broken Chair. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,646 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Bains des Pâquis. The public bath has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,310 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting L'horloge fleurie. This floral clock is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,932 reviews.

Jardin Anglais is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this urban park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,416 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at la Finestra Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Geneva. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Geneva at Restaurant l'Atelier, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Chez ma Cousine. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Geneva tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub Lord Jim, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Bretelle Bar Associatif is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Bateau-Lavoir is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Geneva, Corsier-sur-Vevey, and Montreux, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St Pierre Cathedral. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,538 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Geneva Water Fountain. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,374 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Parc de La Grange. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,180 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Geneva, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Corsier-sur-Vevey may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Corsier-sur-Vevey, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Chaplin's World. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,493 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bern, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional vegetarian, and modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Steinhalle, known for its delicious creative, and international cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Bern is Wein & Sein, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Zum Kuckuck, known for its lively atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bern, and Basel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make UNESCO - Bern Old Town one of your first sightseeing stops in Bern. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,867 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Bear pit is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This architectural structure is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,330 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bern and set your GPS to Basel. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. Upon reaching Basel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Basel Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,396 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 2,012,511 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Basel Minster. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,564 visitors, this cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Viadukt, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Total Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Rimini Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 9 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lindenhof. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,519 visitors.

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

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!