9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich traveling south to Basel, Lugano, Sion, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zurich. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, where you'll spend 1 night.

Grossmünster is an ideal stop early in the day. This worthwhile church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kunsthaus Zürich, 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 Zürich Opera House, a beloved opera house in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Zürich Zoo.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Basel, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl in Basel by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious classic french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore roots, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and seasonal cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Schall Und Rauch Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Grenzwert Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 8 Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Basel and Lucerne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lugano, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Basel Zoo, an interesting zoo in the city.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Lion Monument Lucerne, a notable monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Swiss Museum Of Transport, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Next, explore Chapel Bridge, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lugano. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lugano by reserving a table at Flamel. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary and seasonal menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Il Fermento, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Oops offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lugano.

Head back to your accommodation in Lugano and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lugano, Melide, and Fürgangen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Visiting Parco Ciani is always a good idea. This notable park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Lugano Arte E Cultura, a must-see cultural center in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Melide. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Swissminiatur, a frequently visited miniature park that everyone visiting Melide should see.

Fürgangen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Melide behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 5 min. Fürgangen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Goms Bridge (hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach), an underrated canopy walk that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Sion. Sion offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Sion is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Sion.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Sion by reserving a table at Damien Germanier. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. Looking for something different? L'Quat'Sous offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Brésilien, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Boléro provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dugout Sports Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, and Lavey-Morcles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Geneva, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sion and set your GPS to Corsier-sur-Vevey. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Corsier-sur-Vevey, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Chaplin's World, an increasingly popular museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Montreux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Corsier-sur-Vevey behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Montreux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Golden Pass Railway, an up-and-coming heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Freddie Mercury Statue and admire its masterful features.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Chillon Castle, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Corsier-sur-Vevey should see.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Geneva, 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 Geneva's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

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 place, which are Geneva. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lausanne, where will spend 1 night.

St Pierre Cathedral brings Geneva's character to life. This stunning church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy L'horloge Fleurie, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Jardin Anglais, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of The Geneva Water Fountain. This enchanting monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bains Des Pâquis, a locally appreciated swimming pool, and take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lausanne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lausanne by booking a table at Le Berceau des Sens. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and classic cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Anne-Sophie Pic, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Table du Lausanne Palace, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Captain Cook Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, King Size Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pin Up Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Lausanne, Gruyères, and Pringy. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Lausanne is complete without Lausanne Cathedral. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to The Olympic Museum, another must-visit attraction.

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 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Gruyères is Château De Gruyères, a captivating castle that draws attention for its stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pringy, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bern. This drive usually takes around 46 min.

Savor the day by heading to La Maison Du Gruyère, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bern. Bern 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 Bern. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bern by securing a reservation at ZOE. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Zum Kuckuck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Taube, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bern and Schwanden bei Brienz. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zurich, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Unesco - Bern Old Town before the crowds roll in. This visually striking historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Bear Pit, a must-visit zoo in the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schwanden bei Brienz may take around 56 min. Upon your arrival in Schwanden bei Brienz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum is a beloved museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Titlis Cliff Walk. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the canopy walk before you continue to your next stop.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Start 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Eldorado, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gotthard Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Stanza, another top-rated place in the area.

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