Relaxed 7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Zurich
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in Switzerland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bern, Lucerne, Zurich, Neuhausen, and Basel. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Bern and 3 nights in Zurich. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bern, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rhine Falls. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chapel Bridge.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Zürich Zoo. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
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.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Bern - arrival day
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Rosengarten Bern
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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.
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 Rose Garden Bern 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 Bern. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bern.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie Obstberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Süder offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Leichtsinn is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bern.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bern’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Zum Kuckuck is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Piazza Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Taube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Bern as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Bern
- Bern
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Drive 1 km, 25 min
- bear pit
- Cathedral of Bern
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
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On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bern, and meet locals along the way!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bern, featuring a scenic, a stunning, a photogenic, a history-steeped, a romantic, an inviting, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at Bear Pit, a notable zoo in the city. Then, head to Bern Minster and soak in the ambiance of this inviting church.
There are many interesting places to see in Bern and when you are ready for more, go to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the up-and-coming Zytglogge.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bern. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bern that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bern to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bern has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bern and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ebrietas Bern offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Adrianos Bar & Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 3 – Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich
- Bern
- Lucerne
- Zurich
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Drive 241 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Titlis Cliff Walk
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Lucerne. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zurich, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Titlis Cliff Walk. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the canopy walk before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Zurich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zurich beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Swiss Museum Of Transport, a well-known museum known for its photogenic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Lion Monument Lucerne, a locally renowned monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Chapel Bridge and uncover the details of this enchanting historical landmark.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zurich in this laid-back road trip in Switzerland. You'll stay here for 3 nights.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zurich, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zurich’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Widder Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rio Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 4 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 15 km, 58 min
- Botanical Garden
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Zürich Opera House
- Arboretum Zürich
- Zürich Zoo
- Lindenhof
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zurich!
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zurich, including a botanical garden, an opera house, a park, a zoo, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Botanical Garden. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Chinagarten Zürich, which may be one of the most mesmerizing 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, one of the city’s most intriguing opera house. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Arboretum Zürich and Zürich Zoo.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Lokal, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zurich. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eldorado, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gotthard Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Stanza offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zurich!
Day 5 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 3 km, 45 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Lindenhof
- Grossmünster
- Kunsthaus Zürich
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Today’s itinerary in Zurich covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, and an art gallery. Start your adventure at Swiss National Museum. This intriguing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Grossmünster, a must-see church in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kunsthaus Zürich. This beloved art gallery offers an enriching experience.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zurich, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alpenrose, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kafi Dihei? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Weisses Rössli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zurich.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Babalu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nelson likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Switzerland!
Day 6 – Zurich, Neuhausen, Basel, and Bern
- Zurich
- Neuhausen
- Basel
- Bern
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Rhine Falls
- Basel Minster
- Zoo Basel
- Mittlere Brücke
- Lindenhof
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Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Switzerland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Switzerland.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Neuhausen. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.
Neuhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Neuhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Rhine Falls, a famous waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Basel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Neuhausen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. Basel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Basel Minster, a locally appreciated church that everyone visiting Basel should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Basel Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is one of the most well-known attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Middle Bridge, a history-steeped historical landmark, popular among locals as well as travelers.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bern. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bern has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kesar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Aarbergerhof as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bern and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Attika Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.
Day 7 – Bern - departure day
- Bern - Departure day
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- Bundesplatz
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bern.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bern is the remarkable Bundesplatz. This public square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,077 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Bellevue Palace, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurants Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bern and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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