Affordable 11-Day Relaxed Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip Vacation With Itinerary from Bern to Geneva and Zurich
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Description
Witness the charm of Bern, Geneva, Lausanne, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Zurich, Neuhausen, and Lucerne on a relaxed 11-day road trip designed for explorers on a budget. Cruise through Switzerland’s enchanting landscapes with this flexible self-drive vacation!
Explore Switzerland for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Switzerland travel package promises an exhilarating 11-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.
Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 3 nights in Bern, 3 nights in Geneva, and 4 nights in Zurich. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Switzerland and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Switzerland at the lowest price!
On arrival in Bern, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Switzerland. Switzerland offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!
During your journey, you'll have the pleasure of staying at top-rated budget accommodations, each selected for its exceptional value, comfort, and positive guest reviews. Choosing the handpicked recommendations gives you easy access to popular places of interest in Switzerland, complementing your relaxed road trip experience.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 11-day vacation in Switzerland. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 10 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Switzerland with CDW insurance.
You can customize your Switzerland travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Switzerland and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Switzerland's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!
Booking this cheap holiday package in Switzerland offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.
So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Switzerland with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Switzerland fill up fast, so book your adventure today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Bern - arrival day
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Waisenhausplatz
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Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Bern, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bern and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
More than a city in Switzerland, Bern is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.
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 Waisenhausplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Discovering the culinary wonders of Bern is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.
Discover the heart of Bern through its culinary scene, starting with Brasserie Obstberg. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Süder, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Leichtsinn, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.
Zum Kuckuck offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Bern, check out Piazza Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Die Taube.
Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Switzerland! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2 – Bern
- Bern
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Rosengarten Bern
- bear pit
- Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum
- Museum of Communication
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- More
On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Bern and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Bern — 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Bern includes a botanical garden, a zoo, a museum, a historical landmark and much more! Rose Garden Bern is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Bear Pit, a notable zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, a history-steeped museum, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bern. If you’re looking for more, Museum Of Communication is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Unesco - Bern Old Town, an increasingly popular gem to see in the city.
Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Switzerland sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Switzerland. Switzerland has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Switzerland that will fill you with new inspiration.
When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Bern has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.
Visit Ebrietas Bern, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Adrianos Bar & Café serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Bern. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Les Amis / Wohnzimmer.
Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Bern count!
Day 3 – Bern and Geneva
- Bern
- Geneva
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 41 min
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
- Bundesplatz
- The Parliament Building
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Day 3 of your road trip across Switzerland is another proof that cheap holidays in Switzerland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Bern. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Geneva, where you'll be spending 3 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bern, including a historical landmark, a public square, and a city hall. Start your day with a visit to Zytglogge. This worthwhile historical landmark is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bundesplatz, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Bern 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 Federal Palace Of Switzerland, one of the city’s most beloved city hall.
Geneva offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Switzerland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.
When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Geneva has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.
Coyote Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Roi Ubu is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Le Phare, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.
Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.
Day 4 – Geneva
- Geneva
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Drive 3 km, 28 min
- St Pierre Cathedral
- The Flower Clock
- Jardin Anglais
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Switzerland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Geneva and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.
Prepare for a day full of a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a stunning, a culturally significant, a charming, and a remarkable. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at St Pierre Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is L'horloge Fleurie, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Jardin Anglais, one of the most notable places to see in Geneva. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, The Geneva Water Fountain. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this monument offers.
Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Switzerland. To have the best affordable travel experience in Switzerland, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Switzerland unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Switzerland.
Savor the culinary delights of Geneva, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.
Start your foodie adventure at la Finestra Restaurant, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Restaurant l'Atelier, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Chez ma Cousine, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!
Pub Lord Jim offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Geneva, check out La Bretelle Bar Associatif. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Le Bateau-lavoir.
Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.
Day 5 – Geneva
- Geneva
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Conservatory and Botanical garden Geneva
- Broken Chair
- Bains des Pâquis
- Parc de La Grange
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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Day 5 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Geneva, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Geneva, with 1 night to stay in the area.
Geneva is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, an art installation, a swimming pool, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva. Just a short distance away is Broken Chair, a picture-perfect art installation that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Bains Des Pâquis, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Parc De La Grange.
Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Geneva. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Geneva offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Switzerland worth remembering for a lifetime.
A cheap, budget vacation in Geneva should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Geneva, try some of our top recommendations.
Start your flavor-filled journey at The Crowned Eagle, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The Little Kitchen offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Oh Martine! is the perfect spot for you!
After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Geneva, Mulligans Irish Bar.
Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Geneva!
Day 6 – Geneva, Lausanne, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, and Zurich
- Geneva
- Lausanne
- Corsier-sur-Vevey
- Montreux
- Zurich
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Drive 308 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Montbenon
- The Olympic Museum
- Chaplin's World
- Freddie Mercury statue
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Lausanne, Corsier-sur-Vevey, and Montreux. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zurich, where you'll stay for 4 nights.
Lausanne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Geneva behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Lausanne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Montbenon, a worthwhile park that everyone visiting Lausanne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to The Olympic Museum. This standout museum is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Corsier-sur-Vevey. This car ride takes around 24 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Chaplin's World, a locally appreciated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Corsier-sur-Vevey and set your GPS to Montreux. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Montreux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Make your way to Freddie Mercury Statue, a beloved monument that draws attention for its culturally significant features.
While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Zurich has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Zurich on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.
Savor the culinary delights of Zurich, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.
Visit Widder Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Rio Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Zurich. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge.
Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Zurich count!
Day 7 – Zurich and Neuhausen
- Zurich
- Neuhausen
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Rhine Falls
- Zürich Zoo
- Botanical Garden
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Lindenhof
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On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 3 nights left in Zurich, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.
Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Zürich Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Botanical Garden, a must-visit botanical garden in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Chinagarten Zürich, a beloved botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Lindenhof, known for its romantic features.
Set your GPS to Neuhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Neuhausen beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Rhine Falls, an impressive waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zurich and your accommodation.
Indulge in the culinary wonders of Zurich, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.
Start your foodie adventure at Cantinetta Antinori, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to El Lokal, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Aurora, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!
If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Eldorado, considered one of the best bars in Zurich. You can also enjoy drinks at Gotthard Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to La Stanza, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Zurich.
Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.
Day 8 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 2 km, 28 min
- Lindenhof
- Grossmünster
- Kunsthaus Zürich
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Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring a stunning, an eye-catching, a standout, a stunning, and a symbolic. Start at Grossmünster, an intriguing church in the city. Then, head to Kunsthaus Zürich and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect art gallery.
Switzerland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Switzerland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Switzerland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Switzerland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.
As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Zurich offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Switzerland.
After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Alpenrose, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Kafi Dihei, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Weisses Rössli, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.
Bar Babalu is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Nelson, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.
Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Switzerland!
Day 9 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 7 km, 38 min
- Swiss National Museum
- FIFA Museum
- Arboretum Zürich
- Zürich Opera House
- Lindenhof
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Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zurich allows for both. Start by heading to Swiss National Museum. This increasingly popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fifa Museum, a respected museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Arboretum Zürich, a curiosity-inducing park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Zürich Opera House.
For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Zurich, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Zurich and the culture of past or present-day Switzerland.
Savor the mouthwatering delights of Zurich, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.
After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Viadukt, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, La Pasta is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.
Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Zurich, Ebrietas Bar. Total Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Rimini Bar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Switzerland.
Day 10 – Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern
- Zurich
- Lucerne
- Bern
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
- Lindenhof
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On day 10 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 1 destination: Lucerne. You'll stay in Bern for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.
After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lucerne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Lucerne, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Swiss Museum Of Transport and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Chapel Bridge, a history-steeped historical landmark. Nearby, you will also find Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This beloved historical landmark is a top place to see in the area.
You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Bern. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Bern, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.
Going on cheap, budget vacations in Switzerland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Bern is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.
Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Kesar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Aarbergerhof promises to deliver a feast for the senses.
Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Attika Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks.
Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Switzerland!
Day 11 – Bern - departure day
- Bern - Departure day
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- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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It’s soon time to say goodbye to Switzerland as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Bern.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bern or just grab something light to keep you going.
As you prepare to bid farewell to Bern, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Hotel Bellevue Palace, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Restaurants Terrasse features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Jack's Brasserie is a highly recommended spot.
You’ll then say farewell to Bern and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Switzerland!
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