Cheap One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich traveling south to Lugano, Bern, and Lausanne

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Zurich and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Zurich is a popular cheap holiday destination in Switzerland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Switzerland, Zurich 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.

Drop by the renowned Lindenhof. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors.

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.

Babu's offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Cantinetta Antinori. Or, try El Lokal, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Rio Bar offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Zurich, check out La Stanza. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Lugano, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Lugano, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Zurich.

Make Grossmünster your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,297 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Zürich Opera House. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,213 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this opera house every year.

Chinagarten Zürich is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

When you’re finished at Chinagarten Zürich, the perfect next stop is Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Lugano. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lugano, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Lugano is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. Offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa. Or, try Bar Laura, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Il Fermento, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Oops is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

A road trip vacation in Zurich can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Switzerland!

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 2 wonderful destinations — Lugano and Lucerne. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bern, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parco Ciani. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,286 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lugano, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lucerne may take around 2 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Lucerne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 visitors. Attracting more than 562,605 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Swiss Museum of Transport, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This one-of-a-kind sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Chapel Bridge. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 visitors.

Bern 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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Bern, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Brasserie Obstberg, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Süder, 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 Volver BarTapasCafé, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Adrianos Bar & Café stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bern!

Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bern, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Bern. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, UNESCO - Bern Old Town is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Bern Minster. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,813 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at bear pit. The architectural structure has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors.

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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Bern, 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 McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Aarbergerhof, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Hotel Bellevue Palace, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bern!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Gruyères, Pringy, and Veytaux. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Lausanne, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bern, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gruyères may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Gruyères, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gruyères Castle. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,612 visitors.

Next, make your way to HR Giger Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,762 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Veytaux, 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 Pringy to Veytaux may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veytaux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to La Maison du Gruyère. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,333 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Pringy, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Veytaux. Your travel time is around 38 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Chillon Castle. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,331 reviews.

While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Lausanne has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Lausanne on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Switzerland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Lausanne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Holy Cow!, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Alpha Palmiers by Fassbind offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Vieux-Lausanne is the perfect spot for you!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Captain Cook Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, King Size Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pin Up Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Switzerland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Lausanne. You’ll stay in Lausanne for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Switzerland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lausanne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Geneva may take around 45 min. Upon your arrival in Geneva, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. This botanical garden is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Geneva, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,702 visitors.

Bains des Pâquis is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,194 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to The Geneva Water Fountain. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,281 reviews.

Jardin Anglais is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,129 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic L'horloge fleurie, perhaps the most famous floral clock in Geneva. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,614 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lausanne and your accommodation.

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. Lausanne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Pub Les Gosses du Québec offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Café du Simplon. Or, try The Great Escape, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Bulldog Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Barberousse Lausanne is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit The Green Rabbit, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 3: Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, and Basel. You'll stay in Zurich for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

After soaking in Lausanne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Corsier-sur-Vevey. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Corsier-sur-Vevey, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Chaplin's World is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,338 visitors.

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Freddie Mercury statue. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,801 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Montreux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Basel may take around 1 hour 59 min. Upon your arrival in Basel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Tinguely Fountain. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

Basel Zoo is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 travelers. Up to 2,012,511 people visit Basel Zoo every year.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Zurich. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Zurich, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Zurich should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Zurich, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Aurora, 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 Kafi Dihei - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Weisses Rössli promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Ebrietas Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Rimini Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Switzerland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Switzerland!

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zurich.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Switzerland forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zurich is the remarkable Arboretum Zürich. This arboretum and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,796 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Zurich, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Viadukt, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, La Pasta features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Metropol is a highly recommended spot.

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!